12 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking Experience

This 12-day Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking Experience by Deks Safaris and Tours Africa is an ornithological expedition through the country’s most ecologically diverse and avian-rich habitats a journey designed for the dedicated birder, the naturalist, and the wildlife researcher seeking to document East Africa’s endemic and migratory treasures. From the papyrus swamps of Mabamba Bay to the high-altitude forests of Bwindi and the riverine ecosystems of Semuliki and Queen Elizabeth National Park, this safari offers a systematic exploration of Uganda’s unique bird biomes spanning Albertine Rift endemics, Central African lowland species, and key East African savanna birds.

The 12-Day Uganda Birding & Gorilla Trekking Safari strategically combines specialist birding and primate tracking experiences, notably the iconic Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) and the Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei), symbolizing Uganda’s biological distinctiveness. Each day is tailored for focused field observation, with early-morning and late-afternoon birding sessions to maximize encounter rates, complemented by ecological interpretation from Deks Safaris’ professional birding guides.

Adventure Beyond Bird Watching Safari

Beyond bird identification, this itinerary emphasizes habitat diversity exploring papyrus marshes, acacia savannas, tropical rainforests, montane bamboo zones, and riparian woodland all harboring distinct avifaunal assemblages. Participants can expect over 500 potential bird species across the 12-Day Uganda Birding & Gorilla Trekking Safari, including numerous Albertine Rift endemics such as the Grauer’s Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri), Regal Sunbird (Cinnyris regius), and Ruwenzori Turaco (Gallirex johnstoni).

Every destination has been hand-selected for its ornithological significance and research value. The expedition also provides insight into Uganda’s conservation success stories from wetland restoration in Mabamba to gorilla protection in Bwindi. Combining field precision with immersive African wilderness experience, this journey stands as one of East Africa’s most complete birding and primate safaris.

12 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking Experience

Day

Activities

Accommodation

Day 1

Arrival at Entebbe Airport and Check-in the Hotel for Relaxation, Evening Visit to Botanical Gardens Entebbe Lake Victoria Hotel

Day 2

Go Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe in Mabamba Swamp and Afternoon Road Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park, Have Evening Game Drive and Nature Walks Rwakobo Rock Lodge

Day 3

Morning Birding Around Lake Mburo and Later Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Rushaga Sector) Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Day 4

Full Day Birding in Umubwindi Swamp (Mubwindi Swamp) in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Day 5

Go Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga Sector and Afternoon Nature Walks in the Forest While Spotting Some Birds Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Day 6

Birding in the Forested Hills of Ruhija Sector Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Kiho Gorilla Lodge (Standard)

Day 7

Road Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Afternoon Birdwatching Along Kasenyi Plains at Kazinga Channel Aardvark Safari Lodge

Day 8

Full Day of Bird Watching, Game Drives, and Boat Cruise at Kazinga Channel Aardvark Safari Lodge

Day 9

Morning Game Drive and Transfer to Semuliki National Park for Birding in Kirumia Track in Semuliki Kirumia Guest House

Day 10

Whole-Day Birding in the Monkey Track of Semuliki Forest and Overnight in Kibale Forest National Park Turaco Treetops Lodge

Day 11

Morning Birding Experience in Kibale Forest Bigodi Swamp and Afternoon Chimpanzee Tracking in Kanyanchu Turaco Treetops Lodge

Day 12

Morning Road Transfer Back to Entebbe and Flight Back Home None

 

Tour Quotation Basing on Mid-Range Safari

No. of People 1 Person 2 People 4 People 6 People
Rate Per Person US$7,446 US$5,742 US$4,797 US$4,482

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

Detailed 12-Day Uganda Birding & Gorilla Trekking Safari

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport – Evening Birding at Entebbe Botanical Gardens

  • Accommodation: Lake Victoria Hotel, Entebbe

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be met by your Deks Safaris professional 12-Day Uganda Birding & Gorilla Trekking Safari guide, who will facilitate your transfer to your hotel for a brief rest and orientation session. In the late afternoon, the expedition begins with a birding excursion at the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, a prime introduction to Uganda’s avifauna, offering a compact microcosm of forest, lakeshore, and open habitats.

