18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari, Wildlife, Chimpanzee Tracking & Gorilla Trekking

Uganda, famously known as the “Pearl of Africa,” offers an unparalleled birding and wildlife experience. This 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari has been meticulously designed by Deks Safaris and Tours to immerse travelers in the country’s most diverse ecosystems—from tranquil wetlands and lush forests to savannah plains and volcanic landscapes. With over 1,050 bird species and a host of iconic mammals, Uganda provides a sanctuary for nature lovers, ornithologists, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Your 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari begins in Entebbe, where the gentle waters of Lake Victoria and nearby botanical gardens offer the perfect introduction to Uganda’s birdlife. Canoeing in Mabamba Swamp, you’ll search for the elusive Shoebill Stork, while the vast forests of Mabira introduce you to Albertine Rift endemics and vibrant mixed-species flocks. Travelling north, the Budongo Forest Reserve provides the chance to encounter forest-dwelling species such as the African Broadbill, while the mighty Murchison Falls National Park enthralls with thundering waterfalls and abundant savannah birds.

The 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari adventure continues in Kibale Forest National Park, the heart of Uganda’s primate diversity, where chimpanzee tracking and birding in Bigodi Wetland highlight the richness of the forest ecosystem. Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a striking contrast with its savannah landscapes, tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, and birding along the Kazinga Channel, home to numerous waterbirds.

Birding Safari Excursion in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

In the southwestern region, the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest presents a prime opportunity for mountain gorilla tracking, combined with birding in Buhoma Nature Walk and Mubwindi Swamp, unveiling rare Albertine Rift endemics. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, with its volcanic terrain, offers unique montane forest birding. Finally, Lake Mburo National Park provides a gentle conclusion with walking safaris, game drives, and a relaxing boat cruise, before returning to Entebbe via the Equator Crossing in Kayabwe.

This 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari ensures that travelers experience Uganda’s entire avian spectrum, from wetlands and savannahs to montane forests, alongside primates, gorillas, and abundant wildlife, all orchestrated by the expert guides at Deks Safaris and Tours.

Detailed 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari

Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Deks Safaris 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari guide. Transfer to your hotel for check-in, depending on your flight schedule. If time allows, a gentle introduction to Uganda’s avifauna can be enjoyed at the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, overlooking the northern shores of Lake Victoria.

Early explorations offer encounters with common wetland and forest-edge species, including African Grey Hornbill, Red-faced Barbet, and Little Weaver, among others. The serene lake setting provides a tranquil backdrop to recover from travel and begin the anticipation of the days ahead.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Entebbe Garden Hotel / Lake Victoria View Lodge
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 – Mabamba Swamp Birding on a Canoe

After breakfast, depart for Mabamba Swamp, a world-renowned wetland and the best place to see the elusive Shoebill Stork. Board a traditional canoe and glide silently through papyrus channels. The swamp is alive with activity, offering sightings of African Fish Eagle, Black Crake, and Papyrus Gonolek. Your 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari guide will skillfully navigate to spots where the Shoebill is most likely to be seen.

The morning is devoted to canoe birding, while the surrounding wetlands host numerous other species, such as Malachite Kingfisher, African Jacana, Swamp Flycatcher, and Long-toed Lapwing. Birders will enjoy photographing these species in their natural habitat while experiencing the calm beauty of Uganda’s wetlands. Lunch is served in a nearby lodge, and the afternoon offers optional forest edge birding.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Entebbe Lodge / Mabamba Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 – Mabira Forest Birding on Foot

Today, explore Mabira Forest Reserve, one of Uganda’s largest lowland tropical forests. Walking trails wind through dense forest, offering opportunities to see forest species and Albertine Rift endemics. The morning begins with a slow walk to spot African Broadbill, Black Bee-eater, Yellow-throated Greenbul, and Blue-headed Sunbird. Mixed-species flocks are common and may include Chestnut-throated Apalis, Red-tailed Bristlebill, and African Emerald Cuckoo.

