When considering an African bird watching safari destination, Uganda is an exceptional choice. The country boasts such a wide range of bird species and birding spots that no other destination in Africa can match this amazing diversity of habitats. The wealth of the country is truly reflected in the growing bird list of more than 1010 species.

From the heavily forested tropical central region to the mountainous areas in the west, Uganda remains a haven for many of Africa’s bird species. Most of the national parks in Uganda are actually home to various species of birds that are sure to appeal to bird enthusiasts. Most of the bird watching safaris in Uganda are tailor made and the trails to these destinations are guided tours by experienced and professional bird guides. In Uganda, bird watching is best in the morning and in the evening. Below are some of the best birding destinations in the country.

1. Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is a very special place, every part of it is full of variety of birds. The best habitat for birds in the park is the extensive wetland that culminates in Lake Mburo. The bird population around this wetland includes the green-backed woodpecker, ground hornbill, white-winged warbler, yellow-billed oxpecker, and spotted-billed woodpecker.

2.Semliki National Park

Semliki National Park in Uganda is located in a remote corner of southwestern Uganda at the northern base of the Rwenzori Mountains. Semliki is known for its most sought after rarities which include the Congo Serpent Eagle, Black-throated Coucal, Grey-throated Rail, Yellow-throated Nicater, etc. Bird watchers in Semliki spend full days in the park’s forests with some trails more popular due to the ease of birding.

3. Budongo Forest

Located in western Uganda, Budongo Forest covers an area of ​​793 square kilometers and offers one of the best bird watching destinations in the country. Most forest birding trails start early in the morning. This dense forested region protects Uganda’s rarest bird species. Some of the rare varieties of birds found here are the Black-billed Barbet, the Grey-headed Olive-back, and the Singing Cistotail. The Busingiro area offers the best place for bird watching in the forest.

4. Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is located in northwestern Uganda and stretches inland from the shore of Lake Albert. This is the largest national park in Uganda and protects a wide variety of rare bird species. The park is named after the spectacular Murchison Falls. Some of the attractive bird species here are the shy shoebill, secretary bird, sacred ibis, little biter, red-necked hawk, blue-breasted bee, and several others.

Other bird watching spots are;

5. Mabamba Swamp

6. Kibale Forest

7. Queen Elizabeth National Park – popular with its flamingos

8. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest