East Africa lists over a thousand species, from papyrus specialists to forest endemics and flamingo flocks.
Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda together record well over a thousand bird species. Whether you are a keen birder or just enjoy colour, here are highlights and where to find them.
Quick FactsShoebill, African green broadbill, Albertine Rift endemics.
Flamingos at Nakuru and Bogoria, lilac-breasted roller.
Ostrich, secretary bird, Rift lakes.
Nyungwe Forest specialities.
The grey crowned crane is Uganda’s national bird. Lilac-breasted rollers, African fish eagles and superb starlings are easy to spot. Flamingos can gather in huge numbers at some soda lakes, though numbers vary by year.
Uganda: Mabamba, Queen Elizabeth, Semuliki, Bwindi. See shoebill, Semuliki. Kenya: Lake Nakuru. Rwanda: Nyungwe.
Migrants arrive from November to April, and resident birds breed with the rains. Dry months make some sites easier.
See our birding safaris and 10-day birdwatching itinerary.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWell over a thousand species.
Mabamba Swamp and Murchison Falls.
The grey crowned crane.
November to April for migrants.
Uganda holds over 1,000 recorded bird species — a genuine rarity even within East Africa.
Explore →A giant, grey, slow-moving swamp bird with a massive bill, and one of Uganda’s most sought-after sightings.
Explore →A birder’s circuit of Uganda’s richest sites, paced for early-morning and late-afternoon activity.
Explore →Sempaya’s hot springs, lowland rainforest and rare Congo-basin species.
Explore →Tell us your dates and interests and we will design the route around you.
