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12-Day Uganda Active Tour with Rwenzori Trekking
From
USD 3606 Per Person
12-Day Uganda Active Tour with Rwenzori Trekking
From
USD $ 3606
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12-Day Uganda Active Tour with Rwenzori Trekking
Uganda is best explored on foot, wandering through nature, villages, and impenetrable rainforests. Uganda is one of the most scenically diverse countries in Africa. Thanks to all these diverse habitats, Uganda is home to a variety of wildlife that amazes even experienced nature lovers.
Brave the Rwenzori Mountains, Africa’s tallest mountain range, and climb Weismann Peak (4,620 meters). A good level of fitness is required for this expedition. Naturally, this trip will also take you to see mountain gorillas and go on safari. The accommodations have been carefully selected for their location, small scale, and ambiance. For example, you can choose to stay at the beautifully situated Mutanda Lake Resort. From your veranda, you will overlook picturesque Lake Mutanda with the seven volcanoes of the Virunga volcano range in the background.
Almost all excursions listed in this trip are included in the price. At Choose Uganda Safaris, we are constantly looking for innovative and original experiences. This trip is packed with hiking activities such as climbing the Rwenzori Mountains, a gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and classic safaris in Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo National Park.
Your Itinerary At A Glance
- Day 1: Welcome to the pearl of Africa!
- Day 2: Travel to the starting point of the Rwenzori trekking – Kilembe
- Day 3: Start 5-day Rwenzori trekking
- Day 4: Through bamboo forests and heathland to Mutinda Camp
- Day 5: A tough climb to Bugata Camp
- Day 6: To the Weismann peak at 4620 meters!
- Day 7: Descent through the Nyamwamba Valley – to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 8: Game drive & Boat Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 9: Hike Kyambura Gorge – On to the fairytale lake of Mutanda
- Day 10: Gorilla Trekking & Relaxation
- Day 11: On to Lake Mburo National Park
- Day 12: Walking or Mountain Bike Safari in Lake Mburo & Return to Entebbe
Your itinerary Detail
Day 1: Welcome to the pearl of Africa!
On arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will meet a driver from your guesthouse. You will then drive to your hotel in Entebbe.
The transfer takes about 15 minutes. After check-in, you can relax and rest from your journey. In the evening, enjoy a drink under the African starry sky. Later, settle in for a peaceful and well-deserved night’s sleep.
Accommodation:
Middle class: Via Via Entebbe (Breakfast)
Day 2: Travel to the Starting Point of the Rwenzori Trekking – Kilembe
You will meet your guide at breakfast for a short introduction. Afterward, you will begin the drive to the village of Kilembe. The journey passes through local villages, lush rainforests, and wide tea fields and plantations. The scenery changes slowly as you approach the Rwenzori Mountains. Kilembe lies at the foothills of the mountains at an altitude of about 1,450 meters. On arrival, you will check in and relax. You will spend the night in a simple but welcoming hostel, ready for the trek ahead.
Accommodation:
Simple: Kilembe Trekking Hostel (Full Board)
Day 3: Start 5-day Rwenzori trekking
Today you begin your Rwenzori trekking adventure. The walk starts in the montane forest zone, rich with tall trees and thick vegetation. As you hike, you may see large groups of black-and-white colobus monkeys moving through the forest in groups of 15 to 20. The forest is full of life, with tropical flowers, bamboo, and long moss-covered vines. The scenery feels wild and untouched, like a jungle film setting.
Along the way, you will pass near Enock’s Waterfall, a great spot for photos and views. By afternoon, you will arrive at Sine Camp at an altitude of 2,596 meters. This is your first night on the mountain. A hot and tasty meal will be prepared for you. In the evening, you can relax by the campfire and listen to stories from the guides.
Today’s difficulty: Average
Elevation: Kilembe (1,450 m) to Sine Camp (2,596 m)
Weismann Peak Climb – Rwenzori Mountains
Climbing Margherita Peak requires strong technical climbing skills. For this reason, Weismann Peak is a good option for trekkers who want high mountain views without extreme technical climbing. The Weismann route is the most popular choice. It is a five-day trek with four nights in basic mountain camps. You will be supported by trained guides, porters, and a cook who prepares nutritious meals. An acclimatization day improves your chances of reaching the summit. Weismann Peak stands at 4,620 meters and offers a rewarding and remote mountain experience.
