Birders on a boat excursion are likely to see a variety of water species, including the shoebill, Goliath herons, Gray-crowned cranes, and black headed lapwings, among others. Birding at Murchison Falls National Park is possible all year, although the ideal time for birdwatching is during the dry season, which runs from January to March. During this time, the park receives less visitors, and lodges typically offer cheaper rates on lodging. Birding is still outstanding from December to February, albeit the park receives considerable rain, which may interfere with your birding time.

The shoebill is one of the most impressive attractions and bird species in Murchison Falls, although it is difficult to observe during the dry season, which runs from January to March. From November through April, migratory birds from Europe and North Africa arrive.

Birds in the Murchison Falls National Park

Abyssinia Ground hornbill

The Abyssinian ground hornbill is a big ground hornbill. A male Abyssinian ground hornbill has bare facial skin that is a combination of blue and red, whereas a female has totally blue facial skin. In flying, the wings expose a huge white patch. This bird is commonly spotted in Murchison Falls National Park’s plain savanna grasslands and the park’s neighboring agricultural fields. The Abyssinian ground hornbill travels in pairs or small groups on the ground. They always nest and breed in trees. The range of the Abyssinian ground hornbill is very identical to that of the southern ground hornbill, however the Abyssinian is easily differentiated by its blue facial skin. The Abyssinian call is a succession of deep “boop” sounds.

Black-headed lapwing

The Black-headed lapwing is regularly seen in Uganda and other East African countries at an altitude of 1800m in semi-arid and bushy plains. The Black-headed lapwing is most commonly observed in the northern Murchison Falls region, from Paraa to the Albert Nile marshes. You will be able to view them in pairs or small groups on early-game drives. The black-headed lapwing has a tiny black crown and a black line down the middle of the breast, and it flies with broad white bands across the wings. The Black-headed lapwing is most active at night, early morning, and late afternoon. The Black-headed lapwing’s cry is a harsh, woody, repeated “krep.”

 Grey-crowned crane

Balearica regulorum is the scientific name for the grey-crowned crane. With a blue-gray crane, a black-and-white face, and a crown of golden-yellow feathers, this bird is magnificent. Grey crested cranes get rustier as they grow older. Singles, couples, and flocks favor the marshes and flooded grasslands of Uganda’s Murchison Falls National Park. Yes, grey-crowned cranes live in waterlogged places, however, they may become locally migratory in reaction to rain. The low mournful bugling “maaah-hem” cry of a flock of grey-crowned cranes can be heard on a daily basis. The Black Crowned Crane is similar to the Grey Crowned Crane but has slaty-gray coloring, smaller red facial wattles, and red-and-white cheek patches.

Senegal thick-knee

Murchison Falls National Park’s common birds are the Senegal thick-knee. Burhinus senegalensis is its scientific name. The Senegal thick-knee is a huge shorebird with a larger and heavier beak than Eurasian and Water Thick-knee. It is also worth noting that this bird has a gray mid-wing panel with no black-and-white pattern. The Senegal thick knee is extremely loud, especially at night, emitting a range of loud whistles and trills.

Shoebill

The Shoebill is a distinct bird with its own family. Adult shoebill storks have uniform gray plumage, whilst immatures have brownish coloration. The Shoebill is an uncommon bird seen in Murchison Falls National Park, yet following it is an exciting experience for bird enthusiasts. Spotting a shoebill tracking at Murchison Falls National Park is simple when on a guided Nile boat safari. A bot ride will take you downstream into the park’s marshy delta section. The shoebill is often found alone or in pairs in deep marshes, particularly papyrus swamps. A shoebill is similar to a stork, but with a broad neck and a large hooked bill. The lengthy legs trail in flight, which is usually extremely high.

Other birds found in Murchison Falls National Park include the African jacana, Black-billed barbet, , African quailfinch, and African quailfinch. Denham’s bustard, Eastern grey plantain-eater, Black-headed gonolek, Squacco heron, Black-headed lapwing, Blue-headed coucal African Jacana, Standard-winged Nightjar, Sandpipers, Red-throated bee-eater, Long-tailed Nightjar, White-browed sparrow-weaver, Red-winged Grey Warbler Piapiac, Rock Pratincole, Palm-nut vulture The great kingfisher, Goliath heron, Malachite kingfisher, Speckle-fronted weaver, Silverbird,  Swamp flycatcher, and more species

In Murchison Falls National Park, there are two methods to experience the mighty Nile. Tourists take the boat journey up the Victoria Nile waters to the bottom of the thundering falls from the Paraa pier and climb up from Baker’s rock to Fagio Gorge to watch the falls from above.

The other boat tour departs from Paraa jetty and travels down the calm Nile waters to the papyrus-filled delta. This is where the Nile meets Lake Albert before splitting off to the north. Both provide amazing views of wildlife along the Nile’s banks—the closest you can get to Uganda’s big game creatures.

Nile Delta boat cruise

The Nile Delta boat excursion is located twenty kilometers downstream from the Paraa jetty in Murchison Falls National Park. It is home to a plethora of magnificent waterbird species, including the prehistoric-looking shoebill stork, which is a popular sighting for most travelers on the Nile Delta boat excursion. The three-hour Delta boat ride from Murchison’s West Paraa district via the picturesque Buligi area to Lake Albert Delta Point brings travelers up up and personal with fantastic animal encounters. On the Nile’s banks, you may expect to see herds of elephants, buffalo, and giraffe.

The boat travels the sluggish Victoria Nile waters in the Albert Delta in search of the vast birds chattering of the papyrus and marshy vegetation. With a whale-like head, keep an eye out for the storky bird hunting in the swamp for fish and frogs. The shoebill is a highlight encounter in these areas of the park, but the scenery is equally relaxing for an afternoon sunset boat excursion.

