Private guided Uganda Birding & Wildlife safari
Guide: Marc Cronje
Summary
During the tour the temperature ranged from 07ºC to 29ºC. We recorded 42 mammal species, over 300 species of birds and 15 species of reptiles. The species mentioned in the daily summaries are only some of those seen.
Day 1 | Birding the Entebbe Botanical gardens.
Our Uganda birding adventure began with a relaxed breakfast at our hotel in Entebbe before heading out to the Entebbe National Botanical Gardens. It felt great to stretch our legs after all the time spent on flights, and the birding got off to an excellent start. Highlights included sightings of Green-throated Sunbird and African Pygmy Kingfisher, as well as fantastic views and photo opportunities of Great Blue Turaco, Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill, and Northern Puffback.
The weavers were especially entertaining, with Slender-billed, Village, Northern Brown-throated, Little, and Vieillot’s Black Weavers all putting on a show. Over Lake Victoria, a few Lesser Black-backed Gulls glided by. As we were leaving the gardens, we watched an African Hobby being mobbed by Broad-billed Rollers, a memorable sighting. The resident Guereza Colobus monkeys added a special touch to the morning as well.
Among the garden birds, we enjoyed views of the striking Double-toothed Barbet, Crowned Hornbill, Eastern Plantain-eater, Red-chested Sunbird, Olive-bellied Sunbird, Ross’s Turaco, Rüppell’s Starling, Northern Brown-throated Weaver, and Grey Parrot.
Later that evening, we gathered in the hotel restaurant for a cold Tusker and dinner, sharing stories and excitement about the incredible birds we hoped to encounter in the days ahead. After getting to know one another and chatting about the highlights of the day, we turned in for the night, satisfied after a fantastic first day in the Pearl of Africa.
Day 2 | Mabamba Swamp to Kibale National Park
After a delicious breakfast that left us well-fuelled for the day, we set off for the legendary Mabamba Swamp—arguably the best place on earth to see the prehistoric Shoebill. This remarkable bird is Uganda’s most iconic avian treasure, and with eager anticipation we climbed into wooden canoes and glided out onto the channels in search of it. Mabamba Swamp, a vast 16,500-hectare (64 sq mi) wetland on the shores of Lake Victoria west of Kampala, is both a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance and one of Uganda’s 33 designated Important Bird Areas. Even before reaching the swamp, the roadside birding was rewarding, with sightings of African Harrier-Hawk, Lizard Buzzard, Striped Kingfisher, and a striking African Green Pigeon.
Luck was certainly on our side that morning—within ten minutes of starting our boat trip, we were treated to an unforgettable, close-up encounter with a Shoebill. To see this magnificent species so well and so quickly felt like a true privilege.
Mabamba hosts an incredible diversity of birdlife, and other highlights included Red-headed Lovebird, African Jacana, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Long-toed Lapwing, African Marsh Harrier, Lesser Jacana, African Swamphen, Swamp Flycatcher, and Blue-headed Coucal.
Later, we enjoyed lunch in a patch of indigenous forest where wildlife once again put on a show. We spotted Red-tailed Monkeys, Red-chested Cuckoo, Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher, Sooty Chat, Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill, and, to our delight, a White-spotted Flufftail stepping boldly into view.
From there, we continued to Kibale—the primate capital of the world—renowned for its extraordinary diversity and density of primates. Among the species found here are the endangered Chimpanzee, Ugandan Grey-cheeked Mangabey, endangered Ashy Red Colobus, Olive Baboon, Red-tailed Monkey, Guereza, Blue Monkey, and the vulnerable L’Hoest’s Monkey. Formally established in 1993, Kibale National Park connects with Queen Elizabeth National Park to the southwest, forming a 180 km (110 mi) corridor through which African Elephants still roam freely. We made several birding stops along the way, especially after a spell of rain. Memorable sightings included Abyssinian Thrush, Western Citril, the stunning African Blue Flycatcher, Black Bee-eater, Sooty Flycatcher, and Mountain Wagtail.
During the drive, we enjoyed lively conversations with our local guide Tony, sharing stories about Uganda, past trips, and dream destinations—South America’s birding hotspots featured prominently in our chats. By the time we reached our accommodation, checked in, and savored a hearty dinner, our day felt perfectly rounded off. We updated our lists, reminisced about our Shoebill encounter, and, on the way to our rooms, were treated to yet another highlight: a wonderful sighting of the resident African Wood Owls. It was a truly magical end to an unforgettable day in the Pearl of Africa.
