Mabamba Shoebill Private Tour from Entebbe or Kampala
Active
3h - 5h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Mabamba swamp tour offers a unique chance to track the legendary shoebill stork in its natural habitat. Choose your favourite departure either Kampala, Entebbe or directly head to the meeting point. Glide silently through vast swamps on a local canoe in silence, spotting countless other birds and wildlife.
More than 300 bird species grace the area, such as the papyrus gonolek, herons, ibis, kingfishers, sunbirds, and weaver birds. Guided by licensed local experts, tourists travel on boat rides through the swamp, gain profound insights into the bird inhabitants and the ecosystem that surrounds them. A chance to approach the birds in their wild untouched habitat with cameras, creating amazing opportunities for photography.
In just a few hours, you can create an amazing Ugandan experience with this genuine, low-impact excursion that is a birder's paradise and a tranquil getaway into a pristine wetland ecosystem.
Available options
Kampala pickup + Private Boat
Private tour<br/>Duration: 5 hours: This includes an official English speaking guide from the national park, river boat plus all permit.<br/>Drinking water<br/>Car + River boat: Transfer with car from Kampala take more than 1 hour subject to the traffic and road condition.
Private Boat Only
Private tour<br/>Duration: 3 hours: This includes an official English speaking guide from the national park, river boat plus all permit.<br/>Drinking water<br/>River boat: customer need to go our meeting point only.
Emtebbe pickup + Private Boat
Private tour<br/>Duration: 5 hours: This includes an official English speaking guide from the national park, river boat plus all permit.<br/>Drinking water<br/>Car + River boat: Transfer with car from Emtebbe take more than 25 minute subject to the traffic and road condition.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled drinking water
Life jackets
Boat transfer to Mabamba Swamp round trip
Docking and landing fee
Shoebill tracking experience
Hotel pick up and dropoff (if selected only)
Entry fee to Mabamba swamp
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your journey with a pickup from your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala at the scheduled time, those without a pick-up reservation must proceed to the meeting point as specified in the reservation. Head directly to the Nakiwogo landing site in Entebbe, embark on a boat ride to the Mabamba swamps national park in private, situated on the western shores of Lake Victoria.
2
Start the motorized canoe with a local guide, spend 2-3 hours navigating through the narrow canals while search out a variety of rare and exclusive local bird species. Next, head to the main starting point and switch to a smaller boat to seek out the shoebill stork. An official guide from the national park will on board and assist on spotting the shoebill stork, allowing for some great photo opportunities. Along the way, learn about the local nature insights and be sure keep an eyes for other bird species.
3
Stop 3
Upon ending a birdwatching adventure, the boat will return back to the original departure point, where it will either drop you off at your hotel or return at the first meeting point for those without transfer reservations.
What's not included
Personal expense
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The meeting will be to at the* Nakiwogo Ferry, Entebbe,* beside the river boat. pls take note need to come accordingly to the time before on board the boat to swamp, Your guide is familiar with your name and personal details, so no worries. If there are any changes, we will be sure to let you know.
Important notes
The customer's full name as it appears in their passport is all that is required to board the tour.
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
