Mabamba Wetlands | Central Uganda, Uganda

Home
Cruises
Mabamba Swamp – Uganda, Central Region

x Thank you for submitting an inquiry. We will get back to you as soon as we can.

Use the form below to contact us directly.

Please complete all required fields.

Your name *

Your email *

Your phone *

Nationality *

What would you like to inquire about?

Cancel

Booking details

Cruise name:

Cabin type:

Date:

People:

Adults:

Children:

Cabins:

Total:

Submit booking

First name *

Last name *

Company

Email *

Phone

Address

Address 2

City

Zip

State

Country

Special requirements

Submit booking Go Back

Confirmation

Thank you! We will get back you with regards your booking within 24 hours.

Booking info

Cruise name:

Cabin type:

Cruise date:

People:

Adults:

Children:

Cabins:

First name:

Last name:

Company:

Email:

Phone:

Address:

Address 2:

City:

Zip:

State:

Country:

Special requirements:

Total price:

We wish you a pleasant trip
your Responsible Tourism Company team

Back to website

Description
Overview
Locations
Activities
Birding and wildlife
Areas of interest
Plan your trip

Mabamba Swamp – Uganda, Central Region

MABAMBA SWAMP TRAVEL GUIDE

LOCATION OF MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Mabamba swamp lies about 57 kilometers from Kampala city and is just an hour’s drive from Entebbe city. The swamp covers a massive 16,500 hectares and is part of the list of Wetlands of International Importance designated by the Ramsar Convention.

SOME HISTORY OF MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Mabamba Swamp which is located about 57 kilometers from Kampala city and an hour’s drive from Entebbe city, is a massive 16,500-hectare wetland.

The name “Mabamba” is derived from the local word for lungfish, which is known as “emamba.” These lungfish are abundant in the area and play a crucial role in shaping the ecosystem.

Bird Lover’s Paradise:

Mabamba Swamp boasts an impressive bird species count, with over 260 recorded species.

The shoebill, Uganda’s most sought-after bird, finds its home here. These prehistoric-looking birds are a highlight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Mabamba is an area of immense ecological importance. In 2006, the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands awarded Mabamba Swamp the status of a ‘Wetland of International Importance’ since it contains globally threatened species.

Mabamba captivates birders and non-birders alike. The wetland is Uganda’s most important birding site.

BirdLife International recognises the Mabamba Swamp as an Important Bird Area (IBA).

Overview

You will be redirected to cart shortly. Thank you for your patience.

Use the calendar below to book this cruise.

Today

Selected

Available

Unavailable

Who is checking in?

Please select number of adults and children checking into the cruise using the controls you see below.

Adults

Children

Cabins

Select the amount of cabins you wish to book

Cabins

Extra items

Please select the extra items you wish to be included with your booking using the controls you see below.

Item	Price	Per day?	Per person?	Quantity
Travel Insurance	$ 22	Yes	Yes

Summary

The summary of your cruise is shown below.

Cruise date
Cruise duration (days)
Reservation total
Extra items total
Total price

Show price breakdown

Cruise booking price breakdown

Extra items price breakdown

Reset Proceed

We are sorry, this cruise is not available to book at the moment

About

Full travel guide to Mabamba Swamp, Lake Victoria, Uganda - Central Region; Mabamba Swamp Tourism - Start planning your journey now with our full travel guide. How to get to Mabamba Swamp and getting around, top must-visit iconic nature attraction and outdoor experiences in Mabamba Swamp, find top thrilling adventures to have in Mabamba Swamp. Mabamba Swamp stays near Mabamba Swamp - From budget to boutique, book a stay that best suits you online.

Africa

View all

UG

View all

Uganda

From the moment you land at Entebbe's modern and efficient international airport, with its breathtaking equatorial location on the forested shore of island-strewn Lake Victoria, it is clear that Uganda is no ordinary safari destination in Africa.

View all

Activities

ATTRACTIONS AND TOURISM ACTIVITIES IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Mabamba Swamp, nestled along the shores of Lake Victoria in Uganda, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife experiences. Here are some of the attractions and tourism activities you can enjoy in this captivating wetland:

Bird Watching tours in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Mabamba Swamp is a haven for birders, with over 260 bird species recorded. The Shoebill stork dominates as the key attraction.

Shoebill Watching tours in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Witness the prehistoric-looking Shoebill in its natural habitat. This giant stork-like bird is often referred to as ‘the king of the marshes’ and is a sought-after sight for bird lovers and wildlife photographers.