The forest canopy is alive with bird calls, primates, and the occasional butterfly. Guided stops allow for photography and detailed observation. Afternoon birding along secondary forest trails often reveals forest robins, flycatchers, and sunbirds, offering a comprehensive introduction to Uganda’s forest bird diversity.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Mabira Forest Lodge / Entebbe Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Transfer to Masindi & Kafu-Masindi Birding Stretch

Depart early for Masindi, en route enjoying birding along the Kafu-Masindi stretch, a mosaic of wetlands, farmland, and riverine forest. This corridor is ideal for spotting savannah, water, and wetland species, including Papyrus Canary, African Skimmer, and Black-headed Weaver.

Guides will stop at strategic points to search for raptors and marsh birds, including Bateleur, Martial Eagle, and Pied Kingfisher. Lunch is served en route, and the afternoon drive provides opportunities for roadside birding before arriving at Murchison Falls National Park. Evening relaxation and preparation for the next 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari adventure.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Day 5 – Budongo Forest & Murchison Falls Boat Cruise

Early morning transfer to Budongo Forest Reserve, home to towering mahoganies and abundant forest birds. Trek on foot along trails to observe African Broadbill, Nahan’s Francolin, and Blue-headed Sunbird. Budongo’s rich biodiversity also includes primates such as red-tailed monkeys and chimpanzees in distant sightings.

In the afternoon, transfer to Murchison Falls National Park, followed by a boat cruise along the Nile River to the base of the falls. Watch for African Skimmer, Grey-headed Kingfisher, and African Fish Eagle along the riverbanks. The sheer force of the falls provides an exhilarating backdrop to the birds and wildlife observed along the Nile delta.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge / Chobe Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 – Full-Day Birding & Game Drives in Murchison Falls

Spend the entire day in Murchison Falls National Park with a combination of morning and afternoon game drives. Explore savannah, woodland, and riverine habitats, where sightings of lion, elephant, giraffe, buffalo, and antelopes are complemented by birding experiences. Raptors, such as Bateleur and Martial Eagle, soar overhead, while the wetlands host Grey Crowned Crane, African Jacana, and Black Crake.

Guides provide insights into habitats, behavior, and conservation, making the experience educational and thrilling. The afternoon may include a sundowner game drive along the riverbanks, ending with a spectacular view of the Murchison Falls sunset.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge / Chobe Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 – Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park & Evening Birding in Bigodi Wetland

After breakfast at Murchison Falls, embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, a renowned center for Uganda’s primate diversity and rich forest birdlife. Along the route, enjoy the changing landscape from savannah plains to dense, emerald forest, with strategic stops for roadside birding. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and refresh before heading out for an evening birding excursion at Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.

Bigodi is a haven for forest and wetland birds. Walking slowly along the well-maintained trails, you may spot Shoebill relatives like the Papyrus Gonolek, along with smaller endemics hidden in the papyrus and forest edge. The sanctuary also offers opportunities to see mixed-species flocks, including Red-throated Alethe, Yellow-throated Greenbul, and Dusky Crimsonwing. Primates, such as red-tailed monkeys, are frequently observed here, adding to the forest ambiance. Your 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari guide will point out calling birds, set up spotting scopes for photographic opportunities, and share insights into habitat conservation.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Lodge / Primate Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale

Day 8 – Chimpanzee Tracking & Afternoon Birding in Kibale

Begin early with a chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale Forest National Park. Trek through lush, primary forest following the calls and sightings of habituated chimpanzees. While primates are the highlight, the dense canopy provides unparalleled birding opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for African Broadbill, White-spotted Flufftail, and Nahan’s Francolin, rare species that thrive in this region.

After a rewarding morning, return to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon is dedicated to birding along forest trails and near the park’s edges, where species like Blue-throated Roller, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, and Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill can be observed. The 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari guides focus on spotting Albertine Rift endemics, adding to your comprehensive checklist. The day ends with a reflective sunset over Kibale’s rolling hills, celebrating both chimpanzee sightings and birding highlights.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Lodge / Primate Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Game Drive

After breakfast, depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park, taking a scenic route through the western Ugandan countryside. Along the way, stop at key birding points to search for savannah and wetland species, such as Grey-headed Kingfisher, Northern Carmine Bee-eater, and African Wattled Lapwing.

