The Batwa Trail leads from the base of Muhavura Cave. This walk is conducted by Batwa guides who provide insights into their traditional forest life and culture. The Batwa used to live with the gorillas in harmony within the Mgahinga Forests.

4 DAYS: UGANDA PRIMATE SAFARI

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Sauti Africa Explorers Ltd. and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Uganda on our 4-Day Primate Safari. Join us as we explore the lush jungles and diverse ecosystems of this captivating country, home to some of the world’s most remarkable primates. This itinerary will begin from Entebbe/Kampala and will take you through the incradible jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park up to Kibale Forest National Park.

Join us on this captivating 4-Day Uganda Primate Safari and create memories to cherish for a lifetime. With Sauti Africa Explorers Ltd., every moment is an adventure waiting to be discovered. Book your safari today and let the wonders of Uganda unfold before your eyes.

Please note that this is a general itinerary, and the actual duration, activities, and accommodations may vary depending on your preferences, available time, and the specific arrangements made with you. It is advisable to consult with us to customise your itinerary and make any necessary adjustments.

10 DAYS: UGANDA, CONGO & RWANDA PRIMATE SAFARI

These 10-days of Uganda, Congo & Rwanda Primate Safari they a remarkable adventure through the heart of East Africa, promising an unforgettable journey filled with encounters with some of the world’s most fascinating primates. Delve into the lush rainforests and national parks of Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda as you seek out gorillas, chimpanzees, and other incredible wildlife species. Your safari begins in Uganda, where you’ll be immersed in the dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Here, embark on an awe-inspiring gorilla trekking expedition, getting up close and personal with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The journey continues into Congo’s Virunga National Park, renowned for its population of mountain gorillas.

Experience the thrill of another gorilla trekking adventure, accompanied by experienced guides and rangers who provide valuable insights into these endangered primates and their conservation. Crossing into Rwanda, you’ll explore the stunning Volcanoes National Park, home to golden monkeys and other primate species. Trek through the misty forests in search of these elusive creatures, marveling at the breathtaking scenery along the way. Additionally, immerse yourself in the captivating Nyungwe Forest, where you’ll have the opportunity to track chimpanzees and explore the forest canopy on a thrilling canopy walk.

Throughout your journey, expert guides and rangers from each destination will accompany you, ensuring your safety and providing invaluable knowledge about the local wildlife and conservation efforts. This primate safari promises an enriching and unforgettable experience, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of some of Africa’s most iconic primates in their natural habitats. Ensure you are adequately prepared for the physical demands of gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, including appropriate clothing, footwear, and fitness levels. Additionally, emphasize the importance of responsible tourism practices, such as respecting wildlife and local communities, and supporting conservation efforts in the region.

Additional Suggestions:

  • Consider adding a visit to Lake Kivu for relaxation and water-based activities between Congo and Rwanda legs of the journey.
  • Include cultural experiences such as visiting local markets, traditional dance performances, or community visits to gain insight into the local way of life.
  • Depending on interests, extend the trip to include other national parks or attractions in the region, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda or Akagera National Park in Rwanda for a safari experience with a different focus on savannah wildlife.

Please note that this is a general itinerary, and the actual duration, activities, and accommodations may vary depending on your preferences, available time, and the specific arrangements made with you. It is advisable to consult with us to customise your itinerary and make any necessary adjustments.

9 DAYS: RWANDA WILDLIFE, PRIMATE TREKKING AND BIRDING ADVENTURE SAFARI

A 9-days Birdwatching, Primate Trekking and Wildlife Adventure Safari in Rwanda, covering Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, and Volcanoes National Park, promises an incredible combination of birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and primate tracking. On these 9 days of Birdwatching and Wildlife adventure safari tour in Rwanda, which will take you through Akagera National Park for amazing park wildlife game drive and reward a safari boat cruise ride as well as with an opportunity for Kigali city tour, later on you shall connect to Nyungwe Forest National Park for Chimpanzee tracking and visit Volcanoes National Park for Gorilla tracking. At the end of this lifetime experience you will be dropped off at any place of your inconvenience by our driver/guide.

These 9-days  birdwatching, primate trekking and wildlife adventure safari offers an incredible range of experiences, from exploring Rwanda’s urban life in Kigali to trekking chimpanzees and mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. We ensure you with the necessary equipment for birding, gorilla trekking, and golden monkey tracking, including binoculars, field guides, and appropriate activities in different environments. It’s an ideal safari for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Please Note that this itinerary can be customised, and the actual activities and destinations can be experienced based on your preferences and the availability of permits. Additionally, the order of activities may vary depending on specific arrangements and the time of year you visit.  

