3 Premier National Parks, 370+ Avian Species
This flagship birding itinerary combines visits to three national parks in Uganda: Lake Mburo National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Across these enchanting, exotic environments lie over 150 mammal species, at least 11 primates, and over 370 bird species including 24 Albertine Rift endemics. An exploration under the shady green forest canopy brims with discoveries to delight botanists, ornithologists, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Led by an Imoratok Safaris professional birding driver-guide, you will travel in a 4x4 safari jeep equipped with spotting scopes, acoustic sound resources, fresh fruits, and snacks for unhurried observation in the field.
6 Days Rift Valley Birding Safari
Lake Mburo National Park • Mgahinga Gorilla National Park • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Arrival Day: Welcome to Uganda
On arrival at Entebbe airport, you will be met by our Imoratok Safaris professional driver-guide for a warm meet-and-greet and transferred to your accommodation in Kampala to check in and rest.
Day 1: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park & Evening Boat Cruise
Depart after breakfast and drive to Lake Mburo National Park, arriving in the afternoon to check in and have lunch at the lodge. Head out for an afternoon birding/game drive followed by an evening boat cruise on Lake Mburo in search of the specials of this area: African Finfoot, Crested Barbet, Bare-faced Go-away-bird, Greater Painted-snipe, White-winged Swamp Warbler, and Papyrus Gonolek.
Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge (Full Board).
Day 2: Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
After breakfast, head further southwest with en-route birding, driving through the beautiful meandering hills of the Kigezi region towards the dramatic Virunga volcanic mountains to Mgahinga National Park, checking in during the afternoon.
Accommodation: Gahinga Lodge (Full Board).
Day 3: Full Day Birding in Mgahinga National Park
Early morning breakfast with packed lunch. Transfer to park headquarters to pick up a specialized site bird-watching guide and enter the Gahinga forest for a full day of birding. Target specials and Albertine Rift endemics include: African Olive Pigeon, Alpine Swift, Archer’s Robin-chat, Blue-headed Coucal, Dusky Crimsonwing, Kivu Ground Thrush, Moorland Chat, Olive Woodpecker, Ruwenzori Batis, Ruwenzori Turaco, and Scarlet-tufted Malachite Sunbird.
Accommodation: Gahinga Lodge (Full Board).
Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Ruhija & Buhoma)
Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with packed lunch, driving through the eastern border of the park along the famous Ruhija birding section with en-route observation, arriving in northern Buhoma sector in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Bwindi Lodge (Full Board).
Day 5: Forest Birding in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Meet your guide after breakfast for an in-depth birding trail excursion through Bwindi's primary montane rainforest. Key targets include: Handsome Francolin, Dwarf Honeyguide, Shelley’s Greenbul, Red-throated Alethe, Short-tailed Warbler, Tit Hylia, and Red-faced Woodland Warbler. Return to the lodge for a hot lunch, with the option for an afternoon birding session or leisure.
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge (Full Board).
Day 6: Transfer to Kampala / Entebbe
Drive back to Entebbe/Kampala (8 to 10 hours, road and weather dependent). Stopovers for photos, souvenir shopping at the equator crossing, lunch en route, and (time permitting) a visit to the traditional Mpigi Royal Drum Makers before dropping off in Kampala or Entebbe Airport.
✓ Tour Package Includes
- • Airport transfers and one internal airfare
- • Professional birding driver-guide(s)
- • Private transport in a 4x4 safari jeep with fuel
- • Accommodation as indicated (Full Board)
- • Meals indicated in the itinerary
- • All birding activities indicated & permit fees
- • Park & vehicle entry fees
- • Bottled drinking water, snacks & fresh fruits in vehicle
- • Flying Doctor emergency evacuation fees & government taxes
✕ Package Excludes
- • International flights and Uganda entry visa
- • Personal medical and travel insurance
- • Tips and gratuities to bird guides and lodge staff
- • Expenses of personal nature (laundry, alcoholic drinks)
- • Optional activities not listed in the program
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