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