12-Day Uganda Adventure: Hiking, Trekking, Rafting & Cycling

After an early breakfast today, you embark on a drive of about 1.5 hours to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. On arrival, you will have a briefing about the day’s volcano hike. Who wouldn’t want to climb a volcano where, once you reach the summit, you’re in three countries at once? Today you’ll be tackling the 3,669-meter-high Sabinyo Volcano. The trail can get quite muddy, so wooden ladders have been installed to ensure an adventurous climb up the volcano’s three peaks. The hike takes an average of eight hours. From the summits, there are breathtaking views, and you can see the lakes and gorges of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Optional activities

Climbing Muhavura Volcano, Mgahinga

The Muhavura Volcano is the highest mountain in the Virunga Mountains on Ugandan soil, at 4,127 meters above sea level. In the local language, Muhavura means “guide” because the mountain can be seen for miles and leads to the town of Kisoro at its foot. The climb takes an average of nine hours and begins at around 2,300 meters.

A trek to the summit of Muhavura is an impressive and active day in Mgahinga National Park. The hike starts early and gradually ascends over open slopes and bamboo forests, where the path becomes increasingly steep. The ground can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, making the climb challenging. Some sections also involve climbing on wet wooden ladders. As you gain altitude, the landscape changes to open Afro-alpine vegetation with low shrubs and expansive views. The trek is physically demanding and requires a good level of fitness, but the reward is spectacular. At the summit lies a clear crater lake, and in clear weather, you can see across Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo, with the surrounding Virunga Volcanoes and Lake Mutanda as an impressive backdrop.

Lake Mulehe Canoe Trip and Hike – Optional

Lake Mulehe is located next to Lake Mutanda, and it’s well worth exploring. The activity begins in the morning with a boat or canoe trip across Lake Mulehe, followed by a scenic walk along the lake. 

Enjoy the stunning views of both Lake Mutanda and Lake Mulehe, with the Bwindi rainforest and the Virunga Volcanoes in the background. During the walk, you’ll meet friendly locals, fishermen, and a medicine man, and a local lunch is included. The walk is partially uphill but not extremely strenuous. The tour lasts approximately six hours and is an ideal mix of activity, beautiful views, and cultural encounters.

Watersports Lake Mutanda – Optional

From Mutanda Lake Resort, you can enjoy fantastic watersports. Swim in this bilharzia-free lake or sunbathe on one of the three jetties. For a more active experience, try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing. For a more local experience, canoe in one of the traditional dugout canoes. There’s also a motorboat, perfect for birdwatching or simply enjoying the scenery with a glass of wine. Whatever you choose, savor the beautiful surroundings and serenity of this enchanting lake.

Golden Monkey Trekking, Mgahinga – Optional

You can go on a trek to see the rare Golden Monkeys, which have several resident groups in the park. The trek takes place at the foot of the Virunga Volcanoes. Once in the forest, you can spend an hour observing the monkeys as they jump, swing, and play. Photographing these playful creatures is a real challenge, but an incredibly rewarding experience.

Boat Trip Lake Mutanda – Optional

In the afternoon, take a boat trip at sunset. In an oasis of tranquility and picturesque scenery, you’ll sail past numerous islands and can even take a dip in the lake. Along the way, you may encounter local fishermen and schoolchildren paddling across the lake in hollowed-out logs, making it a peaceful and memorable way to end the day.

Accommodation Options:

Midrange: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage

Luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner