This short but immersive safari is perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of finding
the elusive Shoebill Stork while also enjoying the rich natural beauty and tranquility of the Lake
Victoria region.

Guide
Guided
Language
English
Best Season
Dry Season
Arrival City
Entebbe
Meals
FB
Tour Availability
Available
Destinations
Mabamba Swamp
Activities
Birding, Boat Cruise, Photography

Overview

Itinerary

Safari Includes/ Excludes

Location

Overview

Itinerary

Safari Includes/ Excludes

Location

Overview

This 3-day trip is a perfect short safari for anyone who loves birds and nature. We start by seeing
some of the many birds in the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Then, the main part of the trip is
going to Mabamba Bay, a famous wetland. We will take a canoe ride through the swamp to find
a special, rare bird called the Shoebill Stork. On the way, we will also see many other birds and
even some animals like the Sitatunga antelope. This short trip is guided by experts and is a great
way to see one of Africa’s most unique birds in a calm and beautiful place.

Day 1 :

Arrival & Birding at Entebbe Botanical Gardens

Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), you will be met by a Cisticola Birding and Nature Safaris guide. We will transfer you to your hotel in Entebbe, a charming town known for its lush greenery and lakeside views. After a brief rest and lunch, we'll head to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens for a relaxed afternoon of birdwatching. This tranquil setting is home to a variety of forest, lake, and garden species. Look out for the magnificent Great Blue Turaco, the colorful Ross's Turaco, and different hornbills and sunbirds. The gardens also offer excellent opportunities to see monkeys and squirrels. This peaceful start to your safari allows you to ease into the rhythm of Uganda's nature before your main adventure begins. In the evening, we'll return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2 :

Shoebill Tracking at Mabamba Bay

Today is the highlight of your safari. We'll start early in the morning, the best time to see the Shoebill Stork when they are most active. After an early breakfast, we'll travel to Mabamba Bay, a vast wetland and a globally recognized Important Bird Area. You'll board a traditional wooden canoe with an expert local guide who knows the swamp's intricate channels like the back of their hand. As you glide through the papyrus reeds, your guide will point out the remarkable wetland birds. This is your chance to spot the iconic Shoebill, a truly magnificent bird with a massive, prehistoric-looking bill. Beyond the Shoebill, you may also see the African Pygmy Goose, Malachite Kingfisher, Swamp Flycatcher, and the elusive Sitatunga antelope. After a successful morning of birding, we'll return to the mainland for a late lunch and a relaxed afternoon. You have the option to return to your hotel for some downtime or take a walk around the local community to learn about the conservation efforts tied to the wetland.

Day 3 :

Optional Excursion & Departure

On your final day, you can choose from a few optional activities, depending on your interests and flight schedule. You might opt for a morning visit to the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) for a chance to see a wide variety of Uganda's wildlife, including big cats, primates, and more bird species in a well-maintained setting. Alternatively, for those who want to enjoy the lake, a visit to Lutembe Bay can offer a chance to see more water birds and migratory species. After your excursion and lunch, we will transfer you to the airport