Uganda is a birding paradise, with over 1,000 bird species recorded across the country. From the Shoebill stork to the African green broadbill, Uganda has a wide variety of unique bird species that can be found nowhere else in the world. If you’re a birder looking for a self-drive adventure, Uganda is the perfect destination. Here’s what you need to know to plan your own birding self-drive trip in Uganda.
Plan Your Itinerary
Before embarking on a self-drive birding trip in Uganda, it’s important to plan your itinerary in advance. Uganda has several birding hotspots, each with its unique bird species and habitats. If you only have a couple of weeks at your disposal, it is recommended to major on one specific region of the country instead of attempting to be everywhere.
You will surely have a better experiencing spending a full week in Bwindi impenetrable national park than spending a week covering Queen Elizabeth national park, Kibale forest national park as well as Rwenzori national park.
The main reason you might be visiting Uganda is mainly for the endemic species. But do not try to cover all the endemic species in just a couple of weeks. You might end up frustrated. Rather focus on exploring particular destinations, then use them to inform the list of endemic species you wish to encounter.
For instance, you can focus on Climbing Rwenzori mountains and exploring the endemic species in that park. The park is known for over 200 bird species but only has a total of 17 endemics. With the list of the 17 Rwenzori endemic bird species, you will have less work searching for target species.
Once you have your list of bird species, you can then proceed to detail them as well as map out their hotspots. By detail, you will be able to find out which bird species are harder to find so that you may committee enough time to searching for them. You will also need to learn their song/call to easily identify them.
There is no much information online about birding in Uganda. You will therefore need the services of a professional birding guide while planning for your trip. Unlike the classic game drive safaris, a professional birding guide will likely charge you some money to help you plan your self-drive birding safari in Uganda.
Rent a 4×4 Vehicle
Most of Uganda’s birding hotspots are located off-road, so it’s essential to rent a 4×4 vehicle that can handle the rough terrain. The weather in Uganda is unpredictable, a big off-road car will make it easy to traverse all your desired birding hotspots in Uganda.
There are several reputable car rental companies in Kampala and Entebbe, and they offer a wide range of 4×4 vehicles suitable for self-drive birding trips. Before renting a car, make sure you have a valid driver’s license. It is also recommended that you consider a diesel car over a gasoline car because diesel fuel is more readily available around the country than petrol fuel.
Pack the Right Gear
When packing for your self-drive birding trip in Uganda, make sure you bring the right gear. Of course, if you have been on a birding trip before, you already know the packing list for birding however for beginners; a good pair of binoculars is essential for birding, a camera is also important to capture the birds’ beauty, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent to protect you from the harsh Ugandan sun and pesky insects.
It is very important to carry tsetse fly repellents as well as anti-malaria medication. These are the main two villains on a Uganda safari. Pain killers and your prescribed allergy medication should also not miss on your packing list.
Ginger snacks and beverages are also very important for food poisoning situations during your trip. You can easily rest at the lodge or in your safari car snacking and sipping on ginger snacks.
Additionally, comfortable walking shoes will ensure you can hike to different birding locations with ease. Snacks often come in handy when travelling in remote areas. Pack some good amounts of water since accessibility to drinking water will not be easy while off road.
A flask is very important when travelling is hot places like Semuliki and northern Uganda. While some people will recommend you to carry a fridge for ice cold water, this kind of water will make you to sweat more and get thirstier. Carrying some warm water or coffee will help your body adjust to the higher temperature.
Book a Local Birding Guide In Advance
Unlike the classic safari game drive guides, birding guides are not very common. You would be lucky to simply drive to the park offices and find a birding guide present. It is therefore recommended that if you have any ideas of hiring a local birding to do it in advance.
However, if the bad comes to the worst, any game ranger can help out but they will not be as effective as the birding guides.
Stick To The Park Rules
As a responsible birder, it’s important to respect the environment and the birds you’re observing. Do not throw stones to force birds to move. Do not make noise to force movement. Simply remain calm and take your time.
Give yourself enough time to transfer from one location to another. Always remember that animals have the right of way in the national parks and the maximum speed is 40km. Therefore do not try to compensate your delay in one area with a road rush to another destination.
Additionally, follow the Leave No Trace principles by packing out all your trash and leaving the birding spots in the same condition as you found them.
Stay Safe
Uganda is a safe country for tourists, but it’s important to take precautions when traveling alone. Avoid traveling at night, and be aware of your surroundings when exploring new areas. It’s also important to follow local customs and traditions to avoid any misunderstandings or cultural faux pas.
It is important to note that some places do not have network reception. Hiring a car with a satellite phone will help you have connection at all times. Always keep in company of the game ranger for your safety.
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