14-Day Endemics Birdwatching and Primates Tour in Uganda
The Pearl of Africa
Prepare for warm (possibly hot), dry, and sunny weather on most days. Overcast conditions are possible, as Uganda is surrounded by tropical rainforests and freshwater bodies, making rain likely at any time of day throughout the year.
Higher elevations may be at slightly cooler temperatures. It is advisable to bring a light rain jacket (although we avoid birding in heavy rain), sturdy waterproof footwear is also recommended. Trails can be muddy depending on recent rainfall. Throughout the tour, we will travel in a 4WD Land Cruiser with an open roof hatch for optimal wildlife viewing. Bring insect repellent or mosquito-proof clothing due to varying bug activity influenced by rainfall.
Sunblock and a hat are essential. Evenings are spent dining at our accommodations, where we review our bird and wildlife sightings and plan for the next day's activities.
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14
Arrival at Entebbe International Airport
You will be greeted at the airport and transferred to Karibu Guest House or Boma Guest House. Depending on arrival time, we will explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, known for species like the African Hobby, Ross's Turaco, and various cuckoos and parrots.
Birding at Mabamba
You’ll have an early breakfast followed by a transfer to Mabamba Swamp, about 50 km west of Kampala. En route, we’ll search for papyrus specialties such as the Papyrus Gonolek and the elusive Shoebill Stork. Canoeing in the swamp offers opportunities to spot a variety of waterbirds. Your overnight stay will be at Karibu Guest House or Boma Guest House.
Drive to Lake Mburo National Park
This park's diverse habitats host over 313 bird species, including the Red-faced Barbet and African Finfoot. We’ll stay at the Rwakobo Rock or Mantana Tented Camp for the night.
Drive to Kisoro (Mgahinga Gorilla National Park)
After breakfast, we’ll do some birding within the park before continuing to Kisoro in southwestern Uganda, where we’ll stay for two nights at the Travelers Rest Hotel.
Birding in Mgahinga
An early start with a picnic lunch for birding around Ntebeko Camp, focusing on montane species such as the Rwenzori Turaco and Olive Woodpecker.
Drive to Ruhija with birding en route through Echuya Forest
Our journey will take us to the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, renowned for its forest birding and for being home to numerous Albertine Rift endemics. Our overnight stay will be at Agandi Lodge or Bakiga Lodge for two nights.
Birding in Ruhija
A full day dedicated to birding at Mubwindi Swamp, known for its concentration of Albertine Rift endemics like the African Green Broadbill and the Regal Sunbird.
Bird watching safari to Buhoma via The Neck
A day spent birding en route to Buhoma through scenic areas rich in avian diversity, including the Dusky Twin Spot and various sunbirds and bee-eaters. Overnight stay at Buhoma Community Haven Lodge or Engagi Lodge.
Gorilla Tracking
An early morning start for an unforgettable gorilla tracking experience in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. A permit is included for each participant.
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park
An afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel offers opportunities to see waterbirds like the African Skimmer and various herons and gulls. Our overnight stay will be at the Marafiki Lodge or Kasenyi Safari Camp.
Birding and transfer to Fort Portal
Birding activities in the morning focusing on savannah species, followed by a transfer to Fort Portal. Our overnight stay will be at the Mountains of the Moon Hotel.
Birding in Semliki Forest National Park
Early morning birding in Semliki Forest, known for species such as the Congo Serpent Eagle and Hornbills. Our overnight stay will be at the Turaco Treetops or Chimpanzee Forest Lodge for two nights.
Birdwatching and Chimpanzee Trekking
Morning birding followed by an afternoon chimpanzee trek in Kibale Forest National Park, renowned for its primate diversity and bird species.
Return to Entebbe
Transfer to Entebbe for international departures. End of safari.
Tour Includes
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Accommodations on Full Board (FB) or Bed and Breakfast (BB) basis as specified
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Gorilla and chimpanzee permits
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Safari vehicle and fuel
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English-speaking birding guide
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Park entrance fees and boat tours
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Taxes and AMREF emergency evacuation insurance
Tour Does Not Include
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Visa fees
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Drinks (including alcoholic beverages)
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Additional meals not specified
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Tips
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Activities not part of the described itinerary
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International travel insurance