Birding watching in Uganda

BIRD WATCHING IN UGANDA: Various estimates suggest that Uganda is undoubtedly the
birding capital of Africa, boasting 1,078 bird species. This country is home to 50% of the
continent's species and 11% of the birds worldwide, including one endemic species known as
the fox weaver. At Jeisking Tours, we provide an opportunity for birding enthusiasts to explore
the habitats of Uganda’s renowned bird species, ranging from open savannahs to mountains,
valleys, swamps, forests, lakes, rivers, and various national parks. When you visit these
locations, you will encounter numerous bird species and enjoy the delightful melodies of
different birds, creating an unforgettable birding experience.

Uganda's favorable climate and unique vegetation attract various birds throughout the year.
The ten most notable bird species in Uganda include the shoebill, Rwenzori turaco, African
green broadbill, brown-chested lapwing, Nahan’s francolin, black bee-eater, Karamoja Apalis,
Puvel’s illadopsis, green-breasted pitta, and Jameson’s antepecker. Additionally, there are many
other bird species, such as the black-headed heron, black kite, African marsh harrier, open-
billed stork, papyrus gonolek, African quail finch, Abyssinian ground hornbill, northern red
bishop, giant kingfisher, swamp flycatcher, Fraser’s eagle, handsome francolin, black-billed
turaco, brown woodland warbler, cape robin, white-starred robin, white-naped pigeon, sedge
warbler, white-winged terns, martial eagle, Nubian woodpecker, emerald-spotted wood dove,
dwarf honey guide, great blue turaco, purple-breasted sunbird, Ituri batis, Cassin’s spinetail,
long-eared owl, among others. This incredible diversity makes Uganda one of the premier
birdwatching destinations in Africa.

Birding Destinations in Uganda

The locations listed below are the primary birding sites in Uganda, and at each one, you can
anticipate encountering a variety of bird species; however, some birds are specific to certain
areas. This means that to create a memorable birding experience, it's essential to visit multiple
regions or birding locations.

Mabamba Bay Wetland

Mabamba Bay Wetland is the premier birding location in Uganda, situated on the edge of Lake
Victoria in the Wakiso and Mpigi districts to the south of central Uganda. You can access it by
road via Masaka Road, taking a turn onto Buyenge Road, covering a total distance of about 50
kilometers, or you may opt to reach it by boat on Lake Victoria. The wetland's proximity to Lake
Victoria provides ideal conditions for birds, particularly those that thrive near water. A visit to

Mabamba Bay Wetland offers you an opportunity to discover various bird species, including the
rare Shoebill Stork, which is only found in a limited number of areas, as well as the Papyrus
Gonolek, Black-headed Heron, African Open-billed Stork, African Marsh Harrier, Pied Kingfisher,
Black Kite, Malachite Kingfisher, and Swamp Flycatcher, among others.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park covers an area of 331 square kilometers and is found
at the highest elevations of the Kigezi highlands in southwestern Uganda. It is approximately
444.4 kilometers from Kampala, which takes about 8 hours by direct vehicle. While Bwindi
Impenetrable National Park is primarily renowned for gorilla trekking, it is also one of the top
spots for bird watching, with birding ranking second in activities due to the presence of unique
bird species. Over 350 bird species are found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, including
the handsome Francolin, African green broadbill, Chapin’s flycatcher, collared Apalis, and the
white-bellied robin chat, among others.

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park is a renowned birdwatching destination having 375 bird species. The
park's lush tropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands provide a habitat for a diverse range of
birdlife, from the tiny, iridescent sunbirds to the majestic, crowned eagles. As you explore the
park's trails, you'll have the opportunity to spot iconic birds such as the African Grey Parrot, the
Blue-breasted Kingfisher, and the vibrant Red-headed Malimbe. The park is also home to
several endemic species, including the Kibale Ground Thrush and the White-winged Warbler.

