5 Days Uganda Birding Safari

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport and Birding at Mabamba Swamp

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional birding guide from Verdant Safaris and transferred to Mabamba Swamp on the shores of Lake Victoria. This internationally recognised Ramsar site is one of Africa’s most celebrated birding locations and is particularly famous for harbouring the elusive Shoebill Stork. Board a traditional motorised canoe and navigate through papyrus channels while searching for this prehistoric-looking bird and numerous other wetland species including African Jacanas, Malachite Kingfishers, Papyrus Gonoleks and Blue Swallows. The peaceful environment and exceptional birdlife provide a perfect introduction to Uganda’s remarkable avifauna. Later, transfer to your luxury hotel in Entebbe and enjoy a relaxing evening overlooking Lake Victoria.

Accommodation: Hotel No.5 Entebbe, Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe, Latitude 0 Degrees

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park and Afternoon Birding

After breakfast, depart Entebbe and begin your scenic journey to Kibale Forest National Park in western Uganda. The drive passes through rolling hills, traditional villages and beautiful tea plantations, offering opportunities to observe various bird species along the route. Upon arrival, check into your luxury lodge situated near the forest and enjoy lunch while taking in the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, embark on a guided birding excursion around the forest edge and nearby crater lakes. Kibale Forest supports more than 375 bird species, including the Great Blue Turaco, Black Bee-eater, African Pitta and Green-breasted Pitta. The combination of stunning landscapes and exceptional birdlife creates an unforgettable introduction to western Uganda’s forests.

Accommodation: Kyaninga Lodge, Ndali Lodge, Primate Lodge Kibale

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Birding in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Rise early for an exciting birding expedition within Kibale Forest National Park. Accompanied by an experienced birding guide, you will walk through tropical rainforest trails while searching for forest specialists and Albertine Rift endemics. The forest’s rich biodiversity supports species such as the Yellow-spotted Barbet, African Emerald Cuckoo, Crowned Eagle and White-naped Pigeon. Following lunch, proceed to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, one of Uganda’s most productive birding sites. The wetland is renowned for species including the Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Warbler, White-collared Oliveback and Blue-throated Roller. Besides its exceptional birdlife, the sanctuary offers beautiful scenery and fascinating insights into community-based conservation initiatives.

Accommodation: Kyaninga Lodge, Ndali Lodge, Primate Lodge Kibale

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Birding on Kazinga Channel

Following breakfast, continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of East Africa’s most biodiverse protected areas and a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The park boasts over 600 bird species, making it one of the richest birding destinations on the continent. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before embarking on an afternoon boat cruise along the famous Kazinga Channel. The cruise provides exceptional opportunities to observe a wide variety of waterbirds, including African Fish Eagles, Pied Kingfishers, Pink-backed Pelicans, Saddle-billed Storks, African Spoonbills and numerous herons and egrets. The shores of the channel also attract elephants, buffaloes and hippos, adding an exciting wildlife element to your birdwatching experience.

Accommodation: Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Elephant Plains Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Morning Birding and Return to Entebbe for Departure

After an early breakfast, enjoy one final birding excursion in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The park’s diverse habitats of savannah, wetlands and woodland provide opportunities to observe species such as the Martial Eagle, Grey-headed Kingfisher, White-tailed Lark and numerous weavers and sunbirds. Following your morning birding activity, begin the scenic drive back to Entebbe. Along the way, stop at the Equator crossing for photographs and souvenir shopping. Continue to Entebbe and proceed directly to Entebbe International Airport for your onward departure. As your safari concludes, you will leave Uganda with unforgettable memories of exceptional birding experiences, breathtaking landscapes and the remarkable hospitality that makes the Pearl of Africa one of the world’s premier birdwatching destinations.

Meals: Breakfast

End of the 5 Days Uganda Birding Safari.