8-Day Birding & Wildlife Safari in Uganda

Embark on an 8-day Uganda safari that takes you through the country’s most diverse landscapes — from the savannahs of Murchison Falls National Park to the lush rainforests of Semuliki National Park, the chimpanzee-rich Kibale National Park, and the wildlife-packed Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Enjoy game drives, boat cruises, and guided forest walks, with opportunities to spot elephants, lions, hippos, chimpanzees, and rare bird species. Highlights include a Nile boat cruise to the base of the dramatic Murchison Falls, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, and scenic wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, and photographers, this itinerary combines Uganda’s top national parks, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and stunning landscapes into a compact and memorable 8-day adventure.

Tour Highlights

Bird Watching in Murchison Falls National Park & Semuliki: Explore diverse habitats ranging from savannah to tropical forest, home to a variety of bird species.
Game Drives in Murchison Falls, Semuliki & Queen Elizabeth National Parks: Spot the Big Five and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
Tree Climbing Lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Ishasha: Witness the unique behavior of lions lounging in trees.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest: Experience the thrill of tracking and observing chimpanzees in the wild.
Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel: Enjoy a serene boat ride, observing hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

Accommodation

Luxury:

Paraa Safari Lodge (Murchison Falls)
Baker’s Lodge (Murchison Falls)
Semliki Safari Lodge (Semuliki)
Mweya Safari Lodge (Queen Elizabeth)
Primate Lodge (Kibale Forest)

Mid-Range:

Pakuba Safari Lodge (Murchison Falls)
Sambiya River Lodge (Murchison Falls)
Ntoroko Game Lodge (Semuliki)
Ishasha Wilderness Camp (Queen Elizabeth)
Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse (Kibale Forest)

Budget:

Red Chilli Camp (Murchison Falls)
Global Village Guest House (Murchison Falls)
Kirumia Guest House (Semuliki)
Bush Lodge (Queen Elizabeth)
Kibale Forest Camp (Kibale Forest)

Day 1: Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park

Depart from Kampala and drive northwest to Murchison Falls National Park. En route, enjoy scenic views and a stop in Masindi for lunch. Upon arrival, visit the top of Murchison Falls to witness the Nile River's dramatic descent. Check-in at your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2: Bird Watching in Murchison Falls National Park

After an early breakfast, embark on a full-day bird watching expedition within the park. With a packed lunch, explore various habitats, including savannah and forested areas, to spot species like the Blue-breasted Kingfisher, African Crowned Eagle, and White-thighed Hornbill. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.

Day 3: Wildlife Viewing in Murchison and Transfer to Semuliki National Park

Enjoy an early morning game drive around the Nile Delta to observe elephants, lions, giraffes, and various antelope species. After lunch, depart for Semuliki National Park, passing through scenic landscapes. Upon arrival, check-in at your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4: Birding in Semuliki National Park

Spend the day bird watching in Semuliki National Park, exploring its tropical forest and wetland habitats. Look out for species such as the Black Dwarf Hornbill and Yellow-throated Nicator. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.

Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. En route, enjoy scenic views and a stop for lunch. Upon arrival, check-in at your accommodation and embark on an evening game drive.

Day 6: Tree Climbing Lions in Ishasha Sector

Visit the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park to observe the famous tree-climbing lions. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, offering opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest

Drive to Kibale Forest National Park for a chimpanzee tracking experience. After the trek, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for additional bird watching opportunities. Return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 8: Return to Kampala

Depart Bwindi for Lake Mburo National Park, stopping in Mbarara for lunch. In the evening, take a boat cruise on Lake Mburo or an optional night game drive.

Day 9: Game Drive & Return to Entebbe

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kampala, stopping en route for lunch. Arrive in the late afternoon, marking the end of your safari.

Safari Locations

Murchison Falls National Park
Semuliki National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Ishasha Sector
Kibale Forest National Park

Transport

Travel in a 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof, guided by an English-speaking professional driver.

Trekking Notes

Gorilla & chimpanzee permits included (UWA-issued).
Treks last 2–6 hours, depending on primate location.
Fitness level: moderate, with some uphill forest trekking.

Best Time to Visit

Dry seasons (June–September & December–February) are best for trekking, but safaris run year-round.

What to Pack

Hiking boots, rain jacket, long trousers, insect repellent, gloves, and a reusable water bottle.

Safari Package Includes

Transport in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle
Gorilla trekking & chimpanzee tracking permits
Budget lodges with full board (meals included)
Professional English-speaking safari guide
Bottled drinking water throughout the trip
Park entrance fees & ranger services

Excludes

International flights, visas, and travel insurance
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Tips and personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, etc.)