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is a birding haven boasting an incredible array of avifauna with
over 450 species recorded. As you explore the park's diverse habitats, including savannas,
forests, and wetlands, you'll have the opportunity to spot iconic birds such as the rare Shoebill
Stork, the majestic African Fish Eagle, and the vibrant Blue-headed Coua. The park's unique
location, where the Nile River flows through a narrow gorge, creates a variety of microhabitats
that support an astonishing range of birdlife, from the tiny, iridescent Bronze Mannikin to the
massive, lumbering Abyssinian Ground Hornbill. With expert guides and a range of birding
excursions available, including boat cruises and guided walks, Murchison Falls National Park
offers an unforgettable birdwatching experience amidst breathtaking African scenery

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park harbors over 180 species of birds, including several endemic to
the Albertine Rift region. As you explore the park's rugged terrain, you'll have the opportunity
to spot iconic birds such as the regal Crowned Crane, the majestic Black-winged Red Bishop,
and the vibrant Golden-winged Sunbird. The park's unique landscape, with its volcanic peaks,
montane forests, and grasslands, creates a variety of microhabitats that support an astonishing
range of birdlife, from the tiny, iridescent Scarlet-tufted Malachite Sunbird to the massive,
lumbering Bronze-winged Jacana. With expert guides and a range of birding excursions
available, including guided walks and hikes, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers an
unforgettable bird watching experience amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a premier birdwatching destination harboring 600 bird species.
The park's diverse habitats, including savannas, forests, and wetlands, support a wide range of
birdlife, from the iconic African Fish Eagle to the tiny, iridescent sunbirds. The possible bird
species to be encountered include swamp flycatcher, grey-capped warbler, collared pratincole,
martial eagle, slender night jars, white-winged terns, black-headed gonolek, grey-headed
kingfisher, and pied kingfisher among others.

Lake Mburo National Park

The park harbors 351 bird species featuring iconic species like the African Fish Eagle, Red-faced
Barbet, and Shoebill Stork. Guided walks, boat cruises, and horseback rides, led by expert
guides, ensure an unforgettable birding adventure amidst breathtaking African scenery.

Semliki National park

Semliki National Park in Uganda is a birdwatcher's haven, boasting an impressive array of
avifauna with over 440 species recorded. The park's unique location, nestled between the
Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Albert, creates a diverse range of habitats, including tropical
rainforests, savannas, and wetlands. Notable species include the Lyre-tailed Honeyguide, the
White-crested Hornbill, and the majestic African Fish Eagle.

Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest in Uganda is a renowned birdwatching destination, boasting an impressive
array of avifauna with over 360 species recorded. As one of the largest mahogany forests in
East Africa, Budongo provides a habitat for a diverse range of birdlife, from the iconic African
Grey Parrot to the rare and endangered Puvel's Illadopsis. Other notable species include the
Blue-breasted Kingfisher, the Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, and the majestic Crowned Eagle.
With expert guides and a range of birding excursions available, including guided walks and
forest trails, Budongo Forest offers an unforgettable birdwatching experience amidst stunning
tropical scenery. The forest's unique habitat and incredible bird diversity make it a must-visit
destination for any serious birdwatcher.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda are a legendary birdwatching destination, boasting an
impressive array of avifauna with over 177 species recorded. As one of the highest mountain
ranges in Africa, the Rwenzori Mountains provide a unique habitat for a diverse range of
birdlife, from the iconic Lammergeier to the rare and endangered Rwenzori Turaco. Other
notable species include the Handsome Francolin, the Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, and the
majestic Bearded Vulture. With expert guides and a range of birding excursions available,
including guided hikes and mountain trails, the Rwenzori Mountains offer an unforgettable
birdwatching experience amidst breathtaking alpine scenery.

Best time for birding

The optimal period for bird watching is primarily from June to September, with July and August
being the peak months. The dry months of December, January, and February are also favorable
for observing birds, as the trees lose their leaves during these months, making it easier to spot
birds that nest in high canopies, like the rare Ituri Batis.

Join Jeisking Tours on a bird-watching safari and enjoy exploring wetlands, forests, wetlands,
and river banks searching for various bird species. A bird-watching safari with us can be
combined with other adventures like gorilla trekking, sport fishing, and more. For more
information contact us at gorillaugandasafaribookings@gmail.com