Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is located in the southwestern part of Uganda, covering an area of 321 square kilometers. The park is characterized by montane forest mixed with patches of bamboo. It is home to over 400 mountain gorillas, 120 species of mammals, 220 species of butterflies, and much more.
Though mountain gorilla trekking is the most popular activity in Bwindi National Park, there are many other activities tourists can enjoy before or after gorilla trekking. For bird enthusiasts, it is important to carry binoculars, even when trekking gorillas.
Birding in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the best birding destinations in Uganda. The park has recorded 351 bird species, including 23 species endemic to the Albertine Rift, 10 of the 26 globally threatened species in Uganda, 76 Congo Forest Biome species, 25 restricted-range species, 4 Lake Victoria biome species, and 68 Afro-tropical island species.
Some of the bird species in Bwindi include:
- Chapin’s Flycatcher
- African Green Broadbill
- Shelley’s Crimson Wing
- White-tailed Crested Flycatcher
- Red-faced Woodland Warbler
- Western Green Tinkerbird
- Handsome Francolin
- Yellow-streaked Greenbul
- Ruwenzori Batis
- Chestnut-throated Apalis
- Emerald Cuckoo
- Common Bulbul
- Blue-headed Sunbird
- Short-tailed Warbler
- Grauer’s Rush Warbler
- Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird
- Crested Guineafowl
- Pink-footed Puffbird
- White-headed Saw-wing
- Snowy-crowned Robin Chat
- African Paradise Flycatcher
- Dusky Twinspot
- African Wood Owl
- African Citril
- Doherty’s Bushshrike
- Angolan Swallow, and many more.
The best birding spots in Bwindi include the Waterfall Trail in Buhoma, the Mubwindi Trail in Ruhija, the Munyaga River Trail, and the farmlands near the park.
Best Time for Birding in Bwindi
Birding in Bwindi National Park can be done year-round, but the best time to visit is from November to April. During this period, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot birds, and migratory birds from North Africa and Europe are also present.
Where to Stay – Accommodation Options
There are many accommodation options in Bwindi, ranging from camping, budget, mid-range, to luxury lodges. Where you sleep will depend on your preference and budget. If you plan to trek gorillas, ensure you book accommodation in the same sector where you obtained your trekking permits.
