Birding Safaris in Uganda. Where to Go for Birding in Uganda
Uganda is a fantastic destination for birdwatching, with over 1,000 bird species recorded in the country. It offers diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, savannas, and mountains, which support a wide variety of birdlife. Several national parks and protected areas in Uganda are popular for birding safaris. Here are a few notable ones:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Known primarily for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, Bwindi is also a birding hotspot. It is home to about 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics like the African Green Broadbill, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, and Handsome Francolin.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park: Located in southwestern Uganda, this park is famous for its diverse wildlife, including both savanna and forest bird species. It boasts a bird list of over 600 species, such as the African Fish Eagle, African Skimmer, and Shoebill.
- Murchison Falls National Park: Situated in northwestern Uganda, Murchison Falls is Uganda’s largest national park. It offers excellent birding opportunities along the Nile River, with species like the Goliath Heron, Red-throated Bee-eater, and Abyssinian Ground Hornbill.
- Kibale National Park: Known for its population of chimpanzees, Kibale National Park is also a fantastic birding destination. It is home to more than 375 bird species, including the Green-breasted Pitta, African Pitta, and African Grey Parrot.
- Semuliki National Park: Located in western Uganda, Semuliki is part of the larger Ituri Forest ecosystem and offers a unique birding experience. It is known for its Congo Basin bird species, such as the Long-tailed Hawk, Nkulengu Rail, and African Piculet.
When planning a birding safari in Uganda, it is advisable to hire a knowledgeable bird guide or join a reputable birding tour operator. They can help you navigate the different habitats, locate specific bird species, and enhance your overall birdwatching experience. Remember to bring appropriate gear like binoculars, field guides, and comfortable clothing for outdoor activities.
Please note that the information provided is based on the knowledge available up to September 2021, and it’s always a good idea to check the latest updates and recommendations from local authorities and birding organizations before planning your trip.
Murchison Falls National Park
Best Time to Go for Birding Safaris in Uganda
The best time to go for birding safaris in Uganda is during the dry seasons, which are generally from December to February and from June to August. These months offer more comfortable weather conditions and better birding opportunities.
During the dry season, bird activity is high, and many species are more visible as they gather around water sources. Vegetation is also generally less dense, making it easier to spot and identify birds. In addition, migratory bird species from Europe and other parts of Africa are present in Uganda during these months, adding to the overall bird diversity.
However, it’s important to note that Uganda’s climate varies across different regions and altitudes, so conditions can differ slightly. For example, in higher-altitude areas like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the weather can be cooler and wetter throughout the year, so birding is possible year-round, but with some variations in species presence.
The wet seasons, from March to May and from September to November, are characterized by more rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. While birding can still be enjoyed during these periods, the dense vegetation and frequent rains can make it more challenging to spot birds.
Ultimately, the best time for birding in Uganda depends on personal preferences, target bird species, and other factors. It’s a good idea to consult with local birding experts, tour operators, or birding guides who can provide specific information and help plan your birding safari based on your interests and the current birding conditions.
Murchison Falls National Park
List of Birds to See on Uganda Birding Safaris
Uganda is renowned for its rich birdlife, with over 1,000 bird species recorded. Here is a list of some notable birds to see on birding safaris in Uganda:
- Shoebill: This iconic bird is a must-see in Uganda. It is known for its large size, unique appearance, and its habitat in wetlands such as Mabamba Bay and the Murchison Falls area.
- African Green Broadbill: Found in the montane forests of southwestern Uganda, this beautiful and elusive bird is a prized sighting. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a good place to spot it.
- Great Blue Turaco: With its vibrant blue and green plumage, this large turaco species is a favourite among birdwatchers. It can be seen in various forested areas across the country, including Kibale National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- African Fish Eagle: Known for its distinct call and impressive fishing skills, the African Fish Eagle is a common sight around water bodies such as Lake Mburo and the Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park.
- Grey Crowned Crane: Uganda’s national bird, the Grey Crowned Crane, is an elegant and iconic species. It can be found in various grassland and wetland habitats, including Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park.
- African Pitta: This colourful and secretive bird is a sought-after species for birders. It can be found in Kibale National Park and other forested areas.
- Ruwenzori Turaco: Endemic to the Albertine Rift, the Ruwenzori Turaco is found in the montane forests of the Rwenzori Mountains. It is known for its striking plumage and can be spotted during hikes in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park.
- Nkulengu Rail: This secretive bird is found in the swampy forests of Semuliki National Park. It can be challenging to spot, but its unique vocalizations can help locate it.
- African Grey Parrot: Known for its intelligence and ability to mimic human speech, the African Grey Parrot is a popular bird species. It can be found in Budongo Forest Reserve and other forested areas.
- White-winged Warbler: Endemic to the Albertine Rift, the White-winged Warbler is a small and colourful bird found in montane forests, including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
This list represents just a small fraction of the bird species you can encounter in Uganda. Remember that the country is incredibly diverse in terms of habitats and birdlife, so there are numerous other species to discover during your birding safaris. Hiring a knowledgeable bird guide or joining a birding tour can greatly enhance your chances of spotting and identifying these incredible avian species.
Uganda Adventure Luxury Holiday
What is the Price for Birding Tours in Uganda?
The price for birding safaris in Uganda can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the safari, the level of accommodation, the number of participants, and the services included. Generally, birding safaris in Uganda can range from budget-friendly options to more luxurious and exclusive experiences. Here are some approximate price ranges to give you an idea:
- Budget-friendly: Budget birding safaris can start from around $100 to $150 per person per day for group tours. These typically include basic accommodation, transportation, and the services of a bird guide. Meals may or may not be included, depending on the specific tour operator.
- Mid-range: Mid-range birding safaris in Uganda can range from $150 to $300 per person per day. These options usually offer more comfortable accommodations, private transportation, and experienced bird guides. Meals are often included, and the itineraries may cover multiple birding destinations.
- Luxury and tailor-made: Luxury birding safaris in Uganda, designed for individuals or small groups, can cost $300 or more per person per day. These high-end experiences offer top-notch accommodations, exclusive services, private vehicles, and personalized itineraries. They may also include additional activities, such as gorilla trekking or cultural visits.
It’s important to note that the prices mentioned above are approximate and can vary depending on the tour operator, the specific itinerary, and any additional services or activities included. It’s recommended to research different tour operators, compares their offerings, and request detailed itineraries and cost breakdowns to find the best option that suits your preferences and budget.
Additionally, entrance fees to national parks and conservation areas, as well as any permits required for specific activities (such as gorilla or chimpanzee trekking), are not always included in the tour prices and should be factored into your overall budget.
Lastly, prices mentioned here are based on information available up to September 2021, so it’s advisable to check with tour operators or travel agencies for the most up-to-date pricing information for birding safaris in Uganda.
