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19 Day Uganda Birding Tour
From
US $4911 Per Person
19 Day Ultimate Uganda Birding Tour, Shoebills & Great Apes
From
USD $4911
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19 Day Ultimate Uganda Birding Tour
This 19-day Uganda birding tour offers an outstanding opportunity to see the country’s most important birds and primates. Shoebill sightings are almost guaranteed.
The tour targets more than 20 Albertine Rift endemics, including one of Africa’s most spectacular turacos, the Rwenzori Turaco, and the highly sought-after Grauer’s (African Green) Broadbill. Uganda has become the classic destination for finding the elusive Green-breasted Pitta, a species we have recorded on every one of our tours. Other range-restricted species are also sought, including the Red-faced Barbet, which is otherwise found only in a remote part of Tanzania that is rarely visited by birding tours.
Ross’s Turaco, the massive Great Blue Turaco (almost twice the size of other turacos), and many additional species are so common in Uganda that they are often encountered with ease. In addition to exceptional birding, the tour offers excellent opportunities to observe a wide range of primates, including Uganda Red Colobus, Guereza, Chimpanzee, and the unforgettable Eastern (Mountain) Gorilla.
The journey also showcases Uganda’s spectacular scenery, from Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and the dramatic Virunga Mountains. The latter part of the tour focuses on more widespread African birds and classic savanna wildlife, with chances to see Lion and, with some luck, Leopard. This section includes outstanding sites such as Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile is forced through a narrow gorge.
Please note: This tour requires a moderate level of fitness, although some days are more demanding. Activities such as gorilla trekking, the hike into Mubwindi Swamp, chimpanzee trekking, and searching for Green-breasted Pitta can involve substantial walking and uneven terrain. Participants are welcome to opt out of any activity if they feel it may be too strenuous. Many days involve forest birding on foot, often in wet conditions. Participants are advised to wear neutral-coloured clothing, use caps rather than wide-brimmed hats, and ensure adequate rain protection for camera equipment and optics.
Itinerary In Brief
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport & Lake Victoria Shore Birding
Days 2 – 3: Shoebill and transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
Days 4 – 5: Birding the Virunga Mountains region: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Days 6 – 7: Ruhija, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Days 8 – 10: Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park: birds and optional gorilla trekking
Day 11: Birds and mammals of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Days 12 – 13: Kibale National Park – the Chimpanzee/Green-breasted Pitta combo
Day 14: Travel to Masindi
Day 15: Birding at Budongo Forest’s beautiful Royal Mile, transfer to Murchison Falls
Days 16 – 17: Murchison Falls National Park
Day 18: Birding Kaniyo Pabidi Forest en route back to Entebbe
Day 19: Flights leave Entebbe
Your Itinerary in details
Day 1. Arrival at Entebbe Airport & Lake Victoria Shore Birding
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your guesthouse for check-in before beginning our first birding activities. Around Entebbe, the dazzling Black-headed Gonolek and the striking Double-toothed Barbet are both common. Bat Hawk and African Hobby are sometimes seen over the town. We will then bird the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, located on the shores of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake. Here we may encounter Broad-billed Roller, Palm-nut Vulture, numerous species of weavers, and possibly our first Great Blue Turaco of the tour.
Overnight: The Boma, or similar, Entebbe
Days 2 – 3: Shoebill and transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
After bypassing the busy city of Kampala (adjacent to the more relaxed town of Entebbe), we travel to Mabamba Swamp, one of Africa’s most accessible and reliable sites for the impressive Shoebill. A dugout canoe excursion takes us deep into the vast papyrus swamp, where Red-chested Sunbird, numerous species of nest-building weavers, coucals, and a variety of tropical waterbirds—including Lesser Jacana—are common. Swamp Flycatcher is also regularly encountered.
After locating the Shoebill, we continue birding en route, visiting a site known for Orange Weaver. Along the way we often see Eastern Plantain-eater, Ross’s Turaco, and large, noisy flocks of Great Blue Turaco, whose far-carrying calls are one of the characteristic sounds of Uganda. Grey Kestrel and the impressive Double-toothed Barbet are also frequently recorded.
We then continue to Lake Mburo National Park, where we spend two nights. This park conveniently breaks the journey between Entebbe and southwestern Uganda, the gateway to the Albertine (Western) Rift, where more than 20 endemic bird species will be targeted later in the tour.
