20-Day Uganda Wildlife & Birding Safari
Overview
This 20-day safari is a grand exploration of Uganda’s unmatched natural treasures. From the rich birdlife of Budongo Forest to the thundering waters of Murchison Falls, the chimpanzees of Kibale, the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, and the iconic gorillas of Bwindi, this journey is crafted for wildlife lovers and passionate birders. Over nearly three weeks, you’ll explore lush rainforests, sweeping savannahs, crater lakes, and serene islands, while encountering over 1,000 bird species and an incredible array of wildlife. It’s the ultimate Ugandan adventure—blending discovery, relaxation, and authentic cultural encounters.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome to Uganda
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport where your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a leisurely walk by Lake Victoria or visit the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Overnight in Entebbe.
Day 2: Entebbe to Budongo Forest – The Birders’ Paradise
Depart for Budongo Forest, part of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area. Known for its rich birdlife and primates, Budongo is home to over 360 bird species including the African dwarf kingfisher and the puvel’s illadopsis. Overnight near Budongo.
Days 3–5: Budongo Forest & Murchison Falls National Park
Spend your days combining birding and chimpanzee tracking in Budongo with game drives and boat safaris in Murchison Falls National Park. Marvel at the Nile exploding through a narrow gorge to form the thunderous Murchison Falls. Expect sightings of elephants, giraffes, lions, buffalo, shoebill storks, and countless waterbirds. Overnight in Murchison Falls NP.
Day 6: Murchison Falls National Park – Safari & Birding
Enjoy a full day exploring the northern savannah plains for big game viewing and birding. Look out for raptors, bee-eaters, and the rare shoebill along the Nile Delta. Overnight in Murchison Falls NP.
Days 7–8: Semuliki National Park – Birders’ Haven of the Albertine Rift
Travel southwest to Semuliki National Park, famous for its Central African bird species that cannot be found elsewhere in East Africa. Highlights include the Nkulengu rail, Congo serpent eagle, and hornbills. Explore the hot springs and enjoy guided birding walks. Overnight near Semuliki.
Days 9–10: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Game & Kazinga Channel
Continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park. On Day 9, enjoy an evening game drive across Kasenyi plains, spotting lions, elephants, and Uganda kobs. On Day 10, take a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, one of the best birding spots in Uganda, teeming with pelicans, kingfishers, African skimmers, hippos, and crocodiles. Overnight in Queen Elizabeth NP.
Day 11: Ishasha Sector – Tree-Climbing Lions
Head south to the Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions lounging in fig trees. Alongside game drives, birders can look for black bee-eaters, Ross’s turaco, and broad-billed rollers. Overnight in Ishasha.
Days 12–14: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Buhoma) – Gorilla Trekking & Birding
Spend three days in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi. Day 12 is dedicated to gorilla trekking—an emotional, once-in-a-lifetime experience. On the following days, enjoy birding walks in Bwindi, home to 23 Albertine Rift endemics including the African green broadbill and Shelley’s crimsonwing. Overnight in Buhoma.
Days 15–16: Lake Bunyonyi – Relaxation & Island Exploration
Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, a stunning lake dotted with 29 islands. After days of trekking, relax, swim, or take canoe rides. Optional visits include community walks or birdwatching around the lake, where grey crowned cranes and weavers thrive. Overnight at Lake Bunyonyi.
Days 17–18: Lake Mburo National Park – Savannah Birds & Wildlife
Drive to Lake Mburo, Uganda’s smallest but bird-rich savannah park. Game drives reveal zebras, elands, and impalas, while boat rides offer sightings of African finfoot, papyrus gonolek, and pied kingfishers. Overnight in Lake Mburo NP.
Days 19–20: Lake Mburo to Entebbe – Farewell Uganda
Enjoy a morning birding walk in Lake Mburo, then begin your journey back to Entebbe. Depending on your departure schedule, stop at the equator for photos and crafts shopping before your international flight.
Inclusions
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation on full-board basis
- Transport in 4x4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide
- All park entry fees
- Gorilla trekking permit (per person)
- Chimpanzee tracking permit (per person)
- All game drives, boat cruises, and birding activities as per itinerary
- Bottled drinking water on safari
Exclusions
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel/medical insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks
- Optional activities (e.g., cultural visits, hot air balloon, extra birding tours)
- Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
Why Choose This Safari?
The 20-day Uganda Wildlife & Birding Safari is designed for passionate travelers who want to see it all—big game, rare birds, primates, and breathtaking landscapes. From gorillas to shoebills, from the thunder of Murchison Falls to the tranquility of Lake Bunyonyi, this safari offers the most complete and rewarding Ugandan experience.