Day 3 | Chimpanzee trekking and exploring Kibale National Park
Our day began with a wonderful surprise—a Barn Owl perched in the gardens of our lodge, a fantastic bird to add to the trip list. Breakfast was a true Ugandan treat: rich local coffee paired with a Rolex—not the watch, but a delicious omelette with onions and vegetables wrapped in a warm chapati.
One of the main highlights of our tour awaited us this morning: chimpanzee trekking. After a short briefing, we set off into Kibale Forest in search of our closest living relatives. The trek itself was gentle, and before long we encountered a troop of chimpanzees feeding high in the trees. With patience, we were rewarded with superb views of them foraging and building nests. A particularly memorable moment was watching a female with her baby sitting out in the open, seemingly posing for the cameras. Before long, the chimps descended to the forest floor, giving us exceptional, close-up encounters that left everyone awestruck. The photographers were in their element, capturing incredible shots. Along the way, we also enjoyed sightings of other primates, including Ugandan Grey‑cheeked Mangabeys, Black‑and‑white Colobus, Olive Baboons, and Red‑tailed Monkeys. Bird highlights in the forest included Black‑billed Turaco, Fraser’s Rufous Thrush, Honeyguide Greenbul, Plain Greenbul, and the striking Dusky Long‑tailed Cuckoo.
After an exhilarating morning, we returned to the hotel for lunch before heading to nearby Bigodi Swamp—a must‑visit for any birding trip to Uganda. This community‑run initiative supports sustainable tourism, and our walk there proved incredibly rewarding. We enjoyed excellent sightings of White‑spotted Flufftail, the dazzling Shining‑blue Kingfisher, Western Barn Owl, Hairy‑breasted Barbet, the stunning Black Bee‑eater, Red‑headed Bluebill, Red‑headed Malimbe, Brown‑throated Wattle‑eye, Buff‑spotted Woodpecker, and superb views of Brown Illadopsis.
A real highlight of the afternoon was watching a Black Sparrowhawk swoop in and snatch a domestic chicken right before our eyes—a dramatic “cherry on top” to an already exciting day. We also took part in a short community tour, learning about local coffee cultivation and brewing, and enjoyed an inspiring session with local women who craft beautiful handmade baskets.
We rounded off the day back at the lodge with cold Tuskers in hand, sharing stories and updating our trip lists over a hearty dinner while watching the sun set behind the Rwenzori Mountains. Conversation flowed late into the evening—especially about the chimps and the incredible conservation work of people like Dr. Jane Goodall. Laughter filled the air, and we all turned in for a well‑earned night’s rest.
Day 4 | Kibale National Park to Queen Elizabeth National Park / Boat trip along Kazinga channel
With our stomachs full, we set off southward toward Queen Elizabeth National Park. Known simply as “Queen” by the locals, the park was first established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park but was renamed two years later to honour a visit by Queen Elizabeth II. Covering an impressive 1,978 km² (764 sq mi), the park stretches from Lake George in the northeast to Lake Edward in the southwest, with the Kazinga Channel linking the two lakes.
We enjoyed some rewarding roadside birding along the way, with sightings that included Abyssinian Thrush, a magnificent Martial Eagle perched close to the road, Copper Sunbird, Lizard Buzzard, Angola Swallow, Bronzy Sunbird, and Grey Crowned Crane. A stop and walk at Sebitoli added several new species to our trip list. A showy African Emerald Cuckoo delighted us, followed by excellent views of White-chinned Prinia, Luhder’s Bushshrike, Petit’s Cuckooshrike, Grey-throated Barbet, Bocage’s Bushshrike, Yellow-spotted Barbet, and Grey-headed Nigrita.
A mandatory stop at the equator provided some fun photo opportunities before we continued into the park. The birding kicked off in style as soon as we arrived, with highlights such as Senegal Lapwing, Rufous-naped Lark, Red-necked Spurfowl, Flappet Lark, Black-lored Babbler, and Plain-backed Pipit. The biggest surprise was an African Crake calmly walking along the track, offering exceptional views. On the mammal front we recorded African Elephant, African Buffalo, Uganda Kob, Topi, and Defassa Waterbuck.
Our boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel proved unforgettable. The adventure began with an extraordinary sighting of a female lion climbing a tree as we lunched on the lakeshore—soon joined by a striking male. From there, the birding was phenomenal: hundreds of Malachite and Pied Kingfishers, numerous African Skimmers, Goliath Heron, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Black-crowned Night Heron, and a variety of waders including Common, Marsh, and Wood Sandpipers, plus Common Greenshank. White-breasted Cormorant, Great White and Pink-backed Pelicans, and all three Egret species—Great, Intermediate, and Little—were feeding together, giving us a perfect opportunity to compare their sizes. Wildlife encounters continued with close views of Hippos grazing alongside a calf and a herd of about 20 Elephants swimming—a scene that felt straight out of the Chobe River in Botswana. Multiple Buffalo sightings also allowed us to enjoy Yellow-billed Oxpeckers, a bird family unique to Africa. A flock of over 50 African Skimmers was another highlight, drawing admiration from everyone.
