Uganda boasts over 1,000 recorded bird species, making it a dream destination for birdwatchers. From Albertine Rift endemics to wetland specialists like the shoebill, the country’s varied habitats host an astonishing variety of avifauna.

Top birding spots include Mabamba Swamp (for the iconic shoebill), Bwindi and Mgahinga (for Albertine Rift specialists), Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Kazinga Channel (for waterbirds and raptors), and Mt. Elgon and Budongo for forest species. Each site offers a different suite of species and birding styles — from boat-based morning surveys to forest walks where mixed-species flocks reveal elusive birds.

Timing matters: migratory seasons bring added species, while early mornings offer the best activity. A local guide from GoPearl Africa with specialist birding knowledge makes a huge difference — they know where to find target species and how to read signs and calls.

Equipment tips: a good pair of binoculars (8×42), a field guide or birding app, and patience. For photographers, a telephoto lens and a quiet approach help get closer images without disturbance. Birding trips can be combined with broader wildlife safaris and cultural visits to give a full East African experience.