11-day Birding-Gorilla Trekking Safari |
Posted: May 2, 2024 |
Embark on an 11-day journey through the heart of Uganda, a country celebrated for its diverse birdlife and enchanting mountain gorillas. This meticulously crafted itinerary is designed to immerse you in the natural wonders of Uganda, offering a harmonious blend of birdwatching and wildlife encounters. Day 1 sets the stage for your adventure as you arrive in Entebbe, a city nestled by Lake Victoria. You’ll have the chance to unwind and perhaps catch a glimpse of the local birdlife in the lush hotel gardens. Day 2 takes you to the Mabamba Swamp, a wetland of international importance and a sanctuary for the prehistoric-looking Shoebill Stork. Paddle through the papyrus reeds and marvel at the rich avian tapestry that unfolds. As you journey to Lake Mburo National Park on Day 3, the landscape shifts to rolling hills dotted with acacia trees, home to a variety of birds and mammals. Here, the African Finfoot and Red-faced Barbet await your discovery. Day 4 deepens your exploration of Lake Mburo with a boat trip that brings you face-to-face with water birds and hippos, while a walking safari offers an intimate encounter with the park’s terrestrial inhabitants. Day 5 and 6 introduce you to the serene Lake Bunyonyi, ‘Place of Little Birds’. Canoeing and island hopping provide ample opportunities to spot numerous bird species, while cultural visits offer insights into the local way of life. The highlight of your trip comes on Day 7 as you venture into the ancient rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The thrill of gorilla trekking here is unparalleled, as you observe these gentle giants in their misty habitat. Day 8 allows you to delve deeper into Bwindi’s birding paradise, seeking out endemics of the Albertine Rift and other forest dwellers in a symphony of bird calls and vibrant plumage. Day 9 and 10 transport you to the famed Queen Elizabeth National Park, where a mosaic of habitats hosts a spectacular array of birds and wildlife. Game drives and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel reveal the park’s diverse ecosystems. Finally, Day 11 marks your return to Entebbe, with a reflective stop at the Equator. It’s a moment to ponder the memories made and the wonders witnessed, as the ‘Pearl of Africa’ has revealed its treasures to you. This itinerary promises not just sightings, but experiences that forge a deep connection with nature. From the Shoebill’s solitary stance to the gorilla’s contemplative gaze, each day is a chapter in a story of discovery and awe. Prepare to be transformed by the beauty and biodiversity of Uganda. Safari Highlights Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, relax and prepare for the adventure. Day 2: Visit Mabamba Swamp for birdwatching, including the Shoebill Stork. Day 3: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park, home to acacia-associated birds. Day 4: Explore Lake Mburo by boat and on foot, spotting various bird and wildlife species. Day 5-6: Enjoy the avian diversity of Lake Bunyonyi and engage in cultural experiences. Day 7: Experience gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Day 8: Full day of birdwatching in Bwindi, searching for forest endemics. Day 9-10: Discover the birds and wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park through game drives and a boat cruise. Day 11: Return to Entebbe with a stop at the Equator for final birdwatching.
Detailed Itinerary Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe Arrive at Entebbe International Airport. Overnight stay at a local hotel, with an optional evening birdwatching session around the Botanical gardens. Day 2: Mabamba Swamp Early morning visit to Mabamba Swamp, a Ramsar site. Bird species expected include: Shoebill Stork, Papyrus Gonolek, African Jacana, and Malachite Kingfisher, Wildlife species include Sitatunga antelope sightings possible. Day 3: Lake Mburo National Park Drive to Lake Mburo, with roadside birdwatching stops. Keep an eye out for the African Finfoot, Red-faced Barbet, and Black-collared Barbet. Wildlife species shall include Zebras, Impalas, and Elands. Day 4: Lake Mburo National Park Morning boat trip and walking safari while birding. Keep an eye out for the Brown-chested Lapwing, African Wattled Plover, and Rufous-bellied Heron. Wildlife sightings expected include Hippos, Crocodiles, and Buffaloes. Day 5: Lake Bunyonyi Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s deepest lake. Expect to see diverse bird species such as the Grey-crowned Crane, Pin-tailed Whydah, Slender-billed Baglafecht and Wildlife may include Otters seen in the lake. Day 6: Lake Bunyonyi Canoe trip and island hopping for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for the African Harrier-Hawk, Double-toothed Barbet, and Levillant’s Cuckoo plus various butterfly species. Day 7: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Morning drive to Bwindi for gorilla trekking. Expect to encounter different bird species such as the Handsome Francolin, African Green Broadbill, and Shelley’s Crimsonwing. Wildlife sightings include the Mountain Gorillas and black-and-white Colobus Monkeys. Day 8: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest ( Ruhija) Full-day birding in Ruhija Bwindi. Bird species expected include the Blue-headed Sunbird, Regal Sunbird, and Strange Weaver. Wildlife includes Duikers and Forest Elephants. Day 9: Queen Elizabeth National Park Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, with a game drive en route. Keep an eye out for the Martial Eagle, African Skimmer, Pink-backed Pelican and wildlife species such as Lions, Leopards, and Elephants. Day 10: Queen Elizabeth National Park Morning game drive and afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. Bird species expected include the Papyrus Canary, White-winged Warbler, African Fish Eagle and wildlife species to be seen include the Nile Crocodiles, Waterbucks, and Uganda Kobs. Day 11: Return to Entebbe Depart Queen Elizabeth National Park. Stop at the Equator for birdwatching. Be keen to spot the Long-crested Eagle, Grey-backed Fiscal, and Black-headed Gonolek plus wildlife species like Monkeys and Baboons along the road. https://journeysuganda.com.
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