On the drive back to our lodge, a massive Elephant bull feeding in the road brought traffic to a standstill—classic Africa! A Southern Red Bishop, spotted at the edge of its range, was another welcome addition to our list. Just before leaving the park, we were treated to a fantastic sighting of a family of Forest Hogs feeding in the open.
We arrived at our accommodation overlooking Queen Elizabeth National Park, freshened up, and gathered for dinner. Over a great meal, we updated our lists, caught up with loved ones back home, and shared dreams of future birding adventures and destinations we hope to explore.
Day 5 | Exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Our morning began with a hearty breakfast before we set out to explore Queen Elizabeth National Park in greater depth, starting with some excellent savanna and bush birding. As the day unfolded, we built up an impressive list of new bird and mammal sightings. Highlights included a pride of Lions, followed not long after by two relaxed males, wallowing Hippos, countless Warthogs, and even three Giant Forest Hogs. The birding was equally rewarding, with memorable sightings of Black-lored and Arrow-marked Babblers, Ring-necked Dove, African Crake, Crowned and Senegal Lapwings, Kittlitz’s Plover, Black-winged Stilt, Zitting and Wing-snapping Cisticolas, Great White Pelican, Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl, African Hoopoe, Green Wood Hoopoe, Crested and Double-toothed Barbets, Western Black-headed Batis, Black-headed Gonolek, Lesser Swamp Warbler, Fawn-breasted Waxbill, Hooded Vulture, Glossy Ibis, African Skimmer, Bateleur, Common Scimitarbill, Crowned Hornbill, Rufous-naped Lark, and Flappet Lark. A strategic stop gave us an in the open sighting of the sought after Papyrus Gonolek-what a stunning bird.
Returning to our lodge, we were greeted by a magnificent bull Elephant feeding just outside—always a thrill to see these giants with their impressive tusks.
Later, as we enjoyed dinner under the stars and updated our trip lists, a Large-spotted Genet appeared, adding another exciting mammal to our tally. The day’s final surprise came as we headed back to our comfortable safari tents, when a Cape Porcupine crossed the path in front of us. Drifting off to sleep to the calls of a Black-shouldered Nightjar and the grunts of nearby Hippos was the perfect way to end such a remarkable day.
Day 6 | Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After a hearty breakfast, we said our goodbyes and began our journey south, enjoying a drive through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The birding was exceptional, with our trip list growing steadily. Highlights from the morning included Yellow-bellied Hyliota, Crested Francolin, Trilling Cisticola, Black-lored Babbler, Blue-naped Mousebird, Snowy-crowned Robin-Chat, Black Coucal, Double-toothed Barbet, Greater Honeyguide, and a beautiful Grey-capped Warbler that everyone admired. As we continued through the Ishasha sector, the sightings kept coming: Scaly Francolin, Orange-breasted Bushshrike, Western Citril, a show-stopping African Crake right on the road, Grey Apalis, Crested Barbet, Grey-headed Nigrita, Spot-flanked Barbet, Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl, and Stout Cisticola. Lady luck truly smiled on us when we came across three lions lounging in a fig tree right beside the road—a truly unforgettable encounter with the famous tree‑climbing lions of Queen!
Although it was hard to leave after such an incredible experience, we knew another adventure awaited us in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Covering 321 km² (124 sq mi) of both montane and lowland rainforest and accessible only on foot due to its steep terrain, Bwindi was gazetted as a national park in 1991 and became a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 1994. It is a remarkable relic of ancient Africa, having survived the last Ice Age (about 15,000 years ago) when most other forests on the continent vanished. In the local Lukiga language, Bwindi means “impenetrable,” a fitting name for this enchanting wilderness.
As we climbed the winding track to our beautiful lodge in Buhoma, we were treated to more wonderful sightings: Augur Buzzard, Mackinnon’s Shrike, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher, Green-headed Sunbird, Northern Double-collared Sunbird, and African Blue Flycatcher.
After such a rewarding day in the field, we gathered for a delicious dinner, updated our trip lists, and enjoyed each other’s company. Conversation quickly turned to the excitement of the next day—our much‑anticipated gorilla trekking adventure in the morning.
