22 Days Bird Watching Safari
A 22 Days bird watching safari in Uganda is an excellent opportunity to explore the diverse and unique birdlife of the country. Uganda is home to over 1,000 bird species, including several endemic and rare species that cannot be found anywhere else.
During this safari, you will visit some of Uganda’s best birding destinations, including national parks, forests, wetlands, and other hotspots. You will have the chance to see various bird species, from the famous shoebill stork to the colourful turacos and kingfishers, among many others.
Your itinerary will be tailored to your interests and can include activities such as guided birding walks, boat safaris, and game drives, among others. Along the way, you will also have the opportunity to experience Uganda’s rich cultural heritage, meet local communities, and witness the country’s stunning scenery.
Some highlights of the 22-day bird-watching safari in Uganda may include visiting Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Other destinations may include Semuliki National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, forest reserves, wetlands, and birding hotspots.
There can be few bird-watching safari destinations on Earth where one can expect to find over 600 bird species in one park alone – Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park is one. Uganda is arguably the best birding destination in Africa. With over 1040 bird species already recorded in the country, Uganda is the best place to go birding in Africa.
22 Days Bird-Watching Safari in Uganda: A Detailed Itinerary
Embark on a 22-day bird-watching safari in Uganda, a haven for bird enthusiasts. This journey offers exceptional opportunities to spot rare species in stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests to open savannahs. Stay in midrange or luxury lodges, ensuring comfort amidst nature’s beauty. With over 1,000 bird species to discover, Uganda is a premier destination for avid birders.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, your guide will transfer you to your lodge. Entebbe, located along Lake Victoria, offers the perfect start to your bird-watching adventure. Relax and enjoy the serene environment. Depending on your arrival time, explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, home to birds like the African Grey Parrot and Ross’s Turaco.
- Midrange Accommodation: Boma Guesthouse
- Luxury Accommodation: Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe
Day 2: Birding at Mabamba Swamp
Mabamba Swamp, a Ramsar site, is renowned for the elusive Shoebill Stork. Glide through the papyrus channels on a canoe while spotting species like the Blue-breasted Bee-eater and Malachite Kingfisher. This day sets the tone for an extraordinary birding experience.
- Midrange Accommodation: Boma Guesthouse
- Luxury Accommodation: Lake Victoria Serena Resort
Day 3-4: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Journey to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest protected area. Stop en route at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to see rhinos and spot more birds, including the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill. Spend the next day exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems, from riverine forests to savannah plains. Key species include the Red-throated Bee-eater and Goliath Heron.
- Midrange Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge
- Luxury Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge
Day 5-6: Birding and Game Drives in Murchison Falls
Dedicate two days to birding and game drives in this breathtaking park. Cruise along the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls, observing African Fish Eagles and Pel’s Fishing Owls. On land, encounter more species while watching big game like elephants and lions.
- Midrange Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge
- Luxury Accommodation: Nile Safari Lodge
Day 7: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Drive through scenic landscapes to Kibale Forest, renowned for its primates and rich birdlife. Along the way, stop at local communities for cultural interactions. Enjoy the evening at leisure, preparing for the adventures ahead.
- Midrange Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp
- Luxury Accommodation: Crater Safari Lodge
Day 8-9: Birding and Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
Explore Kibale’s dense forests, home to species like the Green-breasted Pitta and African Pitta. While birding, encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The forest’s diversity guarantees unforgettable moments.
- Midrange Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp
- Luxury Accommodation: Primate Lodge
Day 10-11: Semuliki National Park
Semuliki National Park, a birder’s paradise, boasts the Congo biome’s rare species. Look for the White-crested Hornbill, Nkulengu Rail, and Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill. The park also offers a chance to visit Sempaya Hot Springs.
- Midrange Accommodation: Ntoroko Game Lodge
- Luxury Accommodation: Semuliki Safari Lodge
Day 12-13: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Head to Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Engage in birding along the Kazinga Channel, where Pied Kingfishers and Saddle-billed Storks abound. Game drives reveal other treasures, from elephants to tree-climbing lions.
