7 Days Birding Safari in Uganda

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day birding safari in Uganda, a true birdwatcher's paradise. With over 1,000 recorded bird species, Uganda offers a diverse array of habitats, from lush rainforests to expansive savannahs, making it an ideal destination for birding enthusiasts. This meticulously crafted itinerary takes you on a journey through Uganda's prime birding locations, allowing you to witness an incredible variety of avian life and create lasting memories. Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe and Mabamba Swamp Excursion

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your experienced birding guide and transferred to your comfortable hotel. After a brief rest, embark on an exciting excursion to the Mabamba Swamp, a Ramsar site renowned for its incredible birdlife. The highlight of this wetland is the chance to spot the elusive Shoebill Stork, a prehistoric-looking bird that is highly sought-after by birdwatchers worldwide. Other species you may encounter include the Blue Swallow, African Pygmy Goose, White-faced Whistling Duck, and numerous waders. Return to your hotel in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay. Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Entebbe Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to Kibale National Park

After an early breakfast, depart for Kibale National Park, a lush rainforest known for its exceptional birding opportunities. The drive takes you through scenic landscapes, offering the chance to spot various bird species along the way. Upon arrival, check into your eco-lodge nestled in the heart of the forest. In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk around the lodge grounds, where you can observe species such as the Yellow-spotted Barbet, Hairy-breasted Barbet, Yellow-billed Barbet, Western Nicator, and Grey-winged Robin-Chat. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge. Accommodation: Eco-lodge in Kibale National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Birding in Kibale National Park

Dedicate a full day to exploring the rich birdlife of Kibale National Park. Rise early for a morning birding session, focusing on the forest's edge and nearby wetlands. Keep an eye out for the African Pitta, Green-breasted Pitta, Black Bee-eater, Blue-headed Bee-eater, and White-tailed Ant Thrush. In the afternoon, venture deeper into the forest, searching for the elusive Green-breasted Pitta, as well as the Red-chested Flufftail, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge. Accommodation: Eco-lodge in Kibale National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas and a host of endemic bird species. Along the way, make birding stops to spot species such as the Ruwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, and Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater. Upon arrival, check into your forest lodge and take a short birding walk around the grounds, where you may encounter the African Emerald Cuckoo, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, and Red-throated Alethe. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge. Accommodation: Forest lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Birding in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Spend a full day exploring the biodiverse forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to over 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics. Rise early for a morning birding session along the forest trails, searching for the African Green Broadbill, Grauer's Warbler, Short-tailed Warbler, and Blue-headed Sunbird. In the afternoon, focus on the Mubwindi Swamp, a haven for species such as the Grauer's Rush Warbler, Carruther's Cisticola, and Red-throated Alethe. Other notable species include the Chapin's Flycatcher, Shelley's Crimsonwing, and Dusky Twinspot. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge. Accommodation: Forest lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park, a diverse wilderness area known for its abundant birdlife. The drive takes you through the picturesque landscapes of western Uganda, offering opportunities to spot various bird species along the way. Upon arrival, check into your safari lodge and take a short birding walk around the grounds, where you may encounter the Martial Eagle, Bateleur, and African Skimmer. In the evening, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. This cruise offers excellent opportunities to spot water birds such as the African Spoonbill, Yellow-billed Stork, and Pink-backed Pelican. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge. Accommodation: Safari lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 7: Birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park and Departure

Rise early for a final morning birding session in Queen Elizabeth National Park, focusing on the park's savannah and wetland habitats. Keep an eye out for species such as the Rüppell's Griffon, Lappet-faced Vulture, and White-backed Vulture. Other notable sightings may include the Verreaux's Eagle-Owl, Red-necked Spurfowl, and Harlequin Quail. After a memorable morning of birding, return to the lodge for breakfast and check-out. Your guide will then transfer you back to Entebbe International Airport, where you will bid farewell to Uganda and its incredible birdlife, taking with you unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of avian diversity. Meals: Breakfast and Lunch This carefully curated 7-day birding safari in Uganda showcases the country's most sought-after birding destinations, offering you the chance to spot an incredible variety of species, from the elusive Shoebill Stork to the endemic birds of the Albertine Rift. With expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and a well-paced itinerary, this safari promises an unforgettable experience for birding enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.