Mabamba Shoebill Bird Watching

Your day begins with a 6:00 AM pickup from your hotel or place of stay in Kampala or Entebbe, followed by a scenic one-hour drive north to Mabamba in Buwaya. The highlight of the day is the legendary Shoebill, a prehistoric-looking bird whose enormous shoe-shaped bill and piercing yellow eyes make it one of the most sought-after species for birdwatchers worldwide.

Birding in Mabamba takes place from a large canoe, expertly paddled by a local guide, allowing you to navigate the narrow papyrus channels quietly and closely. Early mornings are ideal for sightings, as the Shoebill is usually hunting, providing unforgettable opportunities for close-up observations and photography.

While searching for this iconic bird, you will also have the chance to spot a rich variety of wetland species, including the Papyrus Gonolek, African Fish Eagle, African Marsh Harrier, Black-winged Kite, Lizard Buzzard, African and Lesser Jacana, African Pygmy Goose, Black Heron, Blue Swallow, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Greater and White-winged Swamp Warbler, Marsh Tchagra, Blue-headed Coucal, Carruther’s Cisticola, Swamp Flycatcher, Malachite Kingfisher, African Pygmy Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, as well as numerous herons, egrets, and other waterfowl.

For those wishing to extend their birding adventure, an optional walk in Nkima Forest is available. Located just two kilometers from Mabamba Swamp, this small but species-rich forest sits atop a hill overlooking the wetlands and can be explored on foot in about 20 minutes or by a short three-minute drive. 

Despite its modest size, Nkima Forest offers sightings of several forest-special birds, including the elusive White-tailed Flufftail, which often responds to calls for brief but remarkable views. 

In addition to birds, the forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys (from which the forest gets its name, “Nkima”), bush babies, and squirrels. Labeled trees provide visitors with fascinating insights into Uganda’s unique flora, making Nkima Forest both a wildlife and educational experience.