The best birding safaris in Uganda spotting birds endemic to the Rwenzori Mountains have become popular over the recent years. The Rwenzori Mountains, often referred to as the “Mountain of the Moon,” are a haven for bird enthusiasts interested in birding safaris in Uganda, boasting an incredible diversity of avian species. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to over 217 bird species, including over 19 Albertine Rift endemics that are found nowhere else on the planet.
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Where are the Rwenzori Mountains?
Among Uganda’s many natural treasures, the Rwenzori Mountains lie in Western Uganda along the Uganda-Congo border, The equatorial snow peaks include the third highest point in Africa. Rwenzori Mountains stands out as a premier destination for birding safaris. For birdwatchers, the Rwenzori offers a unique opportunity to spot rare and elusive species such as the Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, and Shelley's Crimsonwing, at Dav Safaris, we specialize in crafting unforgettable birdwatching tours that allow you to explore this wildlife-rich region. Our expert local guides, with their deep knowledge of the Rwenzori's unique ecosystems, ensure that you have the best possible chance of encountering these endemic species in their natural habitat, including mammals, reptiles, and plants.
What Endemic Birds can you spot in the Rwenzori Mountains?
The Rwenzori Mountains are home to a remarkable array of bird species, including several that are endemic to the region. Here are some of the most notable:
- Rwenzori Turaco (Gallirex johnstoni): Known for its striking green and red plumage, this bird is a true symbol of the Rwenzori.
- Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird (Cinnyris stuhlmanni): This small, vibrant bird is often seen flitting among the flowers, feeding on nectar.
- Rwenzori Nightjar (Caprimulgus ruwenzorii): A nocturnal bird, it is known for its distinctive call that echoes through the night.
- Grauer’s Broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri): A rare and elusive bird, it is highly sought after by birdwatchers.
- Shelley’s Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza shelleyi): This small finch is known for its bright red plumage.
- Rwenzori Batis (Batis diops): A small, active bird often seen in the forest undergrowth.
- Dwarf Honeyguide (Indicator pumilio): This tiny bird is known for its association with bees and honey.
- Grauer’s Warbler (Graueria vittate): A small, insectivorous bird found in the dense undergrowth.
- Handsome Francolin (Pternistis nobilis): A ground-dwelling bird known for its striking appearance.
- Stripe-breasted Tit (Melaniparus fasciiventer): A small bird with distinctive striped plumage.
- Red-throated Alethe (Chamaetylas poliophrys): Known for its beautiful song and striking red throat.
- Rwenzori Hill Babbler (Sylvia atriceps): A small bird often seen in the higher elevations.
- Archer’s Robin-Chat (Cossypha archeri): Known for its melodious song.
- Blue-headed Sunbird (Cyanomitra alinae): A vibrant bird often seen feeding on nectar.
- Rwenzori Apalis (Apalis ruwenzori): A small, active bird found in the forest canopy.
- Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus): Known for its distinctive yellow eyes.
- Mountain Masked Apalis (Apalis personata): A small bird with a distinctive mask-like facial pattern.
- Dusky Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza jacksoni): A small finch with dusky red plumage.
- Kivu Ground Thrush (Geokichla piaggiae tanganjicae): Known for its beautiful song and ground-dwelling habits.
- Purple-breasted Sunbird (Nectarinia purpureiventris): A vibrant bird with striking purple plumage.
How to Get to Rwenzori for Birding Safaris in Uganda
Reaching the Rwenzori Mountains for a birding safari is an adventure in itself. Here are the main ways to get there:
By Road: The Rwenzori Mountains are accessible by road from Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, passing through beautiful landscapes and small towns as you enjoy the beautiful countryside of Uganda.
By Air: For a quicker option, you can take a domestic flight from Kajjansi Airstrip to Kasese Airstrip, which is close to the Rwenzori Mountains. From there, it’s a short drive to the Rwenzori Mountains National Park.
Best Time to See the Endemic birds
The best time to see the endemic birds in the Rwenzori Mountains is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to February and June to August. During these months, the water levels in the Rwenzori are lower, forcing the birds to come out of the deeper parts of the vegetation in search of food. Early mornings are particularly ideal for spotting these birds, as there is less fishing activity, and the endemic birds are more active and visible.
What Else to See in Rwenzori Other Than Birds?
