This birding trip in Uganda spans over 14 days and covers a range of destinations across the country. The trip is designed for bird enthusiasts who want to experience the country's diverse habitats and unique bird species.
The trip begins with a transfer from Kampala to Kidepo Valley National Park, located in the far northeast of Uganda. You will have three full days to explore the park's vast savannah landscapes, rugged mountains, and deep valleys, which offer a diverse range of habitats for bird species.
From Kidepo Valley National Park, the trip continues to Mabira Forest, located just 56km east of Kampala. The forest is home to over 300 bird species, and you will have a chance to see many colorful and rare species like the African grey parrot and the blue-breasted kingfisher.
Next, the trip heads to Soroti and Pakwi for more birding experiences before transferring to Mountain Elgon National Park. You will spend a day birding in the park, which offers several habitats ranging from montane forests, bamboo zones, and heathlands that support an array of bird species.
The trip continues to Pian Upe Game Reserve, a large wilderness area that offers a range of habitats and bird species. You will have a chance to see unique bird species like the Karamoja apalis and the Fox's weaver, and large mammals such as the cheetah, lion, and elephant.
The trip concludes with a day of birding in Gulu, surrounded by lush savannah and wetland habitats that support an array of bird species. You will also have a chance to learn more about the local people's way of life and traditions.
In summary, this birding trip through Uganda covers a range of destinations, habitats, and bird species, providing a well-rounded wildlife and cultural experience. The trip is designed for bird enthusiasts who want to experience the country's natural beauty and unique bird species while learning about the local culture and traditions.
Trip highlights
This birding trip through Uganda has several highlights that make it an excellent choice for bird enthusiasts. Here are some of the highlights in detail:
ü Kidepo Valley National Park: This park is located in the far northeast of Uganda and is considered one of the most remote and pristine national parks in Africa. The park's vast savannah landscapes, rugged mountains, and deep valleys offer a diverse range of habitats for bird species. You can expect to see a variety of bird species such as the Abyssinian roller, Karamoja apalis, and the black-breasted barbet. Additionally, the park is home to many other animals such as elephants, lions, and hyenas, which add to the adventure of exploring this wilderness.
ü Mabira Forest: Located just 56km east of Kampala, Mabira Forest is an excellent destination for birding in Uganda. The forest is home to over 300 bird species, and you can expect to see many colorful and rare species like the African grey parrot, African pied hornbill, and the blue-breasted kingfisher. The lush forest is also home to primates such as the grey-cheeked mangabey and the red-tailed monkey, making for a well-rounded wildlife experience.
ü Mountain Elgon National Park: Mountain Elgon is an extinct volcano that straddles the border between Kenya and Uganda. The park has several habitats ranging from montane forests, bamboo zones, and heathlands that support an array of bird species. You can expect to see the Dusky turtle dove, Cinnamon-chested bee-eater, and the black-throated wattle-eye. The park's stunning scenery and hiking opportunities make it an all-round excellent destination for birders and nature enthusiasts.
ü Pian Upe Game Reserve: Pian Upe is a large wilderness area that offers a range of habitats and bird species. The park is home to several unique bird species such as the Karamoja apalis, the Fox's weaver, and the ostrich. The park is also a great destination for seeing large mammals such as the cheetah, lion, and elephant.
ü Birding in Gulu: Gulu is a town located in Northern Uganda, surrounded by lush savannah and wetland habitats that support an array of bird species. You can expect to see the chestnut-crowned sparrow weaver, black-headed batis, and the yellow-footed flycatcher. Additionally, the area is culturally rich, and you can expect to learn more about the local people's way of life and traditions.
On Day 1, you will arrive at Entebbe International Airport in Uganda and be picked up by a representative of the tour company. They will transfer you to your hotel in Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, where you will have the opportunity to relax and prepare for your upcoming birding safari.Depending on your arrival time, you may have some time to explore Kampala, which is known for its lively markets, bustling streets, and friendly locals. You may also choose to rest and recover from your journey, as the birding safari will be an exciting and active adventure.In the evening, you will have a briefing with your guide, who will provide more details about the itinerary and answer any questions you may have. You will also have the opportunity to go over the birding checklist and prepare for the first day of birding.