The Victoria Nile runs through the northern edge of Lake Albert to form the Albert Nile, which flows up into South Sudan at the Albert Nile Delta. Spend some time in the delta; you could see elephants, Nile crocodiles, and other spectacular species before cruising back up the Nile to the Paraa jetty. A planned Nile delta trip with “breakfast on board” is available in the mornings (subject to minimum numbers.) The delta cruise departs from the jetty at Paraa on the south bank at 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. We can also customize your delta cruise tour with a private boat and schedules to meet your travel needs.

Boat cruise to the Bottom of Murchison Falls

The boat cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls, the world’s most powerful waterfall, is the most popular activity in the park. The trip also begins from the Paraa jetty and cruises up the Nile, passing through a show of stunning wildlife along the Victoria Nile river banks before docking at Baker’s Rock for those who want to walk up Murchison Falls.

The River Nile gashes out roughly 300 cubic meters per second (11,000 ft3/s) of water through a tiny gouge less than 10 meters (33 ft) wide at the peak of Murchison Falls, generating 50-metermeter broad splashes and a constant rainbow. The raging water then cascades over the falls and back onto the Nile path, where it flows quietly down the Victoria Nile. Guests may pause at the base to watch this amazing scene unfold, which is surrounded by hippo pods, or trek up the cliff to see the spectacle from above.

Murchison Falls launch tours typically depart at 0900 and 1400. We may also organize a private boat excursion up the Nile for a sundowner or breakfast cruise. The boat cruise might last between three and four hours.

Apoka Rest Camp features a vast and open property that is popular for camping. If you want to go camping, you can do so, but you must provide your own camping equipment because the lodge merely provides a camping site. The lodge does not have an operating restaurant; you will need to bring your own food to feed on. We recommend that you pack your food from Kampala or Mbale, Gulu, and other dependable metropolitan towns, which may offer cuisine of your interest. The camp has some refrigeration, and you may bring in frozen meat. Markets sell eggs, bread, and prepared soups, and you can make a stew with anything from vegetables to meat or chicken.

Other accommodation in Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Savanna Lodge

The outskirts of one of Uganda’s most magnificent national parks lies this pristine lodge. Kidepo Savanna Lodge is the newest and most remote Nature Lodges property. This lodge pays honor to this natural jewel, which has garnered multiple international accolades as one of Africa’s best parks. The lodge is practically a stone’s throw from the park, being only 500 meters from the Kalokudo gate. It provides breathtaking views of the vast Narus Valley, Mount Morungole, and the distant mountain ranges that constitute the boundary with Southern Sudan. The savannah surroundings, meadows, rocky outcrops, and… the Karamojong, the tribe with their typical manyattas and colorful blankets, inspired the resort. Because the resort needed to fit in rather than stand out, they chose between the more opulent self-contained safari tents and the more comfortable lazy camping tents.

Apoka safari Lodge

Apoka safari Lodge is designed for comfort, despite its remote location. Spacious, private cottages cluster around a rocky kopje overlooking the Narus River, each with a screened balcony, outdoor stone tub (ideal for a starlit soak), and exquisitely handcrafted furnishings by local artisans. The wildlife is abundant – lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and zebras, to name a few – and can often be seen from the comfort and privacy of your suite, or from the cool waters of our natural rock pool.

Adere Safari Lodge

Adere Safari Lodge is a high-end safari lodge perched on the edge of Kidepo Valley National Park in a unique natural setting that allows visitors to enjoy the magic of seeing wildlife up-close while simply relaxing by the pool, giving you worthwhile and transformational safari memories of Africa. Adere Safari Lodge features custom-designed safari cottages with functional luxury touches, exclusive settings in Kidepo Park’s Wilderness to immerse you in a truly African authentic experience unlike any other.

Camping in Kidepo Valley National Park

Camping in Kidepo National Park is one of the most authentic ways to interact with wildlife. Aside from being a less expensive way to visit the park, your Uganda safari tour allows you to get up close and personal with the animals. Camping is done on the ridges of the Narus valley in Kidepo National Park.

This area in Kidepo is the main source of water during the dry season, and all wildlife congregates here to quench their thirst. Your Uganda wildlife safari includes an armed guide to protect you from wild animals. A fire is kept going all night to keep animals away from the site.

Boat cruise in Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo national park offers boat cruises on Lake Mburo. This lake offers a lifeline to the wildlife during the rather brutal and harsh dry seasons of June-August and December-February. Long herds are seen heading to the Lake to quench their thirst. There are 2 scheduled boat cruises on the Lake. One at 11am and 2pm. These boat cruises last for 2 hours and are led by experienced rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. They mainly cruise close to the banks of the river for close encounters with the wildlife that is mainly found by the banks. Since hippos can’t swim, schools of hippos are some of the highlights on this cruise. Crocodiles and buffaloes are visible on the banks. Bird species like African Fish Eagle, Kingfisher, Papyrus Gonolek, and Egyptian geese can be spotted as they make an attempt at fishing.

Uganda Wildlife Authority is in charge of these boat cruises. There are 2 boats available for the cruise. A small 15-seater and a double-decker 45-seater are well maintained and piloted by expert staff. They are readily available to you in case you have any questions.

When to go for Boat cruise in Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo national park is open to visitors all year round. However, some conditions offer better safari experiences. During the dry seasons, most of the watering holes in the park dry up and the wildlife becomes concentrated on the lake. This makes it the ideal time to embark on these cruises. More still, the afternoon heat coupled with the cool winds blowing across the lake offer a beautiful counterbalance. It is rather uncomfortable when it rains, making you weak and cold.

Other safari activities in Lake Mburo.