- Midrange Accommodation: Marafiki Safari Lodge
- Luxury Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge
Day 14-15: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Travel to Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and bird-watching hotspot. The forest is home to Albertine Rift endemics like the African Green Broadbill and Regal Sunbird. Immerse yourself in its magical atmosphere.
- Midrange Accommodation: Haven Lodge Buhoma
- Luxury Accommodation: Mahogany Springs Lodge
Day 16-17: Gorilla Trekking and Birding in Bwindi
Spend one day trekking to see mountain gorillas, an experience like no other. Dedicate the next day to birding in the Buhoma or Ruhija sectors. Keep an eye out for species like the Black-billed Turaco and Handsome Francolin.
- Midrange Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp
- Luxury Accommodation: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Day 18-19: Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi’s tranquil waters are surrounded by bird-rich islands. Look for species such as the African Harrier Hawk and Grey-crowned Crane. Take a boat ride and relax while soaking in the beauty.
- Midrange Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Resort
- Luxury Accommodation: Birdnest @ Bunyonyi Resort
Day 20: Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo offers a mix of wetlands, acacia woodlands, and savannahs. Spot species like the White-winged Warbler and African Finfoot. A walking safari adds a unique touch to this destination.
- Midrange Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock
- Luxury Accommodation: Mihingo Lodge
Day 21: Return to Entebbe
Conclude your safari with a leisurely drive back to Entebbe. En route, stop at the Equator for photos and last-minute souvenirs. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences as you prepare to depart.
- Midrange Accommodation: Boma Guesthouse
- Luxury Accommodation: Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe
Day 22: Departure
Depending on your flight schedule, relax or explore Entebbe one last time. Your guide will transfer you to the airport, marking the end of an incredible bird-watching safari.
Contact Us for Custom Packages
Tailor your 22-day bird-watching safari to suit your preferences. Reach out for the ultimate birding adventure in Uganda!
Terms and conditions of 22 days bird watching safari
- Book with a deposit of 40% of the total amount of the trip.
- Book at least 60 days before the date of departure.
- Steady Safaris Ltd reserves the right not to accept bookings made less than 60 days before the date of departure.
- Full payment has to be made not less than 30 days before the departure date of the tour.
- If the total amount is not paid in due time, Steady Safaris Ltd reserves the right to treat it as cancelled.
- Cancellations: 60 days before the departure date of the tour, full refund of deposit; between 60 and 30 days, refund of 50% of deposit; less than 30 days, no refund.
- Gorilla permits are non-refundable.
Notes
- Travellers should reach Entebbe on tour starting the day before 8 am and leave from the same airport at the end of the tour after 8 pm.
- If these times are impossible, then 1 or 2 days should be calculated for the overnight in Kampala.
- Children under 12 years of age will not see chimpanzees.
- Kibale National Park offers small walks of 1 or 2 hours with creative activities.
- Gorilla trekking is not for anyone under 15 years of age.
- Prices for private safari. No extra passengers.
- All prices have VAT.
- Prices are in United States dollars (USD).
- Gorilla permits are available at least two months before the departure date.
Mabamba Swamp
Mabamba swamp is a wetland area located in Uganda, East Africa. It is situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, near the town of Entebbe. The swamp covers an area of approximately 16,500 hectares and is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including over 300 bird species.
Mabamba Swamp is famous for its population of shoebill storks, which are one of the most sought-after bird species for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Other bird species spotted in the swamp include the papyrus gonolek, African water rail, and blue-breasted bee-eater.
In addition to birdwatching, the Mabamba swamp offers visitors the opportunity to explore the local communities and learn about their traditional ways of life. The swamp is also an essential source of livelihood for many local people, who rely on it for fishing, agriculture, and tourism.
Mabamba swamp has been designated as a Ramsar site, an international designation for wetlands of global importance. This designation recognizes the importance of the swamp as a critical habitat for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