9 DAYS: RWANDA MOUNTAIN GORILLA TREKKING AND WILDLIFE SAFARI

Embarking on these incredible 9-days of trekking mountain gorilla and wildlife safari in Rwanda indeed promises an unforgettable adventure, offering a unique opportunity to witness some of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife species up close in their natural habitats. Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” boasts lush forests, majestic mountains, and diverse ecosystems that support a variety of iconic animals.

Rwandas country side offers a breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a commitment to conservation that makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. This itinerary offers a perfect balance of cultural experiences, gorilla trekking adventures, and wildlife safaris, ensuring that you make the most of your time in Rwanda while creating unforgettable memories.

Please note that this is a general itinerary, and the actual duration, activities, and accommodations may vary depending on your preferences, available time, and the specific arrangements made with you. It is advisable to consult with us to customise your itinerary and make any necessary adjustments.

14 DAYS: RWANDA DISCOVERY EXPEDITION SAFARI

A 14-days Rwanda Expedition Safari offers a comprehensive exploration of Rwanda’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, culture, and history. This itinerary combines wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Over these 14 Days of Exploring Rwanda, you will spend two weeks in Rwanda discovering and exploring the country,  the safari will take you to through Rwanda’s Wildlife in three National parks of Rwanda likely in Akagera National Park and to track mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Expect to see Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National park, a variety of wildlife in Akagera National Park, Cultural visits, and genocide museums. 

These 14-days expedition safari in Rwanda provides a well-rounded experience of the country’s natural wonders, wildlife, culture, and history. Be sure to obtain necessary permits and follow responsible tourism practices to ensure a memorable and ethical expedition. Rwanda’s beauty and biodiversity make it an exceptional destination for an extended exploration.

Please Note that this itinerary can be customised, and the actual activities and destinations can be experienced based on your preferences and the availability of permits. Additionally, the order of activities may vary depending on specific arrangements and the time of year you visit.   

16 DAYS: BEST OF RWANDA ADVENTURE SAFARI

A 15 Days Best of Rwanda  Adventure Safari in Rwanda exploring the best and iconic attractions in the country. This tour will give you opportunity for Birding, Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzee tracking, Canopy Walk, relax along the shores of Lake Kivu, visit genocide memorial site of Rwanda, explore Rwanda’s wildlife and traditional/culture of Volcanoes National Park with Akagera National Park and so much more of Rwanda condensed in one package tour Itinerary. This itinerary provides a comprehensive adventure safari in Rwanda, covering wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities in some of the country’s most iconic destinations.

Please note that this is a sample itinerary, and the actual activities and destinations can be customized based on your preferences and the availability of permits. Additionally, the order of activities may vary depending on specific arrangements and the time of year you visit.   

 

5 DAYS: GORILLA TREKKING ADVENTURE AND BIG 5 EXPEDITION

A 5-days gorilla trekking adventure and Big 5 expedition in Uganda offers a thrilling combination of encountering endangered mountain gorillas and experiencing Africa’s iconic Big Five wildlife. This safari is going to earn you a visit to the mystical Murchison falls national park that also has a lot to offer in terms of flora and fauna, the trip starts with a visit to Murchison Falls National Park the Wild animals that can be seen in this park include some of the big five such as Elephants, Buffaloes and Lions; as well as Giraffes, Antelopes, Crocodiles, Hippos and a lot more. You will head further through the Albertine Rift to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to more than half of the remaining total population of the rare mountain gorillas.

This itinerary offers a well-rounded wildlife experience, combining the thrill of gorilla trekking with the excitement of Big Five game drives in Uganda’s renowned national parks. It’s essential to book gorilla permits and accommodations well in advance, as they have limited availability, especially during peak tourist seasons. With our experienced guides and rangers will accompany you during both the gorilla trek and game drives to ensure your safety and provide insightful information about the wildlife and conservation efforts.

Please note that this is a general itinerary, and the actual duration, activities, and accommodations may vary depending on your preferences, available time, and the specific arrangements made with you. It is advisable to consult with us to customise your itinerary and make any necessary adjustments.

