Birdwatching in Mount Rwenzori national park is such a sensational experience which should never leave any birder without visiting the park. Mount Rwenzori national park is located in western Uganda bordering Democratic Republic of Congo. Mountain Rwenzori is also known as the mountain of the moon and it is surely among the best birding destinations in Uganda. Apart from hiking Rwenzori national park, birdwatching is another amazing experience where you will catch the heights, discover breathtaking views, beautiful vegetation and wildlife that thrive in this area. Rwenzori national park is a home to over 217 bird species of which over 19 bird species are Albertine endemic to the park. Some of these bird species include; long eared owl, slender billed starling, blue headed sunbird, Rwenzori turaco, archer’s robin chat, white stared robin, lagden’s bush shrike, golden winged sunbird, cinnamon chested bee-eater. Other species of birds to encounter in Mount Rwenzori national park include; barred long-tail cuckoo, handsome francolin, Rwenzori batis, greenbul, strange weaver, flycatchers, and rare montane sooty boo-boo among others.
Rwenzori national park is a home to other wildlife forest elephants, Angola colobus monkeys, Rwenzori otters, chimpanzees, bushbucks, leopards to mention but a few. Mount Rwenzori National Park is a home to beautiful lakes for example Lake Mahoma, Lake Bujuku, Lake Kitandara among others and these lakes attract wildlife and birds as well.
Other activities to in Mount Rwenzori National Park
Mountain Rwenzori is the highest mountain in Uganda with its highest peak Mount Stanley being at 5,109 meters high. Hiking experience in Uganda is best done from Mountain Rwenzori where by standard hiking days are between 7 days and 8 days however depending on the hikers days can be more or less. To reach at the peak of Mount Stanley you will trek different trails but most importantly the trails lead to the summit. You will trail though Kilembe, Nyakalengija central circuit near Kasese and Kazingo trail which is near Fort-Portal. These trail all exhibit breathtaking views of the park and the surrounding environment. Mount Rwenzori national park was decaled a UNESCO World Heritage in 1994 and it known for its 6 peaks which all lie astride the Equator. The park is also famous for its breathtaking vegetation zones which include; heath, bamboo forests, montane forests, Afro-alpine moorland and Hagenia-rapine scrub.
Guided Nature Walks
This is done with a help of a local guide who is knowledgeable about the entire area. The guided nature walks are done along River Mobuku where you will catch beautiful scenery of Mount Baker and Margherita peak. You will cruise through birds, monkeys as you enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Community Walks
Community walk is another amazing activity that you can engage into while you visit Mount Rwenzori national park. This involves visiting Bakonzo people in their ordinary homes and communities, you will engage in different activities such as dancing, learning their history, visit traditional healers, taste their local food among other activities.
What is the best time to Visit Mount Rwenzori National Park?
You can visit Mount Rwenzori national park throughout the year however. However it is better to visit the park during dry season. Dry season starts from June to September and December to February. This is when the trails are dry enough and you can easily navigate the park. Additionally, during dry season the vegetation is thin therefore you can take a huge view of the park and the surrounding areas.
What to Carry for Birdwatching in Mount Rwenzori National Park?
For you to have a successful birdwatching experience in Mount Rwenzori, you need to equip yourself with the following items
- Good clear camera
- Back bag for carrying water for drinking
- Water jacket
- Hiking shoes
- Binoculars
- Insect repellent
