- info@oruganosafaris.com
- +256-701-230-309
- +256 77481023
With nearly 1,100 recorded bird species, Uganda is a birder’s paradise—home to over 50% of Africa’s bird species and 11% of the world’s total bird species.
Despite its modest size—roughly equivalent to Great Britain—Uganda ranks among the most species-rich countries on Earth, beating the United States and Canada combined in bird diversity.
What makes Uganda so exceptional for birding? Its special position between East African savannahs, West African rainforests, and northern semi-deserts creates a rare mix of habitats that attract a dazzling array of birdlife. Whether you’re an experienced twitcher or a casual enthusiast, Uganda promises an unforgettable birding adventure.
If you are planning a serious birding expedition, Uganda should be at the top of your list. Many of the country’s most sought-after species, especially West African and Congolese forest birds, are incredibly difficult to find elsewhere. This is mainly due to limited tourism infrastructure in neighboring regions. However, in Uganda, these elusive species are not only accessible—they’re often easy to spot with the help of the right guide.
Uganda’s western rainforests are the country’s most important bird habitat, and the one that is of greatest interest to serious birdwatchers. The most alluring forest in terms of localized and special species include
In terms of accessibility, Kibale Forest National Park is often considered Uganda’s best single stop for forest birds due to the expertise of its guides and the nearby Bigodi Swamp. However, any forest in Uganda is worth exploring—even the relatively tame botanical garden in Entebbe can throw up several interesting species.
Though Uganda is home to only one (some think two) fully endemic species—Fox’s Weaver, which inhabits swamps north of Kampala—the Albertine Rift stands out as a region of significant avian endemism. This area, characterized by rugged volcanoes, snow-capped peaks, freshwater lakes, and ancient montane forests, is a hotspot for birds found nowhere else on Earth.
Endemic Bird Highlights of the Albertine Rift include:
These remarkable birds are found primarily in protected areas such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Rwenzori Mountains, and Semuliki National Park.
Bonus experience? This is also gorilla country. Consider pairing your birding safari with a gorilla trekking adventure—a life-changing combination.
A highlight of birding in Uganda is encountering the remarkable Shoebill stork. With its prehistoric appearance—complete with a massive beak and imposing stature—the Shoebill looks like something out of Jurassic Park. Standing over one meter tall, these birds are known for their long periods of stillness, which help them catch fish.
Mabamba Swamp, on the shores of Lake Victoria, is one of the best places in Africa to spot this prehistoric-looking bird. A traditional canoe trip through the swamp’s narrow channels offers a peaceful and immersive experience. Alongside the Shoebill, you may encounter species such as the Papyrus Gonolek, the Grey-crowned Crane (Uganda’s national bird), the Malachite Kingfisher, the African Jacana, and the Blue-breasted Bee-eater.
Uganda offers several other incredible birding locations that cater to both beginners and experienced birdwatchers. These include Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park and more.
After the Nile River (the longest river on Earth) crashes through a narrow gap at Murchison Falls, it slows down and spreads into a calm delta, creating one of Uganda’s best birdwatching spots. Whether on a boat cruise along the Nile or a guided nature walk, expect to see a wealth of birdlife, including the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Secretary Bird, Open-billed Stork, various kingfishers, the Marabou Stork, and the powerful African Fish Eagle. If you’re lucky, head to the Nile Delta at Lake Albert to spot the star of the show—the Shoebill stork.
This park is a must-visit for bird lovers, with over 600 bird species recorded. Queen Elizabeth National Park holds the record for the highest concentration of birds in any protected area in Africa, according to BirdLife International. It’s worth spending two to three days here to fully explore its birdwatching opportunities.
Known as the only place in Uganda where the rare Red-faced Barbet can be found, Lake Mburo Park offers a variety of exciting bird species, including Ross’s Turaco, Brown-chested Lapwing, the Red-headed Lovebird, and the Emerald-spotted Wood-dove. The peaceful Rubanga Forest and swamps like Miriti and Warukiri provide great birding opportunities. Don’t miss a boat trip on Lake Mburo, where you can spot amazing water birds like the secretive African finfoot, majestic fish eagles, and if you’re lucky, the legendary shoebill stork and the red-faced barbet again!
For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Kidepo Valley in Uganda’s remote northeast offers a chance to spot a variety of birds adapted to its semi-arid landscape. The park is home to nearly 500 species, with 60 found nowhere else in Uganda. Special sightings include the Karamoja Apalis, Jackson’s Hornbill, and the Black-breasted Barbet. Other highlights include the Golden Pipit, Silverbird Flycatcher, Superb Starling, and large groups of Ostriches.
If you want to make the most of Uganda’s amazing birding, hiring a specialist guide is a great idea. Uganda’s bird guides are not only experts at spotting both common and rare species, but they also know the land inside out. They understand the birds’ calls, behaviors, and even the best spots to find them. At Orugano Safaris, we provide guides who are trained ornithologists, meaning they’re true bird experts. They’ll take you on a journey through Uganda’s forests, wetlands, and savannahs, helping you spot everything from the most famous birds to the rarest ones. With their local knowledge, you’re sure to see more and learn a lot along the way!
Uganda isn’t just a birding destination—it’s one of the best in the world. Whether you’re focused on birding in Uganda or want to combine it with gorilla trekking or other wildlife experiences, Uganda is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, grab your binoculars, pack your birding field guide, and get ready to explore the skies and canopies of the Pearl of Africa!
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Nkuringo Sector- Uganda
+256-701-230-309
info@oruganosafaris.com