3 DAYS: MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK UGANDA SAFARI

A 3-days safari to Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda offers a fantastic opportunity to explore diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and the iconic Murchison Falls. Murchison Falls National Park is the largest conservation area in Uganda covering an area of over 3,840km deriving its name from its famous waterfall; the Murchison falls. These falls are formed when the Victoria Nile powerfully forces its way through a narrow cleft as it thrusts 43m down with a thundering cascade. The Park is home to a variety of wildlife including 76 mammal species and 451 bird species. Four of the big five can be found here and primates include patas monkeys and about 800 chimpanzees which live within Budongo forests and Kaniyo Pabidi. Bird species, On your Murchison, falls safari, you can also look forward to observing the magnificent falls from which the park obtains its name; here, the Victoria Nile plunges 45m over the remnant rift valley wall through an 8 meters gap, creating the dramatic Murchison Falls, a thunderous roar and a signature rainbow – the centrepiece of the park and the final event in an 80km stretch of rapids.

The park is bisected by the Victoria Nile from east to west for a distance of about 115 kilometres (71 miles). The park is the location of the Murchison Falls, where the waters of the Nile flow through a narrow gorge only 7 metres (23 feet) wide before plunging 43 metres (141 feet).

Also in the park, adjacent to the Masindi – Gulu Highway, are the Karuma Falls, the location of the 600 megawatts Karuma Power Station, which will be Uganda’s largest power station when it comes online circa 2018. The Murchison Falls Conservation Area and the adjacent Bugondo Forest Reserve have 76 species of mammals as well as Uganda’s largest population of Nile crocodiles. Roughly 450 bird species are present, including a variety of waterfowl such as the rare shoe-billed stork, Budongo’s 59 “restricted range” species, dwarf kingfisher, Goliath heron, white–thighed hornbill, and great blue turaco. Since 2005, the protected area is considered a Lion Conservation Unit.

Activities To Do In Murchison Falls National Park

Game Drive

Game drives offer a perfect encounter with huge volumes of savanna wildlife whether on a day or night game drive. There are many game trails designated for game viewing (they include Buligi, Queen, Albert, and Victoria tracks) and while on Uganda safari in Murchison Falls National Park, expect to get exposed to lions, African bush elephants, antelopes, birds, buffaloes, Rothschild giraffes, warthogs and enjoy the scenic landscape of the park while in a 4×4 Land cruiser/safari van.

Bird Watching

One of the astonishing and exciting Uganda tour activities to do in Murchison Falls National Park is bird watching. Some of the amazing birds to identify while on Uganda birding safari in this park includes papyrus gonoleks, Northern red bishop, swamp flycatchers, Abyssinian ground hornbill, shoebill stork, Squacco heron, red-throated bee-eaters, goliath heron, Grey-crowned crane, nightjars, giant kingfishers, and many more.

Safari Boat Cruise

There is no better place to enjoy a boat cruise experience than Murchison Falls National Park. This is conducted towards the bottom of Murchison Falls and along the way, expect to catch a glimpse of hippos, Nile crocodiles, water birds including shoebill storks, African fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, bee-eaters, and a lot more. There are 2 options to explore Murchison Falls National Park on a boat cruise; in the morning starting at 8:00 am and at 2:00 pm.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Budongo Forest Reserve which is part of Murchison Falls National Park is a perfect spot for chimpanzee tracking. Chimp treks are conducted in the Kaniyo-Pabidi forest which is part of Budongo Forest. Chimpanzees are closest relatives in the wild, sharing about 98 per cent of their DNA with humans. An hour with these primates in their natural habitat is exceptionally a lifetime experience. Other primates to enjoy the good sight in addition to chimpanzees include the red-tailed monkeys, red colobus monkeys, olive baboons and not to forget a variety of forest birds.

Hot Air Balloon Experience

Hot air balloon tour is a newly introduced experience in Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park. It offers an exceptional opportunity for tourists on Uganda safari to enjoy an excellent view of big game and other savanna wildlife while in a hot air balloon rather than being in a 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser/Safari Van with a pop-up roof.

Cultural Tour Experience

Murchison Falls National Park is a vibrant Uganda safari destination not only for game viewing but also for authentic African cultural experiences. Tourists can engage in cultural safaris in the nearby local communities where they can enjoy great dances, and music performances and also stand a chance to learn lots of amazing traditions, lifestyles, and cultures.

Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda’s most renowned wildlife reserves, offering a chance to see the Big Five and other fascinating species. Customise your itinerary based on your interests and the specific activities you wish to prioritise, as there are options for additional game drives, nature walks, birdwatching and more.

