The Shoebill

• The Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) is a large long-legged wading bird deriving its name from its enormous shoe-shaped bill. 
• It is sometimes wrongly referred to as a stork but it is genetically closer to pelicans and herons. 
• The shoebill is a tall bird ranging from 110-140 cm weighing from about 4-7 kg. 
• With its exceptionally large feet it can stand on aquatic vegetation while hunting. Its main prey is fish which it strikes with incredible speed after having waited motionless for a long time. 
• After swallowing the fish it often takes off - a beautiful sight to see. 

The shoebill tour

Shoebill tours typically includes a drive to Nakiwogo, a larger boat to Mabamba, then canoes with a birding expert in the wetland for about one and half hour before returning the same route.  

You may add a visit to Nfo Island and the Equator monument at a small extra cost. 

All our boats and life-jackets are in good condition. The guide is the most experienced in Mabamba and has been with us for many years