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Mark A Fernley
The Shoebill Stork, photographed in Mabamba Swamp, Uganda during an African birding photo safari - Mark Fernley Wildlife

UGANDA

SHOEBILLS OF MABAMBA
PHOTOGRAPHIC  SAFARI

When it comes down to bird photography, Mabamba Swamp offers wildlife photographers a remarkable abondance of bird species. From the famous Shoebill Stork all the way down to the hundreds of Pied Kingfishers, this swamp photo safari will blow your mind with bird photography opportunities.

DATE

JUNE 12 - 16, 2026

5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

PRICE

$3,795 USD

+ $400 USD SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FEE (if applicable)

Photographic Safaris, Mabamba Swamp, Uganda - Mark Fernley Wildlife

SAFARI DETAILS

Photograph the magnificent Shoebill Stork along with many other bird species here in Mabamba Swamp during this birding photo safari  located on the northern side of Lake Victoria. This short but intensive 5 day birding photo safari will take you into the realms of Uganda's most iconic birding hotspots. Your photographic lens will not be able to keep up with the vast amount of birds species that inhabits this swamp. Are you up for the challenge?

LOCATION

Located in the southern region of Uganda, this birding photographic safari takes place in Mabamba Swamp situated on the bank of Lake Victoria. Known for its remarkable birding activity, this diverse and unique bird photography hotspot offers you a birding photo safari like no other. Not only does this swamp offer stunning bird photography opportunities, it also is home to the rare Shoebill Stork that all birding photographers must photograph at least once in their lifetime.

EXPERT GUIDES

This trip is expertly guided by Mark Fernley, a highly regarded professional wildlife photographer known for his exceptional skills in capturing the beauty of nature through his lens. With years of experience in the field, Mark brings not only his technical expertise but also a profound passion for wildlife and conservation. He has travelled to numerous remote locations around the globe, documenting the intricate behaviours and habitats of various species, which allows him to share invaluable insights with participants during the trip. In addition to Mark's guidance, the journey is enriched by the presence of local experts in each location we visit. These knowledgeable individuals possess a deep understanding of the local ecosystems, cultural significance, and the unique wildlife that inhabits the area. Their first-hand experiences and connections to the land provide participants with a comprehensive perspective, enhancing the overall learning experience. Together, Mark and the local experts create a dynamic and informative environment, ensuring that every moment of the trip is not only enjoyable but also educational, fostering a greater appreciation for the natural world around us.

EQUIPMENT TO BRING

Guests are encouraged to bring one or two camera bodies with a minimum of 24-megapixels to guarantee the best results. This can be mirrorless or a DSLR. For the Mabamba Swamp, birding photography guests are encouraged to bring a lens with the reach of 500mm or 600mm in photographic reach. These may consist of lenses that obtain fixed or zoom capabilities. If you are considering bringing a fixed prime lens of 500mm/600mm for example, please bring an additional lens that has a shorter focal range for close encounters.

ITINERARY

    • Guests arrive in Entebbe (Entebbe International Airport)

    • Transfer to Mabamba Swamp lodge (Approx. 2 hours drive) Option to travel via boat (45 min. ride)

    • Meet and Greet with photo host at 6:00pm

    • Overnight in Mabamba Swamp​

      (Guests must arrive at Entebbe International Airport no later than 2:00pm on arrival day to transit to the lodge via boat or vehicle)

    • Early morning Mabamba Swamp birding photographic excursion

    • Afternoon Mabamba Swamp birding photographic excursion

    • Introduction to image selection and post processing

    • Overnight in Mabamba Swamp​

      PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: Birds of Mabamba Swamp - including the prehistoric Shoebill Stork. Once the group successfully photographs the Shoebill, the remaining time in the swamp will be spent photographing the 250+ bird species residing in the area. There are also plenty of woodland birds surrounding the lodge to photograph throughout the trip

    • Transfer to Entebbe International Airport (EBB) (Approx. 2 hours drive)

    • END OF TOUR​

    • Option to extend this trip:

    • Option 1: Mountain Gorilla Trekking​

    • Option 2: Chimpanzee Trekking

      (Guests must depart after 11:00am on this day)

Availability

The maximum group size for this trip is just four guests and spots fill up fast!

RESERVE YOUR PLACE!

 

to ensure that you are able to attend this trip, please be sure to book ahead of time to guarantee your spot.

Pricing

This trip is prices at $3,450 USD per person sharing accommodation.

 

If you are a solo traveller, there is an additional $400 USD single supplement fee.

Rates are based on an all inclusive basis

Payment

A deposit of 25% is due at the time of booking to reserve your place on this photo safari.

 

25% instalment due 180 days before arrival

50% remaining balance due 90 days prior to arrival

Confirmation

Once a deposit is received, you are officially confirmred on this trip.

CONGRATULATIONS!

You will receive official confirmation via email w along with important details and information you need! 

ENQUIRE NOW

MABAMBA SWAMP BIRDING PHOTO SAFARI

JUNE 12 - 16, 2026

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