Entebbe: Mabamba Shoebill Wetland & Equator Island Tour

Discover the Mabamba Wetland and Equator Island on a guided tour from Entebbe. Spot the rare Shoebill Stork, explore the wetland by canoe, and stand on the equator line at Equator Island.
Located on the serene northern shores of Lake Victoria, Mabamba Swamp and Equator Island are two of Entebbe’s most captivating eco-tourism destinations. These sites offer visitors a blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and geographical wonder, making them essential stops for nature enthusiasts and adventure travellers exploring Uganda.

Mabamba Wetland is internationally recognised as one of the most important birding sites in Africa. Designated as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, it serves as a critical habitat for the rare and endangered Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex). This iconic bird, known for its distinctive shoe-shaped bill and prehistoric appearance, attracts birdwatchers and researchers from around the world. The wetland, composed of papyrus swamps and winding water channels, supports over 260 bird species, including African jacanas, blue-breasted bee-eaters, malachite kingfishers, and purple herons.

Access to Mabamba is typically by motorised canoe from Entebbe or Kasanje, offering visitors a scenic journey across Lake Victoria. Once inside the wetland, local guides expertly navigate the narrow channels while interpreting the area’s ecology and the behaviour of its diverse birdlife. The Shoebill, though elusive, can often be sighted standing motionless on floating vegetation as it hunts for lungfish and other aquatic prey. This unique birding experience has positioned Mabamba as one of Uganda’s top destinations for eco-tourism and wildlife photography.

A visit to Equator Island, located a few kilometres offshore from Entebbe, complements the Mabamba experience. The island is notable for being one of the few points on Lake Victoria where the equator passes, allowing visitors to stand simultaneously in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Small markers and guided tours highlight the scientific and geographical significance of this phenomenon, providing both educational and photo opportunities.

Beyond its geographical appeal, Equator Island offers tranquil surroundings ideal for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks. The island’s lush vegetation, pristine beaches, and panoramic lake views create a peaceful atmosphere away from the bustle of the mainland. Visitors often enjoy activities such as swimming, boating, or simply unwinding while taking in the stunning sunset over Lake Victoria.

Together, Mabamba Shoebill Wetland and Equator Island showcase the ecological and geographical richness of Entebbe. They represent a harmonious blend of conservation, adventure, and education—offering visitors an authentic encounter with Uganda’s natural heritage and a deeper appreciation for the country’s remarkable biodiversity.

Om de beschikbaarheid te garanderen, dient u zo snel mogelijk te reserveren. Vroegboekkorting is het overwegen waard, vooral als u de reis plant tijdens het hoogseizoen, zoals op feestdagen of in het weekend.

Deze excursie kunt u kosteloos annuleren tot: annuleringstijd voor aanvang van de reis. Bij annulering na: annulering na: annuleringstijd of niet aanwezig zijn op de excursie wordt de volledige prijs van de activiteit alsnog in rekening gebracht. Te laat komen bij het ophalen of vertrekken wordt beschouwd als niet komen opdagen.