Uganda Safaris
Birding in Uganda
Birding in Uganda is a must for every birdwatcher. Often called the “Pearl of Africa” due to its rich biodiversity, Uganda is one of the top birding destinations in Africa; the country has over 1,080 bird species, making up about 50% of Africa’s bird species and 11% of the world’s total bird species.
Uganda is also home to Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori Turaco, African Green Broadbill, and Handsome Francolin. Wetlands host species like the Papyrus Gonolek and African Finfoot, while forests like Kibale and Semuliki shelter the elusive Green-breasted Pitta and White-thighed Hornbill. Raptors, including the Martial Eagle and Secretary Bird, are common in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks. With such rich diversity, Uganda is a must-visit for birding enthusiasts.
Uganda birding Habitats
Uganda’s rich birding habitats range from dense forests and wetlands to vast savannas and high-altitude mountains. Forests, wetlands, lakes, rivers, savannas, mountains, etc., make birding in Uganda fun and a premier birding destination.
Best birding seasons in Uganda
Uganda’s birding weather varies by season, but due to the country’s diverse habitats, birdwatching is good most of the months.
March to May (Heavy Rains)
While bird activity remains high, heavy rains can make roads and trails difficult to access, especially in forested areas like Bwindi and Kibale. October (Short Rains) – Some areas may be muddy, but birdwatching is still possible with careful planning.
November to April (Best Season)
The peak birding season, as migratory birds from Europe and North Africa arrive. It is also the breeding season for many resident species, making it ideal for spotting birds in their vibrant plumage.
June to September (2nd Best Season)
The second-best season, coinciding with Uganda’s long dry period. Birds are more visible as they gather around water sources, and forest trails are easier to navigate.
Popular Birding Safaris in Uganda
Top Birding Destinations in Uganda
Our carefully organized destinations in Uganda take you to over 30 Important Bird Areas (IBAs) and numerous national parks ideal for birdwatching and provide a unique habitat for rare and sought-after birds, making the must-visit locations for serious birders including:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Boasts over 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics found nowhere else in Uganda.
Mabamba Swamp
Famous for the Shoebill Stork, one of the most sought-after birds in Africa.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Over 600 bird species, including the African Skimmer and Martial Eagle.
Murchison Falls National Park
Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, is a top birding destination with over 450 bird species.
Semuliki National Park
Hosts over 440 bird species, including 66 species from the Guinea-Congo biome found nowhere else in Uganda, like the Nkulengu Rail.
Lake Mburo National Park
The best place in Uganda to see African Finfoot and White-backed Night Herons.
Kibale National Park
Known for its mix of forest and wetland species, including the Green-breasted Pitta.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
It is one of Uganda’s top birding destinations. It boasts over 217 bird species, including 17 Albertine Rift endemics found only in this region, such as the Rwenzori Turaco.
Migratory Birds in Uganda
Uganda hosts over 200 species of migratory birds, which visit the country at different times of the year. These birds migrate from Europe, Asia, and North Africa, mainly arriving between November and April. Best destinations for migratory species include Mabamba Swamp (Terns, waders), Queen Elizabeth NP (Raptors, waders, storks), Lake Victoria & Lutembe Bay (Terns, gulls, waders), and Murchison Falls NP (Savanna migrants).
Uganda Birding Adventures
Marspec Birding and Wildlife Safaris utilizes its birding expertise to develop and implement birding safaris, which are well thought through and customized to clients’ interests and satisfaction. We ensure all aspects are checked and aligned for the best birding experience in Uganda.
Bird Conservation
Uganda has 34 Important Bird Areas (IBAs) designated by BirdLife International. Conservation efforts focus on protecting key habitats such as Mabamba Swamp, home to the Shoebill Stork, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which shelters rare species like the African Green Broadbill. However, birds face habitat destruction, climate change, poaching, and pollution threats. To combat these challenges, organizations like Nature Uganda and BirdLife International work alongside the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to protect Important Bird Areas (IBAs) through national parks, reserves, and community-led conservation projects. Ecotourism also plays a key role, with birding in Uganda tours generating revenue for conservation and local communities.
By integrating conservation awareness into birding tours, Uganda promotes sustainable tourism while safeguarding its rich avian biodiversity. Our birding and wildlife safaris present to our client’s opportunities to contribute to conservation efforts – grab it and save a bird!