Fishing tours in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

While tourism has taken over, fishing was once the primary activity in Mabamba. You can still spot local fishermen casting their nets in the swamp.

Butterfly Viewing tours in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Many butterfly species inhabit the wetland, adding to its natural diversity. Although birding takes center stage, keep an eye out for these delicate winged creatures.

Sitatunga Antelope Observation tours in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

The swamp serves as a vital refuge for the Sitatunga antelope. Observing these elusive creatures is a unique experience.

Village Walks tours in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Explore the nearby villages and immerse yourself in the local culture. Learn about traditional practices and interact with friendly residents.

Canoeing tours in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Glide through the tranquil waters of Mabamba Swamp in a canoe. It’s a peaceful way to appreciate the surrounding beauty and spot wildlife.

Sunset View tours in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Don’t miss the breathtaking sunsets over Lake Victoria. Capture the magical African sun as it dips below the horizon.

Photography tours in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned photographer, Mabamba offers fantastic opportunities to capture stunning shots of birds, landscapes, and wildlife.

Nature Immersion tours in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Simply soak in the serene ambiance, listen to the sounds of nature, and appreciate the lush vegetation and waterways that make Mabamba Swamp a hidden gem.

At Responsible Tourism Co, we organize birding watching trips to see Shoebill at Mabamba Bay Wetlands and other water birds plus gorilla tours in Uganda & Rwanda. Request for quote.

Suggested tours

SUGGESTED TOURS IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Sitatunga Antelope Observation tour

Nature Immersion tour

Shoebill Watching tour

Butterfly Viewing tour

Village Walking tour

Canoeing Adventure

Photography Safari

Bird Watching tour

Fishing Excursion

Sunset View tour

Mabamba Shoebill Tour from Entebbe or Kampala (Half day / Full day tour)

Have you ever spotted the prehistoric Shoebill Bird? Well, this is the moment you have been waiting for during Mabamba Shoebill Tour. Whether you are an avid birdwatcher or simply a lover of nature’s beauty, our Mabamba Shoebill tour in Mabamba Swamp promises an unforgettable experience in Entebbe. With its distinctively enormous bill and striking features, this prehistoric-looking bird will leave you in awe

Mabamba Swamp is a remarkable wetland located close to ViaVia Entebbe. It is renowned for its diverse ecosystem and, in particular, for being one of the best places in the world to spot the rare and iconic Shoebill Bird. The Swamp is characterized by its vast expanse of papyrus reeds, shallow channels, and open water areas. This unique combination of habitats provides an ideal environment for a variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Our friend & guide Rodgers will take you to the Mabamba Swamp on his wooden boat. You can spot this magical bird, together with many other birds that fly around, while you paddle through the swamp.

Feel the excitement rise within you as you capture unforgettable moments through your camera lens or just take in the sheer beauty of this wonder.

Sunset Boat Cruise on Lake Victoria Tour in Entebbe

Do you feel like an idyllic evening on Lake Victoria? Let us arrange a sunset boat cruise for you and admire the most beautiful African sunset colors on the water.

Birding and wildlife

BIRDING AND WILDLIFE IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

BIRDING IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Shoebill Stork:

Mabamba is famous for the Shoebill, Uganda’s most sought-after bird. This prehistoric-looking stork is a key attraction and can be reliably spotted here.

Bird Species:

The swamp hosts over 300 bird species, including globally threatened ones. Notable species include the Papyrus Gonolek, Purple Swamphen, African Jacana, and Blue Swallow.

Lake Victoria Biome:

Mabamba is home to 7 of Uganda’s 12 Lake Victoria biome restricted species.

Paleartic Migrants:

From October to March, the swamp welcomes huge flocks of Paleartic migrants.

WILDLIFE IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Sitatunga Antelope:

Besides birds, you might encounter the elusive Sitatunga, a swamp-dwelling antelope.

Areas of interest

AREAS OF INTEREST IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Shoebill Spotting in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Mabamba Swamp is home to the massive shoebill, Uganda’s most sought-after bird.
Take a boat tour with an experienced guide to search for these prehistoric-looking birds in the vast swamp.

Other Bird Species in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

While looking for shoebills, keep an eye out for other fascinating species:
Blue swallow
Pallid harrier
Papyrus gonolek
Swamp flycatcher
Pigmy goose
Lesser jacana
White-winged warbler and more!

Local Culture and Produce in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Explore the bay’s little islands where locals grow delicious organic sweet pineapples, avocados, and juicy tomatoes.
Interact with the community and learn about their efforts to protect both the birds and the swamp.