Arrive in Ishasha, famous for tree-climbing lions, and embark on an afternoon game drive through the park’s southern sector. The drive provides sightings of classic African wildlife elephants, buffalo, Uganda kob, and leopard and abundant birds like African Fish Eagle, Grey Crowned Crane, and Martial Eagle. The combination of savannah landscapes and wetlands ensures a diverse avian experience. Evening check-in at your lodge with time to relax and review your 18-day Uganda Safari birding checklist.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp / Queen Elizabeth Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 – Kazinga Channel Birding & Boat Cruise

Rise early for a morning game drive, focusing on savannah species and early-rising birds. Later, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, one of Africa’s most prolific waterbird hotspots. Here, large congregations of African Fish Eagles, Goliath Herons, and African Skimmers abound, alongside hippos and crocodiles.

The cruise offers excellent photographic opportunities and close observation of waterbirds feeding along the banks. Afternoon birding along channel edges can include African Darter, Long-toed Lapwing, Malachite Kingfisher, and Pied Kingfisher. Guides provide detailed explanations of habitat interactions, helping birders identify calls and subtle markings. Return to the lodge for a relaxed evening.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp / Queen Elizabeth Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

15-Day Ultimate Uganda Luxury Safari

Day 11 – Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha Sector Tree-Climbing Lions & Birding

Depart early from Queen Elizabeth for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, passing through the Ishasha sector where tree-climbing lions may be spotted resting in fig trees. Along the way, stop for birding in savannah and woodland patches. The drive itself is a highlight, offering sightings of raptors like Bateleur, Martial Eagle, and Augur Buzzard.

Upon arrival in Buhoma, enjoy a short walk along the forest edge for birding, where Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Dusky Crimsonwing, and African Emerald Cuckoo are often seen. The transition from open savannah to dense montane forest is visually striking, introducing a new suite of forest species. Evening at the lodge allows for checklist review and preparation for gorilla tracking the next day.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp / Buhoma Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 – Buhoma Nature Walk & Batwa Cultural Experience

Today, embark on a half-day birding walk along the Buhoma Nature Trail, exploring primary and secondary forest edges. The forest is alive with Albertine Rift endemics such as Grauer’s Warbler, Red-collared Mountain Babbler, and Green-breasted Pitta. Primates including chimpanzees and black-and-white colobus monkeys add movement and sounds to the 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari experience.

In the afternoon, visit a Batwa community, where cultural immersion highlights traditional forest knowledge, hunting methods, and folklore. The Batwa are skilled birders themselves and may introduce you to species not easily spotted along standard trails. This day blends ornithology, primate observation, and cultural appreciation, providing a holistic understanding of Bwindi’s biodiversity and human connections to the forest.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp / Buhoma Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 – Gorilla Tracking in Buhoma & Transfer to Ruhija via the NECK Forest

Rise early for the pinnacle of your Bwindi experience: gorilla tracking in Buhoma. After a briefing with your 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari ranger guide, trek through primary montane forest, following the silverback gorillas and their family groups. While gorillas are the highlight, the forest is alive with Albertine Rift endemic birds, including Grauer’s Warbler, Red-collared Mountain Babbler, and Green-breasted Pitta. Photographic opportunities abound as gorillas move through dense vegetation, with occasional flocks of birds flitting overhead.

After tracking, enjoy lunch at the lodge before transferring to Ruhija, passing through the Northern Entrance Corridor (NECK), renowned for its high-altitude forest birding. Here, you may encounter Albertine Owlet, White-bellied Robin-Chat, and Shelley’s Crimsonwing. The area’s misty slopes and bamboo forests provide a unique birding habitat distinct from Buhoma. Evening arrival at your lodge in Ruhija allows relaxation and review of your birding checklist.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Ruhija Gorilla Lodge / Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 – Half-Day Birding in Mubwindi Swamp & Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Start early with half-day birding in Mubwindi Swamp, a montane wetland adjacent to Bwindi. Focus on the rare and localized Albertine Rift endemics, such as Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, White-spotted Flufftail, and Red-faced Woodland Warbler. The swamp’s misty mornings, dense bamboo, and montane forest edges offer excellent birding conditions, with streams and clearings providing vantage points for spotting canopy species.