Game drives:

Game drives are the most convenient way on any African safari. These game drives are led by expert rangers who know the wildlife in the park and the best tracks to find them. These game drives are conducted in a customized safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, offering 360 degrees of the savanna plains. You will enjoy close interactions with the park’s residents in safety.

Nature Walks:

Nature walks in Lake Mburo are exceptional. Because the park doesn’t have a lot of predators, nature walks are simply stunning. You are led by an armed ranger who will take you closer to the docile game. The grazing zebras, giraffes, topi, and warthog are the highlights of your nature walk. However, the wind, blowing across the open grasslands, carrying with it the smell of fresh grass and game accompanied by the chirping of the birds is transcending.

Cycling:

Are you the adventurous one? Cycling on the tracks in Lake Mburo is both engaging but also gives one an opportunity to take in the views of nature. You are led by an armed ranger for protection. These tours are open to all ages and are mostly enjoyed as a family.

Horseback safaris:

Safari in style and ride across the savanna plains alongside the giraffes, buffaloes, and other wildlife in the park. This luxury safari activity is offered by Mihingo Lodge, a luxury safari lodge in the park. You don’t need any level of experience.

This area in Kidepo is the main source of water during the dry season, and all wildlife congregates here to quench their thirst. Your Uganda wildlife safari includes an armed guide to protect you from wild animals. A fire is kept going all night to keep animals away from the site.

Kakine Campsite

The most popular site  for camping in Kidepo valley National Park is Kakine. It has a beautiful view of the Narus valley and the savannah grasslands. The site has a restroom with running water. Furthermore, there is a telescope that allows you to view wildlife in the distance. The camp site has two huts where you can cook and store your supplies. The location is close to the park headquarters. You wake up at the camp site to the sounds of buffaloes and elephants grazing. The fresh air is relaxing and leaves a lasting impression. The stars, the roars of the lions and the hyenas make this camping experience worth it. Sunsets at the Kakine camp site are breathtaking. Enjoy the ranger-created night campfire.

Nagusokopire Campsite

This campgrounds is located on the park’s western edge and are popular for camping in Kidepo valley National park. The site also has a toilet block with running water, as well as huts for cooking and storing supplies. This camp site provides breathtaking views of the Narus valley and the Narus valley. During your Uganda wildlife safari, you will be able to see a variety of wildlife. On your camping safari to Kidepo, you can easily spot zebras and waterbucks in the valley. An armed guide will keep the fires burning all night.

Apoka Rest Camp

Apoka Rest Camp features a vast and open property that is popular for camping. If you want to go camping, you can do so, but you must provide your own camping equipment because the lodge merely provides a camping site.

No tents or bedding are provided on your camping safari to Kidepo. You will need to bring your own. You will have the option of preparing your own meals or driving to the Apoka safari camp (if camping at Kakine camp site) or Kidepo savannah lodge (if camping at Nagusokopire). It is recommended that you bring some warm clothing with you because it can get chilly in the evenings and mornings. Remember to bring portable lamps to help you navigate the campsite.

About Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park was gazatted in by government of Uganda in 1962 covering a total surface area of 1,442 KM. Kidepo valley is composed of savannah grassland and wood land and was ranked the wildest park in Africa by CNN in 2015.It lies in the semi-arid valleys between Uganda’s border with Kenya and South Sudan. Its composed of open flat plains which allow a lot of wildlife to graze and thrive. The highest point stands at 914m and the lowest point is at 2,750m above sea level. Kidepo valley national park hosts over 77 mammals including Cheetah, Leopard, Lions, buffaloes, elephants, Zebra, warthogs, and different species of antelopes most of which are found in Narus valley. Kidepo Valley National Park has 2 seasonal rivers and they include Narus and Kidepo which disappear during dry season, and re-appear during the rainy seasons.

It’s the furthest national park from the city center Kampala which is around 700k from Kampala but once you get there, it’s worth rewarding with a lot of wildlife in the finest wilderness area. Apoka is the hub of tourism activities which also hosts the visitor information center and UWA Apoka Bandas and other camping sites, Apoka Safari lodge and Kidepo air strip.

Activities in Kidepo Valley National Park

Game Drives

Narus Valley is where most drives take place because many wild animals congregate here, especially in March. Tourists usually have a clear view because the savannah grassland at the park is low due to a lack of rain, and the lions and other big cats are mostly seen on the rocks of kopjes looking for food. The game drive is best in the morning because most wild animals are looking for food. Some game drives can be organized for afternoon and night.

Occasionally, game drives are conducted along Kidepo Valley, where tourists can enjoy the sand bed river “oasis” in the desert. The valley has palm trees and a large number of birds, and is only visible during the dry season. Because Kidepo Valley National Park is a Ugandan desert with tsetse flies crossing the Sand bed River, this is best done in the morning before it gets too hot.

Bird Watching

When it comes to this activity, this is a fantastic view for birders. The park has a wide variety of birds, some of which are not found in other birding areas in Uganda. The park is ranked second in Uganda for its variety of bird species, and this activity is what drives the park’s popularity. Over 50 species of outstanding bird prey have been recorded in Kidepo Valley National Park.

Sand Bed alongside the Kidepo River

This experience is done during the dry season and is extremely interesting, as one enjoys the wildlife experience while listening to a variety of birds enjoy the sound of their voices in the air. The sand bed is located in the northern part of the park and is lined by Borassus Palms, giving it the appearance of an oasis in the desert.

Nature Walks

This can be done at any time of day around Apoka Camp, and tourists can expect to see a variety of wildlife such as Elephants, Reedbuck, Zebra, and a few others that have not been mentioned. These are best in the morning because tourists can observe the animals closely as they hunt for food.

