Uganda is a birder’s paradise, a wildlife haven, and the ultimate destination for primate encounters. This 10 Days Uganda Gorillas, Birding and Wildlife Safari has been crafted to offer discerning travelers the very best of Uganda’s extraordinary natural treasures iconic wildlife, over 1,000 bird species, and the rare mountain gorillas in their misty forest home. Explore rich wetlands, rolling savannahs, lush rainforests, and crater lakes, all while staying in boutique lodges and luxury eco-retreats that offer unparalleled comfort, gourmet cuisine, and personal service. This tour is a symphony of Uganda’s biodiversity and beauty tailored for bird lovers, nature photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts seeking an exclusive and unforgettable African experience.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport.
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your private guide and transferred to your luxury accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, home to many bird species such as the African Grey Parrot, Palm-nut Vulture, and Great Blue Turaco, or enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Victoria.
Accommodation: Hotel No.5, Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa, The Boma Hotel.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Transfer to Mabamba Swamp – Drive to Lake Mburo National Park
After breakfast, head to Mabamba Swamp by canoe to track the elusive Shoebill Stork, a bucket-list species for birders. The swamp is also rich in waterbirds like Papyrus Gonolek, Malachite Kingfisher, and African Jacana. Afterward, drive southwest to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest savannah park, perfect for an introduction to the country’s diverse bird and wildlife.
Accommodation: Mihingo Lodge, Kigambira Safari Lodge, Rwakobo Rock.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Birding and Game Viewing in Lake Mburo
Spend the day exploring the park’s varied habitats. Go on a morning birding and game drive, spotting species like Red-faced Barbet, Tabora Cisticola, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, and Black-bellied Bustard alongside zebras, impalas, elands, and buffaloes. In the afternoon, opt for a boat ride on Lake Mburo, where African Finfoot, Kingfishers, and Water Thick-knees may be sighted. A guided nature walk offers a rare opportunity to observe wildlife and birds on foot.
Accommodation: Mihingo Lodge, Kigambira Safari Lodge, Rwakobo Rock.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Depart for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the richest ecosystems in Africa. En route, enjoy birding stops in Ruhija sector or along forest edges, where you may encounter Dusky Twinspot, White-starred Robin, and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher. Arrive in Bwindi in the afternoon and relax at your luxury forest lodge.
Accommodation: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking and Birding in Bwindi
Today is the highlight of your safari, Gorilla Trekking. After a briefing, set out into the dense forest to track a family of endangered Mountain Gorillas. The trek can be demanding but offers a life-changing encounter. Spend an unforgettable hour in their presence.
In the afternoon, if time allows and energy permits, enjoy forest-edge birding for specialties such as the African Green Broadbill, Grauer’s Warbler, and Shelley’s Crimsonwing.
Accommodation: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: Birding in Ruhija Sector – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha)
Early morning birding in the Ruhija sector, one of the best sites in East Africa for Albertine Rift endemics. Key species include the Handsome Francolin, Regal Sunbird, Archer’s Robin-Chat, and Rwenzori Batis. After a rewarding morning, drive to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its iconic tree-climbing lions and excellent savannah birding.
Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Enjojo Lodge, Savannah Resort Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 7: Game Drive and Birding in Ishasha – Transfer to Northern Queen Elizabeth NP
Go on a morning game drive in search of tree-climbing lions and African Skimmers along the Ishasha River. Continue north to the Mweya Peninsula, birding along the way for species like Grey-headed Kingfisher, White-winged Widowbird, and Black-lored Babbler. In the evening, relax at your lodge overlooking the Kazinga Channel.
Accommodation: Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Elephant Plains Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 8: Kazinga Channel Boat Safari and Maramagambo Forest Birding
Embark on a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, a haven for birds like African Spoonbill, Pink-backed Pelican, Goliath Heron, and more. Hippos, elephants, and crocodiles are frequently seen along the banks. In the afternoon, take a birding walk through Maramagambo Forest, where you may spot Forest Flycatchers, White-naped Pigeons, and Green Hylia.
Accommodation: Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Elephant Plains Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 9: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park – Afternoon Birding
Drive to Kibale Forest, one of Africa’s top birding and primate destinations. On arrival, enjoy afternoon birding near Sebitoli or Bigodi Wetland, where special species like the Papyrus Canary, White-spotted Flufftail, and Speckle-breasted Woodpecker await.
Accommodation: Kyaninga Lodge, Ndali Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 10: Chimpanzee Tracking – Departure
Start the day with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest. Watch as these intelligent primates swing through trees and communicate in expressive ways. It’s a thrilling and intimate wildlife experience. After tracking, enjoy lunch and then transfer back to Entebbe, with a possible stop at Mpanga Forest Reserve for final bird sightings if time allows. Evening drop-off at Entebbe International Airport for your outbound flight.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 10 Days Uganda Gorillas, Birding and Wildlife Safari.
The 10 Days Uganda Gorillas, Birding and Wildlife Safari cost includes;
- All luxury accommodations (full board).
- All park entry fees, permits (including gorilla and chimpanzee 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.