After your morning expedition, transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located on Uganda’s southwestern volcanic slopes. The drive is scenically dramatic, with lush hills and cultivated terraces. Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy a brief birding session around the lodge, searching for highland species like Ruwenzori Turaco and Bar-tailed Trogon. This park offers a mix of montane forest and bamboo habitats, perfect for both primates and endemic birds.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Nkuringo Lodge / Mgahinga Gorilla View Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Uganda Birding Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Birding in Umubwindi Swamp

Day 15 – Whole-Day Birding in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Dedicate a full day to exploring the montane forests and bamboo zones of Mgahinga, renowned for its endemic bird species and scenic beauty. Hike with your 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari guide along well-marked trails, observing Albertine Rift endemics like Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Grauer’s Warbler, and Ruwenzori Batis. The park is also home to golden monkeys, which can be observed in family groups feeding on bamboo shoots.

This highland ecosystem features a mix of afro-montane forests, bamboo groves, and volcanic terrain. Birding highlights include canopy species like Black-billed Turaco and Bar-tailed Trogon, along with forest-floor dwellers such as White-spotted Flufftail. Photography enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities with misty mornings, volcanic vistas, and the occasional monkey or duiker appearing in the frame. The day concludes with a relaxed evening back at your lodge, reflecting on the rich diversity of Uganda’s western highlands.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Nkuringo Lodge / Mgahinga Gorilla View Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16 – Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park & Evening Birding

After breakfast, depart Mgahinga and journey northeast to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s small but biodiverse savannah park. Arrive in the late afternoon and enjoy a gentle evening birding session, observing species in acacia woodlands, papyrus swamps, and open grasslands. Target birds include Brown-chested Lapwing, African Skimmer, Long-toed Lapwing, and African Wattled Lapwing, alongside elephants, zebras, and antelope.

Lake Mburo’s tranquil lakeshore and woodland edges provide an ideal contrast to the dense montane forests of the previous days. This short evening session allows you to focus on waterbirds settling into roosts and forest-edge species emerging for nocturnal activity. Return to the lodge for dinner and an early night, preparing for a full day of birding and a boat cruise tomorrow.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge / Mihingo Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17 – Morning Birding & Afternoon Boat Cruise in Lake Mburo

Rise early for a morning walking birding safari, exploring woodland trails and lakeshores. Focus on elusive species like Brown-chested Lapwing, White-backed Night Heron, and Black-headed Gonolek, as the cool morning hours bring high activity. Your 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari guide will assist with identifying calls, plumage variations, and habitat interactions.

In the afternoon, board a boat for a scenic cruise on Lake Mburo, observing waterbirds and semi-aquatic species. Large congregations of African Fish Eagles, Goliath Herons, and African Jacanas are common. Hippos and crocodiles can be seen, providing excellent wildlife-birding integration. Conclude the day with a reflective sunset over the lake, savoring Uganda’s incredible biodiversity.

Birds to Spot:

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge / Mihingo Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18 – Morning Transfer to Entebbe & Uganda Equator Crossing

After breakfast, depart Lake Mburo for Entebbe International Airport, with a stop at the Equator Crossing in Kayabwe for photographs and a fun, educational pause. Along the drive, enjoy any last-minute roadside birding in farmland and wetlands, possibly spotting Red-throated Bee-eater, Grey-headed Kingfisher, and African Grey Hornbill.

Arrive at Entebbe in time for international flight departures. Reflect on the diversity of habitats, birds, primates, and landscapes you experienced during this comprehensive 18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari with Deks Safaris and Tours a true East African odyssey for 18-day Uganda Safari birding enthusiasts.

Birds to Spot:

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch en-route

Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe

18-day Uganda Bird Watching Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

Airport transfers
Ground transportation in a private 4×4 safari vehicle
Park entrance fees
Chimpanzee and gorilla trekking permits
Guided game drives and birding excursions
Boat cruises along Kazinga Channel, Murchison Falls, and Lake Mburo
Full board accommodation and en-route meals as indicated
Full-time English-speaking driver/guide
Park ranger fees
1 liter of mineral water per person per day
Batwa cultural experiences
Guided nature walks and forest birding excursions

Safari Exclusions

International and domestic airfares
Uganda visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses: drinks, tips, laundry, phone, souvenirs, and optional activities not specified