Discover Uganda’s Premier Birding Adventures

Uganda is a birdwatcher’s dream, home to over 1,000 species spanning diverse ecosystems from the sprawling savannahs and lush wetlands to dense forests.

Whether you’re birding in the Royal Mile, navigating the Mabamba Wetlands, or exploring the country’s national parks, Uganda offers a unique combination of bird species, primates, and big game all in one place. If you love wildlife beyond birds, you’ll find that Uganda seamlessly blends birdwatching with other exciting safari adventures.

At Venture Uganda, we tailor birding tours for all types of travelers, whether you’re a seasoned birder, a beginner, or simply someone who appreciates nature. Your journey will be customized based on your birding goals, with expert guides leading you to the best spots.

Why Uganda is a Year-Round Birdwatching Destination

Birding in Uganda is excellent year-round. However, the peak period for bird enthusiasts is between June and September, especially during July and August. During this time, migrant species arrive, and many birds are in their stunning breeding plumage, with the dry season providing the perfect conditions for birding.

Below is just a sample of what you could experience. We offer a range of birding experiences, so gather your binoculars, scopes, and cameras for a birding adventure you won’t forget!

Balancing Birding with Other Activities

Are you a dedicated birder traveling with someone who’s not as keen on birding?

We specialize in creating itineraries that offer something for everyone. You and your companion can alternate between birding and other activities to ensure a well-rounded experience.

For example, after a morning of birdwatching, you could spend the afternoon visiting a coffee farm or taking a leisurely stroll through a local village. Perhaps you’d like to track gorillas together in Bwindi, then the next day, while you immerse yourself in birding, your companion can enjoy a peaceful spa day.

Alternatively, head out in a small boat to search for the Shoebill in the Mabamba Wetlands while your partner visits a chimpanzee sanctuary. Later, meet up for a relaxing sunset boat cruise to share stories of your day.

We’re here to craft the perfect itinerary that caters to all your needs and interests.

Search for the Shoebill in Mabamba Wetlands

The Shoebill, with its iconic, prehistoric-looking beak, is a must-see for any birder visiting Uganda. The Mabamba Wetlands offer one of the best opportunities to spot this fascinating bird.

Board a local wooden boat and navigate the narrow channels, with your guide showing you the way. Along the way, look out for other species such as the Papyrus Gonolek, Purple Swamphen, and Malachite Kingfisher, which thrive in the lush papyrus and open swamp pools. If you’re lucky, you may see the Shoebill standing motionless or gliding gracefully through the air.

Forest Birding at The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile, a picturesque stretch through Budongo Forest, is an exceptional birding destination. This private, one-mile road is teeming with birdlife, including rare species like Nahan’s Francolin, Blue-Breasted Kingfisher, Rufous Flycatcher Thrush, and White-Thighed Hornbill.

In addition to the rich bird population, the forest is home to chimpanzees, monkeys, and smaller creatures like the Elephant Shrew. For non-birders, a walk through this ancient forest is a delight in itself, with towering trees and diverse wildlife around every corner.

Join a half- or full-day birding tour with a local expert who will also share the forest’s history and the intriguing backstory of how the Royal Mile got its name.

Explore Semuliki National Park

Semuliki National Park is a hidden gem for birders. It’s the only place in Uganda where you can find Guinea-Congo forest species such as Hartlaub’s Duck, Chestnut-Breasted Nigrofinch, and Western Bronze-Napped Pigeon.

The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including De Brazza’s monkeys, Giant Forest hogs, and forest elephants. A visit to Semuliki wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Sempaya Hot Springs, where you can watch hot water shoot out in dramatic eruptions.

Semuliki is perfect for birders and non-birders alike, offering a mix of unique wildlife and natural wonders.

Venture Off the Beaten Path in Eastern Uganda

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path birding experience, Eastern Uganda is full of surprises. Visit places like the wetlands of Lakes Opeta and Bisina, Mount Elgon National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park, near the border with South Sudan.

Eastern Uganda is home to a range of unique species, including the Ostrich, Karamoja Apalis, and the endemic Fox’s Weaver. Beyond the birds, this region offers fewer tourists, rich cultural experiences, and stunning landscapes, providing a more authentic and peaceful safari experience.

If you’re looking for hidden gems, Eastern Uganda is the perfect addition to your birding adventure.

Let Us Craft Your Perfect Birding Journey

Uganda’s incredible variety of ecosystems and bird species make it one of the top birding destinations in the world. Whether you’re passionate about spotting rare species or just want a nature-filled adventure, we’ll design the perfect birding tour for you.

Contact our team today, and let’s start planning your dream birding safari in Uganda!