Uganda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 1,070 recorded bird species and a stunning variety of habitats, from misty montane forests and papyrus swamps to expansive savannahs. This 8 Days Birding Safari in Uganda is tailor-made for passionate birders and nature lovers who seek world-class avian encounters in total comfort. With expert birding guides, private transfers, and premium accommodations throughout, you’ll explore renowned birding hotspots like Mabamba Swamp, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, all while enjoying fine cuisine, elegant lodges, and personalized service at every turn.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Shoebill Search at Mabamba Swamp
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your luxury hotel. In the afternoon, begin your birding adventure with a boat excursion through Mabamba Swamp, a Ramsar Wetland and home to one of Africa’s most iconic and elusive birds, the Shoebill Stork. Glide through the papyrus channels as you spot malachite kingfishers, African jacanas, swamp flycatchers, and more. Return to your hotel to relax and enjoy a gourmet dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel No.5, Protea Hotel, Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale Forest – Birding En Route
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, birding along the way through the lush tea estates and crater lakes of Fort Portal. This area is rich with species such as the Western Nicator, Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher, and Great Blue Turaco. Arrive at your luxurious lodge near the forest and spend the evening at leisure surrounded by birdsong.
Accommodation: Ndali Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Birding in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetlands
Start the day with a guided birding walk through Kibale Forest, home to over 375 bird species. Look out for the Green-breasted Pitta, African Pitta, Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo, and Blue-headed Bee-eater. In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, a community-run reserve famed for the Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Warbler, and many monkey species. Return to your lodge for an evening of comfort and fine dining.
Accommodation: Ndali Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After a leisurely breakfast, travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, birding en route through the Ndali-Kasenda Crater Lakes region. Upon arrival, take an afternoon birding drive through the Kasenyi Plains, home to raptors, grassland specialists, and waterbirds. Key species include Martial Eagle, Black-bellied Bustard, Temminck’s Courser, and Yellow-throated Longclaw.
Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Kazinga Channel Boat Safari and Maramagambo Forest
Begin the day with an early morning birding game drive before heading to the Kazinga Channel for a private luxury boat safari. Spot African Skimmers, Great White Pelicans, African Fish Eagles, and nesting colonies of Pied Kingfishers. After lunch, explore the Maramagambo Forest, home to species like Forest Flycatchers, Black Bee-eaters, and Red-tailed Bristlebills. Return to your lodge for an evening of relaxation.
Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi – Birding in the Ishasha Sector
Drive south through the Ishasha Sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions and savannah bird species like the African Cuckoo-Hawk, Brown Snake Eagle, and Broad-tailed Warbler. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a world-renowned birding destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Settle into your luxury lodge in the Buhoma or Rushaga sector and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.
Accommodation: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Buhoma Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 7: Full-Day Birding in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Spend the day birding in Bwindi, particularly along the Buhoma Waterfall Trail or Ruhija sector depending on your base. This forest is home to 23 of Uganda’s 24 Albertine Rift endemics, including the African Green Broadbill, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Black-faced Rufous Warbler, Short-tailed Warbler, and Bar-tailed Trogon. Your expert guide will help maximize sightings and photographic opportunities. Return to your lodge for a gourmet farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Buhoma Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 8: Return to Entebbe via Flight or Scenic Drive
After breakfast, take a scheduled domestic flight or private road transfer back to Entebbe. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens or visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre for final birding sightings. Depart with an enriched spirit and unforgettable memories of Uganda’s avian treasures and luxury hospitality.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 8 Days Birding Safari in Uganda.
The 8 Days Birding Safari in Uganda cost includes;
- All luxury accommodations (full board).
- All park entry fees, permits.
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with professional birding guide.
- All activities and excursions mentioned.
- Bottled water and refreshments in the vehicle.
- Domestic flight options available upon request.
However, the tour cost excludes; International air fare, Visa fees, personal medical and travel insurance, personal shopping bills, souvenirs, tips to local guides etc.