Safari Overview
Discover Uganda’s incredible birdlife on this 8-Day Birding Safari through some of the country’s most rewarding birding destinations. From the famous Shoebill wetlands of Mabamba to the tropical forests of Kibale and the Albertine Rift endemics of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this safari offers an excellent opportunity to spot hundreds of bird species within a relatively short time.
Designed for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, photographers, and wildlife lovers, the tour combines Uganda’s rich avian diversity with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Safari Highlights
- Search for the iconic Shoebill Stork at Mabamba Swamp
- Birding in Kibale Forest National Park
- Explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
- Discover Albertine Rift Endemic bird species in Bwindi
- Birdwatching in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Scenic drives through western Uganda
- Professional birding guide throughout the safari
brief itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
- Day 2: Mabamba Swamp Birding and Transfer to Kibale Forest
- Day 3: Birding in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetland
- Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 5: Birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park and Ishasha
- Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Day 7: Full-Day Birding in Bwindi Forest
- Day 8: Return to Entebbe and Departure
Best Time to Visit
This safari can be enjoyed year-round, with the best birding conditions typically occurring between December–February and June–August.
Expected Bird Species Count
Depending on season and conditions, participants can expect to record between 250 and 400 bird species during the safari.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, meet your birding guide and transfer to your hotel.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy birding around the Entebbe Botanical Gardens and the shores of Lake Victoria.
Overnight in Entebbe. Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Mabamba Swamp Birding and Transfer to Kibale Forest
Early morning excursion to Mabamba Swamp by canoe in search of the Shoebill Stork.
Other species may include:
- Papyrus Gonolek
- Blue-breasted Bee-eater
- African Jacana
- Malachite Kingfisher
- Long-toed Lapwing
After lunch, transfer to Kibale Forest National Park.
Overnight in Kibale.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Birding in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetland
Spend the day exploring Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.
Target Species:
- Green-breasted Pitta
- Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird
- Blue-headed Bee-eater
- Brown-chested Alethe
- Great Blue Turaco
- White-spotted Flufftail
Overnight in Kibale.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Morning birding en route to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Explore the park’s savannahs, wetlands, and crater lakes.
Possible Species:
- African Skimmer
- Saddle-billed Stork
- Martial Eagle
- Grey-headed Kingfisher
- African Fish Eagle
Overnight in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park and Ishasha
Early morning birding drive followed by transfer to the Ishasha Sector.
Target Species:
- Black Coucal
- African Finfoot
- White-headed Barbet
- Grey Kestrel
- Brown Snake Eagle
Overnight in Ishasha.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to many Albertine Rift Endemics.
Afternoon birding around the lodge and nearby forest trails.
Overnight in Bwindi.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Full-Day Birding in Bwindi Forest
Explore one of Africa’s most important birding habitats.
Target Species:
- African Green Broadbill
- Regal Sunbird
- Grauer’s Warbler
- Shelley’s Crimsonwing
- Archer’s Robin-Chat
- Rwenzori Batis
- Strange Weaver
Overnight in Bwindi.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Return to Entebbe and Departure
After breakfast, begin the return journey to Entebbe with a stop at the Equator for photographs and souvenirs.
Transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Included
- Airport transfers
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional birding guide
- Accommodation for 7 nights
- Full-board meals during the safari
- Park entrance fees
- Mabamba Swamp canoe excursion
- Bottled drinking water
Excluded
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
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