Climbing Mountain Morungole

This activity is led by IK staff who are more familiar with the animals in this area of the park. Trekking and hiking through varying nature and rocky terrain with spectacular views of the park are involved. The IK people usually entertain tourists with various dances, their unique migration history, their life, and many other things.

Community Tour

The Karamojong people, Uganda’s most remote people, surround Kidepo Valley National Park. Daily visits to their community are always organized, where you will see a number of traditional houses, their culture, traditional dances, and their handcrafted stools, spears, and hand bungles made from beads.

Kidepo Valley National Park is located in Kaabong district in northeastern Uganda, between Uganda’s borders with South Sudan and Kenya. Elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, waterbucks, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, elands, oribi, Jackson’s hartebeest, zebras, and jackals are among the wildlife species found in Kidepo Valley National Park.

During Birding in Kidepo Valley National Park, you will visit various birding areas such as Apoka rest camp, the outskirts of Namumukweny valley, and Narus valley, among others. You will be able to see a variety of bird species during this adventure in Kidepo Valley National Park.

Birds that can be spotted in Kidepo:

Black Coucal, Little Weaver, Vinaceous dove, Scarlet-chested Sunbird, Nubian Woodpecker, Broad-tailed Warbler, African Grey Flycatcher, Red Pate Cisticola, Karamoja Apalis, Ethiopian Swallow, Jacksons Hornbill, Ostrich, Secretary bird, Standard-winged Nightjar, Red-winged Lark, White-crested Turaco, Little Green Bee-eater, Mosque Swallow, Superb Starling, Marsh Tchagra, Crimson-Rumped waxbill, Yellow-billed Shrike, Clapperton’s Francolin, Singing Bush Lark, Yellow-spotted Petronia, Black-faded Waxbills, Red-winged Pytilias, Black-faded Waxbills, Grey-capped Social and Speckle-fronted Weaver, White-billed Buffalo, Brown-rumped Bunting, , Black-breasted Barbet, White-bellied Go-away bird, White-crested Turaco, Four-banded Sand Grouse, Long Tailed Nightjar, Mouse-Coloured Penduline, Fan-tailed Raven, Chestnut-crowned Sparrow Weaver, Pygmy Falcon, Swallow-tailed Kite, Heuglins Francolin, Rufous-crowned Roller, Slate-coloured Boubou among others.

Birding in Kidepo Valley National Park is possible all year, but the best time to visit is during the rainy season, from March to April and November to February, because that is when bird lovers can see colorful and migratory bird species.

Other things to do in Kidepo Valley National Park

Game drives

Kidepo Valley National Park is Uganda’s wildest national park, with breathtaking savannah landscapes and boundless vistas of the horizon. It is located in north-eastern Uganda in the Karamoja region. Because it is one of Uganda’s less visited national parks, you have the sense of having the entire park to yourself. Kidepo Valley National Park was recently ranked the third-best National Park in Africa by CNN due to its distinctiveness and stunning nature. Many elephants, giraffes, buffalos, lions, oribi, hyenas, baboons, antelopes, warthogs, jackals, and innumerable savannah birds can be seen on guided game drives. Kidepo is Uganda’s only national park where you can also observe cheetahs.

Climbing Mountain Morungole

This activity is led by IK staff who are more familiar with the animals in this area of the park. Trekking and hiking through varying nature and rocky terrain with spectacular views of the park are involved. The IK people usually entertain tourists with various dances, their unique migration history, their life, and many other things.

Nature Walks

This can be done at any time of day around Apoka Camp, and tourists can expect to see a variety of wildlife such as Elephants, Reedbuck, Zebra, and a few others that have not been mentioned. These are best in the morning because tourists can observe the animals closely as they hunt for food.

The country’s high density of bird species per square kilometer can be linked to two factors:

1. Geographic location near the equator, the Tropics, and the Albertine Rift Valley. Areas near the equator are endowed with fresh water lakes, rivers, huge swamps, and rain forests, and Uganda is no exception. Many bird species use these natural features as homes and breeding grounds.
2. Diversity of Habitats: Uganda has a unique and vast range of habitats for various bird species many of which are native to the country. They range from the big lakes/rivers, rain forests, the great East African rift valley, mountains, and semi-arid areas in the northern half of the country. Local and migratory birds use these environments for breeding, feeding, and gathering.

Uganda’s top bird species

The Shoebill stork, African Green Broadbill, Black Bee-eater, Brown chested pullover, Brown-chested Lapwing, Green-breasted Pitta, Jahan’s Francolin, Jameson’s Antpecker, Karamoja Apalis, Purcell’s illadopsis, Puvel’s Illadopsis, Nahans francolin, Red fronted anti pecker, and Rwenzori Tura Among the many species seen on bird watching safaris are the African Harrier hawk, Cinnamon-chested bee-eater, Crowned hornbill, Giant kingfisher, Goliath Heron, Green pigeon, Martial Eagle, Mountain greenbul, the Secretary Bird, Shelley’s crimsonwing, Short-tailed warbler, African Darter, Grey crested crane, Western green tinkerbird, and Yellow-billed Stork among others.

Uganda Birding Safaris Birding Areas

Uganda’s beautiful national parks and reserves are the ideal places to see birds. Bird sanctuaries remain relatively undisturbed in these national parks and reserves, ensuring an astonishing density of bird species. Because of Uganda’s incredible diversity of fauna and vegetation, watching birds while seeking for other wildlife species is more rewarding.