Please note that this is a general itinerary, and the actual duration, activities, and accommodations may vary depending on your preferences, available time, and the specific arrangements made with you. It is advisable to consult with us to customise your itinerary and make any necessary adjustments.

3 DAYS: LAKE MBURO NATIONAL PARK UGANDA HOLIDAY SAFARI

A 3-days holiday safari in Lake Mburo National Park offers an opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and unique activities in this park. This is one of Uganda’s smallest wildlife parks although very rich in wild game. Plenty of bird life flourishes here with more than 315 different bird species, a rich animal life including 68 different mammals like impala, leopards, buffalo, jackals and hyenas to see on an Uganda safari. Aside from all this, it is only here that you will find zebras.

Lake Mburo “Whispers of the Wild” is one of the most serene national parks endowed with the largest herd of Zebras among all Ugandan National Parks. It’s the only Park in Uganda where you can embark on a horseback safari – riding the horse while viewing wildlife. Other unique alternatives include bush biking and walking Safari all besides the usual Game drive.

What is currently Lake Mburo National Park was first gazetted in 1933 as a controlled hunting area and later upgraded to a game reserve in 1963. The area was dominantly occupied by the Banyankore pastoralists (commonly known as Bahima) who continued to herd their cattle and other livestock in the reserve until it was granted National park status in 1983 by the Obote regime. The decision to upgrade Lake Mburo reserve to a National park status was in one part targeted to punish the Banyankore who were believed to be supporting the anti-Obote rebels. The evicted pastoralists were not given any compensation for the lost grazing land and neither were they helped with the resettlement many of them thus protested the park’s formation. This was during the time of Operation Bonanza massacre of 300,000 and as a result and outside the park was divided into small pieces and subsistence plots.

The origin of this park started with a story of two brothers one known as Mburo and the other as Signarama who lived in the low-lying Savannah plains hence making the area traditionally known as Kaaro karungi. One night Signarama dreamt that they were to receive a substantial amount of rain which would cause flooding and their property destroyed. Kigarama told the dream to his brother but Mburo took it for granted. Because in the African society dreams were respected kigarama decided to leave the area and went into the overlooking hills leaving his brother behind. Finally, the dream came true and the area was attacked by the rain and which caused flooding and the drowning of Mburo with his property thus the name Mburo and the hills were named after his brother.

Lake Mburo national park is a special place, it has got a vast ecosystem and nature prevails, in its western region. There are Rocky Ridges and forested gorges, Narrow bands of lush, riparian woodland and much more. Like many lakes, this has been an addition to the formation of beautiful sceneries hence attracting many tourists to come and see the hidden treasures of the park. Since lake Mburo national park is a special place, it harbours 68 mammal species though it does not have elephants and lions. The fact that there are no lions, gives a chance the tourist to freely move close to the animals and have a close impact with them.

The park has got a wide range of birds flopping in the sky and are so visible to visitors. Some of the birds that are seen in this park include rare rare shoebill, stork, African fin foot, pelican, and heron among others. Lake Mburo national park is blessed with forests which act as a habitat for animals in the park but also help in the influence and formation of rainfall that provides water. This helps to complete tasks that need water at the park-like, it acts as drinking water for the animals hence improving their well-being and outlook. The park is rich with acacia trees, valleys, and grasslands with different types of grass that are fed on by wild animals. It also has both seasonal and permanent swamps where papyrus grows which is used to make a variety of things that can be sold and improve the government’s economy.

Activities To Do In Lake Mburo National Park

Game Drives

Game viewing is one major reason the majority of tourists on the Uganda safari holidays consider Lake Mburo National Park a must-visit. Game drives here present visitors opportunity to enjoy the view of the endangered Rothschild giraffes that exist only in 3 parks in Uganda (Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park and Lake Mburo National Park), lion, birds, leopard, buffaloes, huge volumes of antelopes (mostly impalas, topis, bushbucks, roan antelopes, eland, oribis to mention but a few.

Bird Watching Experience 

A safari in Lake Mburo National Park is never complete without bird watching. There are diverse bird species sheltered in the park’s scenic swamps and savannas with the best birding sites including Miriti and Warukiri swamps. Among the many bird species to identify while on birding safari in Lake Mburo National Park include red-necked spurfowl, shoebill stork, emerald spotted wood dove, bared faced go-way bird, African grey hornbill, brown parrot, lilac-breasted rollers, Nubian woodpeckers, black-bellied bustards, African wattled plover rufous, crested francolin, yellow-throated long claw, southern red bishop, rufous chested swallow, and others.