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel in Kampala and begin your journey to Mabira Forest. The drive will take approximately 1-2 hours, depending on traffic and any stops along the way.Mabira Forest is a large rainforest reserve located near the town of Jinja in eastern Uganda. The forest is known for its rich birdlife, as well as its biodiversity and scenic beauty. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a local guide who will help you identify and spot the various bird species in the area.You will spend the day walking through the forest, stopping at various locations to observe and photograph the birds. Your guide will help you spot the different species, point out their distinctive features, and provide information on their behaviors and habitats.Some of the birds you might see include the African grey parrot, the blue-breasted kingfisher, the great blue turaco, and many more. Mabira Forest is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including primates, butterflies, and reptiles.You will have plenty of time to explore the forest and observe the birds in their natural habitats. You may also choose to take a break and have a picnic lunch amidst the lush surroundings. At the end of the day, you will return to your accommodation near the forest or continue on to your next destination.
On this day, you will travel to Soroti, a town in eastern Uganda that is known for its birding opportunities. Your day will start early as you head out with your guide to explore the countryside. You will travel by car to different locations where you can spot various bird species. You will also go for a nature walk, which will take you through forests and grasslands, where you will have the chance to see a variety of bird species.During the walk, your guide will help you identify different bird species and provide information about their habits and habitats. You will learn about the different calls and songs of the birds, as well as their nesting and feeding habits.One of the highlights of the day is the opportunity to spot the rosy-breasted longclaw, a small bird with a distinctive red and yellow breast. This bird is found in grassy areas, and you will have the chance to see it in its natural habitat.Another bird species that you will look out for is the red-headed lovebird, which is a colorful parrot found in the savannah areas of eastern Uganda. You will also look for the golden-breasted bunting, which is a striking bird with a bright yellow breast and a black head.As you explore the area, you will also have the chance to see other wildlife, such as antelopes, zebras, and warthogs. You will have a packed lunch in the field, and later in the afternoon, you will head back to your lodge for a relaxing evening.Overall, this day will be a great opportunity to see some of the most beautiful and unique birds of Uganda, and to learn more about their habitats and behaviors. It will be a day to remember for any bird lover.
After spending the night in Soroti, you will travel to Pakwi, which is located in the Karamoja region of Uganda. Your day will start early as you head out with your local guide to explore the birding opportunities in Pakwi. The area is known for its unique bird species, and your guide will help you identify and spot different birds.You will travel by car to different locations where you can spot various bird species. The Karamoja apalis is a bird species that is endemic to the Karamoja region and is a highlight of the area. It has a distinctive black and white head, and your guide will help you find this elusive bird.You will also look out for the white-bellied bustard, which is a large ground-dwelling bird. Your guide will help you identify its unique call, which sounds like a drumming sound.Another bird species that you will look out for is the chestnut-crowned sparrow weaver, which is a striking bird with a distinctive chestnut-colored head. It is commonly found in the acacia trees of the region, and your guide will help you spot it.As you explore the area, you will also have the chance to see other wildlife, such as dik-diks, warthogs, and rock hyraxes. You will have a packed lunch in the field, and later in the afternoon, you will head back to your lodge for a relaxing evening.Overall, this day will be a great opportunity to see some of the unique bird species of the Karamoja region and to learn more about their habitats and behaviors. It will be a day to remember for any bird lover.
After breakfast, you will travel to Mountain Elgon National Park, which is located on the border of Uganda and Kenya. The park is known for its stunning scenery, including waterfalls, caves, and hot springs. It is also home to over 300 bird species, including the Jackson's francolin, the red-chested owlet, and the African blue flycatcher. The journey will take a few hours, depending on the route taken and any stops made along the way. Along the route, you may have the opportunity to see some of the local villages and rural landscapes.Once you arrive at Mountain Elgon National Park, you will have the afternoon to settle into your accommodation and explore the park's surroundings. You may choose to take a walk or hike to nearby waterfalls or hot springs, or simply relax and take in the stunning natural scenery.In the evening, you can have dinner at your accommodation and prepare for a full day of birding on the following day.
