Uganda is home to over 1,000 bird species. This tour takes you to top birding spots, guided by expert ornithologists, with opportunities to spot rare species in wetlands, forests, and savannahs
Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” is a birdwatcher’s dream destination. The country boasts over 1,070 bird species. Representing around 50% of Africa’s bird population and 11% of the world’s total species.
- Mabamba Swamp: One of Uganda’s top birdwatching sites, Mabamba Swamp is located on the shores of Lake Victoria, west of Entebbe. The swamp is most famous for being one of the best places in the world to see the elusive and iconic shoebill stork. The shoebill’s prehistoric appearance and massive bill make it a must-see for birdwatchers. Other species commonly spotted in Mabamba. Include the papyrus gonolek, blue-headed coucal, and malachite kingfisher.
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only famous for its mountain gorillas but also for its birdlife. Bwindi is home to 350 species of birds, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics, such as the African green broadbill and the short-tailed warbler. The dense forests provide a rich habitat for many species, making it a prime birdwatching location.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park: This park known for its diverse ecosystems, including savannah, wetlands, and forests, making it a haven for birdwatchers. With over 600 bird species recorded, highlights include the African fish eagle, martial eagle, and the striking pink-backed pelican along the Kazinga Channel.
Book Now
Uganda is a birding paradise boasting a massive bird list of more of than 1073 recorded bird species making up 50% of Africa’s bird species and 11% of the world species. This huge bird list is contained within a small territory of only 90041 square miles (about the size of Britain), hence having one of the highest concentration of birds per square kilometers in Africa. Birding in Uganda rewards with easy spotting of many birds by covering just a small area or birding for a short period of time.
The incredible diversity of habitats that no other area in Africa can match is the reason Uganda harbors such a huge diversity of birds and collects so many migrant birds during the year. Uganda lies in a unique position where she shares Africa’s major ecological zones (apart from the sea) and each has associated bird species, including many that are range restricted.
Important to note is that Uganda has only two endemic bird species, that is, Fox’s Weaver and Karamoja Apalis.