Bird Watching in Bwindi Forest National Park

Bird Watching in Bwindi Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including being home to nearly half of the world’s remaining endangered mountain gorillas. It also offers one of the most diverse birdwatching experiences in Africa. With its stunning range of habitats, Bwindi boasts 23 of Uganda’s 24 Albertine Rift endemic bird species, making it a top birding destination.

Top Birds to Spot in Bwindi

The park is home to a vast array of unique bird species, including the Black-faced Rufous Warbler, Grauer’s Warbler, and Mountain Masked Apalis, among many others. Other notable species include:

• African Green Broadbill
• Shelly’s Crimsonwing
• Ruwenzori Nightjar
• Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher
• Magpie Mannikin
• Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater
• Yellow-crowned Canary

Birdwatchers in Bwindi can expect to see a wide variety of species, including some of the most sought-after Albertine Rift endemics.

Best Bird Watching Spots in Bwindi Forest National Park

Mubwindi Swamp

A full day spent birding the Mubwindi Swamp is highly recommended. The 4 km trail to the swamp is a hotspot for some of the park’s rarest and most elusive birds. Look out for species such as the Grauer’s Broadbill, Regal Sunbird, and Archer’s Robin-Chat. Other birds you might encounter here include the Augur Buzzard, Olive Pigeon, and the rare African Hill Babbler.

The Neck (Buhoma Section)

The Neck offers excellent birding, particularly for those keen on spotting the Albertine Rift endemics. Key species include the Handsome Francolin, Rwenzori Nightjar, and Dwarf Honeyguide. You may also spot the Red-throated Alethe, Archer’s Robin-Chat, and Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher.

Main Trail

The Main Trail is another great birding location. Here, you might encounter species like the Bar-tailed Trogon, Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo, and the elusive Neumann’s Warbler. Other species to watch for include the Kivu Ground-Thrush, Gray-headed Greenbul, and the beautiful Black Bee-eater. Keep an eye out for the African Goshawk, which often perches in open areas of the forest.

Where to Stay for Bird Watching in Bwindi

Bird watching in Bwindi can be done in both the northern and southern sectors. In the southern part (Rushaga and Nkuringo), you can stay at accommodations such as:

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Lake Mutanda Resort

In the northern sector (Buhoma and Ruhija), you can find excellent lodging options, including:

• Buhoma Lodge
• Bwindi Lodge
• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Trekkers Tavern Cottages
• Agandi Eco Lodge

These accommodations are conveniently located near birdwatching hotspots.

Why Book Your Bird Watching Safari with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we organize exceptional birdwatching experiences in Uganda. Our expert guides will help you spot a wide variety of bird species while ensuring an eco-friendly and unforgettable adventure. As one of the most highly rated tour operators on TripAdvisor, we’re committed to preserving biodiversity, conserving wildlife, and supporting local communities.

In addition to bird watching, we offer a range of activities such as gorilla trekking, chimpanzee safaris, and Big 5 game viewing. Whether you’re interested in a thrilling mountain hike or a peaceful boat cruise, we’ll help you design the perfect safari.

Feel free to contact us to plan your next birdwatching adventure in Bwindi Forest National Park and beyond. Let us help you create the best African safari experience.