Overview
Embark on an exclusive 12-day Albertine Rift Birding Safari through Uganda’s most pristine ecosystems — a paradise for ornithologists, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. This unique safari blends luxury, sustainability, and unmatched biodiversity encounters, featuring mountain gorillas, endemic birds, and breathtaking landscapes across Mgahinga, Bwindi, Rwenzori, and Semuliki National Parks.
Uganda’s Albertine Rift is one of Africa’s richest ecological zones, home to over 7,500 species of plants and animals, and nearly 35% of the continent’s biodiversity. This expedition explores several birding hotspots, each with distinct ecosystems supporting rare and globally threatened species.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome to Uganda
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly received by your professional birding guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy an afternoon birding excursion at the Entebbe Botanical Gardens — spotting the Orange Weaver, Superb Sunbird, Bat Hawk, and other garden species.
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Day 2: Entebbe – Kisoro via the Equator
After breakfast, depart for Kisoro, crossing the Equator — a perfect photo opportunity. Enjoy a scenic drive through the highlands, with a birding stop at Echuya Forest before arriving at your lodge in the afternoon.
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Day 3: Birding in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
After breakfast, head to Ntebeko Camp for a full day of birding along the stunning Gorge Trail on Mt. Sabinyo’s slopes. Expect sightings of the Rwenzori Turaco, Kivu Ground Thrush, White-starred Robin, Lagden’s Bush-Shrike, and the elusive Shelley’s Crimsonwing.
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Day 4: Kisoro – Ruhija (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest)
Enjoy a morning birding stop near Echuya Swamp in search of the rare Grauer’s Rush Warbler before continuing to Ruhija. Expect to encounter the Dusky Crimsonwing, Handsome Francolin, Rwenzori Batis, and Doherty’s Bush-Shrike.
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Day 5: Ruhija – Mubwindi Swamp Birding
A highlight of the trip: birding the Mubwindi Swamp Trail in search of the African Green Broadbill — one of Africa’s most sought-after species. Other notable birds include Regal Sunbird, Black-billed Turaco, and Mountain Illadopsis.
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Day 6: Ruhija – Buhoma Birding Sector
Bird en route to Buhoma, stopping for species such as the Black Bee-eater, Red-throated Wryneck, and the colorful Regal Sunbird.
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Day 7: Full Day Birding in Buhoma
Explore the Buhoma trails, home to the Bar-tailed Trogon, Chapin’s Flycatcher, White-bellied Robin-Chat, and the striking Black Bee-eater.
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Day 8: Buhoma – Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Journey north through Queen Elizabeth National Park toward the Rwenzori foothills. Enjoy birding along the way, spotting Dusky Crimsonwings, Abyssinian Ground Thrush, and Red-bellied Seedcracker.
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Day 9: Birding Around Kabarole
Spend the day exploring the Rwenzori region and Kabarole, seeking localized species such as the African Long-eared Owl, Rwenzori Turaco, and Stuhlmann’s Double-collared Sunbird.
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Day 10: Kabarole – Semuliki National Park
Drive to Semuliki National Park, famous for its lowland rainforest ecosystem. Bird along the trails near the Sempaya Hot Springs for sightings of the Chestnut-breasted Negrofinch and Black-bellied Seedcracker.
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Day 11: Full Day Birding – Kirumia Trail
Enjoy a full-day expedition along the Kirumia Trail, one of Africa’s top birding walks. Expect spectacular sightings including the Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill, Blue-billed Malimbe, and the rare African Piculet.
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Day 12: Semuliki – Entebbe (Departure)
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Entebbe, reflecting on an unforgettable birding experience through Uganda’s Albertine Rift.
End of Safari for 12 days Albertine Rift Birding
Included in the Safari
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Airport transfers
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Full board accommodation
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Ground transport in 4×4 safari vehicle
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Professional English-speaking birding guide
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All park and site entrance fees
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Government taxes
Exclusions:
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International flights & visas
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Travel/health insurance
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Optional activities (e.g., Gorilla or Chimpanzee permits)
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Personal expenses and tips
