Mountain Hiking Safaris Fact sheet.
Most people think of wildlife safaris, gorilla tracking, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys when they think of Uganda. However, only people who have heard rave reviews about Mountain Hiking Safaris book a package here. Anyone planning a hiking trip should know that Uganda boasts some of the world’s best hiking trails. Mount Rwenzori, Elgon, Gahinga, Muhavura, and Sabinyo are just a few of the well-known mountains in the area that provide excellent trekking opportunities.
Elgon Mountain.
The Elgon Ranges, a group of five major mountains in eastern Uganda, are home to the country’s tallest peak, Wagagagai, at 4,321 meters; the next highest point, Sudek, at 4,302 meters, is on the Kenyan border; Koitobos, at 4,222 meters, is on the other side of the continent; Mubiyi, at 4,211 meters, is in Uganda; and Masaba, at 4,161 meters, is also in Uganda.
The volcano last erupted over 24 million years ago, making it the oldest extinct volcano in the East African region. The region, which spans 1,279 square kilometers across both Uganda and Kenya, was gazetted as a national park in 1968 on the Kenyan side and in 1992 on the Ugandan side.
Ascending Mountain Elgon, one of the top Ugandan hiking destinations, may take days and provide you breathtaking views of the world’s biggest caldera, measuring 7 square kilometers in circumference, and a variety of flora types. At its peak, the mountain presents a formidable obstacle to hikers, but it is also a rewarding and exciting experience.
What to view when trekking Mount Elgon.
If you are planning a hiking trip in Uganda, you absolutely must stop by this place because of all the amazing sights you will view along the way.
Visit to Sipi Falls. Anyone traveling through eastern Uganda must stop at these stunning waterfalls. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but the sound of the water crashing against the rocks creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Additionally, there is a trail that leads to the top of the falls, where you can explore the caves. You may begin your journey to Mount Elgon from this location by following a certain path.
Plant life. Mountain flora includes open woods, bamboo forests, grassy heathers, flowery heathers, rocks, and Afro-montane zones. Since hiking across different climates isn’t something most people do on a daily basis, it might be an amazing experience for hikers.
This is the caldera. The 7-square-kilometer crater of Mount Elgon is the biggest on Earth; hikers who have the opportunity to ascend the mountain may see not only the caldera but also the peaks below.
Getting there.
The park is situated 235 kilometers east of Kampala in Uganda; getting there involves taking a route via the cities of Jinja and Mbale to Kapchorwa, from which hikers may begin their ascent of the mountain. This excursion is best done in a 4×4 vehicle.
The ideal time to go is…
Anyone interested in the trek may undertake it at any time of year, but for the most lively and picturesque experience, we recommend going between December and March or June and August, when the weather is drier. Regardless of the season, Katland Safaris is committed to helping you plan your trip and is accessible 24/7 to do so.
The mountain range.
The Rwenzori Mountain Ranges
Located in the Kasese region in western Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this mountain range has a snow-capped summit at 5,109 meters and is part of Mount Rwenzori. Among Africa’s mountains, this one ranks third in height.
The Eastern Rift Valley is home to Mount Rwenzori. Glaciers atop the snow-capped peak contribute to the Nile River’s water supply. Margherita, at 5,109 meters, is the third-highest mountain in Africa; other summits in Rwenzori include 4,890-meter Mount Speke and 4,843-meter Mount Baker. The 1,000-square-kilometer national park around Mount Rwenzori, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, was gazetted in 1994.
Our experts at Katland Safaris are well-versed in creating customized itineraries for customers, and we have extensive knowledge of Rwenzori National Park and trekking in particular. In such case, feel free to ask away.
Observations made while trekking up Mount Rwenzori.
From its base to its peak, the mountain is covered with a variety of flora kinds. Animals such as monkeys, elephants, and zebras inhabit the Savannah grassland, which extends from an altitude of 3,500 to 5,500 meters. In this area, you may find lianas, ferns, banana plantations, grassland, and rainforests. Next comes a bamboo forest, which stretches from 5,500 to 9,500 feet in elevation.
After that comes heath and moorland, which go up to 15,000 feet. Then comes the Alpine Zone, which begins at 15,000 feet and continues to 14,500 feet in elevation. Finally, at the very top, you can see glaciers that reach 16,763 feet in height, at the Margherita peak.
Getting there.
From Kampala, you may reach Rwenzori Mountain simply by using one of two routes: either drive via Fort Portal to Kasese, then connect to the park, a 369-kilometer journey; or, alternatively, travel through Mbarara to Kasese, a 421-kilometer drive.
