The heart of Africa is home to some of the most spectacular national parks and habitats, teeming with life and vibrant colors. Rwanda and Uganda, in particular, offer a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, with over 1,000 bird species to spot and iconic wildlife such as mountain gorillas, lions, elephants, and Cape buffaloes, giraffes, wide mouth rhinos, chimpanzees and much more.
The 22 day Rwanda Uganda birding and wildlife safari journey begins in Rwanda, where participants will explore the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park, the rolling hills of Akagera National Park, and the stunning Lake Ihema. The dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, and Semliki National Park in Uganda will provide ample opportunities to spot iconic bird species. Some of the bird species that participants will look out for include the African Green Broadbill, Regal Sunbird, Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill, Handsome Francolin, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, and the Bronzy Sunbird, Red-collared Mountain Babbler, The Congo Serpent Eagle, Black-wattled Hornbill, and the Green-breasted Pitta are also on the list of iconic bird species that participants will spot.
The expert guides will provide insightful commentary and expert knowledge, helping participants to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s unique ecosystems.
Tailor-make your stay with the help of our travel specialists and create unforgettable experiences in any of our destinations
Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where you’ll be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Spend the day relaxing and exploring the city, known for its vibrant culture and stunning scenery. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre to learn about Rwanda’s history and the resilience of its people.
Visit the Nyandungu Wetlands, a haven for birdlife, and explore the nearby Umusambi Village. Enjoy a guided walk through the wetlands and village, spotting local bird species such as the papyrus gonolek, white-winged warbler, and African pygmy falcon. Learn about the importance of wetlands for bird conservation and the role of local communities in protecting these habitats.
Drive to Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda. Explore the park’s scenic Lake Ihema, home to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife, including the African fish eagle, lilac-breasted roller, and southern ground hornbill. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake, taking in the stunning scenery and spotting wildlife.
Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda, is a haven for wildlife and birding enthusiasts. The park’s south sector is home to an array of incredible wildlife, including Masai giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, lions, and wide-mouthed rhinos. With over 525 bird species, Akagera is a birdwatcher’s paradise, featuring vibrant species like the red-faced barbet, crested barbet, and brown-chested lapwing.
As you embark on a guided game drive through the park, you’ll have the opportunity to spot these incredible animals up close. The park’s conservation efforts are focused on preserving the delicate balance of the ecosystem and ensuring the long-term survival of its incredible biodiversity. With its commitment to conservation and its incredible wildlife and birding opportunities, Akagera National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the natural beauty of Rwanda.
The park’s birdlife is particularly notable, with over 525 species documented. Some of the highlights include waterbirds like African fish eagles, marabou storks, and crowned cranes, as well as papyrus endemics like the papyrus gonolek and shoebill stork. Savannah birds like lilac-breasted rollers, black-headed gonaleks, and Rwenzori batis are also abundant. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting out, Akagera National Park is a destination that is sure to delight.
As you bid farewell to Akagera National Park, we can’t help but reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories made during our time there. The park’s diverse landscapes and habitats provide a dynamic opportunity to spot a wide range of bird species and wildlife. You will transfer back to Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, and spend the day relaxing and exploring the city’s vibrant culture and stunning scenery.
Today, you embark on a journey to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorilla and a variety of Albertine endemics. The park’s unique geology and ecosystems support a wide range of bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco, red-throated alethe, and Archer’s robin-chat. Upon arrival you bird around your lodge or go for a culture experience at the Ibyi’Wachu cultural center.
As you venture into the scenic trails of the Virunga Mountains, we’re on the lookout for two of the region’s most iconic inhabitants: the rare and endangered golden monkey, and a variety of bird species that call this unique ecosystem home.
The golden monkey, with its bright orange fur and striking facial features, is a sight to behold. Found only in the Virunga Mountains, this majestic creature is a privilege to encounter in its natural habitat.
