10 Days Uganda Birding Safari
10 Days Uganda Birding Safari 10 Days Uganda Birding Safari takes you across the diverse landscapes of Central and Western Uganda . This journey will lead you to some of Uganda’s
Uganda Bird watching tours
Uganda bird watching tours is a paradise for bird watchers, boasting over 1,000 species of birds, including rare and endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. From the iconic shoebill stork to colorful sunbirds and elusive forest dwellers, Uganda’s avian diversity is truly astounding.
Uganda bird watching tours takes you to some of the best birding destinations in the country, including Queen Elizabeth National Park, Mabamba Swamp, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Semuliki National Park. Cruise along the Kazinga Channel, glide through the tranquil waters of Mabamba Swamp in search of the elusive shoebill stork, and trek through ancient rainforests to spot endemic species such as the African green broadbill and the red-billed dwarf hornbill.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, Uganda bird watching tours are designed to cater for enthusiasts of all levels.
Join us as we explore Uganda’s diverse landscapes, encounter its rich avifauna, and immerse ourselves in the magic of bird watching with Dagiz Travel. Book your adventure today and let the feathered inhabitants of Uganda captivate your heart and soul.
Birding habitats in Uganda
Unlike other birding destinations around the world, Uganda has and is gifted with different habitats that range from tropical to afro-montane rain forests, wooded and grassland savannahs, mashes to papyrus swamps, arid to semi-arid areas not leaving out the clear blue skies all these making Uganda a convention or a melting pot of different resident and migratory species of birds, which include wintering Palearctic migrants like the Peregrine Falcon, Lesser Spotted Eagle, Intra African migrants both vertical and horizontal and the breeding resident species within the main habitats which bring Uganda to the apex of birding all finding refuge in the forests and swamps both high altitude and low range, where many rarities are always found.
What to bring on a birding trip to Uganda
In addition to the typical clothing, toiletries and relaxation essentials you may pack for any getaway, there are certain birding accessories you must fit in your luggage on a birding trip. When you are packing for a birding trip, don’t forget to include;
Field Guide Book
A field guide is essential for any birding travel, and depending on the trip length of your trip and number of destinations, you may need several different guides. Choose guides you are comfortable using and that are a good size for field use, without being too bulky or overwhelming for your luggage. If you do not have a guide for your destination, you may want to save space in your bags and pick one up at a local bookstore once you arrive. Local shopping is a great way to help the birding economy as well as find the very best field guide for your new travel hotspot.
Optics
Not only will you want to take along your favorite birding binoculars or trusty spotting scope, but you need to take along any critical accessories to use your optics most effectively. This may include a harness or carrying strap, cleaning tools, digiscoping adaptors or other tools that could come in handy.
Camera
Not all birders are skilled photographers, but even less-than-professional photographs can be useful for identifying birds. This can be especially crucial when seeing unfamiliar birds or birding in foreign regions, and you won’t want to forget your camera. Pack extra photo batteries, memory cards, cleaning tools or other camera accessories as well.
Field Bag
Your field bag is essential to tote your gear no matter where you may be birding. A canvas or cloth bag will generally use less space and fold more compactly, and be sure to declutter your field bag before a birding trip so you do not bring along any unnecessary items.
Field Clothing
The clothes you wear out birding are often significantly different than what you might wear while sightseeing, enjoying a fancy dinner, taking in a show or even just visiting family. You will want to bring along appropriate clothes for birding, taking into account the habitats you are likely to visit and the climate you will be birding in to choose the most comfortable apparel. Don’t forget the birding hut and the boots.
Best times to do a birding safari in Uganda
Looking for best time to do birding in Uganda? Yes, birdwatching is good all year around in Uganda because most birds are resident species. Climate is a major factor to consider if planning any birdwatching tour. Uganda experiences two seasons that is; the dry season and the wet season.
During the wet season; the roads connecting to different birding destinations and hiking forest trails tend to be slippery and muddy which at times affects movements of travelers hence interfering the birding time.
Generally, the best time for birding in Uganda is late May through September. During this period Uganda experiences less rains and food is always in plenty. The main nesting season in Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park which are major sites hosting the Albertine Rift endemics is May and June.
Bird Watching Sites in Uganda
Uganda is a fantastic destination for birdwatching, boasting a rich diversity of avian species thanks to its varied habitats, from lush forests to savannahs and wetlands. Here are top birdwatching areas in Uganda:
Mabamba Bay Wetland
The wetlands on the edge of Lake Victoria offers excellent birdwatching with species such as the Shoebill stork, Swamp Flycatcher and more.
Murchison Falls National Park
Uganda's largest national park, Murchison Falls offers excellent birdwatching with species such as the Goliath Heron, Giant Kingfisher , Northern Red Bishop and so on.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Known for its diverse ecosystems, this park is great for birdwatching with species like the Martial eagle, the Grey-crowned crane, and numerous waterfowl.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Famous for its mountain gorillas, this park is also home to a variety of bird species including the endangered African green broadbill and the rare blue-headed sunbird.
Semuliki National Park
Located in the western part of Uganda, Semuliki is notable for its bird species associated with the Congo Basin, including the very rare and elusive African rail.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Located in the South Western part of Uganda with about 180 bird species like Cape Robin, Rwenzori Batis and many others
Lake Mburo National Park
Smaller than some of Uganda's other parks, Lake Mburo is still rich in birdlife, with notable species like the Marabou stork and the rare Shoebill.