The Budongo Forest:

Budongo forest is located within the famous Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s most popular tourist sites. The forest is well-known for chimp trekking, but it is also one of the best spots in Uganda to go birdwatching. Several bird species, including the African Dwarf Kingfisher, African Pied Hornbill, Banded Snake-eagle, Black Bishop, Black-bellied Fire sparrow, Black-capped Apalis, Brown Twin sport, Brown-backed Scrub-robin, Cameroon Sombre Green bull, Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, live in the forest. Crowned Eagle, Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo, Fire-crested Alethe, Forest Flycatcherand, Forest Francolin, Green Hylia, Ituri Batis are some of the birds found in the forest. Among the other species are the Lemon-bellied Crombec, Pale-breasted Illadopsis, Red-tailed Antthrush, Rufous-crowned Eremomela, Slender-billed Green bull, Spotted Green bull, White-thighed Hornbill, Yellow and Grey Longbills, Yellow-billed Barbet, Yellow-browed Camaroptera, Yellow-footed Flycatcher, and Yellow-spotted Barbet.

Mabamba Swamp

In Uganda, the Mabamba Swamp is an excellent location for bird watching. The Mabamba Bay Wetland Swamp is home to a variety of birds including the Black-billed Turaco, Blue-breasted Kingfisher, Blue-shouldered Robin-chat, Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo, Fire-crested Althea, Grey Parrot, Hair-breasted Barbet, Lemon Dove, Olive Green bull, Snowy-headed Robin-chat, Sooty Boubou, Wayne’s Weaver, White-spotted Fluff

Bigodi wetland

The Black-billed Turaco, Black-faced Rufus Warbler, Blue-breasted Kingfisher, Blue-headed Coucal, Scaly-throated-Honey guide, and White spotted crake can all be found in this large bird sanctuary.

Kidepo Valley National park.

It is home to some of Uganda’s rarest species, including the Black-breasted Barbet and the Karamoja Apalis. Kidepo has over 450 species, second only to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Other birds to look out for are the Red-and-Yellow Barbet, Superb Starling, Silverbird, and Crimson-rumped Waxbill, among many others.

Other noteworthy birding locations in Uganda are Mpanga Forest Reserve, Mabira Forest Reserve, and Semuliki National Park.

Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth

Several game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park will allow you to see a variety of interesting things in the park for a wonderful Uganda safari trip. There are three sessions of safari game drives conducted in the Park that is; morning, afternoon, and evening game drives. The morning game drive, which starts as early as 06: 30 am, gives you a chance to view a variety of herbivores in the park catching their first feed of the day. Also, you will be able to catch the predators on their way back to their hideouts. Thus, expect immense sights of Elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, oribis, impalas, lions, leopards, and many other exciting attractions. The game drive lasts at least 4 hours, after which you return to your lodge for breakfast.

During the nighttime game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you will have the opportunity to view a variety of nocturnal animals in the park catching their prey in the wild, such as lions, leopards, hyenas, etc. While in the park, you can also participate in nocturnal game drives, which will allow you to see how the park comes to life when the sun goes down. Among the notable bird species that can be seen during the night game drives are night jars.

Game drives in the Ishasha sector (Tree-climbing lions)

The Ishasha sector, located in the southern section of Queen Elizabeth National Park, is one of just three spots in Africa where you can witness tree-climbing lions. The lions are said to have evolved this odd behavior for various reasons among which include; avoiding tsetse flies and the heat of the lower ground. Being perched on acacia and fig tree branches also helps them to spot their prey easily, since they can see them from a great height. Aside from the tree-climbing lions, there are also the Uganda Kobs, buffaloes, elephants, hippos, and zebras that can be viewed in this sector.

Experiential game drive

Tourists to Queen Elizabeth National Park can also engage in lion trekking, one of the most thrilling experiences in the Park. The experiential game drive allows visitors to visit the lion pride with the use of a radio collar, to understand their behavior and how they coexist with one another. You will learn how carnivores build their territories by urinating along the area they have defined for their territory, which helps to avoid other lion pride from raiding their territory. You may also observe female lions hunting in the wild while spending time with the carnivores.

Other pursuits in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge

Another protected region that offers good chimpanzee trekking experiences in Uganda is Kyambura Gorge. The rainforest is located in the far eastern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The 1-kilometer-long and 300-foot-deep “Valley of the Apes” canyon is bordered by huge savannah grasslands, rift valley craters, and the Rwenzori Mountains, which provide a brooding backdrop to the spectacular panorama. The gorge is home to chimpanzees, among other primates. Trekking chimpanzees down the steep slopes of the ravine, past the vines and gigantic fig trees, will transport you to an underground forest.

You’ll be wading through streams and crossing rivers in search of the chimp group; once there, you can spend an hour observing them feed, socialize, play, and go about their daily rudimentary activities. It’s like peering into a time machine and seeing Homo sapiens two million years ago. Chimpanzee permits for Kyambura cost USD 50 per person for foreign non-residents, USD 40 for foreign residents, and UGX 30,000 for East African Citizens. Every day, there are two guided chimp excursions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Boat Trips on Kazinga Channel

The boat cruise along the Kazinga channel is one of the highlights of a Uganda safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The boat cruise will allow you to see a variety of water birds in the park, including White-breasted Cormorants, Pied Kingfishers, Osprey, Double-tooth Barbet, Yellow-bellied Waxbill, Familiar Chat, Brown-throated Wattle-eye, and Spot-flanked Barbet, African Fish Eagle, Pygmy Kingfisher, White-browed Coucal, Grey-capped Warbler Spur You will also see a variety of creatures, such as elephants, quenching their thirst from the bank. The channel, which joins Lake Edward and Lake George, is also a habitat for countless hippos and Nile crocodiles.

