Birding destinations in Uganda
Birding destinations in Uganda, Uganda is a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting an impressive diversity of avian species. With its incredible biodiversity, unique endemic species, and well-established birding infrastructure, Uganda continues to be a top destination for birdwatchers seeking memorable and rewarding birding experiences in Africa.
Here are some top birding destinations in Uganda:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:
Famous for its mountain gorillas, Bwindi also offers exceptional birding opportunities.
Home to over 350 bird species, including numerous Albertine Rift endemics like the African green broadbill, Shelley’s crimsonwing, and the handsome francolin.
Queen Elizabeth National Park:
Located in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is renowned for its birdlife.
With over 600 bird species, including the African skimmer, shoebill stork, martial eagle, and many more, it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Murchison Falls National Park:
Situated in northwestern Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is a prime birding destination.
Home to over 450 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork, Abyssinian ground hornbill, and Goliath heron.
Kibale Forest National Park:
Known for its population of chimpanzees, Kibale Forest is also a haven for birdwatchers.
Hosts over 370 bird species, including the African pitta, green-breasted pitta, and the endemic green-breasted bushshrike.
Semuliki National Park:
Located in the Albertine Rift Valley, Semuliki National Park offers unique birding experiences.
Home to over 440 bird species, including the rare Nkulengu rail, yellow-throated cuckoo, and the African piculet.
Lake Mburo National Park:
Though small in size, Lake Mburo National Park is rich in birdlife.
Boasting over 350 bird species, including the African finfoot, shoebill stork, and the white-winged warbler, it’s a great destination for birdwatchers.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:
While known for its mountain gorillas, Mgahinga is also home to numerous bird species.
It offers opportunities to spot Albertine Rift endemics such as the Rwenzori turaco and the dusky turtle dove.
Kidepo Valley National Park:
Located in northeastern Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park offers remote and rugged birding experiences.
It hosts over 475 bird species, including the Abyssinian roller, Karamoja apalis, and the golden pipit.
Entebbe Botanical Gardens:
Situated on the shores of Lake Victoria near the capital city, Entebbe Botanical Gardens is a birding hotspot.
It’s home to over 170 bird species, including sunbirds, weavers, kingfishers, and various migrant species.
Mabamba Swamp:
Located near Entebbe on the shores of Lake Victoria, Mabamba Swamp is renowned for its population of shoebill storks.
It’s one of the best places in Uganda to see these iconic birds, along with other wetland species such as papyrus gonoleks and malachite kingfishers.
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary:
Adjacent to Kibale Forest National Park, Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary offers excellent birding opportunities.
It’s home to over 200 bird species, including the great blue turaco, black-crowned waxbill, and white-spotted flufftail.
These destinations offer a variety of habitats and species, providing birdwatching enthusiasts with unforgettable experiences amidst Uganda’s stunning natural landscapes.