Herbert Byaruhanga, renowned as the Managing Director of Bird Uganda Safaris, LTD, stands as a prominent figure in the domain of East African Bird Guides. His company offers a captivating selection of birding and wildlife tours spanning Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and beyond. Herbert also holds a distinguished position as a leading field bird guide, offering expert guidance to birding and wildlife groups across the region.
Fondly known as “Papa,” Herbert plays a pivotal role in mentoring and empowering young individuals, particularly students, with a strong focus on women and youth development. With an extensive background exceeding 28 years in field guiding, Herbert is deeply committed to fostering professionalism within Uganda’s tourism sector.
His influence extends as a premier trainer for tourist guides, notably Bird Guides in East Africa, endorsed by BirdLife International as an Accredited Bird Guide Trainer. He has also contributed significantly to training numerous tour managers, directors, and regional governmental officials.
A staunch advocate for women in the tourism sector, Herbert founded the Women Birders Club in 2013. He spearheaded the organization of a successful International Conference for Women Birders, scheduled for December 6th – 8th, 2023 in Kampala, Uganda. His dedication to empowering girls through education and training stems from his own background as the eldest of six siblings.
Herbert’s commitment to regional tourism development has propelled him to leadership positions, including President of the Confederation of the Uganda Tourism Associations, Chairman of the Tourism and Hospitality Sector Skills Council, Secretary of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators, and a member of the Board of the East African Tourism Platform.
Beyond his leadership roles, Herbert has founded significant entities such as the Uganda Safari Guides Association, Uganda Bird Guides Club, and Uganda Cultural Guides Club. He also leads the organizing committee of the East African Tourist Guides Associations, actively shaping the future of tourism in the region.
A graduate in Tourism Management from Makerere University, Kampala, Herbert holds a high diploma in Tourism, accompanied by certifications in Tourist Guiding and Advanced Motoring. He is also an accredited Level 5 assessor and trainer of tourist guides.
A distinguished speaker, Herbert is highly sought-after at global travel events including the UK Bird Fair, World Travel Market, Space Coast Birding & Wildlife Festival (SCBWF), Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, South East Birding Festival Arizona, Bird Festival India, Colombia, Ecuador, Galapagos, Alaska, and more.
His American Birding Association area list boasts over 400 species, reflecting his extensive travels throughout the United States. Herbert’s unwavering belief in individual agency to shape destiny through actions and relationships drives his daily commitment to helping others achieve their goals on their transformative journey.
!