2 Days Birding Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
2 Days / 1 Night
Mabamba Swamp
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Year Round
Overview
For travelers interested in Uganda’s rich birdlife, wildlife, and scenic landscapes this 2-day birding safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park is perfect . The park hosts over 600 bird species, making it one of the best birding destinations in East Africa.
Safari Highlights
- Birding along the Kazinga Channel
- Forest birding in Maramagambo Forest
- Savannah birding in Kasenyi Plains
- Boat cruise with aquatic bird sightings
- Wildlife viewing including elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and antelopes
- Great photography opportunities
Detailed Itinerary: 2 Days Birding Safari
Day 1: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Afternoon Birding
Your tour guide will pick you from your hotel , very early in the morning to begin your trip to Nakiwogo landing site at 6:00am then set to Mabamba Swamp Home of the legendary Shoebill, Uganda’s most sought-after bird. Enjoy a relaxing canoe ride through lush papyrus wetlands. And we proceed to western Uganda via the Masaka–Mbarara highway. Enjoy scenic countryside views, Ankole long-horned cattle, tea plantations, and the Equator crossing.
Arrive at Queen Elizabeth National Park in the afternoon for lunch before heading for a birding excursion around the Kazinga Channel and nearby wetlands.
Expected Bird Species
- African fish eagle
- Pied kingfisher
- African jacana
- Pink-backed pelican
- Yellow-billed stork
- Saddle-billed stork
- Great cormorant
- Malachite kingfisher
Accommodation Options
Later enjoy an evening boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel for excellent water bird photography and wildlife viewing.
- Budget: Bush Lodge
- Mid-range: Enganzi Lodge
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 2: Morning Birding in Maramagambo Forest & Return
After an early breakfast, proceed for a guided morning birding walk in Maramagambo Forest and the Kasenyi savannah plains.
Possible Bird Sightings
- African finfoot
- Black bee-eater
- Blue-breasted kingfisher
- Martial eagle
- Bateleur
- Grey-headed kingfisher
- Hornbills
- Turacos
- African skimmer
You may also encounter elephants, warthogs, Uganda kobs, buffaloes, and primates during the birding
Safari Includes
- Park entrance fees
- Birding guide
- 4×4 safari vehicle
- Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
- Accommodation for 1 night
- Meals as indicated
- Bottled drinking water
- Driver/guide allowances
Package Excludes
- International flights
- Uganda visa
- Tips and personal expenses
- Alcoholic drinks
- Travel insurance
The best months are:
- November to April for migratory birds
- June to August and December to February for easier bird viewing.