Experience an extraordinary blend of Uganda’s diverse habitats—from expansive papyrus wetlands to primeval rainforest and sunlit savannah—with the added thrill of gorilla trekking. This carefully designed itinerary allows birders and wildlife lovers to explore a breathtaking spectrum of species and ecosystems. Start with the tranquil, bird-rich Mabamba Swamp, home to the legendary Shoebill Stork gliding silently among papyrus stalks. Then ascend into the misty montane forests of Bwindi Ruhija, where Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori Batis and Shelley’s Crimsonwing await in lush forest canopies. Complement the birding with an emotional gorilla encounter amid giant forest trees and end your journey with the vibrant birdlife and majestic wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Kazinga Channel and open savannah plains.
Price:
Midrange $2,800 / Luxury $4,500
Accommodations:
·
Midrange: Gorilla
Mist Camp, Arcadia Lodge
·
Luxury: Ruhija
Gorilla Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge
Daily
Activities:
·
Day 1: Mabamba Swamp
Birding
Begin your safari with an early morning canoe ride through Mabamba Swamp’s
tranquil waterways. Experience the magic of spotting the elusive Shoebill Stork
patiently stalking its prey along papyrus-bordered channels. Observe colorful
Papyrus Gonoleks in the reeds and the delicate African Jacanas skimming over
lily pads. Malachite Kingfishers flash their vivid feathers as they hover by
the banks. The serene ambiance of the swamp offers perfect light for
photography and quiet observation of rich wetland biodiversity.
·
Day 2: Bwindi
Impenetrable Forest Birding in Ruhija
Travel to the highland forests of Bwindi and spend the afternoon birding the
Ruhija sector, one of Uganda’s most rewarding birding locations. Seek Albertine
Rift endemics such as the iridescent African Green Broadbill, the shy
Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, and the melodious Bar-tailed Trogon. The diverse
mix of birdsong amid giant forest trees enriches your exploration as you
traverse trails that wind through bamboo groves and moss-draped canopy.
·
Day 3: Gorilla
Trekking and Forest Birding
Embark on a pre-dawn gorilla trek into the heart of Bwindi’s primeval forest,
an awe-inspiring adventure to spend quality time with mountain gorillas in
their natural sanctuary. Along your route, encounter rare forest birds such as
the Black Bee-eater and Shelley’s Crimsonwing. Afternoon birding continues
outside the trekking area, allowing you to spot additional elusive forest
species and enjoy the peacefulness of the surrounding forested hills.
·
Day 4: Transfer to
Queen Elizabeth National Park; Kazinga Channel Cruise
Depart Bwindi for Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through scenic
landscapes rich in wildlife. Take an afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga
Channel, one of Africa’s most concentrated wildlife focal points. Observe pods
of hippos submerged in the water, Nile crocodiles sunning themselves, and a
rich diversity of waterbirds including African Fish Eagles soaring overhead,
water thick with Egyptian geese, African Jacanas, and Goliath Herons.
·
Day 5: Morning Game
Drive and Return to Entebbe
Start the day with a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth’s scenic savannah
and woodland. Spot iconic savannah birds such as Kori Bustards strutting the
plains, Secretarybirds hunting with their long legs, and colorful weaver
colonies bustling in acacia trees. Large mammals like elephants, buffalo, and
lions are frequent companions to this intricate ecosystem. Return to Entebbe in
the late afternoon with memories of a diverse and enriching wildlife safari.
Contact our safari experts to book the "5-Day Uganda Mixed Birding Safari" package or customize it to your preferences.
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