Shoebill trips to Lugogo wetlands Ziwa Rhino sanctuary.

Shoebill trips to Lugogo wetlands Ziwa Rhino sanctuary-Lugogo swamp is a 10 kilometer swamp that directly borders the Ziwa Rhino sanctuary, the majestic Wetlands is an integral part of the ecosystem and is home to a multitude of animals and rare birds. It provides guests with some of the most unparalleled opportunities for bird viewing in Uganda – including the threatened and endangered Shoebill Stork.

Birding in Lugogo wetlands is spectacular all year round due to incredible habitat that attracts over 350+ species including White Crested Turacos, Giant Kingfishers, Palmnut Vultures, Barbets, and 11 of the woodpecker species, including the Speckled-breasted Woodpecker.

The Shoebill trekking.

Guests will need to book this trip the night before and the sanctuary will provide them with life jackets for the Canoe boat trip which is the best way to maneuver the water ways of the Lugogo wetland. As early as 6 am travelers will depart the sanctuary from their lodge with a ranger and drive approximately 45 minutes to the wetland, on arrival you will meet up with the shoebill trackers, it’s important to note that some parts of this wetland are not accessible by canoe boat so depending on the advice of the shoebill tracker you may walk on foot at the edge of the wetland to see the shoebill before embarking on the canoe boat to see more birds.

Birding within the sanctuary

The sanctuary is a home to over 350 bird species, those keen on bird watching can spend the day with the expert bird guides at sanctuary to see several of this species.

What to pack for shoebill trek in Lugogo swamp in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

The canoe boats are not covered and the walks are done in open places so guests will need to pack the following items

• Cap/ hut.
• sunscreen lotion.
• Insect repellant.
• Pair of Binoculars.
• Drinking water.
• Rain Jacket or poncho.
• UV sun glasses.
• Life Jackets.

Best time for shoebill trekking in Lugogo swamp in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

With the abundance of lung fish and mud fish shoebill trekking can be done all year around however chances are high to see the bird during the rainy season when there is more water logged areas.