13 Days Hiking the African Western Rift in Uganda

Expedition in the mystical Rwenzori Mountains

Expedition in the mystical Rwenzori Mountains

Ascend the extinct volcano Mount Sabyinyo

Ascend the extinct volcano Mount Sabyinyo

Track the endangered mountain gorillas

Track the endangered mountain gorillas

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Summit:4620 metres

80+kms

9 days of hiking

Hike extinct volcano

13 HIKING THE AFRICAN WESTERN RIFT IN UGANDA

The west of Uganda is blessed with volcanoes, picture-perfect lakes and evergreen jungles. It is also home to the highest mountain range on the African continent (Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya are volcanoes!). Hiking the African Western Rift is a unique hiking journey slicing through the heart of this wild, untamed land. The trip starts with a bang by ascending the spectacular Mount Sabyinyo, easily the best day hike in Uganda. We will spend the night on the shore of one of the most beautiful lakes in the whole of East Africa, Lake Mutanda. The next day we traverse Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park on foot. Bwindi is home to half of the world population of mountain gorillas national park and there is a (small) chance to spot this magnificent animal. If you don’t want to leave it to chance there is the option to track the mountain gorillas with a ranger. In Kalinzu Forest we will track chimpanzees, an entirely different and equally incredible experience. After this we go on a spicy 5-day expedition in the mystical Rwenzori Mountains, where we move across a Jurassic Park-like landscape filled with Giant Lobelia and shimmering lakes. The muddy trail leads us to one of the highest peaks in this mountain range, the 4620 metre high Weismann Peak. We finish the trip with an optional safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Detailed itinerary

Day 01: Welcome to Rwanda

Welcome to Uganda! You arrive in the pleasant city of Entebbe on the shores of Lake Victoria. Our team will welcome you at the airport. They will take you to your accommodation.

 

Day 03: Climbing Mount Sabyinyo

A short, bumpy drive takes us to the foot of Mount Sabyinyo, a striking volcano that is shared by Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. Sabyinyo is located in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. We are briefed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and during the hike we are accompanied by armed rangers. This is a precaution as buffalo, forest elephants and mountain gorillas live on the forested slopes of Sabyinyo. It’s a tough climb, with steep sections sometimes supported with ladders. In the forest you can spot a variety of beautiful birds, possibly golden monkeys and if you’re really lucky there may be a chance encounter with the endangered mountain gorilla. The higher you go the better the views across southwestern Uganda and Virunga National Park in Democratic Republic of Congo. The summit is 3669m high and is the exact point where the three countries Rwanda, Uganda and DRC come together. The descent is tough and you’ll be glad to receive your summit certificate from your ranger guides. We’ll stay on the shore of Lake Mutanda, arguably Uganda’s most beautiful lake with epic views of the Virunga Volcanoes including the one you just climbed!

 

Hiking

Toughness Distance 14km
Technicality   Elevation +1300

 

Day 04: Hike across Bwindi Impenetrable NP

We’ve got a big hiking day ahead, crossing Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Nationak Park. This forest is home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population and although we won’t track them actively today, there is another chance to see them. The forest itself is mindblowing, with lots of monkey and bird species. We follow the Ivy River Trail and it’s a little rough and muddy on the first half, when we descend into the jungle. The path gets better halfway and we end this brilliant hike in the village of Buhoma.

 

Paddle

Toughness Distance 14km
Technicality Elevation  +340 m/-960 

 

Day 05: Gorilla trekking/Waterfall hike

Today you have the option to see the mountain gorillas from up close! With a tracking team you walk across the jungle, likely away from the walking trails*, in search of one of the most endangered primate species on the planet, the mountain gorilla. You start early and it’s unpredictable how long the tracking journey will be, as mountain gorillas stay in a different place every night. But once you meet them and stand eye-to-eye with them….. Truely a day to never forget! Another option is to do a short walk to a stunning waterfall inside the national park. Or if you need a breather after two intense days, you can just relax and go for a stroll in Buhoma village. *The duration and difficulty of the trek can vary, as the gorillas move and are never in the same location. Depending on where they are on the day of your trek, the hike can take as little as 1 hour or as long as 4 hours.

 

Day 06: Chimpanzee trekking in the jungle

Kalinzu Forest Reserve is one of the best places in Western Uganda to see our closest relative, the chimpanzee. We head deep into the forest with our highly trained rangers to track one of the habituated chimp families. Did you know we share 98% DNA with them!? It’s a fascinating experience, turning this jungle walk into one of the most impressive animal encounters you will ever have. In the afternoon we’ll drive to the Kasese, the “capital” of the Rwenzori Mountains. *The duration and difficulty of the trek can vary, as the chimpanzees move and are never in the same location. Depending on where they are on the day of your trek, the hike can take as little as 1 hour or as long as 4 hours.

