Uganda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, known for its incredible diversity of bird species. The country’s varied landscapes, from forests and wetlands to savannas and lakes, provide a rich habitat for a wide range of birds. Here are some of the best places to see beautiful birds in Uganda:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, but it’s also home to numerous bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics like the African green broadbill and Shelley’s crimsonwing.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park: Located in western Uganda, this park features a wide variety of habitats, from wetlands to savannas. It’s an excellent place to spot birds like the African fish eagle, shoebill stork, and African skimmer.
- Murchison Falls National Park: Situated in the northwest, this park is home to over 450 bird species. Along the Nile River, you can see birds like the Goliath heron and the rare shoebill stork.
- Kibale National Park: Famous for its chimpanzee tracking, Kibale is also an excellent birding destination. You can find species like the African grey parrot, yellow-spotted barbet, and the great blue turaco.
- Semuliki National Park: This park in western Uganda is known for its lowland tropical rainforest and a variety of bird species, including the rare and elusive Nkulengu rail.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Nestled in the Virunga Mountains, this park is an excellent place to see bird species like the Rwenzori turaco, olive pigeon, and the dusky crimsonwing.
- Lake Mburo National Park: This park in southwestern Uganda is rich in birdlife, with species like the African finfoot, white-winged warbler, and the African fish eagle.
- Kidepo Valley National Park: Located in the northeastern part of Uganda, this remote park offers unique birding opportunities, including the Abyssinian roller, Jackson’s hornbill, and the pygmy falcon.
- Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary: Near Kibale National Park, this community-managed wetland is a fantastic place for birdwatching and offers guided walks with knowledgeable locals.
- Entebbe Botanical Gardens: Located near Entebbe, these gardens offer an opportunity for urban birding. You can spot species like the African fish eagle, African jacana, and black-and-white casqued hornbill.