The Entebbe Botanical Gardens, located along the shores of Lake Victoria, are an excellent warm-up site for both novice and experienced birders. Here, you’ll encounter an array of species typical of Uganda’s lowland woodland and lakeshore ecosystems. The gardens’ mix of native vegetation attracts nectarivorous, insectivorous, and frugivorous birds in abundance.

Common sightings include Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata), Black-headed Gonolek (Laniarius erythrogaster), Ross’s Turaco (Musophaga rossae), and Palm-nut Vulture (Gypohierax angolensis). The canopy often reveals African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus), Brown-throated Wattle-eye (Platysteira cyanea), and Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus) along the water edge.

Evening observation around the lakeshore may yield Yellow-billed Duck (Anas undulata), African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus), and Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis), while the gardens’ flowering trees attract Scarlet-chested Sunbird (Chalcomitra senegalensis).

Target Bird Species

  • Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata)
  • African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus)
  • Black-headed Gonolek (Laniarius erythrogaster)
  • Ross’s Turaco (Musophaga rossae)
  • Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus)
  • Palm-nut Vulture (Gypohierax angolensis)
  • Scarlet-chested Sunbird (Chalcomitra senegalensis)

 

Day 2: Shoebill Tracking in Mabamba Swamp – Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

  • Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge

Early departure after breakfast for Mabamba Swamp, a Ramsar-listed wetland located west of Entebbe. This extensive papyrus swamp, accessed by local canoe, is Uganda’s most reliable location for observing the elusive Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) one of Africa’s most sought-after avian species. The morning excursion maximizes the chances of spotting this prehistoric-looking bird as it stalks lungfish (Protopterus aethiopicus) in the shallows.

Mabamba also supports over 260 recorded bird species, including several papyrus endemics and wetland specialists. Birders may encounter Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri), White-winged Warbler (Bradypterus carpalis), Blue-headed Coucal (Centropus monachus), and African Pygmy Goose (Nettapus auritus).

After successful tracking and photographic documentation, continue via the Masaka–Mbarara Highway to Lake Mburo National Park, arriving in the afternoon. The park’s acacia savannas, rolling hills, and lakeshore thickets introduce a distinct set of dry-country bird species. Evening birding along the Kazuma track may produce Crested Francolin (Dendroperdix sephaena), Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus), and Bare-faced Go-away-bird (Corythaixoides personatus).

A sunset walk along the lodge’s trails offers the chance to spot nocturnal species such as Fiery-necked Nightjar (Caprimulgus pectoralis) or African Scops Owl (Otus senegalensis) before overnight rest.

Target Bird Species

  • Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex)
  • Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri)
  • White-winged Warbler (Bradypterus carpalis)
  • African Pygmy Goose (Nettapus auritus)
  • Blue-headed Coucal (Centropus monachus)
  • Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus)
  • Bare-faced Go-away-bird (Corythaixoides personatus)
  • Fiery-necked Nightjar (Caprimulgus pectoralis)

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

Day 3: Morning Birding at Lake Mburo – Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Rushaga Sector)

  • Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Begin the day with an early birding drive around Lake Mburo National Park, focusing on the Warukiri and Rwonyo sectors habitats rich in acacia woodland and open savanna. Expect a diversity of species including African Finfoot (Podica senegalensis), often seen along lake shores, Red-faced Barbet (Lybius rubrifacies), and Green-capped Eremomela (Eremomela scotops).

Lake Mburo is also one of the best sites in Uganda to observe Rufous-bellied Heron (Ardeola rufiventris), Bare-faced Go-away-bird, and Long-tailed Cisticola (Cisticola angusticauda). Raptors are frequently sighted overhead Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus), African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer), and Lizard Buzzard (Kaupifalco monogrammicus).

After the morning session, embark on a scenic drive southwest toward the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most biologically diverse montane forests. The road passes through the Kigezi Highlands, with intermittent birding stops en route. Arrival at Rushaga Sector by late afternoon for check-in and briefing about the following day’s activities.

