Big Five

Big Five

See the Big Five like you’ve never seen them before

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the savannahs and parks of East Africa, home to a wealth of wildlife, including the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos.

Our Big Five safaris take you to some of the region’s most iconic national parks, including Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park in Uganda, Akagera National Park in Rwanda, and Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park in Tanzania  These parks are teeming with wildlife and offer some of the best opportunities for game viewing in East Africa.

The Big Five in their natural habitat

Watch lions hunt, elephants roam, buffalos graze, and rhinos wander. A Big Five experience in is something to be treasured, a chance to visit with some of Africa’s most legendary wildlife throughout East Africa’s varied, vast landscapes.

Recommended Big Five tours

Because it’s that backdrop that makes our Big Five safaris special. More than just a great place to take photos, you’ll find yourself immersed in the stunning landscapes.

Kikooko Africa Safaris offers customized Big 5 safari itineraries that cater to your interests and needs.

Let’s start planning your next safari.

Warren Ankwasa

Founder, Kikooko Africa Safaris

Our tailor-made safaris are designed to offer you the best possible value to make your East African experience a memorable one.

As a boutique tour operator, we are happy to personalise your trip budget and package according to your needs. When you’re ready, send us a message.

We’ll be in touch within 2 business days with ideas for your next adventure.

Safari Inspiration – Straight To Your Inbox

Wondering where in Africa to go on your first safari? How to budget for a safari? Want the latest baby mountain gorilla photos?

Each month, we send tips and stories straight from Kikooko’s headquarters in Entebbe, Uganda, sharing our unique perspective on where to go, what to do, and the impact your travels can have.

Sign up today.

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Bird Watching in Uganda

Bird Watching in Uganda

East Africa is alive with the songs of more than 1,000 bird species

Discover the fascinating world of birds in East Africa. If you are a bird enthusiast or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, then you’re in the right place. Uganda has over 1,000 recorded bird species and Tanzania has over 1,100, so no matter where you look there’s something special to see.

The sight of colorful sunbirds flitting among the flowers, the call of the African fish eagle, and the majestic flight of the crested crane are just a few of the many delights that await you. The region’s diverse habitats, including tropical forests, wetlands, savannas, and mountains, provide a haven for a wide variety of birds. 

Birding in the Pearl of Africa

Uganda’s national parks and reserves offer some of the best birding opportunities in the world. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, for example, is home to more than 350 bird species, including 23 endemics. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kibale Forest National Park are other popular destinations for bird watching in Uganda.

Recommended Uganda Bird Watching Tours

Join Kikooko Africa Safaris on a birding adventure in East Africa and discover the incredible diversity of birdlife in this stunning country. See below for itineraries that offer incredible birding safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. We’re also happy to build a custom itinerary for you to enjoy the ultimate birding experience in Uganda.

Let’s start planning your next safari.

Warren Ankwasa

Founder, Kikooko Africa Safaris

Our tailor-made safaris are designed to offer you the best possible value to make your East African experience a memorable one.

As a boutique tour operator, we are happy to personalise your trip budget and package according to your needs. When you’re ready, send us a message.

We’ll be in touch within 2 business days with ideas for your next adventure.

Safari Inspiration – Straight To Your Inbox

Wondering where in Africa to go on your first safari? How to budget for a safari? Want the latest baby mountain gorilla photos?

Each month, we send tips and stories straight from Kikooko’s headquarters in Entebbe, Uganda, sharing our unique perspective on where to go, what to do, and the impact your travels can have.

Sign up today.

Your email will only be used for monthly updates from Kikooko Africa Safaris.

Frequently Asked Questions

Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” boasts over 1,000 bird species across diverse habitats including tropical forests, wetlands, savannas, and mountains. Iconic species like the crested crane, African fish eagle, and colorful sunbirds highlight the rich avian diversity.

The top birding spots in Uganda include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park. Each park offers unique habitats and a plethora of bird species.

Yes, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park alone is home to over 350 bird species, including 23 endemics like the African green broadbill and Shelley’s crimson wing, making it a must-visit for avid birders.

