Birding Safaris in the Royal Mile

Birding Safaris in the Royal Mile – Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park

Birding safaris in the Royal Mile — Embark on an enchanting birding adventure through the awe-inspiring Royal Mile in Budongo Forest, nestled on the southern edge of the expansive Budongo Forest Reserve. Covering an impressive 739 square kilometers, this reserve lies at the border of the Albertine Rift Valley, forming an integral part of the southern side of Murchison Falls National Park. The flat terrain of the Royal Mile makes it an ideal location for immersive nature walks, ensuring optimal conditions for tourists seeking an authentic wildlife experience.

Adjacent to the mystical Budongo Forest stands the breathtaking Lake Kanyege, a sanctuary teeming with diverse aquatic bird species and a myriad of vibrant butterfly species. Within this rich ecosystem, adventurous travelers can engage in chimpanzee tracking, with the prime time for tracking recommended as early as possible, urging enthusiasts to consider an overnight stay within the forest for an unparalleled encounter with habituated chimpanzee communities.

Birds of Royal in the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile boasts an array of avian wonders, with two species exclusively endemic to the trail—the Illadopsis puveli and the yellow-footed flycatcher. Additionally, numerous bird species exclusive to the Albertine Rift region grace the trail, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Notable feathered inhabitants include the Hairy-breasted Barbet, Blue-breasted Kingfisher, Nahan’s Francolin, Cassin’s Spine tail, Fire-crested Alethe, Dwarf Kingfisher, and an array of others, showcasing the extraordinary biodiversity of this pristine environment.

Best Time to Visit Royal Mile

For an optimal wildlife encounter, plan your visit to Murchison Falls National Park during the dry seasons, extending from December to late February and from June to September. During these periods, animals congregate around water bodies, enhancing the chances of observation. While the green season from March to May and September to November brings lush landscapes, it also marks the rainy season, transforming the park into a verdant paradise.

How to Get to Royal Mile

Commencing your journey from Murchison Falls via Masindi, the 130 km road from the Paraa ferry to Masindi is easily accessible by 4-wheel drive, ensuring a smooth transition to the Royal Mile where the road may become slippery.

Budongo Forest Chimpanzee Tracking

Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest begins with a comprehensive briefing at the Budongo Eco Lodge’s information center. Well-established trails guide visitors through the forest, providing opportunities to spot not only chimpanzees but also smaller primates and an array of birds. The trekking occurs in two shifts—morning and afternoon—with chimpanzee communities often roaming close to the Budongo Eco Lodge. To increase your chances of an encounter, plan your visit between October and January, the prime months for chimpanzee trekking, lasting an average of three hours.

Participation in chimpanzee trekking requires good health and freedom from diseases like flu or tuberculosis, as chimpanzees are susceptible to human illnesses. The minimum age for tracking is 15 years, and the cost for chimpanzee trekking in Budongo is $80, which can be combined with game drives in the park.

Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

For a more immersive experience, visitors can engage in the chimpanzee habituation process, lasting approximately two years in Budongo Forest. During periods of lower visitor numbers, participants have the unique opportunity to follow a chimp community throughout the day, gaining insights into their behavior under the guidance of seasoned researchers and trackers. This distinct experience requires good hiking boots, hand gloves, long-sleeved shirts/pants, sunglasses, and a hat. The cost of the chimpanzee habituation experience in Budongo Forest is $160, a more affordable option compared to Kibale National Park.

How to Get to Budongo Forest

Situated in north-western Uganda, Budongo Forest is a three-hour drive from Kampala. Travelers must first journey to Masindi town before heading to the forest reserve, with an entrance fee of $40 per person.

Accommodation Around Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest offers various accommodation options catering to different budgets. Lodges and hotels within the forest reserve, Masindi town, or Murchison Falls National Park provide diverse choices. Outdoor camping enthusiasts can arrange camping within the reserve, while the Research Centre in Budongo Forest offers simple rooms at affordable rates.

Budongo Eco Lodge

A budget-friendly option, Budongo Eco Lodge, located within the forest reserve, offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Situated 30 km from Masindi town, the lodge features comfortable special cabins with balconies and dormitory rooms for larger groups. Visitors can enjoy local and international cuisine at the lodge’s restaurant and engage in activities such as chimpanzee trekking, bird watching, chimpanzee habituation experience, and nature walks. Additionally, the Visitor Centre provides an opportunity to purchase locally made art pieces and gifts as souvenirs.