This 17-day adventure explores some of the most spectacular landscapes in East Africa, combining jungle trekking, high-altitude mountaineering, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences across Uganda and Rwanda.
The journey begins in Kigali before heading into the volcanic highlands near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Here you hike Mount Sabinyo, standing at the meeting point of three countries and enjoying sweeping views of the Virunga volcano chain.
From there, the adventure continues into the ancient rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Guests can take part in an unforgettable gorilla tracking experience, trekking through dense jungle to spend time observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
The highlight of the expedition is the legendary trek through the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, often called the Mountains of the Moon. This remote mountain range is Africa’s highest non-volcanic range and one of the continent’s most unique trekking environments. The trail winds through lush rainforest, bamboo zones, and otherworldly alpine landscapes filled with giant lobelia and senecia plants.
Trekkers follow the famous Central Circuit route, gradually gaining altitude through remote valleys and high mountain passes. For experienced climbers, the expedition offers the opportunity to summit Margherita Peak, the third-highest peak in Africa.
After the demanding trek, the journey concludes with a classic African wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where visitors may see elephants, buffalo, lions, hippos, and a wide variety of birdlife.
This expedition is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a truly diverse East African experience — combining high mountain trekking, rainforest exploration, wildlife safaris, and encounters with one of the world’s most endangered primates.
Day 1 - Arrival in Kigali
Your journey begins with arrival in Kigali. After airport pickup, transfer to your hotel and relax after your international flight.
Overnight in Kigali.
Day 2 - Drive to Kisoro, Uganda
After breakfast, travel north through scenic countryside toward Uganda. Crossing the border, continue to the town of Kisoro near the Virunga Volcanoes.
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Driving time: ~4 hours
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Overnight near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Day 3 - Hike Mount Sabinyo (3,645 m)
Today we climb Mount Sabinyo, located at the border of Uganda, Rwanda, and the DR Congo.
The trail passes through farmland, bamboo forests, and steep ridges with wooden ladders and viewpoints across the Virunga volcanoes.
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Hiking time: 7–8 hours
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Elevation gain: 1,300 m
Overnight in Kisoro.
Day 4 - Lake Mutanda Canoe Journey & Bwindi Forest
Hike from the lodge through rural villages to beautiful Lake Mutanda. Traditional dugout canoes take us across the lake with views of the Virunga volcanoes.
From the northern shore, hike to the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
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Hiking distance: ~12 km
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Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Overnight near Bwindi.
Day 5 - Optional Gorilla Trekking
Today you have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to track mountain gorillas in Bwindi Forest. Guided by expert rangers, hike through dense jungle to spend a magical hour observing a gorilla family in their natural habitat.
Those not participating can relax at camp or explore nearby trails.
Overnight in Bwindi.
Day 6 - Bwindi Forest Trek to Buhoma
Traverse the jungle along the Bwindi Trail, walking through one of Africa’s richest rainforests. The forest is home to gorillas, forest elephants, antelope, and numerous bird species.
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Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Arrive in Buhoma village at the northern edge of the park.
Day 7 - Drive to Kasese
Travel north toward the Rwenzori Mountains and the town of Kasese, the gateway to your upcoming mountain adventure.
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Driving time: ~5 hours
Overnight in Kasese.
Day 8 - Trek Begins: Nyakalengija to Nyabitaba Hut
The Rwenzori trek begins in the village of Nyakalengija. Meet your guides, porters, and cooks before entering the rainforest.
The trail climbs along the Mubuku River through thick vegetation to Nyabitaba Hut.
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Hiking time: 4–5 hours
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Elevation gain: 1,035 m
Day 9 - Nyabitaba to John Matte Hut
Descend to the river before crossing into bamboo forest and moss-covered jungle. The trail passes through the famous Bigo Bog wetlands and giant lobelia plants.
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Hiking time: 5–6 hours
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Elevation gain: 960 m
Day 10 - John Matte to Bujuku Hut
A spectacular day crossing boardwalks over swamps and climbing through the Senecio forest toward Lake Bujuku.
Views open toward the peaks of Mount Baker, Mount Speke, and Mount Stanley.
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Hiking time: ~6 hours
Overnight at Bujuku Hut.
Day 11 - Climb to Elena Hut
The route climbs through alpine bogs and rocky slopes to Elena Hut at 4,540 m. This is the base for climbers attempting Margherita Peak.
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Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Day 12 - Summit Attempt: Margherita Peak (5,109 m)
An early alpine start leads across glaciers and rocky sections toward the summit of Margherita Peak, the third-highest mountain in Africa.
From the summit you enjoy incredible views across the Rwenzori range and into the Congo Basin.
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Climb time: 8–12 hours round trip
Day 13 - Kitandara Lakes
Descend through alpine valleys to the beautiful Kitandara Lakes surrounded by dramatic peaks.
A well-earned rest day after the summit climb.
Day 14 - Kitandara to Guy Yeoman Hut
Cross Freshfield Pass before descending into a lush valley filled with giant lobelia and moss-covered rocks.
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Hiking time: ~6 hours
Day 15 - Descent to Kasese
Descend through rainforest and bamboo forest back to Nyakalengija. Say goodbye to your trekking crew before driving to Kasese for a hot shower and celebration dinner.
Day 16 - Entebbe & Safari Experience
Travel to Entebbe. Optional safari game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park where you may see elephants, lions, buffalo, and hippos.
Day 17 - Departure
Transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your flight home, bringing unforgettable memories of the Mountains of the Moon and Uganda’s incredible wildlife.
Included
- Accommodation
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner — specify)
- Transport (Safari vehicle / Tour bus / Airport transfers)
- Professional tour guide
- Park entry fees
- Activities listed in the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water
- All government taxes
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Emergency medical evacuation
Excluded
- International flights or visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (tips, shopping, laundry)
- Optional activities not in the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages
- Extra meals or snacks not included
- Accommodation before and after the tour (unless added)
- Medical or vaccination costs
