Embark on an unforgettable 2-days adventure exploring the famous Mabamba Swamp, renowned for its rare and prehistoric-looking Shoebill storks. This compact safari is ideal for birding enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a chance to encounter one of Africa’s most elusive birds in its natural habitat.
Trip Summary
The journey begins in Entebbe, where you’ll explore local birding hotspots like the Entebbe Botanical Gardens and the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC). The following day, you’ll venture into the heart of Mabamba Swamp for an immersive birding experience, searching for the iconic Shoebill and other vibrant bird species.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Birding in Entebbe
Morning: Pickup from Entebbe Airport or Your Hotel Start your safari with a warm welcome in Entebbe, where our guide will pick you up from the airport or your local hotel. Settle in and prepare for a day filled with fascinating bird watching.
Late Morning: Entebbe Botanical Gardens Your first destination is the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, a serene oasis sprawling over 40 hectares on the shores of Lake Victoria. As you stroll through lush landscapes, you’ll encounter a variety of bird species such as the orange weaver, verreaux’s eagle owl, and the African grey parrot. The botanical gardens offer not just a rich bird life but also a tranquil environment with colonial roots, providing a picturesque backdrop for nature walks.
Afternoon: Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) After lunch, proceed to the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, a sanctuary that blends wildlife conservation with education. UWEC is not just about birding; it offers a glimpse into the habitat of various native species. However, its avian residents are the main attraction, and you can expect to see birds like the marabou stork, hammerkop, and various waterfowl along the shorelines.
Evening: Relax at Your Hotel Return to your hotel in Entebbe for dinner and rest, gearing up for the next day’s early start and adventure in the Mabamba Swamp.
Day 2: Mabamba Swamp Shoebill Birding Experience and Departure
Early Morning: Departure to Mabamba Swamp An early start is essential as the morning hours offer the best opportunity to see the Shoebill stork. Depart from your hotel and head to the Mabamba Swamp, situated on the edge of Lake Victoria. This extensive wetland is accessible by a motorized canoe, which allows for a silent approach to better spot and observe the wildlife.
Morning: Canoe Trip and Bird Watching Navigate through narrow water pathways lined with papyrus and reeds. The tranquillity of the swamp coupled with the morning mist creates an almost surreal setting for bird watching. Alongside the Shoebill, keep an eye out for other species like the malachite kingfisher, papyrus gonolek, and the African jacana. The Shoebill’s towering presence and prehistoric appearance are the highlights of this excursion, making for an extraordinary encounter.
Noon: Lunch and Reflections After several hours in the swamp, return to solid ground for lunch. This is a great time to reflect on the morning’s sightings and discuss bird conservation with your guide.
Afternoon: Departure Post-lunch, you’ll be transferred back to Entebbe Airport or your hotel, marking the end of your short yet intense birding safari in the Mabamba Swamp.
This two-day safari is not only a chance to see one of the world’s most unusual birds but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Uganda’s rich natural tapestry, making it a perfect getaway for wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
