Embark on a thrilling 13-day adventure through Uganda’s stunning birding hotspots and wildlife-rich parks. From the vibrant birdlife of Mabamba Swamp to the iconic mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, this itinerary offers an immersive experience in East Africa’s natural beauty. Enjoy exceptional bird watching, exciting game drives, and unforgettable gorilla tracking as you explore diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival – Entebbe
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your accommodation in Entebbe. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to go birdwatching in the botanical gardens. Overnight in Entebbe.
Day 2: Birding at Mabamba Swamp
After an early breakfast, drive to Mabamba Swamp, located 50 km west of Kampala. En route, stop at Mpigi Swamp to look for papyrus rarities such as the White-winged Warbler and Papyrus Gonolek. At Mabamba, most birdwatching is done from a canoe, where you can search for the elusive Shoebill, along with a variety of other swamp species like the Swamp Flycatcher and African Jacana. Overnight in Entebbe.
Day 3: Drive to Lake Mburo National Park
Following breakfast, head to Lake Mburo National Park, stopping to view the Equator and local drum makers along the way. Lake Mburo is home to species such as the Green-backed Woodpecker and African Finfoot. Overnight at Lake Mburo National Park.
Day 4: Lake Mburo to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Spend the morning birdwatching in Lake Mburo before traveling to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This park features diverse wildlife, including elephants and lions, and notable landscapes like the Kazinga Channel and the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Enjoy an afternoon game drive. Overnight at Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Day 5: Birding and Boat Cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Dedicate the morning to birdwatching in Queen Elizabeth National Park. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward. The channel is excellent for photographing water birds and observing hippos. Look out for species such as the African Skimmer and Striated Heron. Overnight in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Day 6: Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Travel to the southern Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park for birdwatching in the Maramagambo Forest and a search for the “tree-climbing lions.” This area is also home to buffaloes, elephants, and topi antelopes. Overnight in the Ishasha sector.
Day 7: Ishasha to Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest
Drive from Ishasha to Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest. Known for its rich birdlife and diverse flora, Bwindi is home to 348 bird species and numerous Albertine Rift endemics. Overnight in Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest.
Day 8: Birding in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Spend the day birdwatching in the Buhoma section of Bwindi. Look for species such as the Blue-headed Sunbird and Black-billed Turaco among the diverse flora. Overnight in Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest.
Day 9: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi
After breakfast, report to the ranger station for a briefing before setting out for gorilla tracking. This trek through the forest can last from 30 minutes to 5 hours. Witness the majestic silverback gorilla and experience the rare opportunity to observe these incredible creatures up close. Overnight in Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest.
Day 10: Transfer to Kibale National Park
Depart Bwindi for Kibale Forest National Park, known for its high concentration of primates, including chimpanzees. Arrive and settle in for dinner and overnight.
Day 11: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Swamp
Go chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest in the morning. In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, known for its bird species and rich vegetation. Overnight in Kibale Forest National Park.
Day 12: Transfer to Kampala
Travel from Kibale to Kampala, with birding opportunities along the way. Arrive in Kampala for your overnight stay.
Day 13: Departure
Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.