A DAY TRIP TO MABAMBA SHOEBILL
Trip itinerary
This one-day birding trip to Mabamba swamp and Mpanga forest covers two well-known Ugandan birding spots that are also some of the most accessible from Kampala and Entebbe. Mabamba Swamp is situated on the northern shore of Lake Victoria, west of Entebbe. It is a Ramsar Site and an Important Bird Area (IBA), with over 300 species recorded here.
The wetland has proved to be the most reliable place (natural habitat) to see the Shoebill, Uganda’s most sought-after bird. Early birding at Mabamba – Looking for the Shoebill and papyrus specialties
A DETAILED ITINERARY FOR YOUR 1 DAY MABAMBA SWAMP
Very early in the morning after having breakfast your guide will drive you for your birding tour to Mabamba. On your journey you will pass through cultivated lands, bushlands, small swamps, and settlements. Hence by the time you get to Mabamba wetlands, you will have recorded quite several birds along the way.
On arrival at the Mabamba you start by birding the fringes of the wetland before getting into a motorized dugout canoe/boat and going out into the dense papyrus to look for the Shoebill and other papyrus specialists such as the Papyrus Gonolek, African Jacana, Swamp Flycatcher, and White-winged Swamp Warbler. The swamp is even more productive from September to May when it hosts large colonies of Palearctic migrants.
In the late afternoon you can decide to visit Bussi Island where you can interact with the local fishermen learn more about fishing and many more. In the late evening you will return to your lodge in Entebbe, dinner and overnight stay.
THINGS TO CARRY WHILE ON YOUR SAFARI
Hat and sunscreen
Insect repellent
Camera and batteries
A rain jacket or poncho in case of a downpour while in the swamp
Walking boots or sneakers
A pair of binoculars
TOUR INCLUSIONS
Pick up and drop at your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe
A professional birding guide
Access fees
A boat trip at Mabamba swamp
Bottled drinking water and lunch
TOUR EXCLUSIONS
Optional/extra activities
Tips
Personal insurance
All personal expenses such as laundry, phone bills, curio purchases