Target Bird Species

  • African Finfoot (Podica senegalensis)
  • Red-faced Barbet (Lybius rubrifacies)
  • Rufous-bellied Heron (Ardeola rufiventris)
  • Long-tailed Cisticola (Cisticola angusticauda)
  • African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)
  • Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus)
  • Lizard Buzzard (Kaupifalco monogrammicus)

 

Day 4: Full-Day Birding in Umubwindi (Mubwindi) Swamp – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

  • Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

This day is dedicated to full-day birding in the Umubwindi Swamp one of Africa’s most important sites for Albertine Rift endemics. The Mubwindi corridor is a high-altitude bog surrounded by montane forest between 2,000–2,600 meters above sea level, providing a mosaic of bamboo, heather, and dense undergrowth.

The region is the only known locality in Uganda for the Grauer’s Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri), an exceptionally localized species considered a holy grail for birders. Other specialties include Ruwenzori Apalis (Apalis ruwenzorii), Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus), and Black-billed Turaco (Tauraco schuettii).

You’ll also encounter Mountain Masked Apalis (Apalis personata), Regal Sunbird (Cinnyris regius), Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni), and Bar-tailed Trogon (Apaloderma vittatum). The area’s pristine forest also hosts African Hill Babbler (Pseudoalcippe abyssinica), Ruwenzori Batis (Batis diops), and Stripe-breasted Tit (Parus fasciiventer).

Field photography is challenging due to dense canopy, but patient observation along the ridge trails yields extraordinary rewards.

Target Bird Species

  • Grauer’s Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri)
  • Ruwenzori Apalis (Apalis ruwenzorii)
  • Regal Sunbird (Cinnyris regius)
  • Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni)
  • Black-billed Turaco (Tauraco schuettii)
  • Bar-tailed Trogon (Apaloderma vittatum)
  • Ruwenzori Batis (Batis diops)

 

How Expensive is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

How Expensive is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga Sector – Afternoon Birding and Nature Walks

  • Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

After an early breakfast, proceed to the Uganda Wildlife Authority briefing point for your mountain gorilla trekking expedition. This half-day activity provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to encounter Mountain Gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) in their natural environment. While the focus is on primates, the trek itself traverses prime birding habitat, and numerous species can be recorded along the way.

En route to the gorilla families, you may encounter Red-faced Woodland Warbler (Phylloscopus laetus), Yellow-streaked Greenbul (Phyllastrephus flavostriatus), and Collared Apalis (Apalis collaris). The understorey often hosts White-bellied Robin-Chat (Cossyphicula roberti) and Olive Thrush (Turdus olivaceus).

In the afternoon, after the gorilla trek, enjoy a relaxed birding nature walk along forest edges, streams, and secondary growth habitats, targeting species such as Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis), Purple-breasted Sunbird (Cinnyris purpureobarbatus), and Mountain Illadopsis (Illadopsis pyrrhoptera).

Target Bird Species

  • Red-faced Woodland Warbler (Phylloscopus laetus)
  • Collared Apalis (Apalis collaris)
  • Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis)
  • Purple-breasted Sunbird (Cinnyris purpureobarbatus)
  • White-bellied Robin-Chat (Cossyphicula roberti)
  • Mountain Illadopsis (Illadopsis pyrrhoptera)

 

Day 6: Birding in Ruhija Sector Forested Hills of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

  • Accommodation: Kiho Gorilla Lodge (Standard)

After breakfast, transfer to Ruhija Sector, one of the highest and most productive birding regions in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, located at elevations exceeding 2,300 meters. Ruhija’s mosaic of montane forest, bamboo zone, and moist undergrowth supports numerous Albertine Rift endemics and montane species.

Early morning birding along the Ruhija Ridge and Bamboo Trail may yield Archer’s Robin-Chat (Cossypha archeri), Handsome Francolin (Pternistis nobilis), Dusky Twinspot (Euschistospiza cinereovinacea), and White-starred Robin (Pogonocichla stellata).