Mountain Elgon National Park is located in eastern Uganda and covers an area of approximately 1,100 square kilometers. The park is named after Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano that is the second-highest mountain in Uganda. The park is known for its diverse range of bird species, with over 300 recorded in the area.During your day of birding in Mountain Elgon National Park, you will have the opportunity to explore the park's varied habitats, which include montane forest, bamboo, and moorland. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of primates.Your local guide will help you identify and spot a variety of birds, which may include the white-starred forest robin, the eastern bronze-naped pigeon, and the tacazze sunbird. They may also be able to point out other wildlife and provide information about the park's ecology and conservation efforts
On Day 7, you will embark on a transfer from your previous destination to Pian Upe Game Reserve, which is located in eastern Uganda. The drive may take several hours depending on the route and any stops made along the way.Upon arrival at Pian Upe Game Reserve, you will have the opportunity to settle into your accommodations and get a sense of the unique landscapes and wildlife of the area. The reserve is known for its grassy plains, rocky outcrops, and dry riverbeds, as well as its diverse range of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs.In the afternoon, you will have the option to take a guided game drive or nature walk to explore the reserve and search for wildlife. As you explore the reserve, you may also spot a variety of bird species, such as the chestnut weaver, the black-bellied bustard, and the sombre rock chat. This day is focused on experiencing and appreciating the beauty and diversity of Pian Upe Game Reserve.
On day 8 of your birding trip in Uganda, you will explore the birdlife of Pian Upe Game Reserve, which is located in the eastern part of the country. The reserve is known for its diverse habitats and wide variety of bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatchers.You will have the assistance of a local guide, who will help you identify the different bird species and provide insights into their behavior and natural history. Some of the birds you may spot include the ostrich, which is the largest bird in the world, as well as the grey-crowned crane, which is the national bird of Uganda.Other species you may see include the white-crested turaco, a colorful bird with a distinctive call, and the African grey parrot, which is known for its intelligence and ability to mimic human speech. You will have the opportunity to explore the different habitats of the reserve, from open savannah to thick bush and woodland.In addition to the birdlife, Pian Upe Game Reserve is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including elephants, zebras, and antelopes. You may have the opportunity to spot some of these animals as well, as you explore the reserve on foot or by vehicle.
Overall, day 8 offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and diversity of Uganda's wildlife, and to appreciate the incredible birdlife that can be found in the country's game reserves.
On day 9 of the birding trip in Uganda, you will transfer from Pian Upe Game Reserve to Kidepo Valley National Park via Moroto and Matheniko Game Reserve. This will be a long day of driving, but it offers a chance to see some of the country's most beautiful landscapes and wildlife.You will start your journey early in the morning, and after leaving Pian Upe Game Reserve, you will head towards Moroto town. Moroto is the largest town in Karamoja region and is known for its vibrant markets and rich culture. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes that offer stunning views of the region's rocky hills and vast plains.From Moroto, you will continue your journey towards Matheniko Game Reserve, which is known for its beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife. The reserve is home to many species of antelopes, including the topi, oribi, and eland, as well as several species of primates, such as the olive baboon and the vervet monkey.After exploring Matheniko Game Reserve, you will continue your journey towards Kidepo Valley National Park. You will arrive at the park in the evening, and you can spend the night in one of the park's lodges or campsites.This transfer offers an opportunity to see some of Uganda's most beautiful landscapes and wildlife while experiencing the country's rich culture and traditions. It is also a chance to rest and prepare for three full days of birding in Kidepo Valley National Park, one of the most beautiful and remote parks in Uganda.
On day 10 of the birding trip in Uganda, you will have a full day to explore the birdlife of Kidepo Valley National Park. This park is one of the most remote and pristine parks in Uganda, known for its diverse habitats and unique bird species.The park is home to over 475 bird species, including several rare and endemic species such as the Karamoja apalis, the yellow-necked spurfowl, the ostrich, and the Abyssinian roller. Other bird species that you might see during your birding expedition include the black-breasted barbet, the red-winged lark, the fox kestrel, the superb starling, the yellow-billed hornbill, and many more.Kidepo Valley National Park offers a variety of habitats, including vast savannah grasslands, rocky hills, and riverine forests, making it a perfect birding destination. The park is also home to several large mammals, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, zebras, and giraffes, providing an opportunity for you to enjoy game drives and see some of Uganda's iconic wildlife.You will have a chance to explore the park on foot, accompanied by an experienced birding guide, who will help you identify the bird species and provide information about their behavior and habitats. You will also have a chance to enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the stunning views of the park's landscapes.Overall, day 10 in Kidepo Valley National Park offers a unique opportunity to see some of the rarest and most beautiful bird species in Uganda while experiencing the park's stunning scenery and wildlife.
