Birding in the Royal Mile Budongo Forest Reserve

The Royal Mile is a historical site found within Budongo Forest, one of Africa’s oldest tropical rainforests. This section of the forest is among the three main sectors, alongside Busingiro and Kaniyo-Pabidi. Covering about 739 square kilometers, Budongo Forest is a haven for typical forest species and an excellent destination for birders.

The Royal Mile earned its name because a former king of Bunyoro Kingdom once used this stretch of forest while fleeing from British forces. Today, it has become a paradise for bird lovers, offering spectacular birding opportunities in one of Uganda’s most pristine habitats.

Rich Biodiversity of the Royal Mile

The forest canopy along the Royal Mile is breathtaking. Over 350 different tree species thrive here, including two endangered mahogany species—Khaya senegalensis and Khaya anthotheca. Birders can also spot more than 240 bird species and about 20 mammal species. This combination of biodiversity makes the Royal Mile one of the finest birding spots in East Africa.

The Famous Budongo “Big 5” Birds

The Royal Mile is renowned for the “Budongo 5,” which include:

• Chocolate-backed Kingfisher
• Ituri Batis
• African Dwarf Kingfisher
• Chestnut-capped Flycatcher
• Blue-breasted Kingfisher

In addition, rare and sought-after species such as Nahan’s Partridge, Grey Ground Thrush, and Black-eared Ground Thrush reward patient birders.

Other Wildlife Encounters

Besides birds, visitors often encounter chimpanzees, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and even tree hyraxes along the Royal Mile. While Kibale National Park offers a more specialized chimpanzee trekking experience, Budongo provides unique long-distance views of these primates in their natural environment.

Forest Structure and Climate

Budongo Forest is a moist, medium-altitude, semi-deciduous forest interspersed with patches of savannah and woodland. Four streams—Waisoke, Sonso, Kamirambwa, and Siba—flow through the forest and drain into Lake Albert.

The forest receives annual rainfall ranging between 1,200 and 2,200 mm. The wet seasons fall between March–May and September–November, while the dry season stretches from December–February. These seasonal variations influence birding activity and sightings.

Historical Significance and Conservation

Budongo Forest has played an important role in both history and research. The Royal Mile became famous not only for its ties to the Bunyoro Kingdom but also as a research hub for primatologists. Vernon Reynolds began studying chimpanzees here in 1962, placing Budongo alongside other globally recognized chimpanzee research sites.

During the turbulent 1970s and 1980s, the forest faced severe challenges, including poaching and habitat encroachment. However, conservation efforts since the 1990s have allowed chimpanzee populations to recover, with numbers steadily increasing due to migration from nearby forests.

Community Benefits

The Royal Mile also supports local communities. Birding tours create employment opportunities for residents, while conservation initiatives encourage tree planting around the forest. Visitors can see pine, musizi, and eucalyptus trees planted near the forest gate, reflecting ongoing community-led reforestation.

Wildlife Summary in Budongo Forest

• Birds: Over 360 species
• Butterflies: About 290 species
• Moths: Around 130 species
• Trees: Over 465 species
• Mammals: 24 species, including 9 primates

These figures highlight Budongo’s ecological importance and reinforce why it is one of the best birding destinations in Africa.

Getting to Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest lies approximately 300 kilometers northwest of Kampala. The drive from Kampala takes about four hours, making it accessible for road trips. Alternatively, travelers can fly from Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park, followed by a short drive to the forest reserve.

Best Time for Birding in the Royal Mile

The best time for birding in Budongo Forest is during the dry seasons (December–February and June–August), when trails are easier to navigate and bird activity is high. However, serious birders can still enjoy rewarding sightings in the wetter months, especially since forest birds are resident year-round.