Immerse yourself in the avian wonders of Uganda with this specialized 4-day birding safari in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most diverse conservation area. Home to over 450 bird species, the park offers an extraordinary ornithological experience across its varied habitats—from riparian forests and papyrus swamps to savannah woodlands and the mighty Nile River. This carefully curated itinerary takes you through prime birding locations where you’ll encounter everything from the iconic Shoebill stork to colorful kingfishers and majestic raptors. Led by Mumwe Safaris expert birding guides who know exactly where to find the most sought-after species, you’ll experience dawn chorus awakenings, tranquil boat safaris, and exclusive access to hidden birding hotspots. Whether you’re a seasoned birder with a lengthy life list or an enthusiastic beginner, this Uganda birding safari promises exceptional bird sightings while also offering glimpses of the park’s famous big game residents.
Day 1: Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park
Your birding adventure commences with an early morning departure from Entebbe, setting off northward through Uganda’s scenic countryside. As you travel, your expert birding guide will introduce you to Uganda’s avifauna with stops at strategic roadside locations to observe woodland and grassland species. The journey to Murchison Falls includes an extended birding break at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where the wetlands and surrounding bush harbor Grey Crowned Cranes, African Wattled Lapwings, and various weavers. After lunch, continue to Murchison Falls National Park, arriving by late afternoon. Settle into your accommodation before enjoying a leisurely evening walk around the lodge grounds for your first encounters with the park’s resident birds, possibly spotting Double-toothed Barbets, Eastern Grey Plantain-eaters, and various sunbirds. End your day with a delicious dinner as the sounds of nocturnal birds begin to emerge.
Accommodations:
- Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp – Simple but comfortable bandas with shared facilities in a wildlife-rich setting overlooking the Nile.
- Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge – Welcoming rooms with private bathrooms and verandas offering panoramic views of the savannah and river.
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge – Elegant rooms with air conditioning, private balconies, swimming pool, and spectacular views across the Nile.
Day 2: Northern Bank Exploration – Savannah Species
Begin your day before sunrise with coffee and light refreshments before setting out in the golden morning light when birds are most active. Venture through the park’s northern sector where the rolling savannah landscape provides habitat for a wealth of species including Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Black-headed Gonolek, Silverbird, Speckle-fronted Weaver, and numerous raptors such as Martial Eagle and Dark Chanting Goshawk. Your guide will navigate to specially identified spots where secretive ground-dwelling birds like Button Quails and Buff-crested Bustards might be spotted. Mid-morning, head toward the Albert Nile sector for riverside birding where African Fish Eagles are often seen hunting. After a picnic lunch in a scenic location, continue birding through the Buligi tracks, taking time to also appreciate the park’s abundant wildlife including giraffes, elephants, and lions. Return to your accommodation in late afternoon for a brief rest before an evening excursion focusing on crepuscular species like nightjars, owls, and possibly the elusive Standard-winged Nightjar if in season.
Accommodations: (Same as previous night)
- Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp
- Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge
Day 3: The Nile River Experience – Waterbirds Galore
Today centers around the magnificent Nile River ecosystem, beginning with an early breakfast before embarking on a specialized bird-focused boat safari along the Victoria Nile. This remarkable voyage offers unparalleled opportunities to observe and photograph water-associated birds in their natural habitat. Glide past pods of hippos and basking crocodiles while scanning the papyrus swamps for the globally threatened Shoebill, a bucket-list bird for many enthusiasts. The riverbanks and adjacent forests support a stunning variety of kingfishers including Giant, Pied, Malachite, and Chocolate-backed varieties, as well as Goliath Herons, African Skimmers, and numerous plovers and sandpipers. The boat journey culminates at the bottom of the thunderous Murchison Falls where Rock Pratincoles nest on the surrounding cliffs. After a riverside picnic lunch, take an afternoon drive through the heart of the delta region, renowned for its concentration of waterbirds including Saddle-billed Storks, Yellow-billed Storks, Open-billed Storks, and various egrets. As the day cools, hike to the top of Murchison Falls for spectacular views and opportunities to spot cliff-dwelling species before returning to your accommodation for dinner.
Accommodations: (Same as previous nights)
- Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp
- Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge
Day 4: Budongo Forest and Departure – Forest Specialists
Your final day introduces you to an entirely different birding habitat—the magnificent Budongo Forest, one of Uganda’s largest and most biodiverse forests. After an early breakfast, travel to the southern sector of the park and enter this mature forest ecosystem, where skilled local guides help you locate specialized forest birds that might include White-thighed Hornbill, Nahan’s Francolin, Cassin’s Spinetail, Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, and Yellow-crested Woodpecker. The forest trails also provide opportunities to spot various primates, including chimpanzees (though this isn’t a dedicated chimp tracking experience). Listen for the distinctive calls of African Shrike-flycatchers, Western Nicators, and the melodious Jameson’s Wattle-eye. After a packed lunch in a forest clearing, spend a few more hours exploring different forest sections before beginning your journey back to Entebbe. The return trip includes strategic stops at wetland areas where you might add a few final species to your trip list. Arrive in Entebbe by early evening, concluding your birding adventure with memories of spectacular birds and the dramatic landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park.
Important Notes:
- Binoculars are essential for every participant; your guide will provide quality spotting scopes
- Early mornings and some walking are required for the best birding experiences
- Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, including long sleeves and pants for protection
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear regardless of the season
- A comprehensive bird checklist will be provided to help track your sightings
- Park entrance fees (currently USD 40 per day) and boat safari fees are typically not included in basic package prices
- The Nile Delta boat cruise specifically focused on Shoebill sightings may have an additional cost
- Customization options are available for special target species or photography requirements.
To book the 4-day Uganda birding safari adventure, contact us now by sending an email to info@mumwesafarisuganda.com or call us now on +256-700135510 to speak with us.