5 Days Uganda Birding Safari

The 5 Days Uganda Savannah Birding safari takes you through Entebbe, Mabamba Wetlands, and Lake Mburo National Park. You will begin by exploring Entebbe’s UWEC, Botanical Gardens, and the serene Lake Victoria Shores beforebeing transferred to Mabamba Wetlands, renowned for the elusive Shoebill Storks and a diverse bird population. You will conclude your birding adventure at Lake Mburo National Park which houses approximately 313 bird species by traversing wetlands, lakes, savannah, hills, and acacia-filled landscapes – an ideal haven for a myriad of avian species.

• 01

  Day 1: Exploring Birdlife at Uganda Wildlife Education Center

  You will begin your 5-day Uganda Birding Safari with a morning pickup, embarking on an avian adventure. Your journey starts at the Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC), formerly known as the Zoo, a haven that has drawn over 170 wild bird species. Notably, you’ll encounter 10 diverse Weavers, including the elusive Northern Masked Weaver, resplendent Golden Backed, enchanting African Paradise, captivating Baglafect, and many more like the Northern Brown Throated, Grosbeak, and Black Necked.
  Venture further to uncover the presence of 5 exquisite flycatchers such as the Red Bellied, Crested Shrike Flycatcher, Lead Colored, and Swamp Flycatcher, along with a multitude of others. Raptors grace the skies, from the regal Gabar Goshawk to the compact Small Banded Snake Eagle, the fierce Shikra, and the majestic African Fish Eagle. Captivating species like the African Hobby will also cross your path.
  Lunch beckons, offering a moment of relaxation before an afternoon visit to the sewage lagoons. After a day of discovery, you’ll return for a hearty dinner and a restful overnight stay.

  Meals Plan: Half board Accommodation: Airport View Guesthouse (Budget) | 2 Friends Hotel (Mid-Range)

• 02

  Day 2: Mabamba Wetland Expedition

  Fuel up with an early breakfast as you prepare for an unforgettable day at Mabamba Wetland. Your voyage takes you via boat to Namugabo, near the expansive Mabamba swamps, renowned for their impressive Shoebill population. The unique charm of this experience lies in canoeing through these rich wetlands, offering a chance to glimpse avian wonders such as the Squacco, African Water Rail, and the elegant Long Toed Plover.
  Prepare to be captivated by the regal presence of Goliath, Purple, and other Herons, the dainty Pygmy Goose, the striking Yellow Billed Duck, and the enchanting White Faced Whistling Duck. The serene surroundings may unveil Moorhens, Allen’s Gallinule, the stealthy Black Crake, and the graceful African Jacana.
  As your day progresses, keep an eye out for the Sitatunga Antelope, an inhabitant of these swampy terrains, adding to the tapestry of your experience. En route to Kampala, yet another swamp reveals its secrets, potentially unveiling treasures like the Papyrus Gonolek, White Winged Warbler, Yellow Crowned Bishop, and Weyns Weaver.
  Savor a packed lunch amidst nature’s beauty, extending your birding journey into the evening. Dinner and a peaceful overnight await in Kampala.

  Meals Plan: Full board

  Accommodation: Same as Day 1

• 03

  Day 3: Journey to Lake Mburo National Park

  Following breakfast, your expedition continues as you journey to the picturesque Lake Mburo National Park, a sanctuary nestled in western Uganda. Along the way, take a moment to stop at the Equator, a perfect opportunity for photography. The journey unfolds with intermittent birding stops, granting glimpses of the feathered inhabitants of this remarkable region.
  Upon arriving at Lake Mburo National Park, your avian odyssey commences at Nshara gate. Among the remarkable species you might encounter are the Elegant Emerald Spotted Wood Dove, the engaging Bare Faced Go-Away Bird, the melodic Crested Francolin, and the vibrant Lilac Breasted Roller.
  As the day progresses, you’ll uncover the secretive Spot-Flanked Barbet, the charming Northern Black Tit, and the enchanting African Grey Hornbill. Your lunch stop at Rwonyo Restaurant is a delightful interlude before an afternoon game drive. The Zebra Track unveils the Coqui Francolin, the stately Black Bellied Bustard, and the dainty Temmnick’s Courser, along with other treasures like the African Wattled Plover, Rufous-Napped Rufous, Chested Swallow, and Flappet Lark.

  Meals Plan: Full board 

  Accommodation: Eagle’s Nest (Budget) | Rwakobo Rock (Mid-Range)

• 04

  Day 4: Exploring Avifauna in Lake Mburo National Park

  At the break of dawn, an invigorating nature walk sets the stage for your day’s adventures. Encounter a captivating array of wetland and savanna bird species, accompanied by the graceful presence of Impalas. Following your morning expedition, a hearty lunch awaits.
  Later, embark on an evening game drive along the Kigambira loop. This journey may unveil the splendid Red Faced Barbet, the endearing Red Headed Lovebird, the distinctive Black Collared Barbet, the vibrant Green Capped Eremomela, and the charismatic Lead Colored Flycatcher.
  As twilight descends, return to your lodge for a delectable dinner and a peaceful night’s rest.

  Meals Plan: Full board

  Accommodation: Same as Day 3

• 05

  Day 5: Sunrise Exploration and Homeward Bound

  The day begins with an early morning game drive along the Lakeside Track, a pathway to the aquatic realms around Lake Mburo. Here, the avian wonders continue to unfold, potentially revealing the elusive Shoebill, the striking Blue Headed Coucal, the enchanting White Winged Warbler, and the captivating Papyrus Gonolek.
  A picturesque drive to the lakeside campground offers an opportunity to observe the dignified African Darter, the enigmatic African Water Rail, the captivating African Finfoot, and the elegant Spur Winged Plovers, among others.
  Return midmorning for a fulfilling breakfast before setting off on a serene launch cruise. This voyage is a final chance to encounter any missed papyrus species, and perhaps catch sight of the gentle giants – Hippos and Crocodiles.
  As the sun sets on your remarkable journey, you’ll drive back to Entebbe or Kampala, punctuated by a pleasant lunch stop.

  Meals Plan: Half board

  Accommodation: None, unless requested

  End of an Unforgettable Expedition