This is a day visit to Mabamba Swamp, a serene wetland known for its rich birdlife. Discover Uganda’s bird diversity on this day tour of Mabamba Swamp and, optionally, visit the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Board a canoe and glide through the papyrus channels, keeping an eye out for the iconic Shoebill Stork, Blue Swallow, Pallid Harrier, Papyrus Gonolek, malachite kingfishers, herons, and other water birds. Enjoy the peaceful scenery and capture stunning photos while learning about bird behaviour and local ecosystems from your guide.
Our woman Tour Guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe at the agreed time and head to Nakiwogo landing site on Lake Victoria in Entebbe. You will take a one-hour boat ride to Mabamba swamp, which is located on the western shores of Lake Victoria. On arrival at Mabamba Swamp, you will board the canoe, which will slowly navigate for one hour through the narrow channels and papyrus-lined paths of the swamp, searching for the shoebill. The guide will assist in identifying the shoebill stork. Shoebill Observation: When a shoebill is spotted, the canoe will approach carefully to minimise disturbance. This is a rare opportunity to observe this iconic bird in its natural habitat, get nice pictures, and along the way, keep an eye out for other bird species like malachite kingfishers, African fish eagles, herons, and a variety of water fowls. After a successful birdwatching session, the boat will return to Nakiwogo and drive you back to your hotel.
Optionally, you can head to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, established in 1901. Stroll through the lush gardens, which cover forest, wetland, and open-country habitats. Spot a variety of bird species, including Great Blue and Ross’s Turacos, Kingfishers, Sunbirds (Red-chested, Superb, Collared), Cuckoos, Warblers, and sometimes Bat Hawk. Keep an eye out for monkeys, which are also commonly seen in the gardens. End of your Mabamba Swamp Birding Tour
Included in your Mabamba Swamp Birding Tour
- Boat / Canoe tour in Mabamba Swamp
- Entrance Fees to the swamp
- Guided tour in Entebbe Botanical Gardens
- Bird watching opportunities
- Photography opportunities
- Visit to the Botanical
What to carry/know before you go on your Mabamba Swamp Birding Tour
- Camera: Well-charged with enough memory for taking pictures of the rare Shoebill stork.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against strong lake sun.
- Protection against Rain/Wind: A waterproof rain jacket or poncho is essential for the boat ride and potential tropical showers.
- Insect Repellent: To protect against mosquitoes.
- Comfortable Clothing: Light clothes such as shorts and short-sleeved shirts are suitable for the tropical weather.
- Footwear: Comfortable, sturdy shoes.
- Daypack: A small backpack for carrying personal items.
- Binoculars: For bird watching or spotting Birds.
- Cash for buying souvenirs (local art and crafts).
Important Tips:
- No Flash Photography.
- Weather: The boat journey can be windy, so a light jacket or appropriate clothing
- Bring your own binoculars and camera for bird watching
- Insect repellent is recommended due to the swamp environment