The Ruhija–Mubwindi Junction Trail is particularly rewarding for Stripe-breasted Tit (Parus fasciiventer), Red-throated Alethe (Chamaetylas poliophrys), Mountain Sooty Boubou (Laniarius poensis), and Shelley’s Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza shelleyi) one of Africa’s most elusive finches.

Evening debriefs and checklist session with your 12-Day Uganda Birding & Gorilla Trekking Safari guide completes the day.

Target Bird Species

  • Handsome Francolin (Pternistis nobilis)
  • Archer’s Robin-Chat (Cossypha archeri)
  • Dusky Twinspot (Euschistospiza cinereovinacea)
  • Shelley’s Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza shelleyi)
  • White-starred Robin (Pogonocichla stellata)
  • Stripe-breasted Tit (Parus fasciiventer)

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Birding in Umubwindi Swamp

Day 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Afternoon Birding along Kasenyi Plains and Kazinga Channel

  • Accommodation: Aardvark Safari Lodge

Depart Ruhija after breakfast for a scenic drive northwest toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, descending through the terraced highlands of Kihihi and the Ishasha sector. En route, you’ll cross ecological gradients from montane forest to tropical woodland, open savanna, and riparian zones each adding new species to your checklist.

Arrive at the northern sector (Mweya/Kasenyi) by early afternoon, check in at your lodge, and head out for afternoon birding on the Kasenyi Plains. This open grassland, interspersed with acacia and euphorbia scrub, is particularly rich in raptors, ground dwellers, and savanna specialists.

Expect to record Black-lored Babbler (Turdoides sharpei), Flappet Lark (Mirafra rufocinnamomea), Brown Snake Eagle (Circaetus cinereus), African White-backed Vulture, and Crowned Lapwing (Vanellus coronatus).

Late in the day, proceed to the Kazinga Channel for a lakeshore birding session, where the mix of aquatic and wading birds is outstanding. Common species include African Skimmer (Rynchops flavirostris), Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath), Pink-backed Pelican (Pelecanus rufescens), and Yellow-billed Stork (Mycteria ibis).

As the sun sets, large flocks of Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) and Long-tailed Cormorant (Microcarbo africanus) can be observed returning to roost. The day ends with an evening checklist session and briefing for tomorrow’s full-day birding.

Target Bird Species

  • African Skimmer (Rynchops flavirostris)
  • Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath)
  • Brown Snake Eagle (Circaetus cinereus)
  • Flappet Lark (Mirafra rufocinnamomea)
  • Crowned Lapwing (Vanellus coronatus)
  • Pink-backed Pelican (Pelecanus rufescens)
  • Yellow-billed Stork (Mycteria ibis)

 

Day 8: Full-Day Birding, Game Drive, and Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel

  • Accommodation: Aardvark Safari Lodge

A full day of intensive birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of East Africa’s most ecologically varied reserves, harboring over 610 bird species making it the richest avian habitat in Uganda.

Begin with an early game and birding drive through Kasenyi and Mweya sectors, where you’ll observe both birds and mammals. Look for Temminck’s Courser (Cursorius temminckii), Black-bellied Bustard (Lissotis melanogaster), and Abyssinian Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus abyssinicus). Raptors such as Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus), Long-crested Eagle (Lophaetus occipitalis), and Grey Kestrel (Falco ardosiaceus) patrol the skies.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural 32-kilometer waterway linking Lakes Edward and George. This excursion is among Uganda’s top birding experiences, offering unparalleled proximity to African Openbill (Anastomus lamelligerus), Water Thick-knee (Burhinus vermiculatus), African Spoonbill (Platalea alba), and numerous heron species.

The shoreline teems with African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer), Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus), Giant Kingfisher (Megaceryle maxima), and Yellow-backed Weaver (Ploceus melanocephalus). Mammal encounters, including elephants, hippos, and buffalo, enrich the afternoon observation.

Evening debrief and checklist compilation highlight this as one of the most species-rich days of the 12-Day Uganda Birding & Gorilla Trekking Safari.