Accommodation:
Simple: Rwenzori – Sine Camp, 2,596 meters (Full Board)
Day 4: Through bamboo forests and heathland to Mutinda Camp
After breakfast, the trek continues uphill. Soon, the forest changes into a dense bamboo zone. This part of the trail can be muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season. Good hiking boots are very important today. You will stop at Kalalama Camp at 3,147 meters for a short rest. Enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee and take time to admire the new landscape. From here, the vegetation changes into open heathland. The walk then continues toward Mutinda Camp along a scenic trail.
You will cross small streams several times. The area is colorful and filled with unique plants and mountain flowers. By afternoon, you arrive at Mutinda Camp at 3,688 meters, where you will spend the night.
Later in the afternoon, you may take an acclimatization walk to the Mutinda Viewpoint at 3,925 meters. The climb takes about 1–2 hours, with one hour to walk back down. From the top, you enjoy wide views over the valley, Kasese town, and Lake George. This walk helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Today’s difficulty: Semi-difficult
Elevation: Sine Camp (2,596 m) to Mutinda Camp (3,688 m)
Accommodation:
Simple: Rwenzori – Mutinda Camp, 3,688 meters (Full Board)
Day 5: A tough climb to Bugata Camp
Today’s trek is challenging but rewarding. The landscape is filled with tussock grass, which helps you keep your footing in the wet season. Giant lobelias dot the slopes, giving the mountains a magical, fairytale-like appearance. The hike begins with a steady climb to the Namusangi Valley at 3,840 meters.
From there, you continue up to Bugata Camp at 4,062 meters. This section is one of the toughest of the entire trek. If the climb feels too steep, you can take an alternative route via Bamwanjara Pass, which is gentler but longer. Bugata Camp is one of the best-equipped camps on the trek.
It has proper restrooms, solar lighting, and even a helicopter landing pad for emergencies. (Note: Airlift costs are not included and must be insured separately.) This night, enjoy a hot meal and rest well. The camp provides a safe and comfortable place to recover for tomorrow’s summit climb or continued trekking.
Today’s difficulty: Semi-difficult to difficult
Elevation: Mutinda Camp (3,688 m) to Bugata Camp (4,062 m)
Accommodation:
Simple: Rwenzori – Bugata Camp, 4,062 meters (Full Board with drinks)
Day 6: To the Weismann peak at 4620 meters!
Today is the highlight of your Rwenzori trek: reaching Weismann Peak. After a hearty breakfast, lace up your hiking boots and set off along the edge of Bugata Lake.
The climb is approximately 9 kilometers, gradually taking you higher through stunning alpine landscapes. Weismann Peak’s summit is relatively flat, making it an ideal vantage point. On a clear day, you can see the neighboring Stanley, Speke, and Baker Mountains. Take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking views and celebrate the accomplishment of standing atop one of Africa’s majestic peaks.
After soaking in the panorama, you will begin the descent to Kiharo Camp at 3,460 meters. Along the way, enjoy the changing scenery and the peacefulness of the mountains. In the dry season, you may hear the calls of rock hyraxes at night, adding to the wilderness experience.
Today’s difficulty: Moderate to semi-difficult
Elevation: Bugata Camp (4,062 m) → Weismann Peak (4,620 m) → Kiharo Camp (3,460 m)
Accommodation:
Simple: Rwenzori – Kiharo Camp, 3,460 meters (Full Board)
Day 7: Descent through the Nyamwamba Valley - to Queen Elizabeth NP
Today, you will descend from Kiharo Camp through the beautiful Nyamwamba Valley. The trail is mostly downhill, making the walk easier than the previous days. Follow the path along the river, enjoying lush scenery, moss-covered rocks, and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, you may spot duikers, rock hyraxes, and even some playful primates. At the end of the trail, you will enjoy a relaxing lunch with your guides and porters, celebrating the completion of this memorable trek.
