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Birding in Entebbe Botanical Gardens | Uganda Birding Safaris
Birding in Entebbe Botanical Gardens – A Complete Guide for Uganda Birding and Gorilla Trekking Safaris
Located on the shores of Lake Victoria, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens — now officially known as the National Botanical Gardens of Uganda — is one of the most exceptional birding locations in East Africa. Founded in 1901, these historic gardens lie just 35 kilometers from Kampala, making them one of the most accessible yet rewarding bird-watching destinations in Uganda.
For anyone planning a Uganda birding safari, a gorilla trekking holiday, or even a short nature excursion from Entebbe International Airport, this tropical sanctuary offers an unforgettable experience filled with colorful bird species, rare migrants, ancient trees, and scenic lake views.
When combined with tours offered by Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, your birding experience can easily connect to iconic adventures such as Bwindi gorilla trekking, Kibale chimpanzee tracking, Murchison Falls safaris, and Queen Elizabeth National Park game drives.
Explore birding packages here
Why Entebbe Botanical Gardens Is One of the Best Birding Spots in Uganda
The Entebbe Botanical Gardens were originally established to study and develop Uganda’s agricultural and botanical resources. Over time, the gardens evolved into a natural haven for wildlife, especially birds. The impressive landscape blends:
- Indigenous woodland forest
- Man-made horticultural arrangements
- Wetland and lakeshore ecosystems
- Open grasslands and palm-lined paths
This mixture of habitats attracts an astonishing number of bird species, including forest birds, wetland birds, lake species, and migratory birds from Europe and Asia. This makes it one of the top locations for bird watching in Uganda, especially for travelers who want to start their journey near the airport.
Just five minutes away is the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), formerly known as the Entebbe Zoo, making it easy to combine birding with other wildlife learning experiences.
Bird Species You Can Spot in Entebbe Botanical Gardens
One of the greatest attractions of the gardens is the sheer diversity of species, which makes it an ideal destination for both beginner and professional birdwatchers. Here you can observe:
Water & Wetland Birds
- Egyptian Goose
- Yellow-billed Duck
- African Jacana
- Lesser Jacana
- Glossy Ibis
- Hadada Ibis
- Pink-backed Pelican
- Yellow-billed Stork
- African Open-billed Stork
- Marabou Stork
- White-winged Tern
- Gull-billed Tern
- Black-headed Heron
- Black Crake
- Long-tailed Cormorant
These birds are commonly seen along the lake edges, ponds, and wetland areas, making the gardens especially attractive for photographers.
Forest & Woodland Birds
- Great Blue Turaco
- Eastern Grey Plantain Eater
- Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill
- Crowned Hornbill
- Double-toothed Barbet
- Green Crombec
- Speckled Mousebird
- Rüppell’s Long-tailed Starling
- Yellow White-eye
- African Ground Thrush
- Black Weaver
- Vieillot’s Black Weaver
These species thrive in the garden’s thick forest canopies and ancient trees, creating a natural ecosystem almost untouched by urban life.
Colorful Sunbirds & Special Sightings
- Scarlet-chested Sunbird
- Red-chested Sunbird
- Purple-banded Sunbird
- African Red-billed Firefinch
- Green Wagtail
- Yellow Wagtail
- Red-eyed Dove
- Tambourine Dove
- Common Bulbul
- Speckled Mousebird
- Black Kite
These birds bring exceptional color and sound to your bird-watching walk, especially in the early morning and evening.
Best Time for Birding in Entebbe
Thanks to Uganda’s equatorial climate, birding in Entebbe Botanical Gardens can be done all year round, but the best time is:
✅ November to April – Peak season for migratory birds
✅ June to September – Perfect dry season for photography and walking trails
Early morning (6:30–10:00 am) and late afternoon (4:00–6:30 pm) offer the best sightings.
Combine Birding with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
One of the great advantages of visiting Entebbe is that it serves as the gateway for Uganda gorilla trekking safaris. After birding in the gardens, you can continue your journey to:
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Kibale Forest for chimpanzee tracking
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Murchison Falls National Park
Monumental Expeditions and Safaris offers seamless packages that start in Entebbe and include transportation, permits, guides, and accommodation.
Book your gorilla trekking adventure here
Sample Birding & Gorilla Safari Itinerary (7 Days)
Day 1: Arrival & Birding in Entebbe Gardens
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale – Bigodi Wetland Birding
Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking – Kibale Forest
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP – Boat Safari & Birds
Day 5: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking Experience
Day 7: Return to Entebbe – Departure
Why Book With Monumental Expeditions and Safaris
Monumental Expeditions and Safaris is a trusted, professional safari company specializing in Uganda safaris, Rwanda safaris, birding tours, and gorilla trekking expeditions.
They provide:
✅ Expert birding & wildlife guides
✅ Custom safari itineraries
✅ Affordable & luxury packages
✅ Gorilla & chimp permits
✅ Responsible ecotourism practices
Book your tour here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Entebbe Botanical Gardens good for birding beginners?
Yes. It is perfect for beginners and professionals due to its easy walking paths and high bird density.
Q: How many bird species are found in Entebbe Botanical Gardens?
Over 150 bird species can be spotted in and around the gardens.
Q: Can I combine birding with a gorilla trekking tour?
Absolutely. Monumental Expeditions & Safaris offers combined birding + gorilla trekking packages.
Q: How long should I spend in the gardens?
2–4 hours is ideal for a complete bird-watching experience.
Final Thoughts
Birding in Entebbe Botanical Gardens is more than just a walk in a park — it is an immersion into Uganda’s rich natural heritage. With its rare birds, century-old trees, scenic Lake Victoria shoreline, and close proximity to Entebbe airport, it is the perfect starting point for your Uganda safari adventure.
When paired with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, this simple activity transforms into an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s top wildlife destinations.
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