
Mabamba Swamp is internationally renowned for its bird diversity. The wetland is a Ramsar Site, designated as a Wetland of International Importance, and is famous for being one of the best places in Uganda to spot the iconic and elusive shoebill stork. With its prehistoric appearance and distinctive shoe-shaped bill, the shoebill is a must-see for birdwatchers.
Apart from the shoebill, Mabamba Swamp is home to over 300 species of birds. These include:
Whether you’re an avid birder looking to tick off a few species from your list or a nature lover keen to explore Uganda’s hidden treasures, a visit to Mabamba Swamp is an experience like no other.
With Musana Tours and Travel, we ensure that your visit to Mabamba Swamp is seamless, educational, and exciting. Here’s what you can expect on one of our guided tours:
Birdwatching is most fruitful early in the morning when the birds are most active. Our tours typically begin with an early departure from Kampala or Entebbe. Our experienced guides will pick you up and drive you to Mabamba, located about 50 km west of Entebbe.
The best way to explore the swamp is by a traditional canoe. These wooden boats glide smoothly through the narrow water channels, allowing you to get up close to the birds without disturbing their natural habitat. Our guides are knowledgeable about the bird species and the best spots to catch a glimpse of the elusive shoebill stork.
Mabamba Swamp is not just about birds. As you navigate through the swamp, you may encounter various other wildlife, such as:
Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the ecosystem, pointing out interesting facts about the flora and fauna that call this swamp home.
After a few hours of birdwatching, we’ll arrange a stop at a local restaurant for a delicious Ugandan meal. Savor traditional dishes while soaking in the serene atmosphere, surrounded by nature.
Following lunch, we’ll embark on the return journey to Kampala or Entebbe. The entire tour typically lasts half a day, but we can customize the experience to fit your schedule or interests.
The shoebill stork is without a doubt the star of Mabamba Swamp. Standing at around 1.5 meters tall with a wingspan that can reach up to 2.5 meters, the shoebill cuts an imposing figure. Despite its large size, it moves quietly through the swamp, patiently waiting to strike at fish or other prey. The bird's prehistoric features and slow, deliberate movements make spotting one feel like you've stepped back in time.
At Musana Tours and Travel, we know the best spots where shoebills are most likely to be seen. Our guides have a keen eye and years of experience tracking these birds, giving you the best chance of observing them in their natural environment.
Mabamba Swamp is not only a treasure trove for birdwatchers but also a critical habitat for the survival of several species. However, like many natural habitats, it faces threats from human activities such as agriculture, fishing, and development. The local community, in partnership with conservation organizations, works hard to preserve this wetland for future generations.
When you book a tour with Musana Tours and Travel, you contribute to these conservation efforts. Part of the proceeds from our tours goes toward supporting local initiatives aimed at protecting the swamp's ecosystem. By visiting Mabamba, you're not only enjoying a unique travel experience but also helping to conserve Uganda's natural heritage.
To make the most of your visit to Mabamba Swamp, here are a few helpful tips:
Booking a tour to Mabamba Swamp with Musana Tours and Travel is simple and convenient. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, we can tailor the experience to suit your needs. To book:
We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
At Musana Tours and Travel, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality, personalized travel experiences. Our experienced guides are passionate about sharing Uganda’s natural wonders with visitors. We take care of every detail, from transport to meals, ensuring that you have a hassle-free adventure. Plus, by choosing us, you support responsible tourism that benefits local communities and protects precious ecosystems like Mabamba Swamp.
A trip to Mabamba Swamp with Musana Tours and Travel is more than just a birdwatching tour, it's an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about Uganda’s rich biodiversity, and support vital conservation efforts. Whether you're a birding enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat into nature, Mabamba Swamp offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Book your tour today and get ready to discover the hidden beauty of Uganda's wetlands!
Mabamba Swamp is internationally renowned for its bird diversity. The wetland is a Ramsar Site, designated as a Wetland of International Importance, and is famous for being one of the best places in Uganda to spot the iconic and elusive shoebill stork. With its prehistoric appearance and distinctive shoe-shaped bill, the shoebill is a must-see for birdwatchers.
Apart from the shoebill, Mabamba Swamp is home to over 300 species of birds. These include:
Whether you’re an avid birder looking to tick off a few species from your list or a nature lover keen to explore Uganda’s hidden treasures, a visit to Mabamba Swamp is an experience like no other.
