Birding in Uganda

For a truly extraordinary birding experience, look no further than Uganda. Home to over 1,000 species spread across its various habitats, this East African nation is a haven for avian enthusiasts. From the luscious rainforests of Bwindi to the expansive savannas of Murchison Falls, nowhere else can you so easily spot both endemic and migratory birds in stunning natural landscapes.

This extensive guide will walk you through the best birding destinations in Uganda while giving you a peek at some of the most sought-after species. Regardless if you’re an experienced birder or simply curious about these feathered creatures, a journey through Uganda is sure to leave you breathless with amazement.

Why Uganda is Ideal for Bird Watching

Uganda’s unbelievable diversity of birds stems from its unique position at the crossroads of several biogeographic regions. The country marks where the East African savanna meets West Africa’s rainforest and Northern semi-desert. With such varying ecosystems feeding into it, it’s no wonder that there are so many different types of avian life here.

On top of boasting varied landscapes, several species found only in Uganda call this place home. These include Fox’s Weaver, Rwenzori Turaco and Shoebill Stork – an odd-looking creature that often tops many birders’ bucket lists.

The killer part about coming to Uganda on a bird-watching expedition? You aren’t confined by any single season or region. Thanks to pleasant weather throughout the year and well-maintained national parks all across the country, marvelous sights await whenever and wherever you go. And if blending your passion for birding with other world-famous wildlife experiences like gorilla trekking or chimpanzee tracking sounds appealing to you, know that Uganda has got it all.

Top Destinations for Birders

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Though Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is most famous for its mountain gorillas, it’s also a dream come true for birders. With an ancient forest to explore and over 350 species of birds calling it home (including 23 Albertine Rift endemics), you’ll never want to leave.

Some of the most sought-after species in this area are African Green Broadbill, Bar-tailed Trogon and Shelley’s Crimsonwing. They aren’t always easy to spot due to the park’s overgrown vegetation, but trust us: The hassle will be worth it. To give yourself the best shot at finding these elusive birds and more, make sure to hire a local guide who knows their stuff.

The big prize that awaits here is Great Blue Turaco – one of the most stunning birds you’ll ever lay eyes on. Vibrant blue plumage with a red-tipped crest, this majestic creature can frequently be heard making a scene before seen soaring through the forest’s canopy.

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

As Uganda’s most visited savanna park, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers that true East African safari experience many travelers seek. Along with traditional game drives though, this place is packed with amazing birding opportunities too. Over 600 species call the park home, solidifying it as one of the richest birding sites in all of Africa.

From Lake Edward’s shores to Kasenyi Plain’s grasslands, each different ecoregion supports unique fauna including African Skimmers, Martial Eagles and those beloved Shoebill Storks which frequent wetlands across the park.

One of the best ways to enjoy birding in Queen Elizabeth is by taking a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel is home to a plethora of waterbirds, including the pied kingfisher, the African spoonbill, and the saddle-billed stork.

3. Murchison Falls National Park

At 45 meters over the spectacular Murchison Falls you will find Uganda’s largest protected area. This park encompasses a diverse range of habitats such as savannas to riverine forests.

The park is home to over 450 bird species including the rare shoebill stork. In this expansive wetlands you’ll find other notable species such as the Abyssinian ground hornbill and red-throated bee-eater.

One of the most thrilling ways to experience birding in Murchison Falls is by taking a boat cruise to the base of the falls. Alongside an abundance of other wildlife like hippos and crocodiles you’ll also spot various waterbirds.

4. Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park has chimpanzees on lock but it’s also really good for bird watching! This lush tropical forest boasts more than 370 bird species- many being Albertine Rift endemics!

Some of the most sought-after birds in Kibale include green-breasted pitta, African pitta, and black bee-eater. The dense forest canopy makes it quite difficult to spot these rare species so hiring a knowledgable guide is essential!

Great blue turaco’s are abundant here as well as colorful birds like black-billed turaco and white-naped pigeon.

5. Semuliki National Park

Semuliki National Park offers a unique opportunity to spot birds more typically associated with Central Africa. Over 400 bird species can be found here many that aren’t found anywhere else in East Africa.

The park’s hot springs and riverine forests provide a unique habitat for these rare species, making it a must-visit destination for serious birders.

Some of the most sought-after birds in Semuliki include the Nkulengu rail, the Congo serpent eagle, and the elusive African piculet. Alongside those are water-associated birds such as white-crested tiger heron and hartlaub’s duck.

Birding in Uganda Checklist

Uganda is a birder’s heaven for it boasts of bird species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Here are several unique birds that should be at the top of your checklist:

1. Shoebill Stork

Uganda’s most iconic bird, the shoebill stork, stands over five feet tall and has a bill shaped like a shoe. It looks prehistoric but trust me, you want to see it.

2. Green-breasted Pitta

The green-breasted pitta is a small, vibrant bird that birders are always on the hunt for when visiting Uganda. If you’re in any dense forest or Kibale National Park in particular, you might spot one.

3. African Green Broadbill

Another hard-to-spot species found in Uganda’s forests is the African green broadbill. It’s small yet plump, with black-and-white wing bars on its bright green body.

4. Great Blue Turaco

The great blue turaco is a large forest bird with stunning features like vibrant blue feathers and red-tipped crest — not to mention its distinctive “kok-kok-kok” call.

5. Rwenzori Turaco

This endemic species can only be found in two locations: The Rwenzori Mountains of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.. These birds thrive in high-altitude forests where they flaunt their vibrant blue feathers, distinctive facial skin and red bill.

Combine Activities

Combine your love for birds with other wildlife encounters such as gorilla trekking or chimpanzee tracking expeditions: many top birding destinations overlap with great ape habitats.. Do these activities together if you must but consider this: The proceeds from these activities will also go towards conservation efforts that protect both mammals and birds alike.

You can also go game drives through Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks where lions roam free sometimes inches away from your vehicle (not literally but you know what I mean). Another thing is visiting local communities to learn about their lifestyles and support them.