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This 9-day Uganda birding and primate safari takes you through some of the country’s most diverse ecosystems, combining exceptional bird watching with unforgettable wildlife encounters. Beginning in Entebbe, the journey explores wetlands, savannah parks, tropical forests, and the Albertine Rift region — home to hundreds of bird species and rare wildlife.

Highlights include searching for the iconic Shoebill Stork at Mabamba Wetlands, exploring Lake Mburo and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, and the once-in-a-lifetime experience of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

The itinerary blends scenic drives, guided birding walks, boat cruises, and immersive nature experiences, making it ideal for bird lovers and adventure travelers alike.

  • SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS
  • Itinerary Details
  • Price & Inclusions
SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS

Safari Highlights

Canoe birding experience at Mabamba Wetlands in search of the Shoebill Stork

  • Bird watching across Lake Mburo’s savannah, wetlands, and woodland habitats
  • Scenic drive and birding adventures in Queen Elizabeth National Park with over 600 bird species
  • Boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel for water birds and wildlife viewing
  • Guided forest birding in Kibale National Park, home to colourful species like the Great Blue Turaco
  • Chimpanzee trekking combined with forest bird watching
  • Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in Albertine Rift endemics
  • Gorilla trekking experience alongside specialised birding opportunities
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Itinerary Details

 Arrival in Entebbe

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by our representative, who will assist with your transfer to your accommodation. Take the afternoon to rest and unwind. If time permits, visit the Entebbe Botanical Gardens—an excellent spot for bird watching. Enjoy a delicious dinner and relax for the night.

Accommodation options:

Standard: Airport Guest House

Comfort: Airport view Hotel

Luxury: Best western Hotel Accommodation options:

Day 1: Mabamba Wetlands & Lake Mburo National Park

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Mabamba Wetland, a prime location for spotting the Shoebill Stork, along with water-loving birds like herons, kingfishers, and jacanas. After your canoe tour, continue the journey to Lake Mburo National Park. Check in at your lodge and take a brief walk around the area, where you can spot some local bird species. Overnight in mburo.

Accommodation options:

Standard: Eagles Nest

Comfort: Rwakobo Rock

Luxury: Mihingo Lodge

Day 2: Bird watching in Lake Mburo National Park

Dedicate the day to bird watching in Lake Mburo National Park, known for its rich bird diversity. Explore various habitats, including wetlands, savannahs, and woodlands, home to over 300 bird species such as the African Fish Eagle, African Fin foot, and Crested Francolin. A guided birding tour will help you spot and identify species throughout the day. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and rest.

Day 3: Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of the best birding destinations in Uganda. The 3-4 hour drive offers beautiful scenic views, and upon arrival, check in at your accommodation. In the afternoon, embark on a birding tour through diverse habitants, from wetlands to savannahs and forests. Queen Elizabeth is home to over 600 bird species, including the African Skimmer and Pink-backed Pelican. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation options:

Standard: Bush Lodge

Comfort: Mweya safari Lodge  

Luxury: Elephant plains

Day 4: Bird watching in Queen Elizabeth National Park

 A dive into bird watching at Queen Elizabeth National Park. Explore the Mweya Peninsula, Ishasha Sector And a boat cruise on Kazinga Channel, known for their diverse. Look out for raptors, water birds, and forest-dwelling species, as well as Albertine Rift endemics. Your guide will provide insights into the behavior and habitats of the bird’s birdlife you spot. In the evening, enjoy a sunset game drive and return to your lodge for a well-deserved dinner and rest.

Day 5: Kibale Forest National Park

After breakfast, embark on a 2-3 hour drive to Kibale Forest National Park, a haven for both birdwatchers and primate enthusiasts. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and prepare for an afternoon birding walk. Kibale is home to over 370 bird species, including the Great Blue Turaco and Green-breasted Pitta. Enjoy the peaceful trails surrounded by birdsong and colorful plumage. Overnight in kibale.

Accommodation options:

Standard: Isunga Lodge

Comfort: Turraco tree tops

Luxury: Primate Lodge

Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking & Birding in Kibale

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a chimpanzee trekking adventure in Kibale Forest. Along the trek, keep an eye out for the numerous bird species that inhabit the forest, including the African Grey Parrot, Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo, and Narina Trogon. After the trek, continue your birding experience in the forest. Your guide will help identify the various species and provide fascinating details about their behavior. Head back to your lodge for a delicious dinner and rest.

Day 7: Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Enjoy breakfast before setting off for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours, offering stunning views along the way. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation. In the afternoon, join a guided birding walk through the forest, home to over 350 bird species, including the African Green Broadbill and Shelley’s Crimson wing. Enjoy dinner and spend the night in Bwindi.

Accommodation options:

Standard: Ride for a woman

Comfort: Mahogany springs

Luxury: Buhoma Lodge

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking & Bird watching in Bwindi

 After breakfast set out on an exciting gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Following trails through the forest, you’ll encounter the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. After the trek, continue bird watching, focusing on the bird species found in the forest. With 23 Albertine Rift endemics, Bwindi is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Return to your lodge in the evening for a restful dinner and overnight stay.

Day 9: Departure from Bwindi to Entebbe

After breakfast, bid farewell to Bwindi and drive back to Entebbe, arriving in the Afternoon or evening. You will then be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your departure, concluding your memorable birding adventure in Uganda.

Price & Inclusions
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Price Includes

  • Ground transport
  • Gorilla permit
  • Park entrance
  • Inbound flights
  • Boat trip
  • Bottled water in the safari vehicle
  • Full board accommodation for two nights
  • Service of an English-speaking driver-guide
  • All mentioned activities except for the optional ones

NOT IncludeD

  • Extras at the accommodation i.e. drink, telephone, laundry, etc.
  • Tips to porters and driver/ guide
  • Insurance

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EXPLORE DESTINATIONS

SAFARI GUIDE

  • Tanzania Travel Guide
  • Kenya Travel Guide
  • Things To Do In Tanzania
  • Best Time To Visit Kenya
  • Kilimanjaro Packing List
  • Zanzibar Travel Tips

CONTACT INFORMATION

Contact your Travel Advisor

+256 703 996 750

+256 774 535 236

info@journeysmilesexpeditions.com

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