1 Day Birding in Mabamba Wetland- Caracal Explorers

1 Day Birding in Mabamba Wetland

1 Day Birding in Mabamba Wetland: Mabamba Bay lies on the edge of Lake Victoria, northwest of the Entebbe peninsula. It covers a massive 16,500 hectares and is part of the list of Wetlands of International Importance as chosen by the Ramsar Convention. This wetland has grown into one of the most interesting and spectacular sites for bird watching in Uganda.

Besides a few African countries, such as Rwanda, Zambia, and South Sudan, with small portions of spotting the rare shoebill stork, Uganda’s Mabamba is the only place in Africa (and possibly the whole world) where the elusive shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) can be spotted at any time of the day. Additionally, approximately 38% of the global population of the blue swallow (Hirundo atrocaerulea) resides here, together with other birds of global conservation concern that also find refuge in this wetland. Rare plant species like Scadoxus can be found in this lush environment as well.

Highlights:

Shoebill Spotting:

Mabamba Swamp is renowned for its shoebill storks, one of the rarest and most captivating bird species. You will embark on a traditional canoe ride through the undisturbed wetland swamp’s narrow water channels, surrounded by dense papyrus and lush flora. Keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent Shoebill Stork, along with other swamp subjects like the Saddle-billed Stork, African Jacana, and Papyrus Yellow Warbler.

Mpanga Central Forest reserve

Detailed Itinerary:

1 Day Birding in Mabamba Wetland Tour

In order to beat the traffic, our driver guide will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel or accommodation in Kampala or Entebbe. Then drive southwards approximately one hour via the Nakawuka–Kasanje road to reach Mabamba Wetland Bay on Lake Victoria. At Mabamba, you will join a local guide for a traditional canoe ride as you paddle through the papyrus, exploring the narrow water channels in search of the elusive shoebill stork and other fascinating bird species. To provide guidance on the potential locations of the various unique bird species in this region, a site guide from the Mabamba area will accompany the team.

There are plenty of chances for you to witness different bird species in the area, including wintertime migratory birds from Europe. Beyond the Shoebill, some more bird species to watch out for are; Angola Swallow, Swamp Flycatcher, Grey-rumped Swallow, Olive-bellied Sunbird, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, African Fish Eagle, African Jacana, Long-tailed Cormorant, Glossy Ibis, Yellow-billed Duck, Malachite Kingfisher, Spur-winged Lapwing, Black-winged Stilt, Madagascar Bee-eater, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Sooty Chat, Wayne’s weaver, Grosbeak weaver, White-winged Tern, Hamerkop, White-faced Whistling-Duck, Spur-winged Goose, Knob-billed Duck, Little Stint, Great Cormorant, Grey-headed Gull, among others.

Mpanga Forest Exploration:

We will proceed to the Mpanga Central Forest Reserve after that. Take a stroll in the peaceful beauty of the woodland. See a variety of birds and maybe even some fun monkeys. We will take you on a wildlife walk at Mpanga Central Forest Reserve following your Mabamba trip. Anticipate seeing unusual bird species and other amazing animals. Amidst the native African big trees, keep an eye out for black and white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and stunning butterflies.

Return to Kampala or Entebbe:

After an enriching day of birding, we will return to your starting point in Kampala or Entebbe. You can pause at different locations to see additional species that you may have missed en route. Remember, this tour offers an incredible opportunity to witness Uganda’s birdlife diversity and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Mabamba Swamp. Following your encounter with Uganda’s avian inhabitants, you will return to your lodge.

End of Tour

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