8Day Birding Murchison Budongo Forest Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Uganda – Murchison Falls and Budongo Forest Birding Tour

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity for a brief birding excursion around Entebbe, spotting species like the Gray Crowned Crane and African Open-billed Stork. Overnight in Entebbe to rest and prepare for the journey to Murchison Falls National Park the following day.

Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

After breakfast, you’ll begin the scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park. On the way, look out for roadside bird species such as the Long-crested Eagle and Secretarybird. Upon arrival at the park, you’ll check in to your lodge and relax before setting out for your first birding excursion. The evening offers a chance to spot species such as the African Fish Eagle and the Black-headed Gonolek. Overnight at your lodge within Murchison Falls National Park.

Day 3: Full-Day Birding on a Game Drive

Today, you’ll enjoy a full-day birding adventure with a game drive across Murchison Falls National Park. The park is known for its diverse habitats, from savannah to wetlands, providing ample opportunities to spot a variety of bird species. Look out for African Grey Hornbill, White-throated Bee-eater, and the ubiquitous Yellow-billed Shrike. The game drive also provides sightings of mammals like elephants, lions, and giraffes. Your guide will help you identify and photograph species as you traverse the park. Return to your lodge in the evening for relaxation.

Day 4: Nature Walk and Launch Cruise Birding Safari

Start the day with a nature walk along the banks of the Nile River, where you’ll encounter more bird species such as the Black-crowned Night Heron, Little Egret, and the elusive Shoebill Stork. Afterward, embark on a boat cruise along the Nile to Murchison Falls. The birdlife along the river is spectacular, with sightings of species such as the African Skimmer, Pied Kingfisher, and African Fish Eagle. The boat ride also provides close-up views of the iconic Murchison Falls. Return to your lodge for the evening.

Day 5: Game Drive and Transfer to Budongo Forest

After a morning game drive and birding session, you’ll transfer to Budongo Forest Reserve, a prime birding destination known for its dense tropical forest and diverse bird species. Along the way, you may spot species like the Black-shouldered Kite and Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse. Upon arrival at Budongo Forest, check into your accommodation and enjoy an evening birding walk to spot species such as the Forest Robin and Blue-throated Roller. Overnight at a lodge near the forest.

Day 6: Birding in Budongo Forest Reserve

Spend the entire day birdwatching in the beautiful Budongo Forest Reserve. This forest is home to a wide variety of species, including the rare White-thighed Hornbill, Blue Malkoha, and the Yellow-billed Barbet. The forest’s mix of open areas, dense woodlands, and riverside habitats makes it a perfect place for spotting both forest and savannah species. With your expert guide, you’ll explore different sections of the forest, with opportunities for both walking and birdwatching from hides. Overnight at your lodge near the forest.

Day 7: Birding Transfer to Entebbe

After a morning birding walk in Budongo Forest, you’ll begin the journey back to Entebbe. En route, make birding stops at key hotspots, where you may spot species such as the Olive Sunbird, Ruppell’s Vulture, and Western Plantain-eater. Upon arrival in Entebbe, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening, perhaps with a final birding walk around the area. Overnight in Entebbe.

Day 8: Departure

On your final day, depending on your departure time, you may have the opportunity for a short birding excursion around Entebbe. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your flight home, reflecting on your incredible birding adventure through Uganda’s iconic national parks and reserves.