Absolutely! Rwanda’s national parks are not only rich in birdlife but also offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including the Big Five, making it ideal for combining birding with traditional safaris.

While bird watching in Uganda is excellent year-round, the best times are during the dry seasons from December to February and June to August. These periods offer better visibility and easier access to birding spots.

Uganda birding tours and safaris are usually guided by experienced ornithologists. Tours can range from a few days to several weeks, covering various national parks and bird habitats. Kikooko Africa Safaris offers both scheduled and custom birding tours.

Essential items include binoculars, a good bird field guide, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera. Light, neutral-colored clothing is also recommended for blending into the natural environment.

Tours can range from a few days to several weeks. Kikooko Africa Safaris offers various itineraries, such as the 22-day “Birder’s Paradise” tour, which provides an extensive birding experience across Uganda’s top birding locations.

You can book a tour by visiting the Kikooko Africa Safaris website, filling out the inquiry form, or contacting them directly via email or phone. Personalized itineraries are available to suit individual preferences and budgets.

Yes, families with children can enjoy Uganda birding tours. Custom itineraries can be tailored to suit the needs and interests of families, ensuring an educational and enjoyable experience for all ages.

Boat Safari

Boat Safari

Glide along the rivers and lakes of Uganda

A boat safari in Uganda is an unforgettable experience that will put you meters away from the wildlife that calls these waterways home. Hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and a plethora of bird species are just a few of the many animals that you can expect to see on a boat safari.

A boat safari in Uganda is also a great way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes. From the tranquil waters of Lake Victoria to the raging rapids of the Nile River, Uganda’s waterways offer a wide range of experiences that are sure to delight.

You’ve never been on a cruise quite like this

You’ve never been on a cruise quite like this

Where to find great boat safaris in East Africa

Recommended tours

Kikooko Africa Safaris offers customized boat safari itineraries that cater to your interests and needs. Take a cruise down the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park or explore the remote reaches of Lake Albert. 

Let’s start planning your next safari.

Warren Ankwasa

Founder, Kikooko Africa Safaris

Our tailor-made safaris are designed to offer you the best possible value to make your East African experience a memorable one.

As a boutique tour operator, we are happy to personalise your trip budget and package according to your needs. When you’re ready, send us a message.

We’ll be in touch within 2 business days with ideas for your next adventure.

Safari Inspiration – Straight To Your Inbox

Wondering where in Africa to go on your first safari? How to budget for a safari? Want the latest baby mountain gorilla photos?

Each month, we send tips and stories straight from Kikooko’s headquarters in Entebbe, Uganda, sharing our unique perspective on where to go, what to do, and the impact your travels can have.

Sign up today.

Your email will only be used for monthly updates from Kikooko Africa Safaris.

Game Drives & Night Drives

Day Game Drives & Night Game Drives

Meet the wildlife that comes out after dark

Night drives, on the other hand, provide a unique opportunity to observe the nocturnal animals that come out after dark. Spot predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas as they hunt in the darkness, or see the curious bush babies and civets as they venture out to forage.

Immerse yourself in the wildlife of East Africa with a game drive

Game drives and night drives are two of the best ways to observe East Africa’s incredible wildlife. Whether you are interested in seeing the Big Five or discovering rare and endangered species, the region’s national parks and reserves offer a wealth of opportunities to explore.

Journey through savannas, forests, and wetlands in search of wildlife. Spot lions lounging in the sun, elephants wandering in the grasslands, and giraffes nibbling on the treetops as you enjoy an  unforgettable game drive experience.

Recommended tours

Kikooko Africa Safaris offers customized game drive and night drive itineraries to help make this experience one of the highlights of your African adventure, one filled with sightings and special moments you’ll remember for a lifetime.

See below for our sample itineraries that feature game drives and night drives. We’re also happy to design an itinerary just for you.

Let’s start planning your next safari.

Warren Ankwasa

Founder, Kikooko Africa Safaris

Our tailor-made safaris are designed to offer you the best possible value to make your East African experience a memorable one.

As a boutique tour operator, we are happy to personalise your trip budget and package according to your needs. When you’re ready, send us a message.

We’ll be in touch within 2 business days with ideas for your next adventure.

