Deep in the heart of East Africa rise the legendary Rwenzori Mountains, the highest non-volcanic mountain range on the African continent. Known locally by the Bakonjo people as the “Rainmaker” or “King of Clouds,” these mountains present one of the most dramatic and rewarding trekking experiences in the world. Mist-covered valleys, ancient forests, towering giant lobelias, and glacial peaks create a landscape that feels both mystical and untouched.
This extraordinary 19-day adventure combines demanding mountain trekking with some of the most iconic wildlife encounters in Africa. The journey begins near the volcanic landscapes of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where trekkers warm up with an ascent of the extinct Mount Sabinyo, located at the border of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The expedition continues through the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Here, travelers have the rare opportunity to trek through dense rainforest and come face-to-face with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
From the rainforest, the adventure shifts to the rugged alpine wilderness of the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, where an eight-day trek along the Kilembe Route leads hikers through dramatic ecological zones—from tropical forest and bamboo slopes to glacial valleys and snow-capped peaks. For experienced climbers, the journey offers the optional challenge of summiting Margherita Peak, the highest point in Uganda.
The expedition concludes with a classic African safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where savannah wildlife, boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel, and stunning sunset landscapes provide the perfect finale to this remarkable journey across Uganda.
Day 1 – Arrival in Kigali
Your journey begins with arrival in Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda. After airport pickup, you will transfer to your hotel where you can relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Overnight in Kigali.
Day 2 – Kigali to Kisoro (Uganda)
After breakfast, the journey continues north toward the Ugandan border. Crossing into Uganda, the road winds through scenic hills and rural landscapes until you reach Kisoro, a charming town surrounded by volcanic mountains near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Overnight near Kisoro.
Day 3 – Hike to the Summit of Mount Sabinyo
Your first trekking experience begins with an exciting climb of Mount Sabinyo (3,645 m). This extinct volcano marks the unique border intersection of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The hike passes through farmland, bamboo forests, and dense vegetation, eventually reaching rugged ridges equipped with wooden ladders and stairways. From the summit, hikers enjoy sweeping views across the dramatic Virunga Mountains.
Overnight in Kisoro.
Day 4 – Lake Mutanda and Transfer to Bwindi
A scenic cultural walk leads from the lodge to the shores of Lake Mutanda, where traditional dugout canoes transport travelers across the calm waters.
After the canoe journey, a panoramic hike leads through villages and rolling countryside toward the rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of Africa’s most biologically diverse forests.
Overnight near Bwindi.
Day 5 – Optional Gorilla Trekking Experience
Today offers the unforgettable opportunity to track mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Accompanied by experienced rangers, you will trek through dense jungle terrain in search of a habituated gorilla family. Once located, visitors spend a magical hour observing these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.
Overnight in Bwindi.
Day 6 – Bwindi Forest Trek to Buhoma
Today’s hike crosses the heart of the rainforest, following a rarely traveled trail through thick vegetation and steep slopes. Bwindi’s remote wilderness shelters wildlife such as forest elephants, antelopes, and primates.
By afternoon, the trail reaches the northern sector of the park at Buhoma village.
Day 7 – Drive to Kasese
After breakfast, the expedition continues northward toward the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains. The drive passes scenic countryside before arriving in Kasese, the gateway to the mountain trekking route.
Day 8 – Trek to Sine Camp
The trek begins in the village of Kilembe, entering lush mountain forest filled with birds, primates, and towering trees. The trail gradually climbs toward Sine Camp at 2,596 meters.
Day 9 – Sine Camp to Mutinda Camp
The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic as the trail winds through moss-covered forests, waterfalls, and misty valleys before reaching Mutinda Camp.
Day 10 – Mutinda Camp to Bugata Camp
The route ascends through glacial valleys and alpine vegetation before arriving at Bugata Camp overlooking Bugata Lake.
Day 11 – Bugata Camp to Hunwick Camp
Crossing Bamwanjara Pass reveals spectacular views of Mount Stanley, Mount Baker, and Mount Speke.
Descending through dramatic valleys leads to Hunwick Camp.
Day 12 – Trek to Margherita Camp
The trail continues past the beautiful Kitandara Lakes before reaching the high-altitude Margherita Camp.
Day 13 – Optional Summit of Margherita Peak
Climbers begin before dawn for the ascent of Margherita Peak, Uganda’s highest point at 5,109 meters.
The challenging climb involves glacier travel and short rock sections before reaching the summit, where stunning views stretch across the Congo Basin.
Trekkers who opt out of the summit hike enjoy scenic viewpoints nearby.
Day 14 – Hunwick Camp to Kiharo Camp
The descent begins with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks before continuing into deep valleys rich in vegetation.
Day 15 – Exit the Mountains and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
The final descent leads out of the Rwenzori wilderness before driving to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Overnight at a safari lodge overlooking the savannah.
Day 16 – Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Enjoy a wildlife boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, famous for its large concentrations of hippos, elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and birdlife.
An evening game drive offers chances to see lions, antelopes, and other wildlife.
Day 17 – Optional Chimpanzee Trek & Transfer to Lake Mburo
Travel to Lake Mburo National Park, a scenic park known for zebras, impalas, and Ankole cattle grazing alongside wildlife.
Day 18 – Walking Safari and Transfer to Entebbe
A guided walking safari provides a close encounter with nature before the journey continues to Entebbe near Lake Victoria.
Day 19 – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight home.
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
