Exploring Mabamba Wetland
Exploring Mabamba Wetland, a remarkable Ramsar site located on the northern bank of Lake Victoria, is Uganda’s top birding spot and home to over 302 bird species. It was classified as a ‘Wetland of International Importance’ by the Ramsar Convention in 2006. The swamp is also an Important Bird Area, famous for bird species, particularly the globally threatened Shoebill Stork and several other bird species. The Mabamba Wetland Ecotourism Association manages the bird guides, farmers, craftswomen, hunters, and fishermen.
Wetland status
Uganda’s wetland coverage reduced from 15.6% in 1994 to 8.9% in 2021, with the biggest decline taking place between 1986 and 2011. Even though wetlands are public property, the Uganda Land Commission has often leased them. Despite Uganda’s ownership status, the Wetlands Management Department (WMD) is in charge of preserving the biophysical and socioeconomic assets of the country’s wetlands for present and future generations.
Shoebill Stork
When exploring Mabamba Wetland, bird enthusiasts and nature lovers always visit Mabamba Wetland with high expectations of seeing the rare Shoebill. This bird species was classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. This bird species commonly feeds on fish, particularly the lungfish, hence the name Mabamba. Due to an increase in population, human activities such as settlement, construction, and farming have led to the destruction of the Shoebill habitats. However, to conserve these natural habitats for birdlife, there is a certain percentage that the visitor trips contribute to the Mabamba Wetland Eco-Tourism Association as a way of sustaining the conservation projects.
Bird Species to see in Mabamba Wetland
Exploring Mabamba Wetland, Uganda’s Mabamba swamp is not only home to the threatened Shoebill but also to a variety of birds such as the Lizzard Buzzard, Spur-winged Geese, and White-winged Warbler, and is home to the endangered Shoebill. As the bird guide gives you information concerning the biodiversity of the wetlands, after reaching the docking area, you will board a traditional canoe boat through the wetlands canals to search for various birds. Birds to see include the Spur-winged Goose, African Reed Warbler, African Wattled Plover, Lesser Jacana, White Winged Warbler, Papyrus Gonolek, Grey-rumped Swallow, Great Swamp Warbler, African Marsh Harrier, and many others.
Accessing Mabamba Wetland-Exploring Mabamba Wetland
Accessing Mabamba Wetland is easier since you will travel from Entebbe to Mabamba for an hour, and a local boatman will transport you in one of the dugout boats. This is a great half-day adventure if you have a few hours between flights. Alternatively, when accessing Mabamba wetland, you can also take a boat across Lake Victoria to arrive at Mabamba. Many bird species will be available for you to see, especially wetland birds such as the Blue-headed Coucal, Northern Brown-throated Weaver, Lesser Swamp Warbler, African Pygmy Goose, African Wattled Plover, and Lesser Jacana.
Accommodation around Mabamba wetland
2 Friends Beach Hotel
Located about 2 kilometres from the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre and a short stroll from the beach, this lakeside hotel provides a beautiful view of Lake Victoria. Despite being 7 kilometres from Entebbe Airport, there is no aircraft noise. During the day, visitors can enjoy seeing monkeys, and the staff is welcoming and helpful. The rooms have plenty of electrical outlets, hot water for comfort, and are clean and roomy. The hotel offers a delicious breakfast and a fantastic pool. It is suggested to stay in Entebbe because guests can eat at the hotel or a neighbouring restaurant.
Protea Hotel Entebbe- Exploring Mabamba Wetland
When exploring Mabamba Wetland, it has attracted several accommodation facilities ranging from high-end to budget options, such as the 4-star Protea Hotel Entebbe. It is a fantastic starting point for your exploration of Mabamba Swamp. It has a 24-hour fitness centre, a spa with massage services, and a restaurant that serves tilapia and Nile Perch. The hotel has an excellent ambience and a spectacular view of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, with stunning sunsets. The peaceful setting at the hotel is ideal for people who need to take a cool break and honeymoon.
Lake Victoria Serena Hotel Entebbe
The exclusivity and luxury that characterise the Lake Victoria Serena Hotel. The only upscale lodging in the vicinity is the magnificent golf resort, which is situated between Entebbe and Kampala. With a view of Lake Victoria’s glistening waters, it is a wonderful spot to indulge. The hotel has a boating harbour, a business centre, a spa, and the best championship golf course in Uganda.
Boma Hotel- Exploring Mabamba Wetland
The Boma is a modest hotel near Entebbe International Airport in a verdant area. It offers delicious food, lovely gardens, and a warm ambiance. The hotel is ideal for people who like tiny safari lodges because it blends 1940s architecture with contemporary conveniences. The crew offers first-rate service and may assist with airport transportation. The hotel’s fifteen opulent rooms are furnished with African textiles and colonial furnishings. Every room offers a personal terrace that gives you the comfort of wifi, a television, a setlite, and the serenity of the environs.
Nkima Forest Lodge
Nkima Forest Lodge offers genuine adventure experiences. It has a swimming pool and a lounge overlooking Mabamba Swamp. Built with minimal impact on nature, it hosts diverse wildlife. The team is dedicated to providing excellent service and food through collaboration and training.