Some of the top butterfly sites in all of East Africa can be visited all year, with high hopes to see over 1,200 butterfly species, of which it is possible to find about two-thirds in the hotspots visited. Since most of the butterflies are sexually dimorphic and have undersides that are just as dramatic and colourful as their uppersides, there are a lot of opportunities for photography. Chances are, you would likely see over 50 species on a daylong tour. Easily approached for photography, the majority are big, ostentatious butterflies. Numerous amazing foresters, gliders, pansies, soldiers, charaxes, fairy hairstreaks, swallowtails, kites, sailors, beaks, and much more can be seen. So make your booking arrangements with us now!
Our Top Highlights
Pseudacraea boisduvali: Commonly known as Boisduval’s false acraea: This butterfly species is abundant in Uganda. It belongs to the Nymphalidae family, and it is characterized by its striking orange and black wing pattern. This species is often seen in forested habitats and plays a role in pollination and the ecosystem.
Pseudacraea clarkii, commonly known as Clark’s False Acraea, is a striking butterfly species found in Uganda. It belongs to the Afro-tropical region and is often spotted during butterfly safaris. This species is known for its vibrant colors and intricate wing patterns, making it a captivating sight for nature enthusiasts in Uganda’s rich biodiversity.
Papilio dardanus, the African Swallowtail butterfly in Uganda, is known for its striking polymorphic appearance. Its wing patterns vary, mimicking toxic species for protection. These adaptable butterflies are commonly found in diverse habitats across Uganda, showcasing nature’s remarkable mimicry and adaptation strategies.
Papilio phorcas, commonly known as the apple-green swallowtail, is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It is characterized by its striking applegreen wings with black markings, and it belongs to the Papilionidae family. This species is known for its vibrant appearance and is often seen fluttering gracefully in Ugandan forests and gardens.
Papilio mechowi, commonly known as Mechow’s Swallowtail, is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It boasts striking black and white wings with a distinctive red stripe. This species inhabits lush forests and is known for its elegant flight patterns. Its larvae feed on specific host plants, contributing to local biodiversity.
Palla ussheri, commonly known as Ussher’s Palla, is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It belongs to the Nymphalidae family and is known for its striking appearance, characterized by vibrant orange and black markings on its wings. This butterfly is part of Uganda’s rich biodiversity, contributing to the country’s diverse ecosystem.
Kallimoides rumia, commonly known as the African leaf butterfly, is a distinctive butterfly species found in Uganda. It exhibits striking leaf-like wing patterns, helping it blend seamlessly with foliage. This camouflage is a survival tactic against predators, making it a fascinating example of nature’s mimicry and adaptation in Uganda’s diverse butterfly population.
Euxanthe eurinome, commonly known as the Common Forest Queen butterfly in Uganda, is a striking insect characterized by its vibrant iridescent blue wings with black borders. It thrives in the lush forests of Uganda, where it flits gracefully among the trees, adding to the region’s rich biodiversity.
Euptera elabontas, commonly known as the Elabontas White, is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It belongs to the Euptera genus and is recognized for its striking white wings with delicate black markings. This butterfly inhabits various habitats in Uganda and is often admired for its graceful appearance in the country’s diverse ecosystems.
Euphaedra ruspina, commonly known as the Common Orange Forest butterfly, is native to Uganda. This species features vibrant orange wings with distinctive black markings. It inhabits forested regions, where it flutters gracefully among lush vegetation. Euphaedra ruspina is an enchanting butterfly species, adding a splash of color to Uganda’s rich biodiversity.
Euphaedra imitans, commonly known as the Equatorial Mimic Forester butterfly in Uganda, is a striking species. It exhibits remarkable mimicry, resembling toxic butterflies to deter predators. Its wings feature intricate patterns with vibrant colors, serving as a survival strategy in the lush equatorial forests of Uganda.
Euphaedra christyi butterfly, commonly found in Uganda, is a striking species with deep black wings adorned with iridescent blue and white spots. It belongs to the Nymphalidae family and inhabits forested regions. This butterfly is known for its elegant appearance and is often sought after by butterfly enthusiasts and collectors.
Cymothoe hobarti, commonly known as Hobart’s red glider, is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It belongs to the Nymphalidae family and is known for its striking red and black wing patterns. This butterfly is often seen gliding gracefully through the lush forests of Uganda, adding vibrant beauty to its natural surroundings.
Coeliades hanno, commonly known as the “Three-pip Policeman,” is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It belongs to the Hesperiidae family and is characterized by its small size and distinct three white spots on its forewings, resembling police badges. These butterflies are often spotted in savannah and woodland habitats across Uganda.
Coeliades chalybe, commonly known as the Black-patched Orange, is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It belongs to the Hesperiidae family. This butterfly is characterized by its striking orange wings with distinctive black patches. It inhabits open woodland and savannah environments, often seen feeding on nectar from various flowers in the region.
Charaxes zingha, commonly known as the Shining Red Charaxes, is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It exhibits vibrant red hues on its wings, making it visually striking. This butterfly is part of the Charaxinae subfamily and is known for its graceful flight and distinctive coloration, adding beauty to Uganda’s biodiversity.
Charaxes subornatus, commonly known as the Ornate Green Charaxes, is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It boasts striking green wings adorned with intricate patterns, making it a visually captivating insect. This butterfly is a testament to the diverse and colorful wildlife that inhabits Uganda’s rich and vibrant ecosystems.
Charaxes pleione, commonly known as the Common Orange Charaxes, is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It is characterized by striking orange wings with black markings and a wingspan of around 80-90 mm. These butterflies inhabit forested areas and feed on nectar. They are known for their vibrant appearance and play a vital role in pollination.
Charaxes brutus, commonly known as the White-barred Emperor, is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It features striking black wings adorned with white bands and orange spots. This species belongs to the Nymphalidae family and is known for its elegant and distinctive appearance, making it a fascinating sight in Uganda’s rich biodiversity.
Dusky Friar (Amauris tartarea) is a butterfly species found in Uganda. It features dusky brown wings with subtle patterns and a moderate wingspan. This butterfly is often associated with forested habitats and exhibits graceful flight patterns. Its presence adds to the rich biodiversity of Uganda’s tropical ecosystems.
Day by Day Exploration: Unraveling Uganda’s Butterfly Wonderland.
Day 1-3: Zika Forest.
Embarking on the safari to Zika sets the tone for the exploration. The lush surroundings offer a glimpse into the diverse butterfly species, with the Papilio Hesperus, Central Emperor Swallowtail, and Narrow Blue Banded Swallowtail making appearances. The forest becomes a canvas for the Noble Swallowtail, Blue Monarch, and the elusive Small Striped Swordtail.
Day 4-8: Bigodi Wetland and Kibale Forest.
The journey continues to Bigodi, where a full day of butterfly and birding activities unfolds. Kibale Forest reveals its treasures, showcasing the Angolan White Lady, Long-tailed Admiral, and the Common Grass Yellow. The forest floor teems with activity as butterflies like Bicyclus italus, Bicyclus dorothea, and Ornate Green Charaxes engage in their natural habitat.
Day 9-12: Kalinzu Forest.
Kalinzu emerges as a butterfly haven, with some of the most varied species encountered during the trip. The exploration unfolds as the kaleidoscope of colors continues to dazzle, providing a rich experience for butterfly enthusiasts.
Day 13-14: Mpanga Forest.
The journey concludes with a transfer to Mpanga Forest, offering a final opportunity to encounter the elusive butterflies unique to this beautiful forest. Piloduedorix Baginei, Orange Forester, and the endemic Euphaedra Ugandae take center stage, providing a fitting finale to the butterfly safari.