After lunch, a Choose Uganda Safaris driver will be ready to take you to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Here, you will check in at a comfortable lodge and have time to rest, reflect on the trek, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Queen Elizabeth National Park:
Queen Elizabeth National Park covers nearly 2,000 km² in the scenic Rift Valley. It is bordered by the Rwenzori Mountains to the north and Lake Edward to the west. Central to the park is the Kazinga Channel, connecting Lakes Edward and George, perfect for boat safaris. West of the channel are volcanic craters, while the Kyambura Gorge is a deep rainforest home to chimpanzees. Wildlife includes elephants, buffalo, topi, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, and over 600 bird species.
Today’s difficulty: Average
Elevation: Kiharo Camp (3,460 m) → Kilembe (1,450 m)
Accommodation:
Middle class: The Bush Lodge (Full Board)
Day 8: Game Drive & Boat Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Start your day with an exciting morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. You will travel in a safari vehicle with an open roof, giving you the best view of the animals and scenery. Early morning is the perfect time to see wildlife.
Mist often hangs over the savannah, and the sounds of the African wilderness create an unforgettable atmosphere. During the drive, you may spot large herds of buffalo, elephants, graceful Ugandan kobs, topi, lions, leopards, and hyenas. The landscape is diverse, from open grasslands with candelabra euphorbias to crater lakes and dense forests, offering plenty of photo opportunities.
In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing boat safari on the Kazinga Channel. This natural waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is full of wildlife. From the boat, you can see hippos lounging in the water, crocodiles basking on the banks, and elephants cooling themselves in the shallows. Birdwatchers will delight in the variety of colorful species. The boat safari is one of the park’s highlights, providing a unique perspective on the abundant wildlife and stunning scenery.
Accommodation:
Middle class: The Bush Lodge (Full Board)
Day 9: Hike Kyambura Gorge - On to the fairytale lake of Mutanda
In the morning, you will take a stunning hike through the Kyambura Gorge. This long, narrow gorge cuts through the savannah and is filled with water, trees, and shrubs. It is home to chimpanzees, and if you are lucky, you may spot them moving through the trees. The hike is about 11 kilometers and includes some scrambling and climbing, making it both fun and adventurous.
Along the way, enjoy the peaceful rainforest and the sounds of the Kyambura River. Rangers are present to help locate wildlife, but the real joy is walking through this beautiful natural landscape. After your hike, you will drive to the southwest of Uganda, towards the Virunga volcanoes and
the picturesque Lake Mutanda. The journey showcases Uganda’s incredible diversity, passing through rainforests, crater lakes, coffee plantations, and rolling hills. Arriving at Lake Mutanda, you are greeted by breathtaking views of the lake framed by volcanoes and lush forests. This area is home to many rare animals and birds, including kingfishers, gray crowned cranes, and other unique species. It is also a gateway to gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Optional Activities:
You can enjoy kayaking, sailing, or stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Mutanda. In Mgahinga National Park, try a golden monkey trek or climb the Virunga volcanoes. You can also visit local Batwa pygmy villages or take nature walks in Bwindi.
Accommodation:
Middle class: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage (Full Board)
Day 10: The great gorilla trekking adventure!
In the morning, you will travel to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park for the highlight of your trip: gorilla trekking. This is a truly unforgettable experience. You will walk through dense forest, guided by experienced rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). You will look for signs of the gorillas—footprints, nests, gnawed bamboo, and broken branches—until you finally come face to face with a silverback protecting his family. Watching these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an experience you will remember forever.
Even if you choose not to go gorilla trekking, there are many ways to enjoy Lake Mutanda. You can swim in the clean water, paddleboard, sail, kayak, or take a motorboat ride. Hiking in the surrounding area or climbing the volcanoes of Mgahinga National Park is also possible. A Golden Monkey trek is another option. For those who want to relax and reflect after gorilla trekking, an extra night at the lake is recommended.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Bwindi Forest is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. It also shelters over 120 mammal species and 350 bird species. The dense rainforest is a magical environment, alive with birdsong, streams, and misty valleys.
