Mabamba Shoebill Day Trips from Entebbe

Mabamba Shoebill Expeditions from Entebbe – A Boat Journey from Nakiwogo Landing Site

Mabamba Wetland, a picturesque swamp boasting a rich diversity of bird species, notably the iconic Shoebill Stork, beckons enthusiasts on day trips from Entebbe. This wetland, meticulously preserved by the local community, stands as a testament to their commitment to conservation. Visitors can embark on boat tours to Busi Island and guided expeditions, providing an opportunity to witness the majestic shoebill. The community extends its hospitality by supplying life jackets upon request, including child-sized jackets.

Boat Tour Exploration:

Embark on a captivating 3-hour boat tour facilitated by motorized traditional canoes, navigating the narrow channels of the expansive wetland. This immersive journey is dedicated to spotting the endangered shoebill stork and other rare avian inhabitants dwelling within the wetland.

Preserving the Shoebill Legacy:

The history of the shoebill stork reflects a continuous struggle to safeguard the remaining population of this prehistoric bird. Human activities have encroached upon its habitat, making Mabamba a crucial bastion for the protection of the shoebill in Uganda.

How to get to Mabamba Wetland from Entebbe:

Accessing Mabamba Wetland involves a boat ride from Nakiwogo ferry station, ferrying visitors to the island’s edge. Upon arrival, wetland guides accompany guests into the swamp, steering the exploration in pursuit of the elusive shoebill stork.

Optimal Shoebill Viewing Periods:

Shoebill sightings are more favorable during the dry seasons, spanning from June to October and December to February. Lower water levels during these periods reveal mud pools, attracting abundant mud and lung fish—prominent food sources for the shoebill stork.

Best Time for Shoebill Encounters:

Morning hours are deemed optimal for shoebill spotting, although afternoons have also yielded successful observations. However, the latter carries the risk of disturbance by local fishermen, making mornings the preferred timeframe for a tranquil shoebill encounter.

Accommodations Near Mabamba Swamp:

Nkima Forest Lodge:

Nkima Forest Lodge nestles within its own expanse of indigenous forest on Nansubuga hill, overlooking the Mabamba Wetlands. Constructed with minimal impact on the surrounding environment, this lodge is a haven for birding enthusiasts. Boat trips into the swamp are arranged from the nearby Mabamba landing site, providing opportunities to observe the Shoebill Stork and other avian wonders. The lodge’s forested domain is home to diverse bird species, Red-tailed monkeys, Vervet monkeys, butterflies, insects, and occasional mammalian sightings.

Pricing for Shoebill Trips from Entebbe to Mabamba:

• Solo Excursion (1 Pax): $100
  • Inclusions: Traditional motorized canoe boat, bird guide, and a smaller canoe for maneuvering the swamp in search of the shoebill.
• Dynamic Duo (2 Pax): $70 per person
  • Inclusions: Traditional motorized canoe boat, bird guide, and a smaller canoe for maneuvering the swamp in search of the shoebill.

Embark on an enchanting journey with Trek Africa Expeditions, where Mabamba Shoebill Day Trips unfold as immersive encounters with the wonders of nature.