On the following morning, we take a boat trip on Lake Mburo, one of the easiest places in Uganda to find the elusive African Finfoot. Other possibilities include Malagasy Pond Heron (when overwintering), Papyrus Gonolek, and an excellent selection of kingfishers, such as Malachite, Giant, Pied, and the rare Shining-blue Kingfisher.
Lake Mburo National Park offers outstanding birding in arid and savanna habitats. Species here may include Blue-naped Mousebird, Bare-faced Go-away-bird, Golden-breasted Bunting, and the highly localized Red-faced Barbet, along with the more widespread Spot-flanked Barbet. Nubian Woodpecker is often heard before it is seen. As in many arid-habitat parks in East Africa, species accumulation can be rapid, and the birds listed above represent only a small sample of what is possible.
This is also the only location on the tour where we are likely to see Plains Zebra. Other mammals commonly encountered include Hippopotamus, African Buffalo, Defassa Waterbuck, Bohor Reedbuck, Topi, Common Eland, and many more.
Overnight: Rwakobo Rock, Lake Mburo National Park
Days 4 – 5: Birding the Virunga Mountains region: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
The Eastern (Mountain) Gorillas of this region range freely across the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and with exceptional luck we may encounter them here. More reliable gorilla viewing, however, usually comes later in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. One of the main reasons for including Mgahinga Gorilla National Park on this tour is the chance to find the spectacular Rwenzori Turaco, a key Albertine Rift endemic. The park is characterized by extensive bamboo forest, where we search for Abyssinian Ground Thrush.
Another highly sought-after species here is the very rare Shelley’s Crimsonwing. This Endangered (IUCN) species appears to be declining, notably for reasons not directly linked to human activity. While sightings are never guaranteed, the species remains a possibility in suitable habitat. We may also record some additional Albertine Rift endemics in this area, although the majority of these specialties are more reliably found later in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Overnight: Traveller’s Rest, Kisoro
Days 6 – 7: Ruhija, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
We travel to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, one of Africa’s richest forests for both primates and birds, and begin in the high-altitude Ruhija sector. Birding starts as soon as we arrive, working the forested hills in search of species such as the striking Black Bee-eater. We also attempt Grauer’s Swamp Warbler at a roadside site, which can help reduce the length of the otherwise long walk required later, as this species occurs in the lower reaches of Mubwindi Swamp.
Mountain Yellow Warbler may also be encountered here, providing a useful comparison with Papyrus Yellow Warbler, which we look for on another day. A substantial walk toward Mubwindi Swamp is unavoidable, however, as the highly sought-after Grauer’s (African Green) Broadbill, one of Africa’s most desirable birds, occurs there. The attractive and very localized Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher is also usually found close to the lower reaches of the swamp.
The walk down to the broadbill site and back takes up a large part of the day, but it consistently ranks as one of the finest birding days of the entire tour. Participants typically record a steady stream of new species, the majority being Albertine Rift endemics. Regular encounters include Banded Prinia, Mountain Masked Apalis, Rwenzori Apalis, Chestnut-throated Apalis, the unusual Grey-throated Barbet, and Red-faced Woodland Warbler. Up to four species of the quiet but brilliantly coloured forest finches known as crimsonwings may also be found, although all are notoriously difficult.
There are far too many high-quality species to list in full, but we also hope to see Olive-breasted Greenbul, one of the more attractively coloured greenbuls among the many encountered in Uganda, where identification can be challenging. Other range-restricted specialties include the long-tailed Blue-headed Sunbird, the dazzling Regal Sunbird, Stripe-breasted Tit, and Rwenzori Batis, along with slightly more widespread but equally impressive species such as Bar-tailed Trogon and Rwenzori Hill Babbler.
Overnight: Gorilla Mist Camp, Ruhija
Days 8 – 10: Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: birds and optional gorilla trekking
While travelling from the higher-altitude Ruhija sector to the lower-elevation Buhoma area of Bwindi, we stop to bird a narrow stretch of forest known as “The Neck”. This site allows us to record a number of species not easily found elsewhere. Black Bee-eater and Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater are both usually seen here, while Chubb’s Cisticola can often be heard duetting from the thickets.
One of the highlights at this site is the charismatic Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher (also known as Vanga Flycatcher), an extremely active and noisy species that constantly moves between perches. The male is striking black-and-white with bright yellow eyes, while the female is chestnut and white. Other possibilities include Brown-throated Wattle-eye, Mackinnon’s Shrike, Bronzy Sunbird and several other sunbirds, African Grey Woodpecker, and Augur Buzzard.