While the birdlife is undoubtedly the main attraction, the Rwenzori Mountains offer much more to see and experience:
Reptiles Endemic to Rwenzori Mountains:
- Rwenzori Three-horned Chameleon (Trioceros johnstoni)
- Rwenzori Forest Chameleon (Kinyongia xenorhina)
- Rwenzori Mountain Viper (Montatheris hindii)
- Rwenzori Plated Lizard (Gerrhosaurus auritus)
- Rwenzori Skink (Leptosiaphos rhodurus)
- Plants Endemic to Rwenzori Mountains:
- Giant Lobelia (Lobelia bequaertii)
- Giant Groundsels (Dendrosenecio adnivalis)
- Rwenzori Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia thomsonii)
- Rwenzori Helichrysum (Helichrysum stuhlmannii)
- Hagenia (Hagenia abyssinica)
- Everlasting Flower (Helichrysum newii)
- Rhododendron (Rhododendron stanleyi)
Mammals Endemic to Rwenzori Mountains:
- Rwenzori Duiker (Cephalophus rubidus)
- Rwenzori Shrew (Crocidura rwenzori)
- Rwenzori Otter Shrew (Micropotamogale ruwenzorii)
- Rwenzori Climbing Mouse (Dendromus kivu)
- Rwenzori Vlei Rat (Otomys dartmouthi)
- Rwenzori Elephant Shrew (Rhynchocyon cirnei reichardi)
- L’Hoest’s Monkey (Cercopithecus lhoesti)
- Rwenzori Bush Squirrel (Paraxerus lucifer)
- Rwenzori Black-fronted Duiker (Cephalophus nigrifrons rubidus)
- Rwenzori Hyrax (Dendrohyrax arboreus)
Butterflies Endemic to Rwenzori:
- Rwenzori Acraea (Acraea alciope)
- Rwenzori Swallowtail (Papilio jacksoni)
- Rwenzori Clouded Yellow (Colias electo hecate)
- Rwenzori Charaxes (Charaxes guderiana)
- Rwenzori Blue Swallowtail (Graphium gudenusi)
Is Uganda Birding Safari in Rwenzori Safe?
Yes, birding in the Rwenzori Mountains is generally safe. The area is well-protected, and there are experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority guides available to ensure your safety and enhance your birding experience. However, it’s always important to follow the guidelines provided by your tour operator and local authorities.
How Long Does It Take to Locate Birds in Rwenzori?
The time it takes to locate birds in the Rwenzori Mountains can vary depending on the species you’re looking for and the time of year. Generally, a birding safari of 3-5 days is recommended to maximize your chances of seeing a wide variety of species, including endemic birds.
How Much Does a Safari to Rwenzori Cost?
The cost of a birding safari to the Rwenzori Mountains can vary widely depending on the length of your stay, the level of accommodation, and the services included. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 per person for a 6-day safari, including accommodation, meals, guide fees, and park entrance fees.
Where Else to Do Birding in Uganda
Uganda is a birding paradise with numerous hotspots across the country. Here are some of the best places for bird watching in Uganda:
Murchison Falls National Park:
Birding in Murchison Falls National Park is always a rewarding experience, enhanced by the park’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Murchison Falls. As you walk through the dry thorn shrub between Red Chilli Rest Camp and the ferry crossing, you might spot birds such as the Blue-bellied Warblers, Black-headed Gonolek, Vitelline Masked Weaver, and Green-winged Pytilia.
During a boat trip on the Victoria Nile, you can see various birds along the shore, including African Skimmers, African Fish Eagles, and Grey Crowned Cranes. There is also a good chance of spotting the elusive shoebill stork near the Nile Safari Camp, just outside the park boundary.
Murchison Falls National Park is one of the premier destinations for a Uganda game safari. The boat cruise to Murchison Falls is a highlight, offering mesmerizing views as you approach the world’s most powerful waterfall. Additionally, the park offers activities like chimpanzee trekking in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest, making it a versatile and exciting destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Makanaga Swamp
Makanaga Swamp located in Mpigi district is renowned for its rich birdlife, making it a prime destination for birdwatching. The swamp provides a perfect habitat for the shoebill stork, a rare and prehistoric-looking bird that draws birders from around the world. The shoebill, known for its large, shoe-shaped bill, can often be seen standing motionless in the swamp, waiting to catch fish.
In addition to the shoebill, Makanaga Swamp is home to over 300 bird species, including the Yellow-billed Duck, Spur-winged Goose, White-faced Whistling Duck, and Malachite Kingfisher. The swamp’s diverse ecosystem supports a variety of other bird species, making it a rewarding spot for avid birders.
Queen Elizabeth National Park:
Nestled within the floor of the Rift Valley, Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts one of the longest lists of bird species in the world. With over 605 bird species recorded and counting, this park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The diverse habitats, ranging from savannah and wetlands to gallery and lowland forests, contribute to this impressive variety.
In the southern part of the park, the Edward Flats provide an excellent opportunity to see saddle-billed storks and other bird species. The Kazinga Channel Swamp is another prime location where you might spot the elusive shoebill stork.