Birding

Participate in birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park, which will expose you to a variety of rewarding bird species. Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the most memorable birding destinations in Uganda with over 612 recorded bird species. Among these include Spur-winged Geese, Little Grebe, Common Moorhen, Hadada Ibis, African Fish Eagle, Pygmy Kingfisher, White-browed Coucal, Grey-capped Warbler African Darter, African Wattled Lapwing, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Common Squacco Heron, Crowned Lapwing, and Eastern Grey Plantain-eater, to mention but a few.

However, it is important to note that this park is the only area in Uganda where you can see impalas and one of the few places where you can see Elands. Waterbuck, Burchell’s zebra, leopard (usually seen at night), oribi, giraffe, hippo, and crocodile are among the other notable wildlife species in Lake Mburo National Park. Buffalo herds can also be seen roaming the area, while sitatunga, which is extremely adapted, can be seen in the wetlands. The Park is also home to a variety of bird species such as the Yellow-rumped tinkerbird, papyrus yellow warbler, mosque swallow, larger painted-snipe, blue-headed coucal, African scops owl, hairy-breasted barbet, and many others.

Animal & Birdlife in Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo is home to a variety of animal species that congregate in various environments due to its diverse terrain. Zebras, Impalas, Elands, Hippos, Warthogs, African buffalo, jackals, African leopards, waterbuck, Oribi, sitatunga, and bushbuck are some of the wild animals that call the Park home.

Bird species in Lake Mburo include; The Rufous-bellied Heron, bateleur, Coqui Francolin, grey crowned crane, black-bellied bustard, brown-chested lapwing, emerald-spotted wood-dove, brown parrot, red-headed lovebird, Ross’s turaco, bare-faced go-away-bird, and green wood-hoopoe, among others.

The Park is home to more than 300 bird species. You might also see species like the common scimitar bill, white-headed barbet, red-faced barbet, Nubian woodpecker, red-shouldered cuckoo-shrike, long-tailed cisticola, yellow-breasted apalis, white-winged tit, finfoot, green pigeon, shoebill stork, etc.

Game Drives in Lake Mburo National Park

Game drives are the best way to encounter wild animals in Lake Mburo National Park. Many animals and birds can be seen on game drives in Lake Mburo.  The Park is the only destination in Uganda having Impalas and the only park in Western Uganda containing the Burchell Zebra. Leopards are occasionally seen on game drives. The environment is picturesque, with undulating hills, lakes, and wetlands where the Tanzanian Savannah meets Uganda. Game drives in Lake Mburo often last up to 4 hours. There are morning game drives and afternoon game drives. The morning game drives often start at sunrise (06:30 am) and the afternoon game drives start late in the afternoon (at around 3:00 pm)

Night Game Drives in Lake Mburo

These are designed to spot the nocturnal beasts, such as leopards and lions, as they search for prey in the darkness. They usually start at around 7 am and end at around 1o pm at night. Among the critters that emerge only at night are bush infants and porcupines. After dinner at your resort, the travel is usually about 2 to 2.5 hours long. Spotlights are used judiciously to highlight certain species that would otherwise be missed. All safari game drives in Lake Mburo National Park are conducted in 4×4 open safari vehicles under the supervision of an armed game ranger.

Other Activities in Lake Mburo National Park

Guided nature walks

What distinguishes Lake Mburo Park from other destinations is that nature walks can be taken anywhere within the park with an armed Uganda Wildlife Authority Guide. On an early morning guided walk, hyenas and hippos frequently return from grazing during the night. Take the trek to the top of the hills to see Lake Mburo and beyond, and from this vantage point, you can see nine of the area’s regional lakes.

Lake Mburo boat safaris

Boat excursions on Lake Mburo give you opportunities to see Buffaloes, antelopes, zebras, and other grazers refreshing at the shores. Several bird species such as Malachite Kingfishers, Pied Kingfishers, African Fish Eagles, Rufous Long-tailed Starlings, Hamerkops, Pelicans, Herons, Cormorants, and even the elusive Shoebill Stork can also be sighted. A two-hour boat ride on Lake Mburo will allow you to get up close and personal with both crocodiles and hippos.

Birding

There are almost 350 recorded bird species found in Lake Mburo National Park. Birders will like the swampy valleys of Warukiri and Miriti, as well as the roadsides between Rwonyo camp and the jetty, for their ability to identify birds, including the endangered Shoebill stork. These are some of the best birding spots in the park. Other Viewing platforms are also strategically placed near the salt lick, in Miriti Valley, and Rubanga Forest.

Fishing

Lake Mburo National Park contains five lakes, the greatest of which is Lake Mburo, where the majority of the fishing takes place. If you stay at particular lodges, you can fish and then have the fish prepared for you. There are six types of fish present here, and tilapia is the most popular and often type caught. Mazinga is the designated fishing location since it is a safe place free of crocodiles and hippos.

Horseback Safaris

Lake Mburo National Park is Uganda’s only park where one can ride a horse on a game drive. Horse riding safaris on horses can last anywhere from one to three hours. Overnight horseback riding safaris with tenting and meals in the woods have also just been introduced in the Park.

Lick of Salt

A ranger-led trek to the salt lick allows you to witness animals licking the salty earth located there. The Uganda Wildlife Authority has built a wooden platform hideout from which visitors may view the animals below.

Bike tours

These are guided bike tours that can last anywhere from an hour to as long as you want. Because the topography of Lake Mburo is so varied, there are many more demanding options for the avid mountain biker.

Because of the vast variety of bird habitats, Rwanda stands out as a wonderful location for birders. Mountains, montane forests, grasslands, plains, enormous wetlands, rivers, lakes, and, of course, rolling hills are among them. Rwanda has good road networks as well as safe and clean cities. Although birdwatching in Uganda is more popular, Rwanda has better infrastructure (roads and bird trails). Because of her modest size, you can travel the country in less time than, say, Kenya or Tanzania. Rwanda has few endemic bird species, but the Albertine Rift is home to 44 of them.