 

Day 07: Hike to Sine Camp (2640 m), Rwenzori Mountain

From the Trekker’s Base Camp in Kilembe we hike through coffee and cassava plantations to the edge of Rwenzori Mountains National Park, with the thundering Nyamwamba River below us. After registration we head straight into the rainforest. We have the chance to see blue monkeys and the spectacular black and white colobus monkeys. The trail zigzags its way up a steep ridge, moving away from the river. The vegetation is lush, with lots of flowers and huge trees. Our first camp is Sine Camp sits at an altitude of 2640 metres. Not far from the wooden huts you can visit the impressive Enock Falls. Enjoy your first night in the Rwenzoris with the sound of the jungle critters in the background.

 

Hiking

Toughness Distance 10km
Technicality Elevation +1277m

 

 

Day 08: Hike to Mutinda Camp (3590 m)

Today is a relatively short day in distance, but the terrain is steep and potentially muddy. The almost mystical atmosphere of the rainforest makes the effort more than worthwhile. The Rwenzoris are often shrouded in clouds at this altitude, which is known as the bamboo zone. Once you reach Kalalama Camp at around 3150 metres, you enter another vegetation zone called the Heather-Rapanea Zone. Here you can take a small coffee / tea break before heading further up to Mutinda Camp, your mountain hut for tonight. The trail goes up and down and you cross several small streams. The vegetation almost looks alien, especially the Giant Heather plants, typical for East African high altitude mountains. Trees are covered in green moss with old man beards (Usnea lichen) hanging from the branches. From the brilliant Mutinda Camp you can see the first big peaks, among them Mutinda Look Out. It’s an otherworldly place to spend the night.

 

Hiking

Toughness Distance 6,5km
Technicality Eleveation +950m

 

 

Day 09: Hike to Bugata Camp (4045 m)

Expect some boggy sections on your way to Bugata Camp. You’ll be glad to wear wellies rather than ordinary hiking boots. Especially in the wet season you sometimes sink up till your calves in the mud. However, there are several boardwalks across the worst of the bogs and the local outfitter is continuing to build more to make it a little bit easier. You cross the Mutinda valley and climb the steep section up to the Namusangi Valley (3840 meters), with stunning views of the Mutinda Peaks. The Namusangi Valley is a broad valley carved out by glaciers millions of years ago. The hike from here to Bugata Camp involves many ups and downs and crossing several bogs. Bugata Camp is situated at an altitude of 4045 metres with views across Lake Kopello to Weismann Peak, our goal for tomorrow. The camp has good facilities, solar lights, good toilets and bathrooms where the guides may prepare some warm water in a basin for you to wash.

 

Hiking

Toughness Distance 5km
Technicality Elevation +490m

 

 

Day 10: Hike to Kiharo Camp (3460 m)

The climb to Weissman and the descent to Kiharo Camp is no doubt the hardest day of this Rwenzori trek. But it is also the most beautiful trekking day with incredible views and full immersion in the Rwenzori Mountains. As you walk along the shores of Lake Kopello, the landscape behind you unfolds. You can see no less than four lakes, including Lake Africa. Once you reach Oliver’s Pass it’s a short but punchy climb to the summit. The last section to the peak is steep on solid rock and can be difficult with snow and it may be necessary to use ropes for safety. On a clear day you get 360 degree views of all the main peaks around you, including the glaciated Mount Stanley, Mount Speke and Mount Baker. The top of Weismann Peak is relatively flat with deep moss growing on the rocks creating a beautiful atmosphere. From the peak we descend directly to Kiharo Camp 3460 metres down the Nyamwamba Valley. We walk down on rock slabs and pass a couple of dark mountain lakes. Some sections are quite tricky, with steep gravel and uneven terrain.  The valley is home to many Red Forest Duiker, a small deer-like animal. At night you stay in Kiharo Camp at 3460 metres, an area rich in evergreen plants and small streams. Especially during the dryer months at night the air is filled with the screaming calls of the rock hyrax as they sit in the rocky cliffs high above.

 

Hiking

Toughness Distance 11.2km
Technicality Elevation +730m/ -1160m 

 

Day 11: Hike to Kilembe and drive to Queen Elizabeth NP

It’s a long way down to Kilembe, but in terms of scenery one of the best in the Rwenzori Mountains. You pass moss covered rocks along the river, cascading waterfalls, deep valleys and forests. You may see the Rwenzori turaco among many other colourful birds. This route was only opened a few years ago. In 1937 the explorer and geologist McConnell tried to find a way up this valley but failed and had to turn back and search for another route up the mountain. Not many outsiders have visited this unique valley. Halfway there’s a series of waterfalls. Here, the trail is much easier to walk on and we’ll hike out of the mountains in no time. What a trek! You will receive your Weissman summit certificate and after some refreshments we’ll move on to the on the banks of Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park for your next, comfortable accommodation.

