Mabamba Swamp on Lake Victoria is a prime birdwatching and shoebill tracking location only 45 minutes by boat from Entebbe. This Swamp is home to about 13 – 15 Shoebill storks. Thanks to tourism, the swamp is now protected, and thus, the numbers will continue to rise. For travelers who want to see this amazing, ginormous bird, look at our Shoebill tracking tours to Mabamba Swamp in 2025 – 2026.
Shoebill tracking tours to Mabamba Swamp in 2025 – 2026
When is the best time to go shoebill tracking in Mabamba Swamp?
The best time to go Shoebill Tracking in Mabamba Swamp is during the drier season months of December – February, and June – August. Both morning and afternoon Shoebill Tracking Sessions can be rewarding, however, we recommend doing it in the morning when the temperatures are much cooler.
Good to Know:
- Best Price for a Shoebill Tour in Entebbe – $95 per person (Solo private tour).
- The best time of the day to go is 7:00 am.
- The best month to go is June – August, and December – February.
- Worst Months to go March – May. This is the long rainy season.
What to pack for my shoebill tracking Tour to Mabamba in 2025 – 2026
- Long-sleeved shirt & trousers: It does get chilly especially in the morning so some extra clothing might help you feel warmer on your 45-minute journey to the Swamp.
- Repellent: This is to keep any bugs and or insects away.
- Sunscreen: This comes in handy especially on your 45-minute return trip from the Swamp when the sun is out.
- A hat: This will help protect you from direct sun.
- A rain jacket: This is a MUST-have. The weather can be very unpredictable so we recommend bringing a rain jacket for when it starts to rain.
- A camera (including all accessories especially batteries and extra SD cards):
- A pair of binoculars.
- A guidebook: We recommend bringing a personal bird guidebook our favorite being the Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson.
- A waterproof Day pack to carry all your belongings.
- Sunglasses.
- Water & snacks. (**Included on all Realm Africa Safaris™ Trips)