UGANDA-MABAMBA SWAMP AND ENTEBBE BIRDING

Looking for the rare Shoebill Stork in The Mabamba Swamp in Lake Victoria in Uganda. The trip didn't start well with officials confiscating my Mini 3 Drone on arrival. I managed to get it back before I left Uganda thankfully but the officials are not very cooperative. The second issue was the rental vehicle. An old Toyota Prado which was not cheap. Firstly the clutch did not work properly and the hand brake did not function at all, so it made for interesting stops on an uphill. The passenger side electric window and sunroof did not work either or when they felt like it.
The ferry from Entebbe to Mabamba Lodge did not run according to timings and stopped whenever they decided so do not rely on it. The alternative is to head towards Kampala and then turn off towards Mabamba just before Kampala.The main highway to Kampala is very good but has a toll gate so make sure you have local cash with you. They do not accept credit cards or other currency.
Mabamba Lodge was very nice and close to the boat jetty for the Shoebill boats. The tour guides are well trained and knowledgeable on birds and good at finding the Shoebill's.
Entebbe Botanical Gardens were good for birding but very noisy and busy on the weekend. You can arrange with the gate keeper to leave the gate unlocked if you want to get in early in the morning before opening time. Many interesting birds with a resident African Hobby which was a highlight.
Bathawks apparently are also there but I could not find them.

[@carolkemp5935]

Wonderful video, I'm excited to tell my friends. Thank you

[@thesetter]

Great video. Thanks.