This 6-day birding safari through Western Uganda offers a rich mix of forest, wetland, and savannah birdlife, making it a dream trip for birding enthusiasts. Explore the vibrant ecosystems of Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Lake Bunyonyi, all alive with colorful plumage and melodious calls. With experienced birding guides leading the way, you’ll encounter some of Africa’s most sought-after species, from the Great Blue Turaco to the elusive Shoebill.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy optional birding around Entebbe Botanical Gardens or the shores of Lake Victoria, spotting species like the Pied Kingfisher and African Grey Parrot.
Accommodation: 2 Friends Beach Hotel / Papyrus Guesthouse

Day 2 – Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Drive west toward Fort Portal, passing through lush countryside and tea plantations. En route, keep an eye out for species like the Black-headed Gonolek and Lizard Buzzard. In the evening, take a nature walk around your lodge to spot forest-edge species.
Accommodation: Turaco Treetops / Chimpanzee Forest Lodge

Day 3 – Birding in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetland
After an early breakfast, set off for a guided birding trek in Kibale Forest — home to the African Pitta, Green-breasted Pitta, and the Black Bee-eater. In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, famous for papyrus endemics like the Papyrus Gonolek and White-winged Warbler.
Accommodation: Same as Day 2

Day 4 – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s top birding destinations. The drive offers opportunities to see the Great Blue Turaco, Ross’s Turaco, and African Harrier-Hawk. Take an evening game drive where open savannah species like the Crowned Lapwing and Red-necked Spurfowl are common.
Accommodation: Twin Lakes Safari Lodge / Enganzi Lodge

Day 5 – Birding and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Enjoy early morning birding along the Kasenyi Plains, where you might encounter the African Wattled Lapwing, Brown Snake Eagle, and Black-headed Gonolek. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel to see African Skimmers, Great White Pelicans, and plenty of waterbirds.
Accommodation: Same as Day 4

Day 6 – Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi and Departure
After breakfast, drive south to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda’s most beautiful birding spots. Spot herons, cormorants, and weavers along the lakeshore before transferring to either Kigali or Entebbe for your onward journey.

Highlights

• Birding in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

• Over 300 bird species, including the Great Blue Turaco and Green-breasted Pitta

• Savannah and waterbird species in Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel

• Scenic drives through the Albertine Rift Valley

• Relaxing birdwatching around Lake Bunyonyi