Lake Victoria Sunset in Mabamba Wetland Swamp:

Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake.

Getting there

GETTING TO MABAMBA SWAMP, CENTRAL UGANDA

From Entebbe:

Take the quickest approach via the Nakiwogo landing site in Entebbe.
Board a 10-minute boat ride to Kasanje landing.
Drive for about 20 minutes to reach Mabamba, passing through cultivations and open fields that provide plenty of garden birds.

From Kampala:

Drive to Kasanje trading center.
Alternatively, follow the old Entebbe-Kampala Road, branch off from Kisubi, and drive to Nakawuka, then Kasanje, before reaching Mabamba.

Getting around

GETTING AROUND MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Boat Tours:

Take a boat ride from the Nakiwogo landing site in Entebbe. The journey lasts about 10 minutes, and you’ll arrive at Kasanje landing. From there, it’s a 20-minute drive to Mabamba, passing through fields and cultivations that provide excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Speed Boats:

Alternatively, you can use speed boats from Entebbe. These larger boats transfer you to the starting point at Mabamba, where you switch to smaller boats to explore different parts of the wetland.

Accommodation

MABAMBA ACCOMMODATION AND WHERE TO STAY NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA - CENTRAL REGION

HOTELS AND RESORTS NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Airport Side Hotel Entebbe,

Mapeera Lane, Entebbe

Washarika Boutique Hotel,

Kisalu Rd, Entebbe

Santa Maria Health Resort

Uringi Cres Rd, Entebbe

El Amo Lakeview Villa,

Entebbe

Sundiata beach resort,

Buwaya entebbe, Kampala

Betty Ethiopian Hotel,

Buku Rd, Entebbe

Migingo Suites Entebbe,

Kiwafu Rd, Entebbe

Hotel Royal Nest,

Kateregga Road, Entebbe

Lake Point Villa,

Research Rd, Entebbe

The Boma Hotel,

Gowers Road, Entebbe

Rosemary Courts,

Mugwanya Rd, Entebbe

Jacmel Hotel,

Kiwafu Rd, Entebbe

Skyway Hotel

Mugula Rd, Entebbe

LODGES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Pelican Lodge and Marina,

Ssebugwawo road, Entebbe

Nkima Forest Lodge,

Ziba

Mabamba Lodge,

Mabamba

Tilapia Lodge,

Lulongo, Buwaya, Entebbe

Buvi Lodge,

Busambaga Road, Buvi

COTTAGES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Prestige Resort Cottages,

Entebbe

Dream Jet Cottages,

Uringi Cres Rd, Entebbe

BED AND BREAKFAST NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Anna's Bed and Breakfast

3 Combe Rd, Entebbe

Aivilo Home,

Gerald Musoke Road, Entebbe

Oslo Gardens,

Entebbe

GUESTHOUSES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Gorilla Africa Guest House - Entebbe, Uganda

14 Jinja Rd, Entebbe

Airport link Guesthouse Entebbe

Buwaya Rise, Entebbe

Cycad Entebbe Guest House,

53 Church Rd, Entebbe

Lake Victoria Country Home

Research Rd, Entebbe

Carpe Diem Guesthouse,

Entebbe

Blue Monkey Guest House

Buwaya, Entebbe

Plastic Bottles House,

Kasanje Rd, Lulongo

Airport Guesthouse,

Mugula Rd, Entebbe

Mission Guest House,

Buku Rd, Entebbe

The Hive Guesthouse,

Njeru Walk, Entebbe

Secrets Guest House,

Kyanvubu Rd, Entebbe

The Guinea Fowl,

9 Mugula Rd, Entebbe

The House Entebbe,

Bishop Close, Entebbe

CAMPING SITES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Ngamba Island Tented Camp

Entebbe

Hummingbird Camp,

Edna Rd, Entebbe

APARTMENTS NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

The Abode Apartments Entebbe,

Alice Reef Rd, Entebbe

Rose Garden House,

Entebbe

RESTAURANTS NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Nepalaya Restaurant and Bar, Entebbe (A multi cuisine Restaurant)

Kalungi Aangan Guest House/Restaurant & Bar

New African Village Bar And Restaurant

Middle East Restaurant & Cafe Entebbe

Betty Ethiopian Restaurant and Inn

Imperial Carnival restaurant (beach)

