Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari 10-Day Uganda Wildlife Tour

Journey Through Uganda’s Scenic Heartland

The 10 Days Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari Uganda Wildlife Tour begins with a scenic drive from Kampala to Kasese. After a hearty breakfast, our professional driver-guide will meet you at your accommodation for a pre-tour briefing before embarking on the western route to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This journey introduces you to Uganda’s countryside, showcasing the lush greenery, rolling hills, and local homesteads along Masaka Road.

En route, enjoy cultural stopovers including a visit to the royal drum makers and a photogenic pause at the equator line. Capture this unique moment with photos while enjoying a refreshing cup of coffee at one of the equator cafes. The drive continues with a lunch break in Mbarara before descending into the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park for an afternoon game drive.

Here, wildlife enthusiasts can spot elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and if lucky, a pride of lions resting in the grasslands. The day concludes with your arrival in Kasese, the gateway to the majestic Rwenzori Mountains. The blend of culture, wildlife safari encounters, and beautiful scenery sets the tone for the adventures ahead on this well-curated Uganda safari.

• Accommodation: Sandton Hotel Kasese
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Cultural Encounters and the Start of the Mountain Trekking Adventure

On the second day of the 10 Days Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari Uganda Wildlife Tour, your mountain hiking journey officially begins. After breakfast, proceed to the Nyakalengija trailhead where you will meet your mountain guides and porters. Following a short briefing, the hike kicks off, gradually ascending through the picturesque Bakonjo homesteads.

The cultural richness of the region is on full display as you pass by traditional huts, banana gardens, and friendly children waving you on. This section of the trail follows the Mubuku River and crosses the Mahoma River before a challenging ascent through Podocarpus forests covered in vibrant ferns. Your destination today is the Nyabitaba Hut, perched at an altitude of 2,650 meters, where you will rest for the night.

This part of the Mount Rwenzori hiking safari provides an excellent opportunity for cultural immersion, offering insights into the lifestyle of the indigenous communities. The serene environment, combined with the breathtaking views of the foothills, makes this initial ascent a memorable part of your Uganda safari. If you’re interested in extending your journey, Deks Safaris & Tours can incorporate a gorilla trekking safari into your experience, allowing you to track endangered mountain gorillas after your hike.

• Accommodation: Camping on the Mountain
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

From Rainforests to Alpine Wonders

Day three of the 10 Days Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari Uganda Wildlife Tour presents an exhilarating trek through diverse ecological zones. After an early breakfast, you will descend briefly into the forest before crossing the Kurt Shafer Bridge, a point where the Mubuku and Bujuku rivers meet. The hike then intensifies with a steep ascent through bamboo forests and moss-covered rocks, leading to Nyamileju rock shelter.

This part of the trail rewards hikers with spectacular glimpses of Mount Speke and Mount Stanley on clear days. Continuing through a zone of giant heather, lobelias, and groundsel, the trail transitions into a boggy terrain that challenges your endurance and balance. Your goal is John Matte Hut, located in a scenic alpine setting that provides a much-needed rest point.

This stretch of the Rwenzori Mountain hiking safari is a testament to the ecological diversity of the park and its unique flora. The region is perfect for nature photography and birdwatching, adding more value to your Uganda safari experience. While this itinerary is focused on mountain trekking, combining it with chimpanzee tracking or a gorilla habituation experience in nearby Kibale or Bwindi adds depth and variety to your African adventure.

• Accommodation: Camping on the Mountain
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Adventurous Terrain and Iconic Landscapes

On the fourth day of the 10 Days Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari Uganda Wildlife Tour, you continue your trek by entering the legendary Lower Bigo Bog. After crossing the Bujuku River, you will make your way through the bog, hopping from tussock to tussock to avoid the cold, wet marshland below. This is one of the most iconic and challenging sections of the Rwenzori Mountains trail.

Despite the tough terrain, the area’s surreal beauty makes it worthwhile. Giant lobelias dominate the landscape, and the dramatic backdrop of Mount Baker and Mount Stanley provides an awe-inspiring setting. Eventually, you reach Bujuku Hut, nestled in a narrow valley at the base of Steinmann Pass. This hut offers spectacular views and is your resting point for the night.

This section adds a unique dimension to your gorilla trekking safari extension, as it mirrors the type of terrain found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, known for its challenging yet rewarding treks. Adventurers seeking a complete East African experience can follow up their Rwenzori expedition with Gorilla Trekking Rwanda or Uganda Gorilla Trekking to track endangered primates in their natural habitat.

• Accommodation: Camping on the Mountain
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Scaling New Heights and Alpine Exploration

Day five marks a critical stage in the 10 Days Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari Uganda Wildlife Tour. After breakfast, you begin your ascent from Bujuku through more boggy areas and climb steeply towards Scott-Elliot Pass. This section takes you through the Groundsels Gully, a magical zone filled with extraordinary plant species.

Using a metal ladder to conquer a steep cliff face, you arrive at a trail junction. The right path leads to Elena Hut and Mount Stanley, the highest peak in the Rwenzori range. Located at an altitude of over 4,000 meters, Elena Hut offers a cold but rewarding overnight stay. The views from this elevation are spectacular, providing a panoramic sweep of the surrounding ranges.

