6-Day Kidepo and Murchison Semi-Arid Savanna Birding
A six-day northern Uganda circuit connecting Kidepo Valley’s semi-arid savanna with the woodland, grassland and Nile habitats of Murchison Falls.
About this tour
This northern Uganda route is built around two contrasting national parks. An overland journey from Kampala reaches Kitgum before continuing into Kidepo Valley, where two birding sessions cover the Narus Valley and the park’s semi-arid savanna. The area supports dry-country species that are difficult to find on Uganda’s more frequently travelled western circuit.
The programme then crosses from Kidepo to Murchison Falls National Park. Savanna tracks are explored early in the day, followed by birding from a River Nile boat. This combination adds woodland, grassland, raptor and waterbird possibilities before the route returns to Kampala or Entebbe.
Published priorities include Karamoja Apalis, Kori Bustard, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Northern Carmine Bee-eater, Secretarybird and Red-throated Bee-eater. These are targets rather than guaranteed sightings. Current road conditions, accommodation, vehicle arrangements, boat operation, price and included services are confirmed after inquiry.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to Uganda.
Guides
Itinerary
Day 1
Kampala to Kitgum
Leave Kampala early for the long drive north to Kitgum. Use suitable stops for birding along the route before the overnight stop.
Day 2
Kitgum to Kidepo
Continue from Kitgum toward Kidepo Valley National Park. Begin birding in the Narus Valley during the afternoon.
Day 3
Full day in Kidepo Valley
Spend a full day exploring Kidepo Valley for semi-arid and savanna birds. Field locations can be adjusted to current access and bird activity.
Day 4
Kidepo to Murchison Falls
Depart Kidepo early and travel to Murchison Falls National Park. If arrival time allows, finish with an evening birding session.
Day 5
Murchison savanna and Nile boat birding
Bird Murchison’s savanna tracks in the early morning. Continue in the afternoon with a River Nile boat trip for waterbirds and riverside species.
Day 6
Return to Kampala or Entebbe
Drive back from Murchison Falls to Kampala or Entebbe Airport, completing the northern circuit.
Locations & map
- Kampala - Central Uganda Uganda
- Kitgum - Northern Uganda Uganda
- Kidepo Valley National Park - Northern Uganda Uganda
- Murchison Falls National Park - Western Uganda Uganda
4 stops in itinerary order. Select a marker for its name.
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request
Price: Price on request
Policies & FAQ
How are price, permits and inclusions confirmed?
Send an inquiry with your preferred dates and party details. The current price, availability, permits, accommodation, transport and included services will be confirmed for the final proposal.
Are bird and wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No. The itinerary identifies habitats and possible target species, but observations depend on season, weather, access and natural bird or wildlife activity.
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.