Goretti's Pizzeria And Bar Entebbe

Hope's Kitchen Restaurant and Bar

Ma's Top View Restaurant & Bar

4 Points Bar and Restaurant Ltd

Signature Restaurant anc Cafe

New Four Turkeys Restaurant

Sabano Cravings Restaurant

F$Jolel corner Restaurant

Ponnus restaurant Entebbe

The Rolex Guy Entebbe

Hinriksh restaurant Bar

Palms Beach Restaurant

Country Bar Restaurant

Tilly's Ribshack & Bar

Hot & Cold Resturant

Homely Restaurant

Dinners Restaurant

Emiboozi Restrobar

Nabta Restaurant

Tides Restaurant

Trafyz Delights

One9 Lounge

Rooftop at K

Cafe Jambo

Carpe Diem

Cafe Tenda

DM's Café

Café Javas

Faze 3

What to bring

WHAT TO BRING TO MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Clothing Essentials:

Lightweight, breathable clothing for warm and humid weather.
Long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun protection and insect bites.
A lightweight, waterproof jacket for rain showers.
Sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes for muddy trails.

Birdwatching Gear:

High-quality binoculars to spot birds, including the iconic Shoebill stork.

Insect Repellent and Sunscreen:

Reliable insect repellent to keep bugs at bay.
Sunscreen with high SPF for sun protection.

Camera and Accessories:

Good quality camera with a zoom lens.
Spare batteries and memory cards.

Medications and First Aid Kit:

Basic first aid supplies.

Climate and when to visit

CLIMATE AND WHEN TO VISIT MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

CLIMATE:

The climate of Mabamba swamp is the same as in other areas of Lake Victoria which has an average temperature of 17 degree Celsius and maximum temperature of 26 degree Celsius.

WHEN TO VISIT:

Dry Season:

The best time to visit Mabamba Swamp is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February.
During these months, water levels are low, making it easier to navigate the channels and marshes.
The grass is shorter, providing better visibility for birdwatching and canoeing.

Wet Season:

While Mabamba Swamp can be visited year-round, the wet season (March to May) can be challenging due to higher water levels and dense vegetation.

Share on Facebook

Mabamba Swamp – Uganda, Central Region

From $

Mabamba Swamp Travel Guide - Complete with hotel accommodations near Mabamba Swamp, tours in Mabamba Swamp, Mabamba Swamp experiences, and transport to and from Mabamba Swamp.
- UGANDA
Send inquiry

Mabamba Swamp – Uganda, Central Region

MABAMBA SWAMP TRAVEL GUIDE

SOME HISTORY OF MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Overview

Who is checking in?

Cabins

Extra items

Summary

About

Africa

UG

Uganda

Activities

ATTRACTIONS AND TOURISM ACTIVITIES IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Suggested tours

SUGGESTED TOURS IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Birding and wildlife

BIRDING AND WILDLIFE IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Areas of interest

AREAS OF INTEREST IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Getting there

GETTING TO MABAMBA SWAMP, CENTRAL UGANDA

Getting around

GETTING AROUND MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Accommodation

MABAMBA ACCOMMODATION AND WHERE TO STAY NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA - CENTRAL REGION

HOTELS AND RESORTS NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

LODGES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

COTTAGES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

BED AND BREAKFAST NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

GUESTHOUSES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

CAMPING SITES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

APARTMENTS NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

RESTAURANTS NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

What to bring

WHAT TO BRING TO MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Climate and when to visit

CLIMATE AND WHEN TO VISIT MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Connect with us on Social Media

Are you intereted in our services?Please share

Use the form below to contact us directly.

Booking details

Submit booking

Confirmation

Booking info

Mabamba Swamp – Uganda, Central Region

MABAMBA SWAMP TRAVEL GUIDE

SOME HISTORY OF MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Overview

Who is checking in?

Cabins

Extra items

Summary

About

Africa

UG

Uganda

Activities

ATTRACTIONS AND TOURISM ACTIVITIES IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Suggested tours

SUGGESTED TOURS IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Birding and wildlife

BIRDING AND WILDLIFE IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Areas of interest

AREAS OF INTEREST IN MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Getting there

GETTING TO MABAMBA SWAMP, CENTRAL UGANDA

Getting around

GETTING AROUND MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Accommodation

MABAMBA ACCOMMODATION AND WHERE TO STAY NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA - CENTRAL REGION

HOTELS AND RESORTS NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

LODGES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

COTTAGES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

BED AND BREAKFAST NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

GUESTHOUSES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

CAMPING SITES NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

APARTMENTS NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

RESTAURANTS NEAR MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

What to bring

WHAT TO BRING TO MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Climate and when to visit

CLIMATE AND WHEN TO VISIT MABAMBA SWAMP, UGANDA

Connect with us on Social Media

Log in

Register

Are you intereted in our services?Please share