You can travel to Uganda at any time of the year if you prefer but for the latest intra-Africa from
Southern Africa, which first arrives in Uganda in July, August, and September, includes many
cuckoos such as the lowland cuckoo known as the striped long-tailed cuckoo. Most summers in the
southern countries of Malawi and Mozambique, the globally vulnerable and endangered blue tern breeds
in tall grasslands such as southern Africa, southern Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Malawi.
Some of Uganda’s most desirable birds are easy to spot from June to September, while July and August
are spectacular bird seasons. Among these are the very local Gray Bills that nest at this time from late May
onwards. The Mbwindi Marsh in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the place to look for this
incredible bird, and it can be easily spotted when nesting. Otherwise, using our experience and expertise,
high-pitched hissing and rhythmic meowing help us from time to time. A magnificent breasted green pitta
that begins its hunt at 6:00 in the morning you get while doing the display call will also most likely
appear between 6, so you’ll definitely find it around the same time.
Just as the above months seem like the best months for birdwatching in Uganda, December, January and
February is generally drier, with smaller canopies such as the rare Ituri Batis. Above all, the Ugandan
Woodland Warbler is constantly on the move. This is also one of the best times for Uganda's only
endemic fox weaver. It is good to call the Kidepo Valley National for its spectacular giant black
partridges. – Visited by black-breasted chickens, barbets, heartless, buff-crested, white-bellied geese,
the highest local and endemic East African Karamoja Paris, and the northern tropics grasshopper
buzzards at this time of year, along with nomadic and gregarious animals, you will visit such as the Abdim
stork.
What to carry on a birding Safari in Uganda
Opting for Uganda as your birding spot is a crucial decision that can greatly influence your experience.
Therefore, one should prepare extensively, mentally, physically, and financially, considering the cost of
travel, time, and other expenses, to create indelible memories. As our birding tours in Uganda take place in
secluded rural areas, particularly in forests and marshes, either by foot or on small boats, and rarely within
populated areas, it is vital to pack all necessary gear to enrich the experience. Consequently, this piece
presents an all-encompassing inventory of essential elements to guarantee an extraordinary and
unforgettable bird-watching excursion in Uganda.
1. Right Clothing
Similar to other tourism activities, birding in Uganda necessitates individuals to bring along specific
clothing items for their comfort and a truly unforgettable experience. Suitable attire for observing birds in
Uganda consists of environmentally-friendly lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants. Prepare for your
tropical adventure by packing 3/4 sets of long pants that dry quickly, along with 3/4 long-sleeved shirts
that also dry quickly. Bring 2 short-sleeved shirts or t-shirts, 2 pairs of shorts or capris, and 1 sleeveless
shirt. Don't forget a fleece pullover or lightweight jacket, as well as a rain jacket and pants. Pack 4 pairs
of mid-calf socks that are long enough to tuck into your pants. Lastly, a wide-brimmed hat will provide
protection from the intense sunshine you encounter on your long walks and open boat rides.
2. Hiking boots that are resistant to water.
To enhance the number of bird sightings in Uganda, one will participate in extended and brief walks
across diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and savannah plains, which require proper footwear
such as walking shoes, rain boots, or gum boots. For birdwatching in marshy areas like Semliki during the
rainy season, reliable waterproof boots are essential, especially for exploring the Mubwindi Swamp.
3. A bag designed for outdoor activities or fieldwork.
When birdwatching in Uganda, it is imperative to have a waterproof backpack to hold various birding
necessities including cameras, spare batteries, binoculars, snacks, laser pointers, playbacks, insect
repellents, sunscreen, and other essentials while exploring the diverse habitats of Uganda.
4. Guidebooks for birding
The contents of your packing list for your upcoming birdwatching expedition in Uganda are of utmost
importance, as they will be determined by the length of your birding adventure. They are multiple
establishments and literature outlets that sell them. Our safari tour guides have a few guidebooks
accessible within their vehicles that you will be occupying, but the most highly recommended publications
are Terry Stevenson and John Fanshawe’s written books. An informative handbook for identifying birds
found in various countries including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi. The books Birds of
Africa, South of the Sahara authored by Ian Sinclair and Peter Ryan, and Bradt Uganda Travel Guide
written by Philip Briggs and Andrew Roberts would prove to be extremely useful due to their
comprehensive coverage of tourism-related information.
