Entebbe Eco Tour - Full Day (Private)
Active
9h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This full-day Entebbe eco-tour immerses you in Uganda’s wildlife, history, and nature. Begin with a canoe trip at Mabamba Wetland to spot the rare Shoebill Stork, Blue Swallow, and over 260 bird species. Visit the Uganda Reptile Village to encounter snakes, crocodiles, tortoises, and chameleons up close. Continue to the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre to see rescued elephants, chimpanzees, lions, and giraffes, with an optional behind-the-scenes experience. After a local lunch, explore Kigungu Historical Site, the birthplace of Uganda’s Catholic mission. Conclude at Entebbe Botanical Gardens, wandering among over 500 plant species and playful monkeys. Enjoy the serene lakeside setting and gentle breeze from Lake Victoria.
Available options
Inclusions
All budgets<br/>Duration: 9 hours: This tour starts at 08:30 Hours ending at 17:30 Hours daily<br/>Lunch & mineral water<br/>An air conditioned vehicle <br/>Photo coverage<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Admission fees per site visited
An English-speaking Driver-Guide
Ugandan lunch with a soft drink or mineral water
Mabamba Boat transfers and entrance fees
Shared transport in a 4WD Minibus plus fueling
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start off with Mabamba Wetland (Lake Victoria), a renowned Ramsar Site, for being home to endangered species like the Shoebill Stork and Blue Swallow, the wetland hosts over 260 bird species. Take a motorized canoe trip on Lake Victoria to reach the wetland, named by fishermen for the large lungfish, or “Mamba,” that inhabit the area — a favorite food of the shoebill!
Other notable birds include Pallid Harrier, Papyrus Gonolek, Swamp Flycatcher, Pygmy Goose, Lesser Jacana, Grosbeak Weaver, Palm-nut Vulture, Papyrus Canary, Malachite and Pied Kingfisher, Gull-billed Tern, Goliath Heron, and Egrets.
2
From the Shoebill visit Uganda Reptile Village – Located just 3 km off the Kampala–Entebbe Road, Uganda Reptile Village immerses visitors in the fascinating world of reptiles. Founded in 2002 by Yasin Kazibwe, the park promotes reptile conservation and education. See snakes such as Black Mamba, Jameson’s Mamba, Rock Pythons, Vipers, Egyptian and Forest Cobras, and Puff Adders, along with chameleons, tortoises, crocodiles, and monitor lizards. Visitors can even handle a Rock Python or tortoise. All visits support community development initiatives, combining adventure with impact.
3
Continue to Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre – Established in 1952, this center rescues and rehabilitates injured or orphaned wildlife. It is home to over 400 indigenous animals, 500 plant species, and 250+ bird species.
Enjoy close encounters with chimpanzees alongside expert keepers, as well as lions, tigers, and numerous grazers including the famous elephant “Charles”. Other residents include zebras, antelopes, monkeys, giraffes, cheetahs, rhinos, warthogs, and birds such as the African fish eagle.
4
After lunch,
Visit Kigungu Historical Site on the shores of Lake Victoria, where Uganda’s Catholic mission began. The first missionaries, Br. Amans, and Fr. Lourdel Maple, landed here on 17 February 1879. Highlights include the fishing village, Entebbe Airport runway, and lakeshore birdlife.
5
Conclude your day at Entebbe Botanical Gardens, Uganda’s first and oldest agricultural research site (est. 1898), spanning 40.7 hectares along 1.5 km of Lake Victoria shoreline. The gardens protect over 500 plant species, including indigenous and exotic fruits, medicinal plants, spices, ornamentals, timber, and wild crop relatives. Spot Red-tailed, Vervet, and Colobus monkeys moving freely among the trees, and support conservation efforts by adopting or planting a tree. With its serene atmosphere and the gentle breeze from Lake Victoria, the gardens provide a perfect climax to your Entebbe Eco Tour after a day of diverse explorations.
Afterward, relax as you are dropped off at your hotel or any preferred location in Entebbe, marking the end of a memorable day.
What's not included
Travel and medical insurance
Tips and gratuities plus personal expenses
Extra meals and drinks/beverage
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.1
7 reviews
5★
4
4★
1
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
9 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Kampala
Kampala, the capital and largest city of Uganda, is known for its vibrant culture, bustling markets, and lush surroundings. The city offers a mix of urban life and natural beauty, with numerous attractions and a rich history.
Top Attractions
Uganda Museum
The Uganda Museum offers a comprehensive look at the country's history, culture, and natural heritage. It houses a wide range of exhibits, including traditional artifacts, historical documents, and wildlife displays.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free-Budget
Baha'i Temple
The Baha'i Temple, also known as the Mother Temple of Africa, is a stunning architectural landmark and a place of worship for the Baha'i faith. Its beautiful gardens and serene atmosphere make it a popular spot for visitors.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Kampala Botanical Gardens
The Kampala Botanical Gardens is a lush oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a wide variety of plant species, walking paths, and picnic areas. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free-Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Matooke
A traditional dish made from mashed plantains, often served with meat or vegetables.
Main dish
Vegetarian option available
Rolex
A popular street food consisting of a rolled chapati filled with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat.
Snack
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Luwombo
A traditional dish where meat or fish is steamed in banana leaves with vegetables and spices.
Main dish
Vegetarian option available
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boating
Wildlife safaris
Spa treatments
Coffee shop visits
Gardens
Museum visits
Historical tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August, December to February
These months offer the best weather with lower rainfall and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
18-26°C
64-79°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Luganda, Swahili
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Ugandan Shilling (UGX)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Kampala is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution, especially at night and in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Entebbe International Airport • 35 km from city center
By bus
Kampala Bus Terminal, New Park Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable but can be crowded. Routes are numerous but may not be clearly marked.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, SafeBoda
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kololo
Nakasero
Kabalagala
Day trips
Lake Victoria
30 km from Kampala • Half day to full day
Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and offers a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
180 km from Kampala • Full day
The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a conservation area where visitors can see rhinos and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Murchison Falls National Park
300 km from Kampala • Overnight
Murchison Falls National Park is known for its stunning waterfalls and diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos.
Festivals
Uganda International Film Festival • November
Kampala City Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Uganda Museum early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Try local street food at Owino Market for an authentic experience
- Explore the Baha'i Temple during the early morning for a peaceful and serene atmosphere
- Use app-based taxis like Uber or SafeBoda for a safer and more convenient travel experience
- Book accommodations and tours in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
