14-Day Albertine Rift Endemic Birding Safari

This once-in-a-lifetime birding safari takes you through Uganda’s biodiversity hotspots and important bird areas within the Albertine Rift, home to some of Africa’s most sought-after endemic species. The journey covers Mgahinga, Bwindi, Rwenzori, and Semliki National Parks, among other prime birding locations, offering opportunities to spot rare and endemic species such as the African Green Broadbill, Regal Sunbird, Shelley’s Crimson-wing, Rwenzori Batis, and the Handsome Francolin.

With expert guides leading the way, this tour is an incredible experience for serious birders and nature lovers alike.

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Birding at Botanical Gardens

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, our guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may visit the Entebbe Botanical Gardens or the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre for an introduction to Uganda’s bird species.

Accommodation: The Boma Guest House | Meals: Breakfast

Day 2: Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Depart early for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, one of Uganda’s most scenic protected areas, home to several Albertine Rift endemics. The drive takes you through the stunning landscapes of southwestern Uganda.

Accommodation: Travellers Rest Inn | Meals: Full Board

Day 3: Birding in Mgahinga National Park

Spend the day exploring montane habitats in search of key species, including the Rwenzori Turaco, Kivu Ground Thrush, Regal Sunbird, Purple-breasted Sunbird, and Shelley’s Crimson-wing. The variety of sunbirds, robins, and warblers make this an exceptional birding location.

Accommodation: Travellers Rest Inn | Meals: Full Board

Day 4: Transfer to Ruhija for Birding

Travel to Ruhija, another prime birding area, in search of African Green Broadbill, Strange Weaver, Dusky Crimson-wing, and Rwenzori Batis. The forests here provide excellent opportunities to spot rare warblers and sunbirds.

Accommodation: Broadbill Forest Camp | Meals: Full Board

Day 5: Full-Day Birding at Mubwindi Swamp

Explore Mubwindi Swamp, home to some of Uganda’s most elusive bird species, including Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, Many-Colored Bush Shrike, Rwenzori Nightjar, and Grauer’s Warbler. This area is one of the best places to spot the Handsome Francolin.

Accommodation: Broadbill Forest Camp | Meals: Full Board

Day 6: Birding to Buhoma

As you transfer to Buhoma, look out for species such as the Black Bee-Eater, Dusky Tit, Chestnut Wattle-eye, and Yellow-billed Barbet. The forests here are rich with flycatchers, shrikes, and weavers.

Accommodation: The Haven Buhoma | Meals: Full Board

Day 7: Birding in Buhoma – Optional Gorilla Trekking

Spend the day birding in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, searching for Black-throated Apalis, Mountain Masked Apalis, White-tailed Ant-Thrush, and Equatorial Akalat. For those interested, an optional gorilla trekking experience can be arranged.

Accommodation: The Haven Buhoma | Meals: Full Board

Day 8: Transfer to Rwenzori Mountains National Park

After an early breakfast, drive towards the Rwenzori Mountains, where you’ll begin birding in search of Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird, Rwenzori Hill Babbler, and Woodhouse’s Antpecker.

Accommodation: Hotel Margherita | Meals: Full Board

Day 9: Full-Day Birding in Rwenzori National Park

Explore the unique birdlife of Rwenzori National Park, home to Bamboo Warbler, Rwenzori Turaco, Red-faced Crimson-wing, and Grauer’s Cuckooshrike. This high-altitude birding experience is one of the most rewarding in the region.

Accommodation: Hotel Margherita | Meals: Full Board

Day 10: Transfer to Semliki National Park

After a morning birding session in Rwenzori, transfer to Semliki Valley National Park, a birding paradise that hosts many Central African species not found anywhere else in East Africa.

Accommodation: Semliki Safari Lodge | Meals: Full Board

Day 11 & 12: Birding in Semliki Valley National Park

Explore the Kirumia Trail and surrounding forest, searching for Long-tailed Hawk, Congo Serpent Eagle, Lyre-tailed Honeyguide, and various Hornbill species. The diversity here includes Blue Swallow, Swamp Palm Bulbul, Red-throated Alethe, and Snowy-headed Robin-Chat. The forest’s unique ecosystem provides an exciting challenge for birders.

Accommodation: Semliki Safari Lodge | Meals: Full Board

Day 13: Return to Entebbe

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Entebbe, making occasional birding stops along the way. Arrive in time for a relaxing evening before departure.

Accommodation: Karibu Guest House | Meals: Dinner

Day 14: Departure – Flight Home

After breakfast, transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your outbound flight, marking the end of your Albertine Rift Endemic Birding Safari.

Meals: Breakfast

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Tour Includes

  • All ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
  • Professional driver-guide
  • Accommodation (based on per-person sharing)
  • Park entrance fees
  • Boat cruises & game drives
  • 1 Gorilla trekking permit per person
  • Bottled mineral water
Q

Tour Excludes

• International flights & visas
• Travel insurance
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Personal expenses (drinks, tips, calls, etc.)
• Optional activities