Birding at Entebbe Botanical Gardens: An Easy First or Last Day on Lake Victoria

Many visitors arrive in Entebbe late at night or leave on an evening flight, and a morning in the gardens is an excellent way to use the spare hours. Birds are easy to see, paths are flat and the setting is relaxed.

This guide explains what to look for, when to go and how the gardens fit into a wider Uganda birding itinerary.

This guide is part of our animals of Uganda and East Africa guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

A Garden With Real Birds

Founded over a century ago, the gardens contain mature trees, planted collections, patches of forest and a lake shore, and the combination attracts a surprising range of birds. The dense canopy gives cover to forest birds, while lawns and the shoreline suit open-country species and waterbirds. Paths are flat and well maintained, so the gardens suit all ages. A local guide, usually available at the entrance, can find birds by call and point out species that would otherwise be missed. See the Entebbe Botanical Gardens guide for background and facilities.

Turacos, Hornbills and Forest Birds

The great blue turaco, one of Africa's largest turacos, is a highlight, and it is often seen in the tall trees, where it moves heavily from branch to branch and calls with a loud, harsh voice. Hornbills, including black-and-white casqued hornbills, appear in fruiting trees, and smaller birds such as sunbirds, bulbuls and flycatchers use the lower storeys. A good guide will know the favourite trees. See great blue turaco in Uganda for more about the species.

Lake Shore Birds

The edge of Lake Victoria is excellent for kingfishers, including pied and giant kingfishers, as well as herons, egrets, cormorants and African fish eagles. Marabou and open-billed storks are common around Entebbe and may be seen overhead or near the water. Hammerkops build their large nests in the trees, and weavers form noisy colonies, building hanging nests that are fascinating to watch. Early morning light on the water is lovely for photographs. Take care near the shore, since crocodiles and hippos live in the lake, and follow the guide's advice. See kingfishers of Uganda.

Monkeys and Other Wildlife

Vervet monkeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys live in the gardens, and monitor lizards are often seen near the water. Butterflies and dragonflies add interest to a slow walk. Keep food out of sight, because monkeys can be bold. Wildlife is part of the garden's charm, and it makes the visit appealing to non-birders in your group as well. For a broader look at animals in Entebbe see the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre.

When to Go

Birds are active throughout the year, with early morning the best time and late afternoon a good second choice. Midday is hot and quiet. From roughly October to April, Palaearctic migrants add to the list, and the rainy months bring lush foliage and breeding birds. Rain can interrupt a walk, so bring a light jacket. If your flight is late in the evening, a morning visit leaves time for lunch and the journey to the airport. See Uganda bird checklist and best months.

Fitting It Around Flights

The gardens are only a short drive from the airport and from most Entebbe lodgings, so they work well on arrival mornings or departure days. Check opening times, arrange a guide in advance and leave plenty of time for transfers. See Entebbe, Uganda, hotels in Entebbe and getting to Entebbe Airport for logistics.

Combining With Other Birding Stops

A morning at the gardens pairs well with a trip to Mabamba Swamp for the shoebill, which is often a half-day excursion from Entebbe. See Mabamba Swamp birding and shoebill tracking. From there, itineraries can continue to Budongo or Kibale for forest birds.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team