This part of the Mount Rwenzori hiking safari prepares climbers for the ultimate challenge: summiting Margherita Peak. For those focused on wildlife safaris or cultural experiences, this expedition can be followed by a gorilla tours package, allowing you to witness mountain gorillas or participate in cultural experiences such as the Batwa pygmy community visit or traditional dance performances in southwestern Uganda.

• Accommodation: Camping on the Mountain
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

The Crown of the Rwenzori Mountains

The sixth day of your 10 Days Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari Uganda Wildlife Tour is the climax of the mountain climbing adventure. After an early breakfast at 6:00 am, you begin the demanding trek to Margherita Peak, which stands tall at 5,109 meters. This technical climb requires good physical fitness and mountaineering equipment including crampons and ropes.

The route involves traversing the Stanley Glacier and navigating slippery rocks and icy terrain. Only climbers accompanied by experienced guides are allowed to attempt this final ascent. On reaching the summit, the sense of achievement and the panoramic view of the Rwenzori range make the effort truly worthwhile.

Not everyone may reach the summit, and for those who prefer a less intense route, there’s an alternative trail leading to Kitandara Hut. This allows hikers to continue their journey while still enjoying breathtaking views and alpine landscapes. Combining this with Uganda Gorilla Trekking or a Gorilla Trekking Rwanda experience provides a once-in-a-lifetime multi-adventure tour.

• Accommodation: Camping on the Mountain
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Wilderness Trails and High-Altitude Passes

Having conquered the summit, the descent begins on day seven of the 10 Days Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari Uganda Wildlife Tour. You will trek from Kitandara Hut to Guy Yeoman Hut, navigating steep descents and rocky outcrops. The trail traverses Freshfield Pass, providing incredible views into the Democratic Republic of Congo and back toward Mount Stanley.

This portion of the trail features a mix of alpine zones, sparse vegetation, and historical landmarks such as Bujongolo, the base camp of the famous Duke of Abruzzi’s expedition. As you reach Guy Yeoman Hut, take time to reflect on the expedition while soaking in the raw beauty of the landscape.

This stage of the safari also encourages reflection on the broader ecological and cultural diversity of Uganda. Whether your interest lies in mountain hiking, gorilla habituation, or wildlife safaris, Deks Safaris & Tours can design an itinerary that brings together the best of Uganda’s natural and cultural treasures.

• Accommodation: Camping on the Mountain
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Descend from Guy Yeoman Hut to Nyabitaba Hut

Your descent from Guy Yeoman Hut to Nyabitaba Hut begins with a hearty breakfast and a final glance at the rugged alpine scenery that has accompanied you through the Rwenzori highlands. This trail starts with a steep and sometimes slippery section through mud, rocks, and river crossings, requiring balance and caution. You’ll navigate the Kichuchu rock shelter and pass through bamboo forests and heather zones, all while being serenaded by the songs of mountain birds and the rushing sounds of nearby waterfalls.

This leg of the journey retraces part of your earlier ascent, but the perspectives are different, allowing you to appreciate the ever-changing environment from a new angle. The day’s trek typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, leading you to the Nyabitaba Hut (2,650 meters), where you’ll rest for the night. In the evening is perfect for journaling, sharing stories with fellow hikers, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the forest.

• Accommodation: Camping on the Mountain
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Final Descent to Nyakalengija Trailhead and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

This day marks the end of your mountaineering adventure in the Rwenzori Mountains. After an early breakfast, you’ll make your final descent from Nyabitaba Hut to Nyakalengija trailhead (1,646 meters). The trail winds through pristine montane forests, alive with colobus monkeys, chattering birds, and vibrant butterflies. This 3 to 4-hour trek is relatively easier, offering time to soak in the last sights and sounds of this lush mountain ecosystem. Upon arrival at the trailhead, you’ll receive a warm welcome from your guide and transfer to a nearby restaurant for a well-deserved lunch.

After refreshing and perhaps a short rest, your journey continues with a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most iconic protected areas. In the late afternoon, enjoy a thrilling boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a 32-kilometer natural waterway that connects Lake George and Lake Edward. The cruise is a haven for wildlife photographers and nature lovers, with chances to see hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and a rich diversity of birdlife including African fish eagles and kingfishers. After the cruise, head to your lodge for dinner and overnight, surrounded by the sounds of the wild under the starlit Ugandan sky.

• Accommodation: The Bush Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Return to Kampala or Entebbe

Your final day begins at dawn with a morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains section of Queen Elizabeth National Park, an open savannah habitat ideal for spotting lions, Uganda kobs, buffaloes, elephants, warthogs, and occasionally, leopards. Guided by expert rangers, you’ll learn about animal behaviors, tracking techniques, and the ecological dynamics of this rich conservation area. The early morning hours offer the best chances for predator sightings, as the animals are most active before the heat of the day sets in.

After the game drive, return to your lodge for breakfast, then begin your drive back to Kampala or Entebbe, a journey that typically takes 6 to 7 hours. Along the way, stop for lunch in Mbarara and perhaps a brief visit to the Equator monument for photos and a unique demonstration of water direction flow on either side of the equator. You’ll arrive in Kampala or Entebbe in the late afternoon or evening, where you will be transferred to your hotel or dropped off at Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight.

This marks the end of your 10 Days Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari Uganda Wildlife Tour to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that blends high-altitude trekking, spectacular scenery, and unforgettable wildlife experiences in the heart of Africa.

• Accommodation: None
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, & Drinking Water

End of 10 Days Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari Uganda Wildlife Tour