With Musana Tours and Travel, we ensure that your visit to Mabamba Swamp is seamless, educational, and exciting. Here’s what you can expect on one of our guided tours:
Birdwatching is most fruitful early in the morning when the birds are most active. Our tours typically begin with an early departure from Kampala or Entebbe. Our experienced guides will pick you up and drive you to Mabamba, located about 50 km west of Entebbe.
The best way to explore the swamp is by a traditional canoe. These wooden boats glide smoothly through the narrow water channels, allowing you to get up close to the birds without disturbing their natural habitat. Our guides are knowledgeable about the bird species and the best spots to catch a glimpse of the elusive shoebill stork.
Mabamba Swamp is not just about birds. As you navigate through the swamp, you may encounter various other wildlife, such as:
Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the ecosystem, pointing out interesting facts about the flora and fauna that call this swamp home.
After a few hours of birdwatching, we’ll arrange a stop at a local restaurant for a delicious Ugandan meal. Savor traditional dishes while soaking in the serene atmosphere, surrounded by nature.
Following lunch, we’ll embark on the return journey to Kampala or Entebbe. The entire tour typically lasts half a day, but we can customize the experience to fit your schedule or interests.
The shoebill stork is without a doubt the star of Mabamba Swamp. Standing at around 1.5 meters tall with a wingspan that can reach up to 2.5 meters, the shoebill cuts an imposing figure. Despite its large size, it moves quietly through the swamp, patiently waiting to strike at fish or other prey. The bird's prehistoric features and slow, deliberate movements make spotting one feel like you've stepped back in time.
At Musana Tours and Travel, we know the best spots where shoebills are most likely to be seen. Our guides have a keen eye and years of experience tracking these birds, giving you the best chance of observing them in their natural environment.
Mabamba Swamp is not only a treasure trove for birdwatchers but also a critical habitat for the survival of several species. However, like many natural habitats, it faces threats from human activities such as agriculture, fishing, and development. The local community, in partnership with conservation organizations, works hard to preserve this wetland for future generations.
When you book a tour with Musana Tours and Travel, you contribute to these conservation efforts. Part of the proceeds from our tours goes toward supporting local initiatives aimed at protecting the swamp's ecosystem. By visiting Mabamba, you're not only enjoying a unique travel experience but also helping to conserve Uganda's natural heritage.
To make the most of your visit to Mabamba Swamp, here are a few helpful tips:
Booking a tour to Mabamba Swamp with Musana Tours and Travel is simple and convenient. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, we can tailor the experience to suit your needs. To book:
We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
At Musana Tours and Travel, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality, personalized travel experiences. Our experienced guides are passionate about sharing Uganda’s natural wonders with visitors. We take care of every detail, from transport to meals, ensuring that you have a hassle-free adventure. Plus, by choosing us, you support responsible tourism that benefits local communities and protects precious ecosystems like Mabamba Swamp.
A trip to Mabamba Swamp with Musana Tours and Travel is more than just a birdwatching tour, it's an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about Uganda’s rich biodiversity, and support vital conservation efforts. Whether you're a birding enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat into nature, Mabamba Swamp offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Book your tour today and get ready to discover the hidden beauty of Uganda's wetlands!




20% of the park's entrance fee is used to fund local community projects such as building clinics and schools. Lake Mburo National Park is a compact gem, located conveniently close to the highway that connects Kampala to the parks of western Uganda.
Read more
Pian Upe Game Reserve is a highly desired tourist destination located in the Karamoja region of northeastern Uganda. This expansive reserve covers an area of approximately 2,788 square kilometers, making it the second-largest protected area in the country.
Read more
Kidepo Valley National Park lies in the rugged, semi-arid valleys between Uganda's borders with Sudan and Kenya, some 700kilometers from Kampala.
Read more
Discover birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park on a 7-day guided safari. Spot shoebills, pelicans & raptors with Musana Tours & Travel.
Read more
Gorilla trekking vs chimpanzee tracking in Uganda—compare experiences, costs, and best parks to choose the perfect primate safari adventure.
Read more
Discover the best time to visit Uganda for wildlife, from gorilla trekking to savannah safaris, with expert seasonal insights from Musana Tours & Travel.
Read moreSubscribe to our newsletter to receive news, updates, free stuff and new releases by email.
© 2021 - 2026 Musana Tours and Travel All Rights Reserved
Designed & Maintained by Kaju Matic