Optional: Gorilla Habituation Day
For a more in-depth experience, join a gorilla habituation day. You will spend up to four hours with a gorilla family, accompanied by researchers. This is done in small groups of four people, offering an intimate and rare glimpse into gorilla life and conservation work.
Optional: Lake Mulehe Canoe Trip and Hike
Lake Muléhe, next to Lake Mutanda, is worth exploring. Begin with a canoe trip across the lake, then enjoy a scenic hike along the shores. Meet friendly locals, fishermen, and a medicine man. A local lunch is included. The walk is moderately challenging but not too difficult. Total duration is about six hours and combines nature, activity, and cultural experiences.
Accommodation:
Middle class: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage (Full Board)
Day 11: On to Lake Mburo National Park
You will leave Lake Mutanda with unforgettable memories. The encounter with the mountain gorillas, inspired by Dian Fossey’s work, will stay with you forever. The beauty and power of Central African nature will also remain in your heart.
Today, you will drive along the scenic road that connects Rwanda with Kampala and Kenya. Your destination is Lake Mburo National Park. Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful views of hills, forests, and farmland. Tonight, you can relax at your comfortable lodge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. For those looking for more adventure, an optional night safari is available.
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo is Uganda’s smallest national park, but it is rich in wildlife. The park is home to impalas, elands, zebras, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and many bird species. Its central lake, Lake Mburo, provides a stunning setting for wildlife viewing.
Optional: Lake Mburo Night Safari
Before dinner, you can take a guided night safari. This is a rare chance to see nocturnal animals such as galagos, hyenas, and maybe even a leopard. The park comes alive at night, offering a completely different wildlife experience.
Accommodation:
Middle class: Rwakobo Rock Lodge – Standard Cottage (Full Board)
Day 12: Walking or Mountain Bike Safari in Lake Mburo & Return to Entebbe
In the morning, you can choose between a walking safari or a mountain bike safari through Lake Mburo National Park. Both activities are included in the trip price. The park is safe because there are no lions or elephants, making it perfect for close encounters with wildlife.
Walking Safari – Morning
Accompanied by a ranger, you will hike through the park looking for zebras, buffalo, eland, and giraffes. Bird lovers will enjoy photographing some of the 310 bird species that live here.
Mountain Bike Safari – Morning (Optional)
Ride through the park on a mountain bike, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views. You may spot zebras, impalas, and other wildlife along the way. The park’s gentle hills make this an exciting yet manageable challenge for cyclists.
Horseback Riding Safari – Morning (Optional)
You can also explore the park on horseback for a unique perspective. This is fun for both beginners and experienced riders. Guests must weigh no more than 90 kg (200 lbs). This activity is only available for guests staying at Mihingo Lodge and must be booked on-site.
After your morning activity, enjoy a late breakfast and then drive back to Entebbe. Along the way, you will cross the Equator. You will be dropped at Entebbe Airport in the early evening for your return flight home. This marks the end of your Uganda adventure. We hope your trip was full of unforgettable memories!
Accommodation: Not included; departure day.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
PRICES FOR THIS PRIVATE TRIP
The prices below are from 2026 prices and are shown in US Dollars per person .
- 1 Pax – USD 7189
- 2 Pax – USD 4957 per person
- 3 Pax – USD 4350 per person
- 4 Pax – USD 3944 per person
- 5 Pax – USD 3782 per person
- 6 Pax – USD 3606 per person
Inclusions
- 11 nights’ accommodation as listed in the itinerary
- Meals as stated per day
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure (Entebbe)
- All transportation in a suitable vehicle throughout the tour
- Services of an English-speaking professional driver/guide
- All national park entrance fees
- Rwenzori trekking package: professional mountain guides, porters, and cook
- Morning and afternoon game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Boat safari on the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth NP
- Guided hike through Kyambura Gorge
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park (included)
Exclusions
- International flights to/from Uganda
- Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional excursions or activities not pre-booked
- Uganda visa costs
- Single room supplement (if requested)
- Repatriation insurance during the Rwenzori trek
- Rental of extra-warm sleeping bags for high-altitude trekking (-20°C in Rwenzori)