Safari Inspiration – Straight To Your Inbox

Wondering where in Africa to go on your first safari? How to budget for a safari? Want the latest baby mountain gorilla photos?

Each month, we send tips and stories straight from Kikooko’s headquarters in Entebbe, Uganda, sharing our unique perspective on where to go, what to do, and the impact your travels can have.

Sign up today.

Your email will only be used for monthly updates from Kikooko Africa Safaris.

Chimpanzees & Primates

Chimpanzees & Primates

Track fascinating primates, including chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and more

Chimpanzees are our closest relatives, and tracking them in their natural habitat is an incredible experience. Trek through the dense forests of Kibale National Park, Budongo Forest Reserve, or Kyambura Gorge and observe the chimpanzees as they forage, groom each other and swing through the trees.

The primates of East Africa

Golden monkeys are another fascinating primate species found in the forests of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. These small, colorful monkeys are a joy to observe as they forage, play, and socialize in their natural habitat. 

Other primates found in Uganda and Rwanda include the colobus monkey, baboon, and vervet monkey, among others. Each species has its unique traits, and our guides will help you identify them and understand their behavior.

Recommended primate tracking tours

Kikooko Africa Safaris offers customized primate tracking safari itineraries that cater to your interests and needs. 

Let’s start planning your next safari.

Warren Ankwasa

Founder, Kikooko Africa Safaris

Our tailor-made safaris are designed to offer you the best possible value to make your East African experience a memorable one.

As a boutique tour operator, we are happy to personalise your trip budget and package according to your needs. When you’re ready, send us a message.

We’ll be in touch within 2 business days with ideas for your next adventure.

Safari Inspiration – Straight To Your Inbox

Wondering where in Africa to go on your first safari? How to budget for a safari? Want the latest baby mountain gorilla photos?

Each month, we send tips and stories straight from Kikooko’s headquarters in Entebbe, Uganda, sharing our unique perspective on where to go, what to do, and the impact your travels can have.

Sign up today.

Your email will only be used for monthly updates from Kikooko Africa Safaris.

Mountain Gorillas

Mountain Gorillas

Come face-to-face with the power and grace of the mountain gorilla

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and join Kikooko Africa Safaris on a mountain gorilla tracking safari in East Africa. Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places to observe these incredible primates in their natural habitat.

You will trek through the lush forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, following the footsteps of expert trackers who will lead you to the gorillas. You will observe their behavior, listen to their calls, and watch them interact with each other in their natural habitat.

An awe-inspiring moment

The way mountain gorillas communicate with each other, their human-like expressions, and the sheer size and strength of these creatures make for a truly unforgettable experience.

You’ll have the opportunity to spend an hour with a mountain gorilla family with a regular gorilla permit, or four hours with a gorilla habituation permit. Whichever you choose, know that the time will pass by in the blink of an eye.

Where to go mountain gorilla trekking in East Africa

Tanzania:

Recommended mountain gorilla tours

We work with experienced guides and expert trackers who will take you to the best spots for gorilla sightings and provide you with valuable insights into the behavior and way of life of these inspiring primates creatures.

Experience the thrill of a mountain gorilla tracking safari in Uganda with Kikooko Africa Safaris. Book your trip today and let us take you on a journey of discovery into the heart of Uganda’s forests to encounter the incredible mountain gorillas.

Let’s start planning your next safari.

Warren Ankwasa

Founder, Kikooko Africa Safaris

Our tailor-made safaris are designed to offer you the best possible value to make your East African experience a memorable one.

As a boutique tour operator, we are happy to personalise your trip budget and package according to your needs. When you’re ready, send us a message.

We’ll be in touch within 2 business days with ideas for your next adventure.

Safari Inspiration – Straight To Your Inbox

Wondering where in Africa to go on your first safari? How to budget for a safari? Want the latest baby mountain gorilla photos?

Each month, we send tips and stories straight from Kikooko’s headquarters in Entebbe, Uganda, sharing our unique perspective on where to go, what to do, and the impact your travels can have.

Sign up today.

Your email will only be used for monthly updates from Kikooko Africa Safaris.