Target Bird Species

  • Temminck’s Courser (Cursorius temminckii)
  • Abyssinian Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus abyssinicus)
  • Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus)
  • African Openbill (Anastomus lamelligerus)
  • Water Thick-knee (Burhinus vermiculatus)
  • African Spoonbill (Platalea alba)
  • Giant Kingfisher (Megaceryle maxima)

 

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Day 9: Morning Game Drive and Transfer to Semuliki National Park – Birding in Kirumia Trail

  • Accommodation: Kirumia Guest House

After an early breakfast, conduct a short morning birding drive in Queen Elizabeth’s Maramagambo Forest before departing toward Semuliki National Park, located in the western rift valley near the Congo border.

Semuliki is Uganda’s only true lowland tropical forest of Congolese origin, forming the easternmost extension of the Ituri Forest. Its unique position makes it a biodiversity hotspot with species otherwise restricted to Central Africa.

Arrive by early afternoon and begin birding along the Kirumia Trail, a 13-kilometer transect passing through mature forest and riverine habitats. The area is alive with Congo biome species such as Congo Serpent Eagle (Dryotriorchis spectabilis), Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill (Tockus camurus), Piping Hornbill (Bycanistes fistulator), and Nkulengu Rail (Himantornis haematopus).

Mixed flocks may include Rufous-sided Broadbill (Smithornis rufolateralis), Yellow-throated Nicator (Nicator vireo), Black-casqued Wattled Hornbill (Ceratogymna atrata), and Chestnut Wattle-eye (Platysteira castanea).

This ecosystem offers a completely different avian assemblage, marking a sharp transition from the Albertine montane biota to lowland equatorial forest fauna.

Target Bird Species

  • Congo Serpent Eagle (Dryotriorchis spectabilis)
  • Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill (Tockus camurus)
  • Piping Hornbill (Bycanistes fistulator)
  • Nkulengu Rail (Himantornis haematopus)
  • Rufous-sided Broadbill (Smithornis rufolateralis)
  • Yellow-throated Nicator (Nicator vireo)
  • Chestnut Wattle-eye (Platysteira castanea)

 

Day 10: Birding along the Semuliki “Monkey Trail” – Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

  • Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge

Today’s birding begins early along the Semuliki “Monkey Trail”, a network of forest paths famous for both primates and birds. Expect to encounter mixed flocks dominated by forest bulbuls, sunbirds, and greenbuls.

Semuliki is the Ugandan stronghold for African Piculet (Sasia africana), Long-tailed Hawk (Urotriorchis macrourus), and Red-rumped Tinkerbird (Pogoniulus atroflavus). Canopy sightings may reveal White-crested Hornbill (Horizocerus albocristatus), Black Dwarf Hornbill (Horizocerus hartlaubi), and Blue-billed Malimbe (Malimbus nitens).

After the morning session, enjoy a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, Uganda’s premier primate reserve and one of the best forest birding locations in East Africa. Check-in at Turaco Treetops Lodge and enjoy an evening walk in the lodge’s private forest for African Wood Owl (Strix woodfordii), Green-breasted Pitta (Pitta reichenowi) (seasonal), and Brown-chested Alethe (Chamaetylas poliocephala).

Target Bird Species

  • African Piculet (Sasia africana)
  • Long-tailed Hawk (Urotriorchis macrourus)
  • Red-rumped Tinkerbird (Pogoniulus atroflavus)
  • White-crested Hornbill (Horizocerus albocristatus)
  • Blue-billed Malimbe (Malimbus nitens)
  • Green-breasted Pitta (Pitta reichenowi)
  • Brown-chested Alethe (Chamaetylas poliocephala)

 

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest

Day 11: Birding in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary and Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest

  • Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge

Start early with a guided birding walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-managed wetland rich in both bird and primate diversity. Bigodi’s papyrus and forest-edge ecosystems host over 200 bird species, including the White-spotted Flufftail (Sarothrura pulchra), Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri), and Speckle-breasted Woodpecker (Dendropicos poecilolaemus).

