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.