Birding in Budongo Forest - The Royal Mile
Considered one of Uganda’s premier birding sites and home of Uganda Kingfishers, the Royal Mile is a broad, well-maintained forest trail that offers a classic African forest birding experience. It is part of Budongo Forest, which is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity.
Unique Bird Species:
- Yellow-footed Flycatcher: A unique species found nowhere else in East Africa.
- Puvel’s Illadopsis: Another rare and highly sought-after species endemic to this region.
- Nahan’s Francolin: A challenging but rewarding bird to find along the forest floor.
- Chocolate-backed Kingfisher: A stunning and elusive forest kingfisher.
- African Dwarf Kingfisher: one of specials here
- African Pygmy Kingfisher
- Blue-breasted Kingfisher: one of the most hard to see, but easily heard
- Cassine’s Hawk Eagle: A powerful raptor of the forest canopy.
Experiences in Budongo Central Forest Reserve
It’s not just about the Birds
Budongo Forest is a key chimpanzee habitat, and a chimp trekking excursion can be easily combined with your birding tour or even as a bonus as we usually spot them during birding.
You may also spot other primates like Red-tailed Monkeys and Blue Monkeys. The forest floor is home to a rich variety of colourful butterflies and trees, including the majestic mahogany and ironwood.
The Royal Mile itself is an easy walk, making it perfect for an immersive and rewarding nature experience.