Other common species include Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae), Grey-winged Robin-Chat (Cossypha polioptera), and Black-crowned Waxbill (Estrilda nonnula).

In the afternoon, participate in chimpanzee tracking within Kanyanchu Range a rewarding opportunity to observe Common Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) in their natural habitat. The trek traverses forest trails where Yellow-spotted Barbet (Buccanodon duchaillui), Nahan’s Francolin (Ptilopachus nahani), and Western Nicator (Nicator chloris) are regularly encountered.

Evening birding around the lodge garden often yields Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus), African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus), and Green Crombec (Sylvietta virens).

Target Bird Species

  • Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri)
  • White-spotted Flufftail (Sarothrura pulchra)
  • Yellow-spotted Barbet (Buccanodon duchaillui)
  • Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae)
  • Grey-winged Robin-Chat (Cossypha polioptera)
  • Nahan’s Francolin (Ptilopachus nahani)
  • Green Crombec (Sylvietta virens)

 

Day 12: Morning Birding and Road Transfer to Entebbe – Departure

  • Accommodation: None (departure day)

Following breakfast, enjoy a short birding session around Kibale’s forest edges before embarking on the return journey to Entebbe. En route, the wetlands and farmlands along the Fort Portal–Kampala Highway provide one last opportunity to observe Black Bishop (Euplectes gierowii), Northern Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis edolioides), and Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis).

Arrive in Entebbe in time for your evening international flight. This marks the conclusion of your 12-day Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking Experience a journey across altitudes, ecosystems, and some of the most extraordinary ornithological landscapes on the African continent.

Target Bird Species

  • Black Bishop (Euplectes gierowii)
  • Northern Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis edolioides)
  • Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)
  • African Pied Wagtail (Motacilla aguimp)
  • Common Fiscal (Lanius collaris)

 

27 Days Uganda Rwanda Kenya Tanzania Safari

27 Days Uganda Rwanda Kenya Tanzania Safari

12-Day Uganda Birding & Gorilla Trekking Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

  • All ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle customized for birding (pop-up roof, large windows).
  • Professional English-speaking ornithologist guide from Deks Safaris and Tours Africa.
  • All park entrance and conservation fees.
  • Boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel and Lake Mburo.
  • Shoebill tracking excursion at Mabamba Swamp.
  • All birding permits, ranger fees, and nature walk charges.
  • Gorilla trekking permit (Rushaga Sector, Bwindi).
  • Chimpanzee tracking permit (Kibale Forest).
  • Full-board accommodation as listed (11 nights).
  • Bottled drinking water during transfers and birding sessions.
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure).
  • Government taxes and levies.

 

Safari Exclusions

  • International airfares to and from Entebbe.
  • Entry visa fees to Uganda.
  • Travel insurance and medical evacuation.
  • Personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages, laundry, and phone calls.
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, rangers, and hotel staff.
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
  • Additional accommodation before or after the safari (if required).
  • Any other costs not mentioned in inclusions.

 

Closing Note — By Deks Safaris and Tours Africa

At Deks Safaris and Tours Africa, we design each ornithological expedition with precision, scientific depth, and logistical excellence. This 12-Day Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking Experience represents the pinnacle of East African birding combining the thrill of tracking over 500 bird species with rare encounters among primates, from the enigmatic Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) to the endangered Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei).

Each destination, from Mabamba Swamp to Semuliki Forest, has been carefully selected to represent Uganda’s ecological diversity, ensuring that every moment in the field contributes to a richer understanding of African avifauna. Whether for scientific documentation, photography, or the pure joy of field observation, this safari offers both academic value and wilderness immersion.

We invite passionate birders, ornithologists, and nature lovers to join us in exploring the “Pearl of Africa” through wings, feathers, and song a symphony that only the forests, wetlands, and savannas of Uganda can provide.

End of 12 Days Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking Experience

Professional Birding Expedition by Deks Safaris and Tours Africa

Tour Quotation Basing on Mid-Range Safari

No. of People 1 Person 2 People 4 People 6 People
Rate Per Person US$7,446 US$5,742 US$4,797 US$4,482

 

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