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.

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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.

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