Guided Nature Walks

A nature walk in Lake Mburo National Park is a distinct experience of its own. Compared to other protected areas, nature walks in this park can be conducted in any area with the guidance of an experienced and armed park ranger guide. Nature lovers on Uganda safari can be exposed to the park’s numerous antelope families, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, butterflies, birds and many more. You can go on a morning nature walk/in the afternoon.

Sport Fishing

This is one of the extraordinary activities that distinguishes Lake Mburo National Park from the usual destinations. It is an incredible water sport involving anglers challenging themselves with heavy fish species at Mazinga spot which is also free of hippos and crocodiles.

Boat/Launch Cruise

A launch cruise is another most memorable recreational water sport Uganda safari travellers can engage in while on a holiday in Lake Mburo National Park. This exposes you to the park’s numerous hippos, crocodiles as they bask on lake shores, water birds like African fish eagles, green-necked doves, malachite kingfishers, cormorants, pied kingfishers, pelicans, rufous tailed starlings, shoebill stork, herons to mention but a few.

Horseback Riding

Viewing wildlife on horseback is such a mesmerizing experience you shouldn’t miss out while on the Uganda safari and Lake Mburo National Park should your must-visit destination. It is one of the 2 protected areas in Uganda where this adventure is conducted. You will enjoy the amazing views of elands, zebras, and birds while on the horseback instead of using a 4×4 Uganda safari vehicle.

Rubanga Forest Walks

If you enjoy bird watching then a nature walk/forest walk in Rubanga forest should be your next thing. It shelters about 42 bird species including Narina trogon, shoebill, double-toothed barbet, grey-backed camaroptera and many more. Other activities include a guided nature walk to the salt lick, a community/cultural encounter, a visit to Igongo cultural centre, Quad biking, and walking/hiking tours, especially on Kazuma hill.

Lake Mburo National Park is known for its accessible wildlife viewing opportunities and diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, grasslands, and lakes. Customize your itinerary based on your interests, as there are opportunities for game drives, nature walks, and horseback riding.

Please note that this is a general itinerary, and the actual duration, activities, and accommodations may vary depending on your preferences, available time, and the specific arrangements made with you. It is advisable to consult with us to customise your itinerary and make any necessary adjustments.

9 DAYS: MOUNTAIN RWENZORI HIKING AND BIRDING SAFARI

A 9-days hiking safari in Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon, is a challenging and rewarding adventure for trekkers seeking to explore Africa’s third-highest mountain range and its unique alpine environment. This impressive range of mountains is located on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Its highest snow-capped peak Margherita stands at a height of 5109m. It stretches to about 110km in length. This UNESCO world heritage site includes an astonishing range of landscapes, from the bizarre afro-alpine moorland to the thick tropical vegetation on the lower slopes and lastly the glaciers at the highest reaches in the southern hemisphere. The pack is known for its beautiful plant life, the pack has Africa’s third highest mountain peak and many waterfalls, lakes and glaciers.

The Rwenzori Mountains, initially known as the Ruwenzori, is a block mountain range set between the East African states of Uganda and the D.R. Congo. The Rwenzori Mountain range rises up to 5109m and its centre point features the 3rd highest peak “Margherita.” The Rwenzori Mountain which is also popularly referred to as Mountains of the Moon lies on the rift valley floor but what makes it unique is that isn’t a volcanic mountain.

The Rwenzori Mountain/Mountains of the Moon is also one of the very few black mountains on the planet with permanent snow and glaciers one reason most climbers prefer trekking to its summits compared to even Kilimanjaro Mountain. The Rwenzori Mountains cover an area of 4800kms, length of 120kms and width of up to 65kms. Its highest point “Margherita” sits on Mount Stanley at 5109m. Reaching an elevation of 5,109m, Rwenzori Mountain is one of Africa’s tallest mountain ranges, exceeded in altitude only by the free-standing Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro. The Rwenzori range has 6 major peaks, Mt Stanley (5,109m), Mt Speke (4,890m) Mt Baker (4,843m), Mt Emin (4,798m), Mt Gessi (4,715m) and Mt Luigi di Savoia (4,627m). The highest peak in the Mt Stanley complex is called Margherita peak (5,109) and it is this peak which makes the Rwenzori Mountains the 3rd highest range in Africa. Unlike the two highest mountains in Africa (Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya), the Rwenzori Mountains are not volcanic but predominantly old quartzite and gneiss. Despite its existence almost at the Equator, the mountain has distinctive glacial peaks visible miles away as one travels in the Western part of Uganda. Its slopes which are above 1,600m are the preserve of hikers, who rate the Rwenzoris to be the most challenging of all African mountains.