Kibale National Park
This park is renowned for its chimpanzee tracking but is also a great spot for birdwatching. Look out for the great blue turaco and the black-billed turaco.
Budongo Forest Reserve
An important forest reserve in the Albertine Rift in Uganda known for its biodiversity and the rich birdlife of its tropical rainforest. Its notable species are Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, Blue-shouldered Robin-Chat, and the Pale-breasted Illadopsis.
Entebbe Botanical Gardens
A beautiful and accessible site with a mix of tropical and subtropical species such as Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Crowned Crane, and various species of sunbirds and warblers.
Kidepo Valley National Park
Located in the northeastern part of Uganda, it offers a distinct savannah and semi-arid birding experience. It is associated with the Ostrich, Kori Bustard, and the Karamoja Apalis.
Lake Bunyonyi
A picturesque lake with a variety of water birds and forest species surrounding it and blessed with species such as Great Crested Grebe, African Harrier-Hawk, and the unique and rare Lake Bunyonyi endemic species.
Bird watching tour packages
12 Days Uganda Birding Safari
12 Days Uganda Birding Safari 12 Days Uganda Birding Safari takes you deep into Uganda’s diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to dense forests, encountering a spectacular array of birdlife. The carefully
2 Days Birding Tour in Mabamba
2 Days Birding Tour in Mabamba This 2 Days Birding Tour in Mabamba takes you to the rich avian diversity of Entebbe and the renowned Mabamba Wetland in Uganda. Mabamba
3 Days Birding in Lake Mburo
3 Days Birding in Lake Mburo 3 Days Birding in Lake Mburo takes you to explore the natural wonders of Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest yet vibrant haven for
4 days Uganda bird watching
4 days Uganda bird watching Prepare to embark on a captivating 4 days Uganda bird watching safari into the heart of Uganda’s avian wonders. Renowned as one of Africa’s top
5 Days Uganda Birding Safari
5 days Uganda birding 5 days Uganda birding safari takes you through a rich tapestry of landscapes, from Entebbe and Mabamba Wetland to Mabira Forest and Murchison Falls National Park.
6 Days Uganda Birding Safari
The 6 Days Uganda Birding safari trip takes you prime birding locations in Entebbe Environments, Mabamba Wetlands, Lake Mburo National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. This inclusive safari caters
7 Days Uganda Birding Safari
7 Days Uganda Birding Safari Experience the avian paradise that is Uganda with Dagiz Travel‘s 7 Days Uganda Birding Safari & Wildlife Tour. Renowned as Africa’s premier birding destination, Uganda
8 Days Uganda Birding Safari
8 Days Uganda Birding Safari 8 Days Uganda Birding Safari with Dagiz Travel takes you to explore the scenic landscapes, wetlands, and national parks as you seek out some of Uganda’s
How to bird watch
Get to know site rules and regulations.
Make sure you carry necessary gear and have an idea on bird watching basics such as timings, habitats and so on
Stay Quiet. Birds are easily startled by loud noises. Move slowly and quietly to avoid disturbing them.
Use Your Ears. Bird songs and calls can help you locate birds. Learn the calls of common species in your area.
Bird watching requires patience. Spend time in one spot, and you may be rewarded with better views and more sightings.
Observe Key Features. Look at the bird’s size, shape, color patterns, and markings. Pay attention to field marks like wing bars, tail shape, and beak type.
Cross-reference your observations with your field guide or bird identification app. Many apps also have features that help with identifying bird songs and calls.
Maintain a checklist of the birds you’ve observed. Write down details about each sighting.
Notable Bird Species in Uganda
1. African Green Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri).
2. Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex).
3. Grey Crowned Crane.
4. African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer).
5. Turaco Bird species (Black-billed Turaco, White-cheeked Turaco).
6. Golden-cheeked Honeyguide (Indicator indicator).
7. Mountain Yellow Warbler (Setophaga petechia).
8. African Pygmy Kingfisher (Ispidina picta).
9. Grey-cheeked Hornbill (Tockus malabaricus).
10. Rwenzori Turaco.
11. Mountain Greenbul.
12. Rwenzori Nightjar.
13.African Finfoot.
14. White-winged Warbler.
15. Red-faced Barbet and so on.
Bird watching attire tips
When it comes to bird watching, comfort and practicality are key. Here’s a guide to help you dress appropriately for the activity:
Neutral Colors: Opt for earth tones like greens, browns, and grays as these colors blend in with the environment and are less likely to startle birds.
Layering: Weather can change quickly, so wear layers that you can add or remove as needed. A moisture-wicking base layer, a warm middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer are a good combination.
Comfortable Footwear: Choose sturdy, comfortable hiking boots or shoes with good traction. You might be walking on uneven terrain, so ensure your footwear provides support and protection.
Hat: A wide-brimmed hat can protect you from the sun and keep you cool.
Binocular Harness or Strap: While not clothing, a harness or strap for your binoculars can make them more accessible and comfortable to carry, reducing strain on your neck and shoulders.
Insect Protection: Depending on the season and location, you might need to wear insect repellent or long sleeves and pants to protect against ticks and mosquitoes.
Gloves: In cooler weather, gloves can keep your hands warm. Choose lightweight, non-bulky ones that still allow you to handle equipment easily.
Pack Essentials: Bring a small backpack or a vest with pockets to carry your field equipment.