This Albertine Rift birding safari targets Uganda’s rarest birds, from Congo Basin forest specials at Semliki to the endemics of Bwindi and Ruhija.
This Albertine Rift birding safari is a 17-day journey through western Uganda for birders who want the region’s endemics and forest specials. It also includes chimpanzee tracking and a mountain gorilla trek.
The Albertine Rift runs along Uganda’s border with Congo and Rwanda. Its mountain forests hold dozens of birds found nowhere else, and Semliki adds species from the great Congo Basin rainforest.
Why choose this Albertine Rift birding safari?
- Kibale: green-breasted pitta, forest robins and chimpanzees.
- Semliki: Congo Basin hornbills, Nkulengu rail and Congo serpent eagle.
- Rwenzori foothills: crimsonwings and purple-breasted sunbird.
- Queen Elizabeth: Kazinga Channel boat trip, skimmers and black bee-eaters.
- Bwindi and Ruhija: African green broadbill, Rwenzori turaco and mountain gorillas.
Where you stay
Lodges include Lindsay Cottages in Entebbe, Ndali Lodge near Kibale, Semliki Safari Lodge, Margherita Hotel in Kasese, Mweya Safari Lodge, Buhoma Homestead or Gorilla Forest Camp, and Trekker’s Tavern at Ruhija, or similar.
The Mubwindi Swamp walk
From Ruhija, a steep trail drops to Mubwindi Swamp, the best site in Uganda for the rare African green broadbill. It is a demanding walk, but a highlight for serious birders.
Best time for an Albertine Rift birding safari
Birding is good all year. The drier months, June to August and December to February, make forest trails easier. March to May and October to November are wetter, but many birds are breeding and singing.
Read our Bwindi gorilla trekking guide and guide to Uganda national parks, or browse all birding safaris. Park rules and permits are managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
How much does the Albertine Rift birding safari cost?
Price on request. The cost depends on your travel dates, group size, the season and the lodges you choose, so we prepare every quote personally rather than showing one fixed price.
WhatsApp us on +254 706 223888, email [email protected] or send the enquiry form on this page, and we will share a detailed quote for your dates.
Highlights
- Albertine Rift endemics at Bwindi, Ruhija and Mubwindi Swamp
- Congo Basin forest birds in Semliki National Park
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest
- Kazinga Channel boat trip in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- One hour with a mountain gorilla family in Bwindi
