7 Days Chimpanzee Bird Watching Tour

Highlights:

• Full-day chimpanzee habituation experience in Kibale Forest
• Birding in Uganda’s top hotspots: Bigodi, Sebitoli, and Mabamba
• Chance to spot rare species like the Green-breasted Pitta and Shoebill
• Explore diverse habitats ranging from swamps to dense rainforests

This tour is a perfect blend of bird watching and primate tracking, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Uganda.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Uganda
Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your time of arrival, you may explore the surrounding areas to spot some of the beautiful bird species found near Entebbe, such as the Palm-nut Vulture, Malachite Kingfisher, or Grey-headed Gull. Entebbe is a perfect introduction to Uganda’s diverse birdlife and sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Birding to Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, a journey filled with birding stops at various hotspots. Along the way, keep your binoculars ready to spot species like the Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill, Great Blue Turaco, and White-throated Bee-eater. The drive takes you through Uganda’s picturesque countryside, with opportunities to capture the changing landscapes on camera. Upon arrival at Kibale, enjoy an evening birding walk around the edges of the park, where you might encounter birds such as the Yellow-billed Barbet and African Emerald Cuckoo.

Day 3: Birding in Kibale Forest – Search for the Green-breasted Pitta
Kibale Forest is famous for its incredible bird diversity, boasting over 370 species. Begin the day early with a guided birding expedition deep into the forest, focusing on finding the elusive Green-breasted Pitta, one of the region’s most sought-after avian species. As you explore, look out for other specialties such as the Red-chested Owlet, African Grey Parrot, and Brown Illadopsis. The dense forest environment provides a serene and immersive birding experience, with the sounds of nature forming the perfect backdrop.

Day 4: Birding and Chimpanzee Habituation Experience
This day is dedicated to the full-day chimpanzee habituation experience. Begin early as you join researchers and trackers to observe a troop of wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Unlike regular tracking, this activity allows you to spend extended time observing their behavior, including feeding, grooming, and communication within the group. It’s a rare and rewarding opportunity to study these intelligent primates up close.

In the afternoon, there will still be opportunities for birding as you explore more trails in Kibale Forest. Keep an eye out for birds such as the African Broadbill, White-naped Pigeon, and Blue-throated Roller.

Day 5: Birding in Sebitoli Sector and Bigodi Swamp
Head to the Sebitoli sector of Kibale Forest, a lesser-visited area teeming with birds. Here, you may encounter species such as the Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, African Shrike Flycatcher, and Joyful Greenbul. The sector offers an off-the-beaten-path birding experience, with plenty of photographic opportunities.

In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-managed reserve renowned for its bird diversity. Expect to see species such as the Great Blue Turaco, Papyrus Gonolek, and White-winged Warbler. The swamp is also home to primates like the Black-and-white Colobus and L’Hoest’s Monkey, making for a well-rounded wildlife experience.

Day 6: Birding En Route to Entebbe
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Entebbe, with birding stops along the way. The lush countryside and roadside wetlands provide excellent opportunities to spot birds like the Grey Crowned Crane (Uganda’s national bird), African Wattled Lapwing, and Hadada Ibis. The journey offers a mix of relaxed birding and scenic landscapes, making it a pleasant way to transition toward the end of your adventure.

Day 7: Morning Birding and Departure
Spend your final morning birding in and around Entebbe. Visit the Botanical Gardens or Mabamba Swamps, depending on your interest and remaining time. Mabamba is particularly famous for the Shoebill, and you might also see other wetland species such as the African Jacana and Squacco Heron. Later, transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your departure, taking with you incredible memories of Uganda’s birds, wildlife, and landscapes.