Birding safaris in Uganda offer you an fantastic opportunity to explore the rich avian diversity of this East African country. Uganda is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and abundant birdlife, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.

Uganda is a birdwatching paradise, boasting over 1,000 bird species, making it a prime destination for birding safaris. Birders flock to Uganda to spot a variety of unique and colorful species, including numerous endemics. Here are some of the top birding destinations and parks for birding safaris in Uganda:

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park:

Known for its population of mountain gorillas, Bwindi is also a birdwatcher’s delight. It is home to numerous Albertine Rift endemics, including the African Green Broadbill, Rwenzori Turaco, and many more.

Queen Elizabeth National Park:

This diverse park offers both savannah and wetland birding opportunities. Take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel to spot a variety of water birds, including the iconic African Fish Eagle.

Kibale Forest National Park:

Primarily famous for chimpanzee tracking, Kibale is also excellent for birdwatching. Look out for the Green-breasted Pitta and the African Grey Parrot.

Murchison Falls National Park:

Along the Nile River, Murchison Falls is home to several water birds and raptors. The shoebill stork is a highlight here.

Lake Mburo National Park:

This small but beautiful park is known for its acacia-associated bird species, such as the African Fin foot, Crested Francolin, and Red-faced Barbet.

Mabira Forest Reserve:

Located between Kampala and Jinja, this rainforest is home to a variety of forest birds, including the Nahan’s Francolin and Blue-throated Roller.

Semuliki National Park:

Semuliki is part of the Congo basin and has a unique mix of Central African and East African bird species. Look for the rare and elusive African Piculet and the Congo Serpent Eagle.

Rwenzori Mountains:

The Rwenzori Mountains are not only visually stunning but also a birding hotspot. Keep an eye out for the Rwenzori Turaco and the Handsome Francolin.

Kidepo Valley National Park:

In the remote northeast, Kidepo offers a unique birding experience with species like the Ostrich and the Karamoja Apalis.

Entebbe and Lake Victoria:

Even around the city of Entebbe and on the shores of Lake Victoria, you can find a variety of waterbirds, including the African Jacana and the Great Blue Turaco.

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 10-day birding safari in Uganda:

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport.

Transfer to your accommodation for rest and relaxation.

Day 2: Entebbe

Start your birding adventure with a visit to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens.

Explore the shores of Lake Victoria for waterbirds.

Day 3: Entebbe to Mabamba Swamp

Drive to Mabamba Swamp, famous for shoebills.

Take a boat ride in the swamp for birdwatching.

Day 4: Mabamba Swamp to Lake Mburo National Park

Head to Lake Mburo National Park.

Enjoy birding walks and game drives.

Day 5: Lake Mburo National Park

Spend a full day exploring the park’s birdlife.

Look out for acacia-associated species and waterbirds.

Day 6: Lake Mburo National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Stop along the way for birdwatching opportunities.

Day 7-8: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Embark on gorilla trekking (optional).

Explore the forest’s diverse bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics.

Day 9: Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel for excellent birdwatching.

Day 10: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Spend a full day in the park exploring various birding spots.

Look out for raptors, water birds, and the unique shoebill stork.

Day 11: Departure

Depart from Queen Elizabeth National Park for your return journey or onward travel.

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