Rising dramatically along the equator in western Uganda, the legendary Rwenzori Mountains—often called the “Mountains of the Moon”—form the highest non-volcanic mountain range in Africa. In the local Bakonjo language, Rwenzori translates to Rainmaker or King of the Clouds, a fitting description for a landscape where misty valleys, glacier-covered peaks, and dense jungle combine to create one of the most extraordinary trekking environments in the world.
This remarkable 17-day expedition blends challenging mountain trekking with some of East Africa’s most iconic wildlife encounters. The adventure begins in the volcanic highlands near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where trekkers warm up with a hike to the summit of Mount Sabinyo, located at the border triangle of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The journey continues through the ancient rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorilla. Guests have the option to embark on a life-changing gorilla trekking experience, observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
The expedition’s centerpiece is the demanding Central Circuit trek in Rwenzori Mountains National Park, leading through diverse ecosystems—from tropical rainforest and bamboo slopes to alpine moorland and glacial terrain. Experienced climbers may attempt the ascent of Margherita Peak (5,109 m), the highest point in Uganda.
The adventure concludes with classic wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park and a walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park, creating a perfect balance between mountaineering, wildlife encounters, and cultural exploration.
Day 1 – Arrival in Kigali
Your adventure begins with arrival in Kigali, the clean and vibrant capital of Rwanda. After meeting your guide, you will transfer to your hotel where you can relax and recover from the journey before the expedition begins.
Overnight in Kigali.
Day 2 – Drive to Kisoro, Uganda
After breakfast, you travel north toward the Ugandan border. The scenic drive passes rolling hills and rural landscapes before crossing into Uganda and continuing to the town of Kisoro, located near the Virunga volcanoes.
Overnight in Kisoro.
Day 3 – Mount Sabinyo Summit Hike
Today marks the first trekking experience with an ascent of Mount Sabinyo (3,645 m) inside Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
The trail climbs through farmland, bamboo forest, and dense vegetation before reaching steep ridges fitted with wooden ladders and stairways. From the summit, hikers enjoy spectacular views across the Virunga Mountains.
Day 4 – Lake Mutanda and Transfer to Bwindi
A scenic cultural walk leads to the shores of Lake Mutanda, where traditional dugout canoes transport travelers across the lake with breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes.
After the canoe journey, a gentle hike leads through villages to the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Day 5 – Optional Gorilla Trekking
Today offers the chance to track mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Accompanied by experienced rangers, you trek through dense rainforest terrain until you encounter a gorilla family. Visitors spend one unforgettable hour observing these magnificent primates.
Day 6 – Bwindi Forest Trek to Buhoma
A remote trail leads through the dense interior of Bwindi, passing steep ridges, thick vegetation, and wildlife habitats. By afternoon you reach the Buhoma sector at the northern edge of the park.
Day 7 – Transfer to Kasese
Leaving the rainforest behind, the journey continues north to Kasese, the gateway to the Rwenzori Mountains.
Day 8 – Trek to Nyabitaba Hut
The trek begins near Nyakalengija village. Following the Mubuku River through tropical forest and farmland, the trail gradually climbs to Nyabitaba Hut, offering beautiful views of the Portal Peaks.
Day 9 – Nyabitaba Hut to John Matte Hut
The route descends to the Mubuku River before climbing through dense rainforest filled with mosses, lichens, and giant plants. By afternoon, you reach John Matte Hut surrounded by unique afro-alpine vegetation.
Day 10 – John Matte Hut to Bujuku Hut
Today’s trek crosses swampy plains known as the Lower and Upper Bigo Bog before reaching Lake Bujuku. The hut sits in a scenic basin with views of Mount Baker, Mount Speke, and the Stanley massif.
Day 11 – Trek to Elena Hut
Climbing higher into the alpine zone, trekkers ascend through Senecia forests to Elena Hut, located beneath the glaciers of the Stanley massif.
Day 12 – Summit Attempt of Margherita Peak
Before dawn, climbers begin the ascent of Margherita Peak.
The climb involves rock scrambling, glacier travel, and steep snow slopes before reaching the highest point in Uganda. From the summit, breathtaking views stretch across the Congo Basin and the surrounding peaks.
Day 13 – Descent to Kitandara Lakes
After the summit attempt, trekkers descend toward the beautiful Kitandara Lakes, surrounded by dramatic alpine landscapes.
Day 14 – Trek to Guy Yeoman Hut
Crossing Freshfield Pass offers magnificent views of the glaciers on Mount Baker before descending through high valleys and giant lobelia forests to Guy Yeoman Hut.
Day 15 – Descent from the Rwenzori Mountains
The final day of trekking descends through bamboo forest and rainforest back to the trailhead. After saying farewell to the trekking crew, you transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Day 16 – Kazinga Channel Safari
Enjoy a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, famous for its dense wildlife populations including hippos, elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, and numerous bird species.
Day 17 – Lake Mburo Safari and Transfer to Entebbe
Travel to Lake Mburo National Park, where a walking safari offers close encounters with zebras, impalas, and other wildlife. Later, transfer to Entebbe for your departure flight.
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
