24 Jul 2024
Today I went on an expedition tour with Eric and Walter to the Mabamba Swamps. They picked me up at the hotel on time as arranged. We took the ferry to Sazi, which saved us a bumpy journey via Kyengera. They both know every bird. And so I am made aware of the local birdlife at several stops on the way. Once we arrive in the swamps, Huntington, an experienced guide and also a birding expert, guides us through the narrow canals. After just a short time, he spots a shoebill, which we approach within five metres. What a sublime moment. Time stands still for a moment and you don't want to go any further. After what feels like 15 minutes, we carry on and around the next bend Huntigton discovers the next shoebill. What a lucky coincidence, he confirms, as there are only 12 of its kind in the swamps. Of course, we spot other birds that are only partly familiar to me as a birdwatcher, such as various herons, kingfishers, plovers, crowned cranes....
The entertaining trip with Eric and Walter was an impressive experience. If I hadn't already booked several tours with other providers, I would have gone on a discovery tour of Uganda with the two of them.