 

Hiking

Toughness Distance 18km
Technicality Elevation +250 m/-2290m

 

Day 12: Safari bound in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Today you have the option to explore Queen Elizabeth National Park. You can opt to do an early morning safari in search of big cats (lions and leopards), elephants, buffalo and lots of other wildlife. For those who prefer to sleep in we recommend going on the Kazinga Channel cruise, which can also be done in the afternoon. The channel is rich in birdlife and spectacular wildlife. You will see massive Nile crocodiles, large herds of hippos and elephants. Both wildlife tours are highly recommended!

 

Day 13: Drive back to Entebbe and fly out

A long but scenic drive takes us to the city of Entebbe where you can refresh, have dinner and get ready for your flight.

 

What is included

This expedition adventure includes:

Airport pickup/drop off

Transport throughout the trip with English speaking driver/guide

12x Nights of basic accommodation

Meals during the trip as indicated in the itinerary

Hiking activities & national park fees

Chimpanzee tracking in Kalinzu Forest

Specialist ranger guides for hiking days on Mt Rwenzori

Porters for the Rwenzori Trekking expedition to Weissman Peak

Tea/coffee/snacks on the Rwenzori trekking expedition to Weissman Peak

Water & Snacks

AMREF emergency evacuation insurance

This expedition adventure doesn’t include:

Tips for staff

Personal health/liability/travel insurance

Drinks during and after meals

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Game Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Visa costs (we can organize your visa as an extra service

Costs for optional activities

Early check-in (before 10am) on day 1

Rental of bike, helmet and/or GPS device

Flight tickets (we can organize your flight through our trusted partner

Upgraded accommodation (single or self-contained)

Accommodation

Day 01: Cozy guesthouse

Your first night in Uganda will be at a very cozy guesthouse with a spacious terrace overviewing beautiful green garden.  The rooms are basic, but self contained. An ideal location to unwind and get used to all new impressions.

 

Day 02: Lodge in Kisoro

Our hotel in Kisoro is a historic lodge, famously known as Dian Fossey’s favorite base when studying mountain gorillas. It offers a cozy, colonial-style atmosphere with views of the Virunga volcanoes, making it a welcoming stop for gorilla trekkers.

 

Day 03: Located on the edge of Lake Mutanda

This magical place seems to come straight out of a fairy tale. Spacious and luxurious lodging with great food and a beautiful view over the lake. There is a reason that we are staying here for one extra day. Just relax in your hammock and unwind. No pressure, no stress.

 

Day 04: Guesthouse located in the forest

This night you will sleep in a hotel on the edge of the forest. The balcony has a first class view of the forest and if you are very lucky, you might even spot gorillas that tend to visit once in a while.

 

Day 05: Adventurous safari tents

You will spend the night at a luxurious tented camp. Located on the border of the national park it offers superb possibilities to view wildlife. The twin safari tents are equipped with comfortable beds and charging sockets. You will sleep peacefully with the sound of hippos on the background.

 

Day 06: Basic accommodation on foot of Mt Rwenzori

Today you will sleep in a basic accommodation on the foot of Mount Rwenzori. It might be basic, but has all you need to prepare yourself for the upcoming expedition in the mountain.

 

Day 07-10: Camp on Mt Rwenzori

he coming nights, you will stay in simple mountain camps in basic huts. The hut has  comfortable (bunk)bed for sleeping, and shared bathroom facilities for showering and using the toilet. The team will always do their best to ensure you have access to warm water for bathing.

 

Day 11: Adventurous safari tent

You will spend the night at a luxurious tented camp. Located on the border of the national park it offers superb possibilities to view wildlife. The twin safari tents are equipped with comfortable beds and charging sockets. You will sleep peacefully with the sound of hippos on the background.

 

Optional activities & Costs
Optional activities:

Activity
Price
When

Community hospital visit

Donation
Day 4/5

Gorilla tracking

USD 825,-
Day 5

Waterfall hike

USD 25,-
Day 5

Boat safari

USD 80,-
Day 10

Half day game drive

USD 100,-
Day 10
Extra services

Extra services:
Price

MTB + helmet rental

USD 150,-

E-MTB + helmet rental

USD 300,-

Accommodation upgrade to single room

USD 240,-

Visa application (excluding costs for visa)

USD 50,-

Flights

Ask for options

And many more extras...

Ask for options


dates & prices

Group Tour dates 2026/2027

Coming soon...

Group Tour Price PP

Coming soon...

Private Tour Price PP

Coming soon...

Category
Hiking