In the deep forest around Buhoma, we focus on additional localized endemics that barely extend into neighbouring countries. Target species include Grauer’s Warbler (not to be confused with Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, which we aim to see earlier), Bar-tailed Trogon, Petit’s Cuckooshrike, Lühder’s Bushshrike, Brown-capped Weaver, Red-throated Alethe, and many others. We also spend time searching for slightly more widespread forest species, such as the elusive White-spotted Flufftail, Red-shouldered Cuckooshrike, Olive-bellied Sunbird, and several attractive forest barbets, including the large Yellow-billed Barbet. Other highlights may include the brilliantly coloured African Emerald Cuckoo and the impressive Black-billed Turaco.
Birding along forest edges and adjacent farmland can be just as productive—and often easier for photography. Here we may find Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo, Great Blue Turaco, Ross’s Turaco, Grey-winged Robin-Chat, Black-necked Weaver, Red-headed Malimbe, Northern Double-collared Sunbird, Grey-headed Nigrita, and many more. Over our two full days in the area, we spend ample time birding forest trails, forest edges, and nearby agricultural habitats.
At Buhoma, there is the option to spend one day trekking for Mountain Gorillas. This is a strenuous activity. Participants who choose not to take part will go birding instead, or may relax and enjoy photographing birds around the lodge.
Overnight: Ride 4 a Woman, Buhoma
Day 11: Birds and mammals of Queen Elizabeth National Park
We stop at Queen Elizabeth National Park—often staying on the Mweya Peninsula along the Kazinga Channel—en route to Kibale Forest. Established in 1954 and officially opened by England’s queen, the park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, as well as an impressive diversity of wildlife, including over 100 mammal species and around 600 bird species.
A major highlight is a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel, where we can see Nile Crocodile, Hippopotamus, and a wide variety of waterbirds. On land, we also encounter Common Warthog, African Buffalo, Uganda Kob, and numerous other mammals. The shy but fascinating Forest Hog often proves to be one of the most memorable sightings.
Overnight: Bush Lodge, Queen Elizabeth National Park
Days 12 – 13: Kibale National Park – the Chimpanzee/Green-breasted Pitta combo
The drive from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kibale is spectacular, taking us across the foothills of the “Mountains of the Moon” (Ruwenzori Range) and even crossing the equator. Kibale is considered the richest forest for primates in Africa, offering incredible wildlife experiences.
Our main avian target here is the elusive Green-breasted Pitta, best sought at dawn, when its display call helps pinpoint its location. Despite its jewel-like colors, this bird is notoriously difficult to see as it forages on the forest floor. While searching for it, the forest comes alive with the loud, sometimes intimidating calls of large Chimpanzee troops. There is also the option for a chimpanzee trekking excursion for those interested.
Kibale is home to many other primates, including L’Hoest’s Monkey, Uganda Red Colobus (one of Africa’s most striking primates), Guereza (Eastern Black-and-white Colobus), Red-tailed Monkey, Grey-cheeked Mangabey, and large groups of Olive Baboon, which often roam on the ground in impressive numbers.
Birding here is equally rewarding. Possible species include White-headed Wood Hoopoe, Narrow-tailed Starling, Black-billed Turaco, and Chestnut Wattle-eye, among many others.
Overnight: Kibale Forest Camp
Day 14. Travel to Masindi
After some final birding around Kibale, we drive to Masindi. Time permitting, we may begin birding at nearby sites, including the well-known Royal Mile, which can offer a range of interesting species along the way.
Overnight: Masindi Hotel, Masindi
Day 15: Birding at Budongo Forest’s beautiful Royal Mile, transfer to Murchison Falls
Budongo Forest is home to many special bird species that we may not have seen earlier on the tour. One of the highlights is the Chestnut-capped Flycatcher, part of a fascinating trio of small, warbler-like flycatchers that are taxonomically enigmatic—one of which occurs here, while the other two are usually seen on our Tanzania and Mozambique tours. Another prized species is Fraser’s Forest Flycatcher.
The kingfishers of the Royal Mile are among its most famous inhabitants, and many are not associated with water. The stunning Chocolate-backed Kingfisher is a star, alongside the dazzling Blue-breasted Kingfisher, African Dwarf Kingfisher, and several others.
On the forest floor, species such as Red-tailed Ant Thrush, Fire-crested Alethe, and Nahan’s Partridge are often seen. The canopy hosts birds like Rufous-crowned Eremomela, White-thighed Hornbill, and numerous forest barbets, tinkerbirds, and woodpeckers. Budongo Forest also supports a great diversity of greenbuls, occupying different forest strata from undergrowth to canopy—a challenging but rewarding group to identify.
