Kampala in 1 Day for Friends - Guided boat trip through Mabamba Swamp
In Collaboration with Gorilla safari uganda. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Day tour from Kampala to Mabamba Swamp (west of Entebbe) for birdwatching with the highlight being the shoebill stork. Tour includes pickup in Kampala, road transfer, a guided boat trip on the waterways off Lake Victoria through Mabamba Swamp, a short lunch stop in Entebbe, and return to Kampala. Total duration: 9 hours. Note: departures available at 08:00 or 14:00 (this itinerary shows the 08:00/
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Gorilla safari uganda, inspired by the tour 1 Day Shoebill Stork and Birding Experience . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided boat trip through Mabamba Swamp
- Shoebill stork (primary target species)
- Other wetland and Lake Victoria birds
- Scenic drive via Entebbe with a lunch stop
- Pickup and drop-off in Kampala
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided birdwatching from Kampala to Mabamba Swamp with pickup in Kampala. Two departure options are offered (08:00 or 14:00); this schedule presents the 08:00 departure and a realistic operating sequence: road transfer to the Mabamba landing, boat-based birdwatching in the swamp (Lake Victoria channels), a lunch stop in Entebbe, then return transfer and hotel drop-off in Kampala. Important accessibility notes from the operator: not wheelchair accessible, not stroller accessible, infants must not sit on laps and infant seats are unavailable.
Pickup in Kampala and transfer toward Mabamba Swamp
Meet at your Kampala hotel or agreed pickup point for a private transfer west toward Entebbe/Mabamba. Drive time varies with traffic; this leg positions the group for the Mabamba landing.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your exact hotel pickup address the day before so the driver can plan the best route.
- Bring a small daypack with water, sunscreen, and insect repellent you can access during transit.
- Expect light traffic leaving central Kampala; allow extra time if you have an early-morning appointment.
Boat trip and birdwatching at Mabamba Swamp
Launch from the local landing and take a guided boat trip through the reed channels and lagoons of Mabamba Swamp (Lake Victoria wetlands). Focused birdwatching for shoebill and other wetland species; guided spotting and short pauses for photography. Boat and local guide procedures handled at the landing.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens; keep movement slow and voices low during spotting.
- Wear neutral-colored, quick-dry clothing and a brimmed hat; the swamp can be buggy—use DEET-based repellent.
- Store electronics in waterproof pouches or a dry bag—boats can be narrow and splashing is possible.
Lunch stop in Entebbe
Short midday break in Entebbe for lunch and restroom facilities. This stop provides time to rest, hydrate, and review sightings before the return transfer to Kampala.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry small local currency for drinks or snacks; not all small outlets accept cards.
- Choose shaded seating where possible; Entebbe is close to Lake Victoria and can be humid midday.
- If you have dietary restrictions, tell staff when ordering; mainstream lunch venues in Entebbe can accommodate simple requests.
Return transfer and drop-off in Kampala
Drive back to Kampala with planned drop-offs at central hotels or agreed endpoints. During return, the guide may recap sightings and answer questions about species observed.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep a copy of your pickup/drop-off confirmation available in case the driver requests details.
- Expect arrival in Kampala mid-to-late afternoon; traffic may extend transfer time during peak hours.
- Charge cameras or phones during pauses if you plan to share photos after the tour.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 2 |
| Total Places | 2 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Outdoor, Meal |