As you make your way through the park’s trails, expert guides help you spot a variety of bird species, including the iconic Rwenzori turaco, the majestic Archer’s robin-chat, the elusive red-throated alethe, the vibrant regal sunbird, the striking black-and-white casqued hornbill, and the rare and endangered Shelley’s crimsonwing. With its unique blend of montane and afro-alpine habitats, the Virunga Mountains support a wide range of birdlife, making this region a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
you’ll also keep an eye out for other bird species, such as the handsome francolin, the African hill babbler, the mountain masked Apalis, and the beautiful bronze sunbird. With over 200 bird species recorded in the Virunga Mountains, every day is a new opportunity to spot a lifer. You will later on drive to Uganda for an evening relaxation.
With over 180 bird species recorded in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, every day is a new opportunity to spot a lifer.
Today, you venture into the unique habitats of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s diverse landscapes and habitats support a wide range of bird species, and we’re excited to spot some of the park’s most iconic species.
Your expert guides help you spot a stunning array of bird species, including the vibrant regal sunbird, the majestic Rwenzori turaco, the striking black-headed waxbill, the elusive blue-headed sunbird, the handsome francolin, the rare and endangered Shelley’s crimsonwing, the beautiful bronze sunbird, the African hill babbler, the mountain masked apalis, the Red-faced Woodland Warbler, the Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, and the majestic Crowned Hawk-Eagle. Keep an eye out for other bird species, such as the Purple-breasted Sunbird, the Green-headed Sunbird, and the localized and sought-after Red-collared Mountain Babbler.
Embark on a guided gorilla tracking excursion, spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The mountain gorilla is an iconic species, and we feel privileged to have the opportunity to see them up close. The tracking excursion provides a unique opportunity to learn about the behavior and habitat of the mountain gorilla, and we gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of conservation efforts in protecting this iconic species.
Transfer to Ruhija, a remote and scenic area known for its Albertine endemics. The area’s unique habitats support a wide range of bird species, including the African green broadbill, handsome francolin, and mountain masked apalis. We enjoy a guided hike through the area’s scenic trails, spotting bird species and learning about the local ecosystems. The medium walk or hike provides a unique opportunity to explore the area’s diverse habitats, including the lush forests and grasslands that are home to a wide range of wildlife.
Spend the day exploring the Ruhija sector’s unique habitats, spotting a stunning array of bird species that call this region home. The area’s diverse landscapes and habitats support a wide range of bird species, and we take advantage of the opportunity to spot some of the area’s most iconic species, including the majestic African Green Broadbill, the elusive Handsome Francolin, the vibrant Regal Sunbird, the striking Black-headed Waxbill, the rare and endangered Shelley’s Crimsonwing, the beautiful Bronzy Sunbird, the African Hill Babbler, the Mountain Masked Apalis, the localized and sought-after Red-collared Mountain Babbler, the Strange Weaver, the Rwenzori Turaco, the Bar-tailed Trogon, the Black-billed Turaco, the Great Blue Turaco, the Purple-breasted Sunbird, and the Green-headed Sunbird.
As you explore the Ruhija sector, we learn about the local ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts in protecting the area’s unique habitats and bird species. Our expert guides provide us with insightful commentary and expert knowledge, helping us to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s unique biodiversity.
As you continue your birding and wildlife adventure, make your way to Buhoma, a scenic area renowned for its diverse birdlife. The drive to Buhoma offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and we keep our eyes peeled for bird species such as the crowned hawk-eagle, black-billed turaco, and Ross’s turaco. Upon arrival, embark on a guided hike through the area’s scenic trails, spotting a variety of bird species and learning about the local ecosystems. The walk provides a unique opportunity to explore the area’s unique habitats, including the lush forests and grasslands that are home to a wide range of bird species.
The following day, spend a full day exploring the area’s unique habitats, spotting a variety of bird species. The day’s birding excursion takes us through the forest, where we search for species such as the black bee-eater, yellow-throated longclaw, and brown-backed scrub robin. We also keep an eye out for other wildlife, including monkeys, bush pigs, and duikers. As we explore the area, we gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of conservation efforts in protecting the area’s unique habitats and bird species.