On day 11 of the birding trip in Uganda, you will have another full day to explore the birdlife of Kidepo Valley National Park. This park is renowned for its diverse habitats and bird species, and with another day of exploration, you will have an excellent chance of seeing even more fascinating bird species.Your local birding guide will lead you to different areas of the park to see more of the bird species that are present. As you explore the park, you may come across other wildlife, such as elephants, lions, hyenas, and other large mammals. Your guide will help you identify and learn more about these animals, as well as provide more information about the bird species you encounter.The park is also known for its variety of birding habitats, including vast savannah grasslands, rocky hills, and riverine forests. You will have an opportunity to explore these habitats and see different bird species that are adapted to each environment. Some of the bird species that you may encounter on this day include the Karamoja apalis, the Abyssinian ground hornbill, the rosy-patched bush shrike, and the yellow-billed oxpecker, among others.Throughout the day, you will have the opportunity to take breaks and rest as needed, and you will have a chance to enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the stunning views of the park's landscapes. By the end of the day, you will have seen a wealth of bird species and other wildlife, and you will have gained a deeper appreciation for the biodiversity of Uganda's natural wonders.
On day 12 of the birding trip in Uganda, you will have another full day to explore the birdlife of Kidepo Valley National Park. With three full days in the park, you will have an excellent chance of spotting a wide variety of bird species, including some that are endemic to the region.Your local guide will help you identify and learn more about the birds you encounter. As you explore the park, you may come across other wildlife, such as zebras, giraffes, warthogs, and other large mammals that roam the savannah grasslands of the park.One of the highlights of Kidepo Valley National Park is the Narus Valley, a fertile area that is home to a large number of bird species. Here, you will have an opportunity to see species like the Karamoja apalis, Abyssinian ground hornbill, and the martial eagle.Other bird species that you might encounter on this day include the red-and-yellow barbet, the fox kestrel, the northern carmine bee-eater, and the black-winged pratincole, among others. You will also have an opportunity to explore other habitats in the park, including the riverine forests and rocky hills, where you may encounter different bird species.As on previous days, you will have the opportunity to take breaks and rest as needed, and you will enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the beautiful scenery. By the end of the day, you will have seen a wealth of bird species and other wildlife, and you will have created lasting memories of your birding adventure in Kidepo Valley National Park.
On day 13 of your birding trip in Uganda, you will transfer from Kidepo Valley National Park to Gulu, a town in northern Uganda that is renowned for its birding opportunities. The journey from Kidepo Valley National Park to Gulu will take several hours, and you will have the chance to see some of the beautiful Ugandan countryside along the way.
Once you arrive in Gulu, you will meet up with a local birding guide who will take you on a birding tour of the surrounding countryside. The area around Gulu is home to a variety of bird species, including some that are not found in other parts of Uganda.You may have the chance to see birds like the yellow-footed flycatcher, the black-headed batis, and the chestnut-crowned sparrow weaver, among others. Your guide will help you identify and learn more about the birds you encounter, and will also share information about the local culture and history.The birding tour may take you through farmlands, grasslands, and other habitats in the area, and you will have the opportunity to see a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. You will also have the chance to interact with local communities and learn more about their way of life.At the end of the day, you will return to your accommodation in Gulu, where you can relax and reflect on the birding tour. Gulu offers a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury, so you can choose an option that suits your preferences and budget.Overall, day 13 offers a great opportunity to explore a different part of Uganda and to see some unique bird species that are not found in other parts of the country.
On day 14 of your birding trip in Uganda, you will travel back to Kampala to conclude your journey. The drive will take several hours, depending on the route taken and any stops made along the way. You will have the opportunity to see more of the Ugandan countryside as you travel back towards the capital city.Once you arrive in Kampala, you may choose to spend some time exploring the city, visiting local attractions, or shopping for souvenirs. Kampala is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture, so there's always something to see and do.You can visit the Uganda Museum to learn more about the country's history and culture, or take a stroll through the colorful markets to experience the local way of life. There are also many restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and relax before your departure.At the end of the day, you will return to your accommodation in Kampala to pack and prepare for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time to rest or explore the city further before leaving Uganda.Overall, day 14 marks the end of your birding trip in Uganda, and offers a great opportunity to reflect on your experiences and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the country's birdlife.
