Departure City
Kampala, Entebbe
Arrival City
Masindi
Accomodation
Kabalega Resort., Amuka Lodge
Guide
Guided
Language
English
Meals
Breakfast, lunch & Dinner
Transportation
4x4 Tour van
Minimum Age
8
Maximum Age
80
Group Size
1 - 80
Destinations
Murchison Falls National Park
Activities
Bird watching
Trip Type
Short Safaris
Difficulty
Easy

Overview

Birding in Uganda offers a remarkable experience, especially across Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Budongo Forest and Murchison Falls National Park. Zziwa provides a unique mix of savannah and wetland bird species including the elusive Shoebill Stork. Budongo Forest is a prime site for forest birding, home to over 360 species. And in Murchison Falls National Park, birders can explore diverse habitats ranging from riverine woodlands to savannah.

Itinerary

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This 3-day birding safari in Uganda will combine a rich diversity of habitats. From wetlands and savannah to dense forests and riverine woodlands, providing an exceptional opportunity for bird enthusiasts to spot some of the country’s most iconic and rare bird species. The safari takes you through three prime birding locations. Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Budongo Forest, and Murchison Falls National Park. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, this itinerary is designed to provide a perfect balance of birding, nature, and adventure.

Day 01 :

Transfer from Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park

The Safari will begin early in the day as you depart Kampala and head towards the northwest, where Murchison Falls National Park lies. The journey is approximately 4.5 hours. Upon arrival at the park, you will check-in, have early lunch and head to the top of the falls. The experience here is breathtaking as you witness the water forcing its way through a narrow gorge. Shortly after that, you will embark on a guided boat cruise where you will be able to spot a number of bird species such as the Black-headed lapwing, the Martial eagle, the Pied kingfisher and many more.

As evening approaches, you will leave the park and head to Masindi, for a night stay before heading to Budongo Forest

Day 02 :

Birding in Budongo Forest.

A peaceful morning resonating with nature. After breakfast, you will head to Budongo Forest and on arrival, you will check-in and straight away embark on a guided walk through the forest. This walk will offer you an opportunity to spot quite a good number of bird species including the White-thighed hornbill, the Chocolate backed kingfisher and the Puvel’s Illadopsis.

As noon approaches, you will have lunch and a short rest before heading back to the woodlands in the afternoon. During this time, you will be able to spot some nocturnal birds like the Barn Owl. After a whole day of birding, you will bid farewell to Budongo forest and head to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a conservative destination located among rolling acacia trees and bushes.

Day 03 :

Rhino and Shoebill Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

As the sun rises, you will be served a rich and energizing breakfast to kick-start your day. Thereafter, you will head to the swamp with a canoe ride to spot the elusive Shoebill Stork, a prehistoric bird known for its shoe-shaped bill. It usually stands motionless for long periods while hunting. Additionally, you will also get a chance to spot other various bird species such as the African Jacana, the Marabou Stork, the Pied Kingfisher to mention but a few. As soon as the trek is done, you will have lunch before being led by a professional guide to spot the grey skinned Rhinos.

The day will then conclude with a drive back to Kampala. The return journey will be calm and winding back through the same diverse terrains that welcomed you.