10 Days 9 Nights Mount Rwenzori Hiking Adventure Safari Package.

Package Overview

Your 10-day adventure through Uganda's Rwenzori Mountains and beyond is an incredible journey into some of the most breathtaking landscapes and wildlife experiences on the continent. The detailed itinerary promises an immersive mix of extreme adventure, culture, and wildlife encounters. Here’s a more vivid and detailed description:

Mountains of the Moon Adventure: The Rwenzori and Beyond

The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the "Mountains of the Moon," offer a paradise for extreme adventurers. This challenging yet rewarding climb leads you through a magical environment that soothes your mind while pushing your body to new limits. The Rwenzori is not just a hike; it’s a journey through diverse ecosystems, where lush rainforests transform into alpine meadows and glaciers, offering a kaleidoscope of stunning flora and fauna.

The higher you go, the more surreal the world becomes—thick forests give way to bizarre plant species such as giant lobelias and groundsels, while the snowy peaks create an otherworldly contrast. The fresh, cool mountain air is a balm after each day’s hike, reinvigorating you for the days ahead.

Beyond the Rwenzori Mountains, the region is a gateway to other remarkable attractions: Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its wildlife and safari experiences; Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, home to the majestic mountain gorillas; and serene places to relax, such as Lake Bunyonyi. This safari offers not just adventure but leisure, culture, and wildlife in equal measure.

Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Travel to Kasese Town from Kampala

Your journey begins early, with your guide picking you up in a 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser. You’ll set off on a scenic drive to Kasese, with a stop at the Equator for photos and snacks at Lukaaya. You'll pass rolling farmlands, tea plantations, and picturesque landscapes as you head towards Mbarara for lunch at Igongo Cultural Centre. Afterward, continue your drive through the highlands of Rubirizi, arriving in Kasese in the evening to prepare for the exhilarating hike ahead.

Overnight: Rwenzori Mountaineering Services Safari Lodge

Day 2: Begin the Hike (Nyakalengija – Nyabitaba Camp)

The hiking adventure begins at the Nyakalengija trailhead (1,615m asl). After a briefing and meeting your guides and porters, you’ll start the hike through farmland and dense forests along the Mubuku River. You’ll ascend to Nyabitaba Camp (2,651m asl), encountering possible sightings of chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and the striking Rwenzori turaco.

Overnight: Nyabitaba Camp
Hike Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 3: Nyabitaba – John Matte Camp

Descend into a bamboo forest, crossing the Kurt Shafer Bridge over the confluence of the Mubuku and Bujuku rivers. The trail becomes steep, rocky, and slippery, passing through moss-covered rocks and leading to John Matte Hut (3,505m asl). Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of Mount Stanley and Mount Speke

Overnight: John Matte Camp
Hike Duration: 7-8 hours

Day 4: John Matte – Bujuku Camp – Elena Camp

Traverse the Bigo Bog, hopping across tussocks while marveling at the surrounding giant lobelias. The views of Mount Baker and Mount Speke are spectacular as you reach Bujuku Lake. After a short lunch at Bujuku Hut, continue your hike to Elena Camp (4,541m asl), passing through Groundsel Gully.

Overnight: Elena Camp
Hike Duration: 4-5 hours

Day 5: Margherita Peak (5,109m asl) – Kitandara Camp

Today, you will attempt the summit of Margherita Peak, the highest point in the Rwenzori Mountains. The climb is technical, taking you over glaciers, rocks, and ice. After reaching the peak, you’ll descend back to Elena Hut for lunch and then continue down to Kitandara Camp (4,430m asl).

Overnight: Kitandara Camp
Hike Duration: 9-10 hours (round trip)

Day 6: Kitandara – Guy Yeoman Camp – Nyakalengija

Your final descent begins through Freshfield Pass (4,282m asl) and past Bujongolo, the historic camp used by the Duke of Abruzzi in 1906. Continue your descent, crossing the Mubuku River twice, before reaching Nyabitaba and completing the circuit at Nyakalengija.

Overnight: Rift Valley Safari Game Lodge
Hike Duration: 7-8 hours

Day 7: Queen Elizabeth NP – Sunrise Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Ride

Wake up early for a sunrise game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll encounter lions, leopards, elephants, and an abundance of bird species. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, a haven for hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife.

Overnight: Bush Safari Lodge
Travel Time: 1 hour

Day 8: Ishasha Tree Climbing Lions & Transfer to Bwindi

After breakfast, take a game drive in Ishasha, known for its tree-climbing lions. You’ll also spot antelopes like Topis and Kobs. Afterward, journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, arriving in the evening.

Overnight: Buhoma Community Rest Camp Cottages

Day 9: Gorilla Trekking & Batwa Community Experience

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi. Afterward, engage with the local Batwa community, learning about their ancient traditions and forest survival skills.

Overnight: Lake Bunyonyi Safari Resort

Day 10: Lake Bunyonyi Boat Cruise & Return to Kampala

Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi, known for its stunning landscapes and numerous islands. Afterward, begin your return journey to Kampala or Entebbe, stopping in Mbarara for lunch.

Package Inclusions

• Accommodation (as per itinerary)
• Meals and beverages (excluding alcohol)
• Transportation in a 4x4 tourist van
• Entry fees to parks and activities
• Hiking fees for the Rwenzori Mountains
• Gorilla trekking permit
• Guides and porters for the hike.

Exclusions

• Travel insurance
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, alcohol)
• Items not mentioned above

Essential Packing List

• Hiking boots
• Waterproof jacket and warm clothing
• Gloves and headgear
• Backpack for day hikes
• Camera and power bank.
• First aid kit
• Water purification tablets