The Royal Mile is a breathtakingly beautiful forest with an exceptionally rich birdlife. After a morning immersed in this forest, we transfer to Murchison Falls National Park.
Overnight: Murchison River Lodge, Murchison Falls National Park
Days 16 – 17. Murchison Falls National Park
During our time in Murchison Falls National Park, we enjoy a combination of boat trips and birding/game drives, adding many new species to our list. The park is excellent for both large and small mammals, with possible sightings including Lion, Leopard, Rothschild’s Giraffe, Oribi, Jackson’s Hartebeest, Common Warthog, the scarce Patas Monkey, and many others.
Birding here is equally rewarding. Highlights may include Black-headed Lapwing, Silverbird, Speckle-fronted Weaver, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Red-throated Bee-eater, Swallow-tailed Bee-eater, Rock Pratincole, White-headed Barbet, Black-billed Barbet, Meyer’s Parrot, and Bateleur, among a wide variety of other species.
The park’s signature feature is the Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River is forced through a narrow gorge, creating a spectacular sight. While at the falls, there is a small chance of encountering Pel’s Fishing Owl or Bat Hawk. Where possible, night drives can be arranged to seek nightjars and owls, including Long-tailed, Plain, and Pennant-winged Nightjars, as well as Greyish Eagle-Owl.
Overnight: Murchison River Lodge, Murchison Falls National Park
Day 18: Birding Kaniyo Pabidi Forest en route back to Entebbe
Today is primarily a travel day, but we will include several rewarding birding stops on our way back to Entebbe. Our first stop is Kaniyo Pabidi Forest, the only known East African site for the rare forest dweller Puvel’s Illadopsis. Here we also look for other lowland forest specials, including Western Crested Guineafowl, Spotted Greenbul, African Dwarf Kingfisher, Blue-breasted Kingfisher, Forest Robin, and Yellow-mantled Weaver, among others.
South of Masindi, we make another stop in the grasslands to search for the localized Marsh Widowbird before continuing our transfer back to Entebbe.
Overnight: The Boma, or similar, Entebbe
Day 19: Flights leave Entebbe
Today marks the end of the tour. Your flight can depart at any time from Entebbe International Airport.
Prices
* The prices below are starting prices and are shown in US Dollars per person .
- 1 Person = US$ 15714
- 2 People = US$ 8996
- 3 People = US$ 7271
- 4 People = US$ 6053
- 5 People = US$ 5614
- 6 People = US$ 5087
- 7 People = US$ 4911
Price includes:
- All accommodation
- Meals (from lunch on day 1 until breakfast on day 19)
- Unlimited bottled water
- Expert birding tour guide
- All entrance & conservation fees
- All ground transport, including airport pick-up and drop-off
- Boat rides in Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth & Murchison Falls National Parks
- Canoe fees at Mabamba Swamp (Shoebill)
- 24/7 support on the safari
- Airport and hotel transfers
Price excludes:
- International/domestic flights (to/from Entebbe)
- Visas
- Items of a personal nature, e.g. gifts, laundry, internet access, phone calls, etc.
- Any pre- or post-tour accommodation, meals, or birding excursions
- Soft/alcoholic drinks
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities & Tips
- Optional Gorilla tracking permit ($800 currently)
- Optional Chimpanzee tracking permit ($250 currently)
General Information
Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” is roughly the same size as the state of Oregon, yet it boasts over 1,000 bird species and Africa’s greatest concentration of primates. This incredible diversity is largely due to the dramatic variety of habitats, which change frequently—and sometimes rapidly—across the country.
On this 19-day Uganda birding tour, we focus on the most important birds and primates the country has to offer. The bizarre and impressive Shoebill is targeted at Mabamba Swamp and is nearly guaranteed. We spend ample time in the highlands searching for more than 20 Albertine Rift (Western Rift) endemics, including the spectacular Rwenzori Turaco and the “must-see” Grauer’s Broadbill. Lowland forests are explored to find Green-breasted Pitta, while savannas, rivers, and lakes provide further birding and mammal-watching opportunities.
Daily Activities, Physical Requirements, and Tour Pace
Most of the tour is not strenuous, although a few optional walks can take half a day or more, sometimes the entire day. Participants who prefer a more relaxed pace can opt out of these longer walks. Lodges provide pleasant places to rest, and photographers often capture excellent bird images while staying behind. Pre-breakfast birding or night birding (owling) is also optional.