Best time to go on birding safaris in Rwanda

Birding safaris in Rwanda are possible throughout the year, however certain months provide ideal circumstances for birders. It is worth noting that Rwanda has two distinct rain and dry seasons. In Rwanda, the months of December and January are ideal for birding. These months are remarkable because thousands of migrating birds visit the country to escape the harsh winter conditions in Europe and the Arctic.

Rwanda’s Important Birding Areas

Rwanda has seven key important birding habitats, which are spread among four of the country’s national parks, including Nyungwe, Akagera, and Volcanoes National Park. Let’s go over these birding hotspots in greater depth: –

Kigali, Rwanda:

East African countries are endowed with fantastic birding chances. In Rwanda and Uganda, birdwatching can begin as soon as you exit the airport or even in the larger cities. Urban birding in Kigali is ideal for individuals who do not have enough time to travel to the countryside or visit the major national parks. The number of birding chances in Kigali will astound you. Birding in Kigali can begin in the hotel grounds, but visiting Lake Nyarutarama, which borders Kigali’s main golf course, may be a better option. This lake includes lovely trails and walks where you can see black-headed herons, grey-capped warblers, white-faced whistling ducks, and flying geese. The Rwandan government has lately constructed a big park as one departs the city center, which is gaining popularity among birders. You can also see tiny egrets, spur-winged geese, squacco turaco, and yellow-billed storks at the Nyabarongo swamp. Mount Kigali is also a great place to go bird watching in Rwanda. Among the various species found here are red chested cuckoos and southern black flycatchers.

Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe forest is Africa’s largest and oldest montane forest. The forest is home to around 300 different bird species. Bigugu Mountain in the forest is one of the best places to see birds feeding on the tree canopies. One can also leave the forest and visit the Gisakura tea estate, which is popular with birds. The Red-collared Babbler is undoubtedly the most well-known and visually appealing bird in Nyungwe National Park. The Albertine owlet, Blue-headed sunbird, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Grauer’s Warbler, Handsome Francolin, Handsome spur fowls, Neumann’s Warbler, Purple Breasted Sunbirds, Regal sunbird, Rwenzori Batis, Rwenzori Nightjar, Rwenzori Turaco, and Red collared babblers are among the other species found in Nyungwe forest on your birding safaris in Rwanda.

The ideal method to experience this forest is to walk or bike through a segment of the Congo Nile route that runs through it, or to use one of the well-developed forest trails that lead to different sections of the forest. A canopy hike is another option for exploring the environment and viewing birds. The canopy walkway in Nyungwe forest is 160 meters long and erected on top of the trees, providing a bird’s-eye view of the huge forest and its inhabitants. If you have time, you can also go to the Kamiranzovu marsh.

While birding in Nyungwe forest, you need hire a birding guide to accompany you and assist you in identifying the birds and forest pathways. A professional birding guide can assist you in identifying species such as the Archer’s Robin-Chat, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, Black-headed Waxbill, Doherty’s Bush-shrike, Eastern Mountain Greenbul, Great Blue Turaco, Grey Cuckooshrike, Montane Oriole, Mountain Illadopsis, Mountain Sooty Boubou, Montane Oriole, Mountain Illadopsis, Mountain So Pink-footed Puffback, Red-chested Owlet, Regal Sunbird, Ruwenzori Batis, Ruwenzori Blue-headed Sunbird, Sharpe’s Starling, Slender-billed Starling, Striped-breasted Tit, Stuhlmann’s Double-collared Sunbird, Stuhlmann’s Starling, Thick-billed Seedeater, White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher, White-starred Robin.

Because most birds prefer to stay on the trees, watching them in Nyungwe forest might be challenging. Your knowledgeable birder should be able to take you to the best areas in the forest for clear views of the birds. Birdwatching in the forest will also introduce you to other forest wildlife, particularly primates such as Angola Colobus, Golden monkeys, and chimps.

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is a collection of lakes, wetlands, rolling hills, and savannah that attract 310 bird species. The park is located in the country’s northwestern corner, close to the Tanzanian border. Birding is excellent near Lake Ihema, its islands, marshes, and wetlands. A boat excursion on Lake Ihema is an effective way to view birds in the Park, although savannah birding expeditions are planned early in the morning and late in the evening. The morning sessions are undoubtedly the most enjoyable due to the abundance of bird activity. The Red-faced Barbet is the most abundant species in the park. Akagera is also home to the rare papyrus Ganolex. It is also worth noting that Akagera National Park is possibly the greatest place in Africa to see the elusive Ring-necked Francolin. Expect to see Carruthers’ Cisticola, Grey-crowned Cranes, Northern Brown-throated Weaver, Papyrus Gonolek, White-collared Oliveback, and White-Winged Swamp Warbler on your safari in Akagera National Park. The African Starling is undoubtedly Akagera’s most beautiful bird. They have magnificent feathers that change color and glitter in the middle of the day. One of the joys of a birding trip in Akagera is spotting this bird.

We should also highlight that the elusive Shoebill stork lives here, but finding them takes time and patience. The dry season is the optimum time to go birdwatching in Akagera (May to September). The park’s southern part contains a greater variety of butterflies and birds than the park’s northern sector. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, hippos, lions, and a plethora of antelopes when visiting Akagera National Park. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can stay in tented camps or regular cottages.