Day 7 | Bwindi Impenetrable National Park- Gorilla trekking
We started the day with a hearty breakfast at our lodge before setting off for one of the true highlights of any Ugandan adventure – gorilla trekking. After a short briefing, accompanied by lively singing and dancing from local women, we ventured into the mystical Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The setting was breathtaking: mist curling through the dense, tropical canopy, creating a scene straight out of Gorillas in the Mist.
Before long, our group was rewarded with an unforgettable encounter with the critically endangered Mountain Gorillas. For a magical hour we observed these gentle giants, including a dominant Silverback calmly feeding and resting just a few metres away – meeting his gaze was awe‑inspiring. We watched as the troop foraged and then settled in the shade, giving us wonderful views of the youngsters tumbling, chest‑beating and playing under the watchful eyes of the adults. Our luck continued when a female with her baby moved close by, allowing us exceptional views as the little one clambered nimbly up a nearby tree. Witnessing these remarkable apes thriving and raising young was truly heart‑warming. The entire experience is something none of us will ever forget, and the photos – and videos shared will always bring back the magic of that moment.
The birding in the area was equally rewarding. Highlights included Rwenzori Batis, Chubb’s Cisticola, Black‑billed Turaco, Mountain Oriole, Toro Olive Greenbul, the striking Yellow‑whiskered Greenbul, and the magnificent Great Blue Turaco. What a morning!
After such an extraordinary trek we enjoyed a relaxed lunch at the gorilla centre while waiting to receive our trekking certificates, before returning to our comfortable lodge for some downtime. Later in the afternoon, a few of us visited Ride4Women, a social enterprise that empowers rural Ugandan women by providing employment and support to over 300 women in 11–12 villages. We toured the craft workshops, enjoyed traditional dancing, and browsed the craft shop. Proceeds from this initiative fund microloans, education, clean water, solar projects, and more – an inspiring and impactful visit.
The day ended with a delicious dinner, lively conversation about our incredible gorilla encounters and birding highlights, and a few celebratory drinks. We all retired to our rooms deeply satisfied, after a day that will be treasured forever.
Day 8 | Birding the Buhoma Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and transfer to Ruhija
After an early breakfast, we set out to explore the magnificent forests of Bwindi. The Buhoma sector quickly proved rewarding, offering excellent sightings of Grey-winged Robin-Chat, Mountain Wagtail, Red-headed Bluebill, Mountain Oriole, Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher, Black-faced Rufous Warbler, Speckled Tinkerbird, Grey Apalis, as well as Ansorge’s, Plain, Cabanis’s and Kakamega Greenbuls. Further along the trail, we heard the distinctive call of an African Broadbill and were treated to an unforgettable view of this remarkable bird performing its display flight, complete with circular swoops and unique wing sonation. Soon after, a stunning Red-throated Alethe and a vibrant Blue-headed Sunbird became our first Albertine Rift endemics of the journey.
Mammal encounters added to the magic of the day, with sightings of Red Duiker, L’Hoest’s Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, and Black-and-white Colobus. Continuing along the track, we enjoyed a steady stream of highlights, including Cassin’s Honeybird, Equatorial Akalat, Mountain Illadopsis, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, Slender-billed Greenbul, Bar-tailed Trogon, and Willard’s Sooty Bulbul. As if that weren’t enough, the distinct call of a Neumann’s Warbler caught our attention. After some patient searching, we were rewarded with superb views of this elusive Albertine Rift endemic.
On our way back up toward Ruhija, we stopped at the well-known “neck,” adding Brown-throated Wattle-eye, Dwarf Honeyguide, White-chinned Prinia, African Black Duck, Little Grebe, and even a Crowned Eagle to our growing list. Just before reaching the lodge, the skies opened, but fortune smiled on us—our day’s birding remained uninterrupted.
Back at the lodge, we freshened up and settled in for a delicious dinner, sharing stories of the day’s highlights. Conversation soon turned to everyone’s favourite birds of the trip, and we happily relived the many unforgettable sightings that made our Ugandan adventure so special.
Day 9 | Birding the Ruhija Sector. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
We began the morning with a slightly more relaxed breakfast before setting out to explore the birds of the Ruhija sector. Our walk started off brilliantly when we came across a lively bird party. Among the species we enjoyed were Chestnut-throated Apalis, Ruwenzori Batis, Strange Weaver, and Banded Prinia—offering fantastic views. A Red-faced Woodland Warbler, another Rift endemic, and Mountain Illadopsis also made an appearance. A Bar-tailed Trogon perched above the road was an unexpected bonus.
