Mabamba Swamp Birdwatching

Activity Description

Mabamba Swamp, located 50km from Kampala, is a prime wetland birding site, best known for its spectacular Shoebill Stork sightings. The swamp, however, has a lot more to offer to the seasoned birder, with more than 300 bird species: Papyrus Gonolek, Swamp Flycatcher, Lesser Jacana, Purple Swamphen and African Pygmy Goose to name but a few.

The drive to Mabamba Swamp should take about an hour and a half depending on traffic. An early departure is recommended to avoid the worst of Kampala traffic, and will allow you to make the most of your time in the wetland.

Most of the time will be spent in a motorised canoe within the swamp/bay area, where an experienced boat crew will guide you through the numerous inlets, helping you identify the bird species within the swamp. If you have a specific bird you are looking for, please make sure the guide is aware, so that he can attempt to find it for you.

Once you have completed the boat trip, we recommend having lunch at Nkima Forest Lodge before returning to Kampala. This lodge is nestled in a fragment of indigenous forest close by and rewards the visitor with sweeping views over the wetland area. It also offers good chances of spotting the Great Blue Turaco and other forest birds, as well as Red-tailed monkeys whilst you wait for your lunch.

06:30Depart for Mabamba
After meeting at the Red Chilli reception, you will start on your journey west out of Kampala, towards Mabamba Swamp. The drive should take about an hour and a half, depending on traffic.

08:30Canoe boat trip
You will meet up with your bird guide and head out into the peaceful swamp in a motorised canoe, to search for the birds that you can find in the area this morning.

10:30Head out for lunch/return to Kampala
After the boat trip, you may opt to visit the beauty of Nkima Forest Lodge, just up the road and stop for lunch there. The cost for the meal would be around Ugx 40,000 per person. If you prefer however, you may head straight back to Kampala.