There are five different Vegetation Zones found in the Rwenzori Mountains. These are grassland (1000-2000m), montane forest (2000-3000m), bamboo/ mimulopsis zone (2500-3500m), Heather/ Rapanea zone (3000-4000m) and the afro-alpine moorland zone (4000-4500m).The park has also got a wide variety of large mammals which inhabits the lower slopes. These include elephants, buffaloes, chimpanzees, blue monkeys, Rwenzori colobus monkeys, duikers, forest hogs, hyrax and leopards. Rwenzori National park is also one of the most important bird areas in Uganda. The park has recorded 195 species which include the Rwenzori Turaco, Francolins, Olive Pigeon, White Necked Raven and Mountain Buzzards, as well as other rare, threatened and endemic species.

Formation Of The Rwenzori Mountains

The Rwenzori Mountain ranges formed due to a shift in the Earth’s crust about 3 million years back. The shift resulted in an uplift of the rock comprising quartzite, gneiss and granite. The shift in the tectonic plate is believed to have pushed the mountain block upwards and tilted it to make high peaks. Erosion and deposition of sediment over years resulted in the moulding of the range which today is referred to as the Rwenzori Mountain ranges. The Rwenzori Mountain range has a composition of 6 massifs each of them separated by deep gorges. While on the Rwenzori Mountaineering experience, the 6 peaks/mountain massifs to trek through include Mount Baker/Kiyanja, the 3rd highest of the 6 Rwenzori Mountain massifs. Mt. Baker sits at an altitude of 4843m and features multiple subsidiary peaks like Edward peak. Mt. Baker’s ridge was first hiked by Rubert Grauer in 1906.

Mountain Stanley

Mountain Stanley is 5109m high, making it the highest of all the 6 Rwenzori Massifs with Margherita its highest summit. The Margherita peak features 11 subsidiary peaks and boasts of incredibly spectacular glaciers which include the Stanley plateau. Mt Stanley is what marks the Uganda and D.R. Congo boundary.

Mount Speke, is Rwenzori Mountain’s 2nd highest peak sitting at an altitude of 4890m. It has 4 summits including Johnston at 4834m, Ensonga at 4865m, Vittorio Emanuele at 4890 and at 4572m, there is Trident summit. Mt. Baker, Speke and Mt. Stanley make up a triangle that encloses the Bujuku Valley. It takes its name from John Speke, the renowned English explorer. Mt. Emin, 4798m is Rwenzori Mountain’s 4th highest peak. It has 2 peaks that are linked by a narrow ridge including Umberto on the southern side and Kraepelin. Mt. Gessi lies at an elevation of 4715m and is accessible via the Mugusu Valley. The Gessi peak was initially covered by ice & glaciers but they melted. Its 2 twin peaks include Loloanda and Bottego. Luigi di Savoia Mountain takes its name from the Duke of Abruzzi who climbed most of the 6 Rwenzori Mountains peaks.

The Rwenzori Mountains make up part of the Albertine rift which is the western rift valley arm of the East Africa rift. It boasts of high peaks, and beautiful gorges carved by glaciers making its topography unique. Mountain Rwenzori is the only African mountain range that represents glacial equatorial basement rock which formed due to the earth’s uplift. The Rwenzori Mountain ranges cover Uganda’s the Rwenzori Mountains National Park and Congo’s Virunga National Park which takes 20% of this range. The best hikes in the Rwenzori Mountain ranges include the Central Circuit, Forest, and Margherita.

Flora And Fauna Of The Rwenzori Mountains Range

Mountain Rwenzori is endowed with a diversity of fauna and flora. It boasts of its distinct vegetation variation ranging from African savanna at 1676-2286m, tropical forest to Alpine meadows, heath, bamboo and snow. These harbours a range of the Rwenzori Mountains National Park’s diverse wildlife including 70 mammal species especially bushbucks, hyrax, chimpanzees, vervet monkeys, 3-horn chameleons, duikers, elephants etc. Over 217 bird species range within the varied habitats of the Rwenzori Mountains including the Rwenzori Turacos, blue-headed sunbird, montane sooty boubou, Rwenzori batis, Archers’ robin chat, long-eared owl, barred long-tailed cuckoos, slender-billed starling. Other important birds include tiny sunbird, greenbul, Apalis, golden-winged sunbirds and more.

