Just an hour from Entebbe lies one of the best places on earth to see the prehistoric-looking shoebill. A canoe ride through the wetlands offers incredible birding and serene landscapes.
Mabamba Swamp, a Ramsar-protected wetland on the shores of Lake Victoria, is globally renowned as one of the top spots to spot the elusive shoebill stork (Balaeniceps rex). This prehistoric-looking bird, with its massive shoe-shaped bill, stands up to 5 feet tall and is classified as Vulnerable. Mabamba offers a 95%+ success rate for sightings, making it ideal for birders arriving or departing via Entebbe Airport.
Beyond the shoebill, the swamp hosts over 300 bird species, including papyrus gonolek, blue swallow, and malachite kingfisher, plus sitatunga antelope in the marshes.
Half-day canoe tours (3-5 hours) typically cost $100-200 USD per person (lower in larger groups, e.g., $100-120 for 4-6 people; higher for solo/private). Includes transport from Entebbe/Kampala, local guide, and motorized/traditional canoe.
Book through a reputable operator for convenience – community guides ensure sustainable tourism and high sighting success.
Dry seasons provide easier navigation and higher activity: June to September and December to February. Lower water levels make channels accessible, and mornings (start 7 AM) are prime when birds are feeding.
Year-round sightings possible, but wet seasons (March-May, October-November) may have higher water and rain.
Tours start early from Entebbe. Transfer to the landing site, then paddle quietly through narrow papyrus channels in a traditional canoe with an expert local guide.
Guides communicate via radio for quick location of shoebills. Observe from a respectful distance as they stand motionless or hunt lungfish. Expect serene wetlands, diverse birds, and possible sitatunga sightings.
Success rate: Extremely high – often within 1-2 hours.
Stay quiet and patient – shoebills are shy. Use binoculars for distant views.
Early morning tours maximize chances. Hire local community guides to support conservation.
Moderate fitness needed for boarding canoes; no strenuous hiking.
Pack light for the canoe:
Perfect as a day trip or airport add-on. Combine with Entebbe Botanical Gardens or Uganda Wildlife Center.
Your visit supports local communities and shoebill conservation. Prepare for a magical, tranquil encounter with this ancient bird!