OVERVIEW

The Mabamba Swamp Canoe & Walk is one of Uganda’s top birding and wetland adventures, offering a peaceful, immersive experience on the shores of Lake Victoria. Mabamba Bay is internationally known as a Ramsar Site and one of the best places in Africa to spot the elusive Shoebill Stork — a bucket-list sighting for nature lovers.Glide silently through papyrus channels in a traditional canoe as your guide points out r​are birds, butterflies, wetland plants, and local fishing activity. Light walking on the boardwalk gives you more opportunities to spot wildlife, capture stunning photos, and enjoy the tranquility of this vast marsh ecosystem. Perfect for birders, photographers, and travelers seeking a relaxed but rewarding nature outing.

DETAILED itinerary

Day: Mabamba Swamp Canoe & Walk – Lake Victoria Wetland Experience
Depart from Entebbe or Kampala early in the morning and arrive at Mabamba Bay for a briefing by local community guides. Board a wooden canoe and begin your gentle glide through narrow papyrus channels.Look out for the Shoebill Stork, African jacanas, malachite kingfishers, Goliath herons, papyrus gonoleks, and numerous wetland species. After the canoe portion, enjoy a short guided walk on the wooden tracks for closer viewing and photography.Return to the landing point and optionally enjoy a simple lakeside lunch before driving back to Entebbe or Kampala.Trekking/Canoeing Time: 2–3 hours
Highlights: Shoebill sightings, canoe ride, wetland birds, peaceful papyrus channels, community guides
Meals: Optional lunch (depending on package)

BEST TIME TO GO

All Year Round

 INCLUDED

Local community guide
Canoe ride
Wetland access fees
Walking experience
Transport (if arranged)

 ADDTIONAL NOTES

What to Bring
Lightweight clothing
Hat & sunscreen
Binoculars
Camera
Water bottle
Comfortable walking shoes
This is the perfect half-day or full-day escape into nature, especially for birdwatchers and travelers seeking calm, scenic adventure.