Mabamba Swamp

Mabamba Swamp | You raise your binoculars as a stir in the reeds draws your attention. The papyrus suddenly separates to show a pile of grey feathers. You avert your binoculars as a prehistoric mammoth appears in front of you. The Shoebill extends its 8-foot wingspan to greet you as you enter its swamp.

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Introduction to Mabamba Swamp.

Just 12 km west of Entebbe, on the northern shore of Lake Victoria, is Mabamba Swamp.

Both birders and non-birders will be entranced by Mabamba. The marsh is the most significant birding location in Uganda and is home to more than 300 bird species.

Mabamba is a region of enormous ecological significance. Mabamba Swamp was designated a “Wetland of International Importance” by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2006 due to the presence of species that are endangered worldwide.

The Mabamba Swamp is recognized by Bird Life International as an Important Bird Area (IBA).

The Shoebill.

The Mabamba Swamp is Uganda’s best bet for intrepid travelers hoping to spot the enigmatic Shoebill. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Shoebill is in a vulnerable state.

The lungfish that live in the swamp’s waters and are a staple of the Shoebills’ diet gave the area its name. Due of the dependence of the local fishermen on the lungfish, some of them killed Shoebills and destroyed their nests.

However, the Shoebill and fishing communities have formed a cooperation thanks to the IUCN. The conservation effort gave local residents the ability to earn money by offering excursions to tourists.

The Mabamba Wetland Eco-Tourism Association presently employs these guides. They impart their expertise on the swamp, and a portion of the money they make from the trips is put back into initiatives to preserve the Shoebill.

Birding in Mabamba Swamp.

Early in the day is when you have the best chance of seeing the Shoebill.

In a traditional canoe, navigate the canals of the swamp while learning about the intricate environment from your guide.

The African marsh harrier, the glossy ibis, and the long-toed lapwing are just a few of the magnificent birds that can be found at Mabamba.

Getting to Mabamba Swamp.

You can reach the village of Mabamba from Entebbe after an hour-long drive. A native boatman will transport you there in dugout canoes.

When you have a few hours between flights, this delightful half-day tour is ideal.

You can also cross Lake Victoria by boat to get to Mabamba. You have more time to see the stunning birds on the lovely route.

The trip takes around an hour to complete by car from Kampala through Nakawuka-Kasanje.

Where to stay around in Mabamba Swamp.

The Protea Hotel Entebbe.

The Protea Hotel Entebbe is a five-star luxury resort hotel that makes a wonderful home base for your explorations of Mabamba Swamp.

Tilapia and Nile perch are two of the restaurant’s specialty dishes, and it offers a delectable à la carte menu.

The Tides Spa offers a variety of cosmetic and massage services, and the fitness center is available twenty-four hours a day. At the conclusion of your trip to Uganda, it is the ideal location for relaxation.

Karibu Guest house.

Our favorite guesthouse in Entebbe is The Karibu Guesthouse, one of the city’s charming little inns. Only ten minutes separate the quaint boutique hotel, which was formerly a presidential mansion, from Entebbe International Airport.

The hardworking crew at Karibu goes above and beyond to give each customer a customized experience.

The hotel provides custom accommodations, and each of its eight en suite rooms is individually designed. The main house makes the most of its beautiful surroundings, and each of its rooms has a breathtaking view of the sapphire waters of Lake Victoria.

The Boma Hotel.

The Boma offers a warm and welcoming welcome, comfortable rooms, a wonderful garden, and good dining. It is located in a green neighborhood. The lodging combines contemporary comforts with the allure of 1940s design.

The Boma will be ideal for you if you enjoy staying in intimate lodges while on safari. The team offers excellent customer service and can arrange your airport transportation.