Bird watching in Mabamba Wetland offers one of the most convenient, yet adventurous birding experiences in Uganda. The wetland lies northwest of the Entebbe Peninsula, about 50 kilometers from Kampala and it is renowned for its rich birdlife and is particularly famous for being one of the best places to spot the elusive Shoebill stork.
Listed as a Ramsar site of worldwide significance, the wetland hosts over 260 recorded bird species and is the only swamp near the capital city where tourists may view the famous Shoebill stork. Popular among bird watchers, the shoebill stork is well known for its iconic appearance and massive size and is often limited to wetlands there is plenty of lungfish for fish. Mabamba wetland is also part of the wetland system that contains around 38% of the global population of the Blue Swallow, as well as the elusive Papyrus Yellow Warbler, making it one of Uganda’s 33 Important Birding Areas.
Besides such iconic species, the Mabamba wetland also offers sightings of species such as the African Jacana, Malachite Kingfisher, African Fish Eagle, Yellow-billed Ducks, Goliath Heron, Papyrus Gonolek, Black Crake, and an array of Palearctic migrants from November to April. Mabamba’s diverse habitats sustain a rich birdlife, making each bird-watching excursion a rewarding and memorable experience for enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Getting to Mabamba Wetland
Mabamba wetland can be accessed via different routes via Kampala and Entebbe, depending on where you are. Regardless, the wetland is easily accessed via Entebbe’s Nakiwogo landing site, where you will take a 10-minute ferry or boat to the Kasanje landing site. From Kasanje, it’s a straightforward 20-minute drive to Mabamba Wetland. Along this route, you’ll pass through attractive plantations and open fields, providing opportunities to spot various bird species, making your journey to Mabamba a scenic experience.
The Shoebill Stork in Mabamba Wetland
The Shoebill stork, an iconic and fascinating bird species, is a significant highlight of birdwatching expeditions in Mabamba Wetland. The Shoebill stork, scientifically known as Balaeniceps rex, is a large bird characterized by its distinctively shaped bill, which resembles a shoe or a canoe paddle. Also known as the whale-headed stork, the shoebill’s unique appearance and ancient-looking bill have led some to liken it to creatures from the Jurassic era.
Male Shoebill storks typically weigh around 5 kilograms, while females weigh about 4 kilograms on average. Adults have grey plumage, while juveniles display orange feathers. Despite its size, the Shoebill is reclusive and prefers remote, undisturbed habitats, thriving in waterlogged swamps with low oxygen levels where it can prey on fish, frogs, and insects.
Over the centuries, the shoebill has faced threats due to habitat loss and misconceptions leading to killings by locals who viewed them negatively, the Shoebill’s status has improved with the rise of ecotourism. The shoebill is limited to countries such as Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Zambia. In Uganda, Mabamba Wetland, along with other locations such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Semuliki National Park, Makanga Wetland and Murchison Falls National Park, provide important habitats for these peculiar birds. Mabamba Wetland, in particular, is renowned as the best spot in Uganda to observe Shoebill storks and is a prime destination for birdwatchers, especially those visiting Kampala and Entebbe.
Moreover, conservation efforts and increased awareness through tourism have contributed to a more positive outlook for the Shoebill, reducing conflicts with local communities and highlighting their value as a natural attraction.
The Birdwatching Experience in Mabamba Wetland
The birdwatching experience at Mabamba Wetland can be enjoyed in several ways, from exploring the birds on the water by boat to enjoying guided walks around the landing site;
Birdwatching on Water – Mabamba Wetland
Birdwatching experiences on the water at Mabamba Wetland are conducted from motorized wooden canoes or boats, readily available with local guides who assist you in spotting the Shoebill. Upon boarding the boat, the Shoebill becomes the primary target for bird watching. Local fishermen, who often venture out early, may share valuable sightings of Shoebills, aiding in your search within the known hunting grounds of these majestic birds.
The best time to spot the shoebill in Mabamba is in the morning when they actively stalk lungfish. While hunting, the shoebills remain motionless for extended periods until prey comes within striking distance. However, as the day progresses and temperatures rise, the birds may rest by spreading their wings and squatting among the grasses, making them harder to spot. At times, they may also take to the skies for cooling flights.
Other species to look out for while bird watching on water in the Mabamba wetland include the Purple Swamphen, African Marsh Harrier, African Darter, Common Squacco Heron, Purple Heron, Long-tailed Cormorant, Northern Brown-throated Weaver, Yellow-billed Duck, and Malachite Kingfisher, among others. These offer a rich and varied birding experience amidst the wetland’s serene landscapes.
Birdwatching Around the Landing Site – Mabamba Wetland
Mabamba landing site and parking area feature remarkable shrubs and thickets that provide habitat to a variety of birds that will offer you a chance to discover new species before you even venture onto the boat excursion. Upon arrival, birdwatchers are greeted with an opportunity for birding even before venturing into the wetland. Spending a few minutes or an hour observing these habitats can yield memorable experiences and notable species include the striking Superb Sunbird and Red-chested Sunbird, a Lake Victoria biome endemic found throughout the region. The landing site also hosts birds like the Yellow-breasted Apalis, Weyn’s Weaver, Village Weaver, Vieillot’s Black Weaver, Grey-capped Warbler, Yellow-throated Greenbul, Splendid Starling, Brown-throated Wattle-eye, Lesser Striped Swallow, Swamp Flycatcher, and more.
Birdwatching in the Bushlands Along the Edge of Mabamba Wetland
In the cultivated bushlands at the edge of Mabamba Wetland, there is a designated footpath that runs parallel to the wetland is also another ideal spot for bird-watching. Located on the left before the exiting area, the path meanders alongside the wetland, traversing through cultivated areas and bushland, and passing by a eucalyptus tree plantation, which although not as diverse thrives with a range of woodland species. Among these include the Rufous-napped Lark, Sooty Chat, Grassland Pipit, Red-bellied paradise flycatcher, Lizard Buzzard, and various cuckoo species, to name a few.
Other Activities at Mabamba Wetland
Fishing Tours
Despite its muddy waters and dense papyrus, Mabamba Bay connects to the clear waters of Lake Victoria, creating ideal conditions for fishing excursions. Fishing is a vital economic activity here, targeting lungfish, tilapia, Nile perch, and mudfish, prized for their taste and market demand.
Sitatunga Viewing
Mabamba Wetland is a crucial habitat for Sitatunga, also known as swamp antelope. These elusive creatures are solitary and rarely seen in groups. With luck, visitors may catch a glimpse of a Sitatunga moving amidst the papyrus reeds, highlighting the area’s conservation significance.
Canoeing Adventures
While primarily used for fishing and birding tours, canoes offer adventurous visitors a unique way to explore the expansive wetland and venture into Lake Victoria, guided by experienced local fishermen.
Village Tours and Craft Shopping
Beyond the wetland, nearby settlements offer insights into local fishing communities. Tourists can engage in village walks, interact with residents, and visit craft shops offering handcrafted items such as baskets, mats, huts, sandals, stools, and bags made from papyrus and reeds. This provides meaningful cultural experiences and opportunities to support local artisans.
Butterfly Watching
Mabamba Wetland boasts a rich diversity of butterfly species alongside its renowned bird population. While birdwatching, visitors can also enjoy spotting fascinating butterfly species like abisaraneavei, acrea cansaquine, and bicyclus sebetus, among others.