Birdwatching & Gorilla Trekking Experiences in Southwestern Uganda

Embark on the Birdwatching & Gorilla Trekking Experiences in Southwestern Uganda on this 11-day safari adventure trip. Begin by exploring the Mabamba mashes on the shores of Lake Victoria in Entebbe to find the prehistoric giant bird, the shoebill, riding a local canoe. Take a boat ride on Lake Mburo or embark on a game drive on the savannah tracks to catch sight of rare birds around the tiny but endowed national park. Acacia-dwelling birds, papyrus residents like the papyrus gonolek and the blue-headed coucal, and the black-collared barbet are some of the specials you could see on a guided walking safari in the park.

In the southwest, explore the place of many birds known as Lake Bunyonyi for sightings of more than 200 bird species recorded here. Venture into the Bwindi region and the forest canopy to catch some Albertine endemics and go on a gorilla trekking adventure. Uganda ranks high among the top birding destinations, with a winding checklist of more than 1050 bird species recorded in easy-to-reach habitats across the country. You will visit some bird-rich habitats on this birding expedition, including the mashes around Lake Victoria in Entebbe, Lake Mburo, Lake Bunyonyi, and the impenetrable forest of Bwindi.

Price includes

Accommodation in mid-range-priced lodges and meals as indicated in the itinerary are provided throughout the trip. Additionally, one gorilla trekking permit ($800), park entrance fees, all excursions and activities as indicated in the itinerary under the supervision of a professional English-speaking birding guide, ground transport and transfers in a 4×4 Custom Safari Landcruiser, and AMREF Evacuation Insurance cover are included.

Price excludes

Travel insurance, international flights, visa fees and processing, extra activities and meals not indicated in the itinerary, extra luggage on domestic flights, service tips, gratuities, souvenirs, and snacks, as well as accommodation after the end of the trip, are not included in the package.

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

On the first day of your adventure, you’ll arrive at Entebbe International Airport. A friendly driver will be there to pick you up and take you to your cozy hotel in Entebbe. After settling in, you’ll meet with a trip specialist who will give you all the information you need over dinner.

During the day, you’ll explore the beautiful Lake shores around the peninsula and wetlands. Here, you’ll be on the lookout for the mystical shoebill bird, along with many other fascinating bird species like the Blue Monarch, Brown Twin Spots, and the Fain-tailed Widow bird. After lunch, you’ll visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre to see even more birds like Ostriches, African grey parrots, and crested cranes.

Accommodation: Papyrus Guesthouse (Comfortable)
Meals: Bed & Breakfast

Day 2: Journey to Lake Mburo National Park

Get ready for an early start as you head to Mabamba Wetland for a canoe boat ride along the shores of Lake Victoria. This area is famous for spotting rare birds, especially the elusive Shoebill. Keep your eyes peeled for other bird species like the Lesser Jacana and Blue Swallow.

After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll hit the road west towards Lake Mburo National Park. Along the way, you’ll enjoy lunch and the scenic views.

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 3: Exploring Lake Mburo National Park

Start your day with an exciting game drive through Lake Mburo National Park. Keep an eye out for early risers like leopards and exotic wild animals, but don’t forget to watch for birds too! The park is home to various water-loving species like Pelicans, Herons, and Fish Eagles. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the mysterious Shoebill bird near the lakeshores.

Later, hop on a boat for a relaxing ride on the calm waters, where you’ll get a closer look at riparian birds, crocodiles, and hippos.

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Journey to Lake Bunyonyi

Wake up early for a birding drive as you leave Lake Mburo National Park and head southwest to Lake Bunyonyi. Along the way, you’ll pass through Kabale, the last town before reaching your destination. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains and the hilly landscape.

Lake Bunyonyi is known for its rich birdlife, and you’ll have the opportunity to explore the area during an evening walk around your lodge.

Day 5: Bird Watching at Lake Bunyonyi

Today, you’ll spend the day birdwatching around Lake Bunyonyi, known for its lush hills and over 200 bird species. With a local birding expert, you’ll explore the lake’s fringes in a traditional fisherman’s boat, visiting various islands along the way.

One of the islands you’ll visit is Akampene Island, known for its historical significance and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for birds like the Grey Crowned Crane, African Kingfisher, and Herons.

Accommodation: Bunyonyi Lake Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Day 6: Journey to Bwindi

Start your day by boarding a motorized canoe at your beach lodge, taking you across Lake Bunyonyi to Muko Jetty. From there, a two-hour drive through hilly landscapes awaits, leading you to your cottage on the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Along the way, soak in the stunning views of the rift valley. Upon arrival, take a leisurely walk around the community to catch a glimpse of Bwindi’s rare birds.

Accommodation: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (packed), Dinner

Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

As the sun rises, your gorilla trekking adventure begins. After a briefing from park rangers, embark on a journey into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with experienced guides. Traverse through dense forests and undulating terrain, guided by the sounds of exotic bird calls. The thrill of discovery keeps you moving forward until, finally, you encounter a majestic silverback gorilla and his family. Witness their natural behaviors and cherish this unforgettable experience.

Accommodation: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (packed), Dinner

Day 8: Bird Watching in Bwindi

Set out on the Kashasha Trail for a morning of bird watching. Accompanied by a local guide and rangers, explore the montane-forest, home to numerous bird species, including some unique to the Albertine Rift. Choose between two trails, both promising adventure and breathtaking sightings. Later, drive through Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth and settle into a bush camp, keeping an eye out for tree-climbing lions and leopards.

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (packed), Dinner

Day 9: Wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park

Embark on a sunrise safari game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park’s southern tracks. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of bird species and wildlife, including tree-climbing lions and giant forest hogs. Visit the Katwe salt works to spot salt-lake birds, then check in at another camp in the northern section of the park.

Accommodation: Katara Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (packed), Dinner

Day 10: Discovering Queen Elizabeth National Park

Begin your day with a bird-watching expedition in Maramagambo Forest, where you’ll encounter a variety of forest birds. Explore highlights like Bat Cave and Hunter’s Cave before cruising along the Kazinga Channel. Keep your binoculars handy for sightings of African Shoebill, pelicans, and other bird species, as well as hippos, elephants, and crocodiles along the channel banks.

Accommodation: Katara Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (packed), Dinner

Day 11: Morning Wildlife Expedition and Transfer

Start your day with an early morning game drive or birding in Kyambura gorge, then journey back to Entebbe via Mbarara, with a lunch stop at the Igongo Cultural Centre.

Optional Accommodation: Papyrus Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (packed), Dinner