From Buhoma, your way to Ishasha, a remote and scenic area known for its savannah specials. The drive to Ishasha takes us through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Uganda, and we keep our eyes peeled for bird species such as the African white-backed vulture, lappet-faced vulture, and white-headed vulture. Upon arrival, we enjoy a guided game drive, spotting wildlife such as the African elephant, Cape buffalo, and lion. The game drive provides a unique opportunity to explore the area’s unique habitats, including the grasslands and woodlands that are home to a wide range of wildlife.
The following day, we spend the morning birding in the area’s unique habitats, searching for bird species such as the red-winged warbler, northern crombec, and fawn-breasted waxbill. We also keep an eye out for the iconic tree-climbing lions, which are found only in this part of Africa. The lions are a sight to behold, and we feel privileged to have the opportunity to see them in their natural habitat.
Today, embark on an early morning boat ride on the Kazinga Channel, a tranquil and scenic waterway that winds its way through the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park. As you glide across the channel, keep your eyes peeled for a stunning array of bird species, including the majestic African fish eagle, pelicans, and a variety of colorful waterbirds. You’ll also have the chance to spot hippos, crocodiles, and other wildlife that call the channel home.
As the sun begins to set, head out on an evening game drive, searching for nocturnal creatures that emerge under the cover of darkness. With a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of lions, leopards, hyenas, or even bushbabies, their large eyes shining in the dark.
Transfer to Semliki National Park, a hidden gem nestled in the remote southwestern corner of Uganda. This park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a staggering array of species to spot, including the iconic Congo peafowl, black-wattled hornbill, and white-crested hornbill. Over the course of two days, explore the park’s scenic trails, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the lush forest and grasslands.
As you wander through the park, keep an eye out for other bird species, such as the red-billed dwarf hornbill, black-casqued hornbill, and a variety of colorful sunbirds and starlings. With its unique geology and ecosystems, Semliki National Park is a truly special place, and one that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Today, embark on a thrilling adventure, searching for the elusive green-breasted pitta, a highly sought-after bird species. This shy and secretive bird is a challenge to spot, but with the help of your expert guide, you might just catch a glimpse of its vibrant green plumage.
As you search for the pitta, keep an eye out for other bird species, such as the African broadbill, blue-headed sunbird, and purple-headed starling. The forest is alive with the sounds of birdsong, and with a bit of luck, you might even spot some of the park’s more elusive residents.
after the pita search venture into the heart of the forest, tracking the intelligent and social chimpanzees that call this place home. With their agile movements and curious nature, these charismatic creatures are a joy to watch, and a privilege to encounter in their natural habitat.
As you track the chimpanzees, keep an eye out for other primate species, such as red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus, and grey-cheeked mangabeys. The forest is a vibrant tapestry of life, and with the help of your expert guide, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate web of relationships that exists here.
Bigodi swam is a famous ecosystem at the edge of the kibale forest, it harbours a number specials that overlap from the forest. It’s also a great spot for other primates apart from the chimpanzees such as the mangabeys and red colossuses. You have another option after the swamp of interacting with community to learn their humble lifestyle as you call it a day.
Today, bid farewell to the natural beauty of Uganda’s national parks, and transfer to Kampala-Entebbe, the country’s bustling capital city. As you reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories made during your journey, you might find yourself already planning your next adventure in this incredible country.
Today, depart from Entebbe International Airport, marking the end of your incredible journey through Rwanda and Uganda. As you soar through the skies, take with you memories of the stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife, and vibrant cultures that you encountered along the way.
– Accommodation and meals in Rwanda and Uganda
– Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking and entrance park fees
– Guided tours and transfers
– Airport transfers and assistance
-All Activities as mentioned in the travel plan
-4*4 Safari jeep
– International flights
– Travel insurance
– Visa fees
– Personal expenses