As we continued, the sightings kept coming. Highlights included Stripe-breasted Tit, Slender-billed Starling, Ruwenzori Apalis, Mountain Oriole, Olive-breasted Greenbul, White-browed Crombec, Blue-headed Sunbird, Dwarf Honeyguide, Western Tinkerbird, White-headed Wood Hoopoe, Archer’s Ground Robin, Willard’s Sooty Boubou, and the stunning, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher—another Rift endemic.
We then hopped into the vehicle and made our way to the bamboo section of the area. En route, we picked up more great species: Mountain Yellow Warbler, Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle, Regal Sunbird, Northern Puffback, Yellow-billed Barbet, and a showy, Black-billed Turaco. A Black-fronted Duiker posing in the open was another highlight. In the bamboo habitat we were treated to excellent views of a pair of Handsome Francolins—an Albertine Rift endemic—and a very cooperative, White-starred Robin. Afterward, we enjoyed a well-earned rest and lunch back at the lodge, where the clouds lifted enough to reveal distant views of the Virunga Mountains.
Later in the afternoon, a few of us took a pleasant walk along the school track near Ruhija. The rewards continued, with sightings of White-necked Raven, Red-throated Alethe, Luhder’s Bushshrike, Strange Weaver, Stripe-breasted Tit, and Ruwenzori Batis—truly showcasing the magic of Bwindi.
We wrapped up the day by freshening up, sharing stories of our incredible sightings over a few cold beers, and then enjoying dinner at the lodge as we updated our trip lists and socialized.
Day 10 | Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to Lake Mburo National Park.
We began the morning with breakfast overlooking the misty mountains of Bwindi before bidding farewell to this remarkable region and setting out for the open savanna plains of Lake Mburo. Covering 260 km² (100 sq mi), Lake Mburo National Park is a beautiful blend of wetlands and acacia-dotted savanna, renowned among dedicated birders and recognized as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Along with 13 other lakes in the region, Lake Mburo forms part of a 50 km-long wetland network connected by swamps, with five of these lakes lying within the park itself.
Our journey to the park was smooth, and en route we recorded several exciting species including Waller’s Starling, Slender-billed Starling, Kandt’s Waxbill, Yellow-bellied Waxbill, Black-throated Canary, and Common Waxbill. A particularly memorable moment came when a group of Crowned Hornbills mobbed a Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk, giving us fantastic views of this striking raptor.
After a roadside lunch, we continued to Lake Mburo and soon immersed ourselves in exploring this superb park. The afternoon drive was filled with highlights such as Lappet-faced Vulture, Spot-flanked Barbet, White-winged Black Tit, Lilac-breasted Roller, Levaillant’s Cuckoo, Tawny Eagle, Brubru, and Bare-faced Go-away-bird. A key target of the day, the elusive Red-faced Barbet—an East African endemic—appeared beautifully, with a Black-collared Barbet nearby, making for an unforgettable sighting.
Our mammal list grew impressively as well, with encounters including Impala, Cape Buffalo, Bushbuck, Burchell’s (Plains) Zebra, Olive Baboon, Vervet Monkey, Giraffe, and Warthog. We were also delighted by our first views of both Dwarf and Banded Mongooses.
Day 11 | Lake Mburo to Entebbe International Airport and Departure
As our tour drew to a close, today was largely spent on the road as we made our way back o Entebbe for our evening flights home. Even so, we managed to enjoy a memorable private boat trip on Lake Mburo. Highlights from the outing included sightings of Green Sandpiper, African Finfoot, White-winged Swamp Warbler, White-backed Night Heron, Scaly Francolin, and Giant Kingfisher—along with plenty of hippos going about their early‑morning antics.
The long journey back went smoothly, with a fun stop at the Equator for the obligatory photos and a bit of tourist tradition. Along the roadside we picked up more great birds such as Grey‑crowned Crane, African Harrier Hawk, Bateleur, Lilac‑breasted Roller, and Bare‑faced Go‑away‑bird. We were fortunate to avoid most of Kampala’s heavy traffic and arrived at our Entebbe accommodation in the early evening. After a welcome shower and a hearty meal, we spent the evening reminiscing about the incredible birding in Bwindi and celebrating that we had seen 14 of the 23 Albertine Rift endemics—an outstanding achievement!
A heartfelt thank you to each of you for being such wonderful, understanding, and enthusiastic guests. We shared so many laughs and special moments together. Eleven unforgettable days of birding and wildlife viewing came to an end, and we left Uganda with full hearts and fond memories.
A special word of thanks to Tony, our driver and guide, for his knowledge, kindness, and safe driving that kept the tour running so smoothly. Thanks as well to the Nature Travel Birding team for all their behind‑the‑scenes efforts to ensure everything went off seamlessly.
It has been a fantastic adventure, and I look forward to sharing another Ugandan birding journey with you all in the future!