Activities To Do In Mountains Rwenzori National Park

Mountain Climbing

When you think of the best destination to engage in mountaineering adventures in East Africa or Africa, the Rwenzori Mountains National Park never misses out on the list. The park shelters the Rwenzori Mountains also best known as Mountains of the Moon, an exceptional block mountain offering breathtaking mountain climbing experiences to climbers or hikers on Uganda safari holidays. Mountaineering adventures here offer a world-class experience to Margherita Peak (5109m) and hikers can take on any one of the many trails leading to the Rwenzori Mountains’ different peaks. Other peaks include Mount Speke, Mount Luigi, Elena, Baker and Mount Gessi. The climber may require 7 days or more to challenge themselves to make a complete hike to the stunning peaks of the Rwenzori mountain ranges. Interestingly, every designated trail has something unique to offer ranging from glacial lakes, scenic valleys and a lot more. The existing trails to explore while on mountaineering adventure here include the Central Circuit Trail. This begins at Mihunga ascends to Bujuku Valley then passes through Nyabitaba. It offers a perfect view of the mountain’s snow peaks but you will need some physical wellness to make a complete hike. The Kilembe trails exist on the southern slopes of the Rwenzori Mountain ranges. This is found next to Kasese town and takes hikers through the Nyamwaba Valley path navigating via glacial lakes and breathtaking viewpoints. It is possible to book your mountaineering adventure with our reservation. Mountaineering adventures in Rwenzori Mountains National Park are perfectly carried out during the dry season beginning from June to September and December to February.

Bird Watching

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is a designated UNESCO Heritage Site and also a significant bird-watching spot Uganda safari tourists shouldn’t miss to explore and experience. Birding in different habitats in and around this park involves identifying diverse bird populations ranging from the dusky crimson wings, collared Apalis, barred long-tailed cuckoos, blue-headed sunbirds, African long-eared owl, Archer’s robin chat, Kivu ground thrush, red-faced woodland warbler, purple breasted sunbirds, Rwenzori batis, slender-billed starling, white collared olive back, Rwenzori turacos, strip breast tit, golden-winged sunbirds, nightjars, dwarf honeyguide to mention but a few. For an enjoyable bird-watching experience, ensure you have a good camera and a pair of binoculars.

Cultural Experience

Cultural tours while on Uganda safari in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park are perfectly conducted from any one of the nearby local communities. Visitors can walk to interact with local residents, learn about their daily lifestyles, history, traditions, and cultures, and enjoy their dances, and music performances. They include Ruboni village where you can get insight into the Bakonzo’s unique cultures, practices, dances and a lot more; the Bulimba-Ihandiro cultural trail that takes you to a traditional healer and local blacksmiths as well as the Bakonzo traditional museum. Other places to enjoy cultural encounters here include Rwenzori Turaco View Campsite.

Nature Walks And Hiking

Nature walks can be incorporated with other Uganda safari activities in Rwenzori Mountains National Park. A nature walk offers tourists a perfect opportunity to interact with nature, enjoy the great sight of diverse wildlife, and birds, and view the scenic surrounding areas. The different trails take enthusiastic nature lovers on an amazing panoramic view of Lake Muhooma and Buraro chimp forest.

Wildlife Viewing

The Rwenzori Mountains National Park shelters the 3 horned chameleons which you can spot while on a wildlife safari. Other wildlife species to spot out include bushbucks, Rwenzori colobus, Uganda clawed frogs, rock hyrax, Rwenzori climbing mouse, mongoose, forest elephants, red duikers, blue monkeys, golden cats, giant forest hogs, and others.

Trekking in the Rwenzori Mountains is a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience. The mountains are known for their unique flora and fauna, including giant lobelias and groundsels, as well as pristine alpine lakes and dramatic landscapes. Ensure you are physically prepared and well-equipped for this demanding adventure. Experienced guides and porters are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek in this high-altitude environment.

Please note that this is a general itinerary, and the actual duration, activities, and accommodations may vary depending on your preferences, available time, and the specific arrangements made with you. It is advisable to consult with us to customise your itinerary and make any necessary adjustments.