Volcanoes National Park

This park is most known for gorilla trekking, golden monkey encounters, and hiking one of the mountains like Mt Karisimbi. This does not change the fact that it is one of the top birding spots in Rwanda. The park is home to around 200 different species. 27 of them can only be seen in Rwanda, while 16 are endemic to the volcanoes of the Virunga mountain ranges. The Archer’s ground robin, Cinnamon bracken warbler, Grauer’s rush warbler, Rwenzori batis, White-tailed blue-flycatcher, and Black and white manikin are among the species to watch for. Mgahinga National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in Congo border the Volcanoes National Park, guaranteeing that some of the species found in these two countries can be observed in Rwanda.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park

This is Rwanda’s newest national park, located in the country’s northwest corner. Gishwati was considered as Rwanda’s premier birding destination even before it became a national park, with 395 species on offer. The Martial Eagle, Purple-breasted Sunbirds, Red-throated Alethe, Regal Sunbirds, Ruwenzori Batis, Ruwenzori Turaco, Strange Weaver, Stripe-breasted Tit, and Grey Crowned Crane are among them. The majority of the species are forest dwellers or Albertine Rift endemics. There are also people that relocate from Congo for the most of the year. Expect to see baboons, chimps, blue and golden monkeys while searching for birds. You should visit Gishwati-Mukura National Park during the dry season for the best birding experience. The wet/rainy season brings numerous challenges, including mud-filled trails that can be quite slippery.

Lake Kivu

Kivu is well renowned for its picturesque beaches and islands, as well as being one of the greatest sites in Rwanda for sport fishing. It’s easy to overlook the Lake’s status as a premier birding site in its own right. White-breasted Cormorants and Pied Kingfishers flock to the lake’s natural beauty and its islets. During certain months of the year, thousands of migratory birds can be seen feeding around the lake alongside the people. Nkora Island is a must-see for anyone interested in birdwatching in Lake Kivu. Nkora is a little fishing community known for its incredible assortment of water birds and cave bats. You will also have the opportunity to interact with local fisherman and learn about their way of life.

Wetlands, Marshes, and the Nyabarongo River:

Wetlands, swamps, and marshes cover 10% of Rwanda. Rugezi, Akanyaru, and Rugezi are the major wetlands and marshes. These wetlands provide natural feeding and nesting areas for birds by keeping most predators at bay while also providing insects and frogs for food. Rugezi Marsh is a popular birding attraction and Rwanda’s only RAMSAR site. The marsh is 6,734 hectares in size and home to 43 bird species, including the Grauners Swap Warbler, Papyrus Genolek, Papyrus Yellow Walber, and Thick Billed Seedeater.

As you travel south from the marsh, you will come across open water in Lake Nyagafunzo. This lake is a birder’s delight in and of itself. It allows you to see the Lesser Jacana and White-backed Duck. The marshes around the Nyabarongo River are little known, although they provide excellent birdwatching possibilities. The Nyabarongo River is a tributary of the Nile and drains into the Akagera River, which flows into Lake Victoria. Garuer’s swamp warblers and papyrus gonoleks can be found in the Wetlands. While birdwatching here, you may also come across elephants and the mysterious Sitatunga.

Wetlands and marshes in Bugesera District and Akanyaru also serve as birding sanctuaries. The Akanyaru marshes are located along the Burundi border. They are distinguished by their floating vegetation and papyrus marshes. There are approximately 54 bird species to be found here, including the lesser kestrel, Madagascar squacco heron, pallid harrier, and the endangered papyrus Gonolex.

Packing list for birding safaris in Rwanda

To have the finest birding experience in Rwanda, bring high-quality binoculars, pointers, good hiking shoes, a birder’s book (available from tourism shops or park offices), drinking water, and food. You should always travel with an expert local guide who can take you to the best birding areas and help you identify the species. Let’s go over the packing list for your birding safaris in Rwanda in greater detail:

Binoculars:

Birders must have binoculars. It is one of the most crucial items to consider while arranging a birding excursion in Rwanda. Most African birds are wary and will flee if you go too close or if they perceive any attention from intruders. One reason for their overabundance of dread of humans is that they are or were frequently hunted for meat by people in various parts of Africa. The best approach to identify them is to bring high-quality binoculars that can be adjusted for better visibility.

A digital camera:

What good are binoculars if you can’t capture decent images of the birds to impress your friends or the larger birding community? A good camera is required for an enjoyable birding experience. We propose that you purchase the greatest camera you can afford in order to capture stunning images of Rwanda and its magnificent birds. The images will also allow you to compare notes with those in the books and determine how successful your journey was.

A voice recorder on the go:

Birds make a variety of call signs/sounds that can be quite fascinating. A competent portable voice recorder is the greatest technique to capture these noises. This can also help you distinguish the different birds when comparing notes in your room.

Rwanda birding books:

Bird identification books are useful for identifying the species you’ve seen. The books are available at national park offices and other significant birding locations. Because it will help you identify the species observed, the book should have a complete collection of the birds (with their images) in the area you plan to visit.

Water and snacks are available.

Birding treks might last for many hours, leaving you thirsty and fatigued. What better way to relieve yourself than by bringing snacks and water? The majority of birding locations are in isolated settings with no restaurants or stores. It’s a good idea to come prepared so you don’t get thirsty or hungry in the bush.

Repellent for insects:

Birds thrive in locations where insects abound. Aside from fruits and grains, insects are their primary source of nutrition. The stings of some of these insects are extremely unpleasant (wasps, bees, mosquitoes and Tses Tse flies). Bring a bug repellent with you to keep them at bay.

Hides and other garments:

Hides are unique camouflage garments used by birders to blend in with their surroundings without drawing the notice of the birds. These customized outfits allow one to approach the birds without being spotted. A decent set of hides is especially vital if you intend to spot any of the elusive species that flee as soon as they detect human presence. Aside from obtaining the hides, you’ll need comfy attire for the jungle or marshes. A good pair of trousers, long sleeves, and a light shirt will keep you safe from insects and the African sun during your birding safaris in Rwanda.