14 Days Uganda Birdwatching Safaris

Embark on the ultimate 14-day birding safari in Uganda, a nation celebrated for its incredible avian diversity and stunning natural landscapes. With over 1,000 recorded bird species, Uganda offers birdwatchers an unparalleled opportunity to observe a wide array of birds in their native habitats, from the lush rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the sprawling savannahs of Murchison Falls National Park. This meticulously crafted itinerary takes you on a comprehensive journey through Uganda's most renowned birding hotspots, ensuring an unforgettable experience for both seasoned birders and enthusiastic nature lovers alike. Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your dedicated birding guide and transferred to your comfortable hotel. Take some time to refresh and relax, enjoying the tranquil surroundings of this charming lakeside town. In the afternoon, embark on a leisurely birding stroll through the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, where you may spot species such as the Black-headed Gonolek, Red-chested Sunbird, and Orange Weaver. Enjoy a delicious dinner and overnight stay at your hotel. Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Entebbe Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Mabamba Swamp and Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

Rise early and depart for the renowned Mabamba Swamp, a Ramsar site known for its incredible birdlife. The highlight of this wetland is the opportunity to spot the elusive Shoebill Stork, a prehistoric-looking bird highly sought-after by birdwatchers worldwide. Other species you may encounter include the Blue Swallow, Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Warbler, and various waders. After an exciting morning of birding, embark on a scenic drive to Lake Mburo National Park, a compact gem offering a diverse array of habitats. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and take a short birding walk around the grounds, where you may spot species such as the Crested Barbet, Greenwood Hoopoe, and Bare-faced Go-away-bird. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge. Accommodation: Lodge in Lake Mburo National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Days 3-4: Birding in Lake Mburo National Park

Dedicate two full days to exploring the rich birdlife of Lake Mburo National Park. Venture out on early morning and late afternoon game drives, as well as guided nature walks, to maximize your birding opportunities. The park's varied habitats, including acacia woodlands, wetlands, and rocky outcrops, support an impressive array of species. Keep an eye out for the Red-faced Barbet, Long-tailed Cisticola, Tabora Cisticola, Green-capped Eremomela, and the elusive African Finfoot. The park is also home to a significant population of raptors, including the African Marsh Harrier, Bateleur, and Martial Eagle. In the evenings, enjoy starlit dinners and overnight stays at your lodge. Accommodation: Lodge in Lake Mburo National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Transfer to Kibale National Park

After a final morning birding session in Lake Mburo, depart for the lush rainforests of Kibale National Park. The drive takes you through the scenic landscapes of western Uganda, offering chances to spot various bird species along the way. Upon arrival, check into your eco-lodge nestled in the heart of the forest and take a guided nature walk around the lodge grounds, where you may encounter species such as the Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill, Grey-throated Barbet, and Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge. Accommodation: Eco-lodge in Kibale National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Days 6-7: Birding in Kibale National Park

Spend two full days immersed in the rich birdlife of Kibale National Park, home to over 370 bird species. Rise early for morning birding sessions along the forest trails, focusing on species such as the Green-breasted Pitta, African Pitta, Joyful Greenbul, and White-tailed Ant Thrush. In the afternoons, explore the forest edges and nearby wetlands, searching for the Black Bee-eater, White-bellied Kingfisher, and various sunbirds. Kibale is also renowned for its primate diversity, including chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, and L'Hoest's monkeys. Enjoy the opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures as you traverse the forest. In the evenings, relax at your lodge, enjoying delicious meals and the tranquil sounds of the rainforest. Accommodation: Eco-lodge in Kibale National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Days 8-10: Birding in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a true birdwatcher's paradise. The park's misty, ancient forests are home to over 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics found nowhere else in Uganda. Over the course of three days, explore the park's various trails and habitats, searching for rare and endemic species such as the African Green Broadbill, Grauer's Warbler, Chapin's Flycatcher, and Shelley's Crimsonwing. The park's numerous gorges and valleys create a variety of microclimates, each supporting unique bird communities. In addition to birding, take the opportunity to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure, coming face-to-face with the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This unforgettable experience is a highlight for many visitors to Bwindi. In the evenings, relax at your forest lodge, sharing stories of the day's sightings with fellow birders. Accommodation: Forest lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Days 11-12: Birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park

After a final morning birding session in Bwindi, depart for the diverse landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The park's varied habitats, including savannah, wetlands, and forests, support an astounding 600+ bird species, making it a true birder's delight. Over the course of two days, explore the park's key birding areas, such as the Kasenyi Plains, Mweya Peninsula, and the Kazinga Channel. Keep an eye out for species such as the Martial Eagle, African Skimmer, Verreaux's Eagle-Owl, and the impressive concentration of waterbirds along the channel, including the Great White and Pink-backed Pelicans. Enjoy game drives through the park's savannah, searching for iconic African wildlife such as elephants, lions, and buffaloes, while also spotting grassland bird species like the Black-bellied Bustard and the Secretary Bird. In the evenings, relax at your comfortable safari lodge, enjoying sundowners and starlit dinners. Accommodation: Safari lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Days 13-14: Birding in Murchison Falls National Park and Departure

For the final leg of your journey, head to the spectacular Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest protected area. The park's diverse habitats, from the banks of the Nile River to the expansive savannah, support a wide variety of birdlife. On your first day, take a boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls, observing the Nile's impressive bird populations, including the Rock Pratincole, Red-throated Bee-eater, and various kingfishers. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive through the park's savannah, searching for species such as the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Denham's Bustard, and the rare Shoebill Stork. On your final morning, take a sunrise game drive, soaking in the beauty of the park's landscapes and enjoying your last moments in Uganda's birding paradise. After breakfast, begin your journey back to Entebbe, reflecting on the incredible diversity of birdlife you've witnessed over the past two weeks. Upon arrival in Entebbe, you will be transferred to the airport for your international departure flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories and a deepened appreciation for Uganda's avian wonders. Accommodation: (Day 13) Safari lodge in Murchison Falls National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner This immersive 14-day birding safari in Uganda showcases the country's most iconic birding destinations, offering you the chance to observe an unparalleled diversity of species, from the elusive Shoebill Stork to the vibrant Narina Trogon. With expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and a thoughtfully designed itinerary, this safari promises an unforgettable adventure for birding enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, leaving you with a profound appreciation for Uganda's incredible avian heritage.