The Kazinga Channel itself is a natural magnet for a wide variety of birds, including foreign migrants and Albertine Rift endemics. During a launch cruise on the Kazinga Channel, you can spot birds such as the African Open-billed Stork, African Fish Eagle, Great and Long-tailed Cormorants, Common Squacco Heron, Swamp Flycatcher, and Yellow-backed Weaver.
From Baboon Cliff, you have a good chance of spotting raptors like the Lanner Falcon, Temminck’s Courser, Collared Pratincole, Snake Eagle, and Bateleur.
While exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can also enjoy game drives with opportunities to see lions, leopards, waterbucks, bushbucks, hyenas, and more. The scenic crater lakes region within the park adds to the rewarding experience of visiting this remarkable destination.
Kibale National Park
Kibale Forest is renowned for its large population of chimpanzees, but it is also a prime birding destination in Uganda, boasting over 325 bird species. This tropical rainforest is a haven for a diverse array of rainforest birds.
Walking along the main road from the Kanyanchu Visitor Center to the bridge, you can spot a variety of birds. Common sightings include the scarce Grey-headed Oliveback, Green-backed Twinspot, Handsome Francolin, and Black-and-white Mannikin, among others.
A visit to the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary offers additional opportunities to see the shoebill stork and other bird species.
Kibale Forest is home to about 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, pottos, vervet monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and bush babies.
Mabira Forest
Mabira Forest is another excellent birding destination in Uganda. Despite challenges from human encroachment, deforestation, and agriculture, this vast natural forest remains a birding hotspot. Birdwatchers in Mabira Forest may encounter species such as the Red-faced Woodland Warbler and Western Green Tinkerbird.
From Mabira Forest, you can visit the source of the River Nile in Jinja. The dramatic point where the Nile’s waters surge from the calm Lake Victoria is a sight to behold.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Forest is famous for its mountain gorillas but is also a birding paradise in Uganda, with over 350 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics. The Ruhija sector is particularly popular for birding, offering a chance to combine gorilla trekking with birdwatching.
Birding in Bwindi Forest may reveal species such as the Red-faced Woodland Warbler, African Hill Babbler, White-tailed Crested Flycatcher, Collared Apalis, Mountain Masked Apalis, Chestnut-throated Apalis, and Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four gorilla trekking areas: Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Nkuringo. A gorilla permit is required for trekking. The Park also offers a gorilla habituation experience, allowing visitors to spend four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family, for which a special permit is needed.
Mgahinga National Park
Located in southwestern Uganda, Mgahinga National Park is home to mountain gorillas and is an emerging birding destination with over 115 bird species identified. Birding in Mgahinga can be particularly rewarding along the gorge trail, which loops halfway up Mount Sabyinyo. Bird species you might encounter in Mgahinga include the Malachite Sunbird, Montane Double-collared Sunbird, Alpine Chat, and Rwenzori Turaco.
Mpanga Forest
Mpanga Forest, situated along the Kampala to Masaka Road, is a great birding spot on the outskirts of Kampala. Birdwatchers in Mpanga Forest may see species such as the Red-faced Woodland Warbler and Vitelline Masked Weaver.
Where to sleep on a birding safari in Uganda
Staying on a Uganda birding safari tour is an immersive experience that brings you close to nature’s heart. Imagine waking up to the symphony of birdsong and the gentle rustling of leaves, with your accommodation nestled within or near the best birding sites in Uganda. The lodgings, often designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, offer panoramic views of lush forests, rolling hills, or tranquil wetlands. This proximity allows for early morning and late afternoon birding sessions, maximizing your chances of spotting unique species. Contact our team for accommodation inquiries.
What to Pack for a Birding Safari to Uganda?
When packing for a birding safari to Uganda, especially to the Rwenzori Mountains, it’s important to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions and terrains. Here are some essentials to include:
- Binoculars and a good camera: Essential for birdwatching and capturing memories.
- Field guide: A birding field guide specific to East Africa.
- Comfortable, lightweight clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against insects and sun.
- Sturdy hiking boots: For navigating the rugged terrain.
- Rain gear: The Rwenzori Mountains can be wet, so a good rain jacket is essential.
- Hat and sunscreen: To protect against the sun.
- Insect repellent: To ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
- Personal medications and first aid kit: Always good to have on hand.
Do I Need a Birding Guide?
Yes, having a birding guide is highly recommended. A knowledgeable guide can greatly enhance your experience by helping you locate and identify birds, providing information about
Contact Us for more information and explore the wonders of birding in the Rwenzori Mountains. Book your Uganda safari packages today and experience the thrill of spotting the Rwenzori endemic birds in their natural habitat.