Combining Shoebill Watching with Gorilla Trekking

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Uganda is one of the few countries in the world where you can combine two of Africa’s rarest wildlife encounters: Shoebill watching in Mabamba Swamp and gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. For passionate travelers, birders, and wildlife enthusiasts, this combination creates an unforgettable safari experience that blends the wonders of Africa’s wetlands with the mysteries of its misty forests.

This blog explores why combining Shoebill watching and gorilla trekking is the perfect Ugandan adventure, when to go, where to stay, and how to plan your trip.

Why Combine Shoebill Watching and Gorilla Trekking?

1. Two Iconic Experiences in One Trip

• The Shoebill Stork, with its prehistoric look and large shoe-shaped bill, is one of the most sought-after birds in the world. Mabamba Swamp on Lake Victoria is among the best places to see this rare species.
• The mountain gorilla, found only in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, offers one of the most profound primate encounters in the world. Trekking through dense forests to sit face-to-face with a gorilla family is life-changing.

2. Diverse Habitats and Wildlife

Shoebill watching immerses you in Uganda’s papyrus wetlands teeming with water birds, while gorilla trekking transports you into ancient montane forests alive with primates, butterflies, and exotic flora. Together, they showcase Uganda’s breathtaking ecological diversity.

3. Convenient Travel Connection

Mabamba Swamp is just an hour from Entebbe, where most international flights arrive. From Entebbe, it is easy to connect to Bwindi or Mgahinga via domestic flights or road trips. This makes combining the two experiences both practical and rewarding.

Shoebill Watching at Mabamba Swamp

Located along the northern shores of Lake Victoria, Mabamba is a Ramsar Wetland site, famous for hosting more than 300 bird species. Canoe rides through the swamp offer a peaceful and intimate way to spot birds.

The Star: The Shoebill Stork

The Shoebill can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and is known for its patient hunting style. It preys mainly on lungfish, which thrive in Mabamba’s shallow waters. Early morning canoe trips (6:30 AM to 10:00 AM) provide the best chances of seeing them.

What Else to See

• African pygmy goose
• Papyrus gonolek
• Malachite kingfisher
• Purple swamphen
• African jacana

Best Time to Visit Mabamba

The dry seasons (December–February and June–August) are the most reliable for Shoebill sightings, though the bird can be seen year-round.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Where to Go

Uganda has two national parks for gorilla trekking:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
   • A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
   • Home to nearly half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
   • Offers more than 20 habituated gorilla families across four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.
2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
   • Located in the Virunga Mountains, bordering Rwanda and DRC.
   • Hosts the famous Nyakagezi gorilla family, known for its relaxed behavior.
   • Offers the bonus of golden monkey tracking.

The Trekking Experience

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense, mountainous forests with an expert guide. Treks can last from 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location. Once you find them, you spend one magical hour observing their behavior, social interactions, and sheer presence.

Permits and Regulations

• Permit cost in Uganda: USD 800 per person (as of 2025).
• Limited permits are available daily, so booking in advance is essential.
• Visitors must be aged 15 or older.
• Only 8 people are allowed to visit a gorilla family per day.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, but the dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are the most comfortable for hiking. The rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) make trails muddy and more challenging, but offer fewer crowds and lush photography opportunities.

Suggested Itinerary: Shoebill & Gorilla Safari

Here’s a sample 7-day itinerary combining both activities:

• Day 1: Arrive at Entebbe International Airport. Transfer to your hotel.
• Day 2: Early morning Shoebill watching at Mabamba Swamp. Afternoon city tour or relax by Lake Victoria.
• Day 3: Fly or drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Evening cultural performance by the Batwa community.
• Day 4: Gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi. Afternoon at leisure.
• Day 5: Optional second gorilla trek, forest walk, or birding tour in Bwindi.
• Day 6: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation, canoeing, and scenic views.
• Day 7: Return to Entebbe via flight or road. Departure.

Combining Shoebills and Gorillas: Practical Information

Getting Around

• By Air: Daily domestic flights operate between Entebbe and Bwindi (Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips).
• By Road: A scenic 8–10 hour drive from Entebbe to Bwindi, passing through lush countryside and the equator line.

Accommodation Options

• Near Mabamba: Stay in Entebbe at hotels such as Lake Victoria Serena, Protea Hotel, or budget guesthouses.
• Near Bwindi: Options range from luxury lodges (Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge) to mid-range (Buhoma Lodge, Silverback Lodge) and budget community camps.

What to Pack

• Light clothing and sunscreen for Shoebill watching.
• Sturdy hiking boots, rain jacket, and long trousers for gorilla trekking.
• Binoculars and a camera with good zoom for both experiences.

Other Activities to Combine

• Chimpanzee Tracking: At Kibale National Park, home to over 1,500 chimpanzees.
• Game Drives: In Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls National Park.
• Cultural Experiences: Batwa community visits near Bwindi or cultural dances in Entebbe.
• Relaxation: Lake Bunyonyi, known as the “Switzerland of Africa,” offers a peaceful end to your safari.

Why Uganda is the Best Choice for This Combination

Uganda offers the perfect blend of birdlife and primate encounters. While Rwanda and DRC are also gorilla trekking destinations, Uganda uniquely allows you to see the Shoebill in a globally recognized wetland so close to the main entry point (Entebbe). This makes combining the two experiences both cost-effective and time-efficient.