7 Days Birding Safaris in Uganda

• Western Uganda Destinations

Summary

Discover birders paradise in Uganda! This safari takes you to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Lake Bunyonyi; both unparalleled places for bird watching.

Day 1: ARRIVAL

You will be welcomed by a representative of Buyaga Safaris who will transfer you to your hotel in Kampala. Depending on the time of arrival you might spend the afternoon at Uganda Wildlife and Education Center, home to captive animals and over 170 species of birds. This includes 7 species of weavers, such as the rare Northern Masked Weaver and Orange Weaver, etc. Dinner and overnight at Cassia Lodge

Day 2: KAMPALA – QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

From Kampala we will depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park. On our way we will pass the Ugandan equator where you can take pictures and shop for a souvenir. After lunch in Mbarara we continue to the southwest and head for the Western Rift Valley. Upon arrival in Queen Elizabeth National Park you will enjoy an evening game drive before you check in at the accommodation in the park. Dinner and overnight at Parkview Safari Lodge.

Day 3: QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

The day starts early when we make a game drive to the northern parts of the park. This is not only an area for excellent game viewing but also offers much to birders. We move through open grassy plains which support large flocks of White and Abdims Stork as well as the spectacular Saddle Billed Stork during the migratory season. Raptors are well represented, including the Brown Snake Eagle, Whalbergs Eagle, Bateleur, African harrier-hawk, Marsha Eagle and Grey Kestrel.
We return for lunch and then take a boat launch. Watch hundreds of hippos, elephants and many migratory bird species, such as the Grey headed Gulls, White winged black Terns, African skimmers, Morning Dove, Water Dikkops, Great white and Pink-Backed Pelicans, etc. Return for dinner and overnight at Parkview Safari Lodge.

Day 4: QUEEN ELIZABETH – LAKE BUNYONYI

We depart from Queen Elizabeth with some game and bird viewing on our way out and proceed to the area that is often referred to as “Little Switzerland of Uganda”. Here you will find Lake Bunyonyi, the deepest lake in Uganda and situated close to the borders. On a bright day you might even see the beautifully shaped volcano Mount Muhavura. Upon arrival at the “Lake of the small birds” a motor boat awaits you for transport to Bushara Island. Dinner and overnight at Birdnest Lodge.

Day 5: LAKE BUNYONYI

After breakfast you can hire a canoe and explore the surroundings from the water surface. Drift quietly to the several small islands and enjoy the rich birdlife. Return for lunch and then take on a Bird Walk in Mukoni Village. Pass small farms and enjoy the spectacular view as you look out for many birds. Generally 40 to 50 different species may be seen on this walk, including the African Hobby, Black Kite, Swamp Flycatcher, Scarlet-chested, Bronze and Red-chested Sunbirds, White-headed Saw-wing etc. Dinner and overnight at Birdnest Lodge.

Day 6: LAKE BUNYONYI – KAMPALA

After breakfast we return towards the capital city, with lunch en route. The drive takes about 7 hours but runs through a beautiful countryside. Arrival in Kampala late in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight at Cassia Lodge

Day 7: DEPARTURE

Enriched with an experience of a lifetime and unforgettable memories you will say goodbye to the Pearl of Africa. Depending on the time of departure you will be transferred to the airport for you flight back home. We are looking forward to seeing you again!

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