A mix of hardcore birders and more relaxed travelers has consistently enjoyed this trip, as it is generally easy to skip activities and enjoy downtime at the accommodations.
Some drives are long and slow, taking half a day or more. Roadwork is ongoing in parts of Uganda, so be prepared for stretches of unpaved, dusty roads.
Most birding occurs in forests (Mgahinga, Bwindi, Kibale, Budongo), but we also spend time in savanna, wetland, riverine, and open habitats. Forest birding is often challenging, requiring searches in the canopy or dense undergrowth, but patience is usually rewarded with highly prized Albertine Rift endemics.
Birding and Great Ape Hikes
Several hikes are part of the tour, including highland and lowland forest walks. The hike to Mubwindi Swamp is one of the most exciting, with a steady stream of Albertine Rift endemics, including Grauer’s Broadbill. This is also the most strenuous walk, covering roughly 10 miles (16 km) round-trip at altitude (~6,400 ft / 2,000 m), with a 1,500 ft (500 m) descent to the swamp. Participants enjoy a picnic lunch before returning uphill.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park also involves steep terrain, while other walks, such as at Buhoma, Kibale, and Budongo Forest, are less strenuous. Those opting out of longer walks can be accommodated with easier birding along forest roads. A moderate level of fitness is recommended for the best experience.
Gorilla trekking can last 2–14 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location. The trek involves mountainous terrain and bush-bashing; proper hiking boots and clothing are essential. Porters can carry participants on stretchers for an additional fee, allowing everyone to experience the gorillas. Only one hour is spent with the gorillas to minimize disturbance.
Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest is generally easier due to flatter terrain, though it may still involve walking in hot and humid conditions. Those opting out of gorilla or chimpanzee trekking can rest at the lodge or go birding.
Boat Trips
We take several boat trips during the tour. At Mabamba Swamp, small dugout canoes (mokoros) are used, requiring the group to split into multiple boats that remain close together while seeking Shoebills. Other boat trips, such as on Lake Mburo and the Nile at Murchison Falls, use larger boats accommodating the whole group.
Weather and Climate
Uganda receives ample rain and is rich in water, with papyrus swamps, parts of Lake Victoria, and lush forests. Rain, drizzle, and mist are possible year-round, though our tours run mainly in the dry season (June–August), when birds are in breeding plumage and migrants are present.
Weather varies dramatically with altitude. While Entebbe may be hot and humid, highlands such as Bwindi and Mgahinga can be surprisingly cool, especially at night. Bring layers, including warm fleece/jackets and rain gear, and be prepared for both hot, humid conditions and cooler mountain temperatures.
Porters are available to carry gear on longer walks and treks. A waterproof daypack is recommended for personal items and camera equipment.
Electricity
Uganda uses 220 V electricity with UK-type plugs. Bring appropriate adapters and check your devices for voltage compatibility (North American voltage is ~110 V).
Transportation
Travel in Uganda can be slow, with speed bumps and potholes. Vehicles used include Toyota Landcruisers or minibuses, which are modern and comfortable.
Communication
Cell phone signal is generally available, though roaming charges may apply. Purchasing a local SIM card is often more economical. Wi-Fi is usually available in lodges’ common areas but may be limited in rooms.
Luggage
Due to limited space in vehicles, pack lightly. Soft-sided duffle bags are recommended. A small daypack should hold daily essentials and field gear.
Accommodation
Accommodations are clean, comfortable, and well-situated, often with gardens offering excellent birding opportunities. Rooms may have air-conditioning or fans; heating is limited in mountain areas. Load-shedding is common, and electricity may be generator-powered at times.
Clothing and Gear
Clothing: Lightweight, loose-fitting, and in green or brown colors. Avoid bright colors. Long sleeves and pants are recommended for insect and sun protection. Bring layers for high-altitude areas. Rain gear is essential.
Footwear: Lightweight hiking boots for walks, with backup shoes or sandals for lodge use.
Other Essentials: Binoculars, field guides (e.g., Birds of East Africa), flashlight, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, spare batteries, chargers, money, passport, proof of yellow fever vaccination, and travel/health insurance.
Optional: Daypack, waterproof bags for cameras, two colored pens, and a ruler for checklist activities.
Books and Field Guides
Recommended guides include “The Birds of East Africa” and the Merlin Bird ID app with the Uganda country package, providing photos and calls for almost all species likely to be encountered.