A 4×4 safari vehicle is recommended for the drive since the roads include gravel and highly rough stretches, as well as sections of asphalt and murrum.
An alternative is to take a 1.5-hour flight from Entebbe to Kasese, where you may connect to the park and begin your 40-minute drive to the mountain’s base. Areolink and FlyUganda are only two of the many airlines that provide daily flights to this area. Contact us and we will see what flights are available and set up a package for you if you would want us to arrange internal flights.
The ideal time to go is…
Although the Rwenzori Hiking trip can be enjoyed at any time of year, the driest months—June to August and then December to February—are ideal because the roads are less muddy and there is less likelihood of rain than in the wetter months. This is in addition to the fact that the hike itself is less muddy and more likely to occur during these times.
Mount Virunga.
The Albertine Rift Valley is home to these, which can be found bordering the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. Mount Nyamurangira and Mount Nyirangongo are active volcanoes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; the other seven volcanoes in the Virunga ranges—Mounts Karisimbi, Visoke, Mikeno, Muhabura, Sabinyo, and Gahinga—are all dormant. At 4,507 meters, Mount Karisimbi is tallest among them all.
Today we will examine Mount Sabinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura in Uganda. In the Kisoro area, you may find them right on the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. Three mountains stand at 4,157 meters: Mount Sabinyo, 3674 meters, and Mount Gahinga, 3474 meters. These have long been recognized as excellent hiking locations, and hikers may easily complete the ascent and descent in a single day.
Getting there.
The Kisoro Distract provides access to these mountain ranges in western Uganda for tourists beginning their journey from Entebbe, a distance of around 540 miles. Kigali, the Rwandan capital, is just 170 kilometers from the airport; crossing the border to go there will provide you access to these highlands as well.
I am the minimum age to go mountain hiking.
You must be at least 15 years old to participate in mountain hiking safaris in Uganda. Additionally, you should be in good physical condition and free of any heart conditions, as these activities can be particularly taxing on people with preexisting conditions.
Gear for outdoor adventures.
Packing Lightweight Hiking Clothes for Mountains.
Silk, quick-drying, moisture-wicking garments, and long-sleeved shirts are ideal travel companions. This will shield you from the sun and reduce the amount of clothing you need to bring along, which is proportional to the number of days you have.
Typically, you should pack enough clothing to last for half of the tour’s duration. Trousers that are both lightweight and flexible are essential for tracking. Additionally, it is easier for you to carry if it is lightweight and requires less effort. It would be ideal if they could withstand rain as well.
Mountain Boots
If you’re going on a hiking vacation, you must need these boots. They’re designed to handle steep terrain, climb stairs with ease, and traverse wet terrain with ease. Hiking boots are a great way to keep your feet cool and dry in hot weather, so be sure to choose a pair that can withstand rain and muddy terrain.
Flat shoes
Put on a new pair of sandals so your feet may relax and breathe after a day of trekking and moving about. These are used after a bath and while resting by a campfire before going to bed.
Weatherproof outerwear
Bring a raincoat to protect your belongings and photographic gear from the heavy rain that falls often in Uganda. You never know when the rain can strike when you’re trekking. In Uganda, you may purchase one in any town if you happen to be without any.
Trading equities
You can’t wear shoes without them, and they’re essential for soaking up all the sweat your feet generate. Please be sure to bring along a few of these. In order to avoid having stinky feet and to regularly changing them. Bring as much gear as you like on your journey; just remember that it gets chilly at night and that you’ll need warm socks.
Carrying case
Since most trips last several days, you’ll need a sturdy backpack to consolidate all of your belongings. They can hold a lot of them and are simple to transport.
Tents and sleeping bags
It is highly recommended to bring a sleeping bag and a tent for the night on most of the walks since there aren’t many places to stay and the weather may be rather harsh, especially in the Rwenzori.
Little Bite
Due to the limited availability of food throughout the climb, it is recommended to bring snacks to keep you going. Make sure to pack enough to last the whole length of your trip. When the meal isn’t quite done, they will provide you a much-needed energy boost to keep going.
a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
To protect yourself from heat and sunburn, they are essential. Due to the fact that sun exposure causes skin issues for many individuals.
Water purification system
You should bring a water purifier and filter to filter the water before drinking it since, with limited water supplies, you will likely consume water from streams flowing down the mountain.
Hand protection
An essential item for any hiking excursion, they will keep you warm and protected from rocks and scrapes; if you forget to bring some, you can easily get them in Uganda before you go.
Beam light
When venturing out from your tent at night, you’ll need a headlamp or flashlight since there is no power in these areas. If your trek requires you to get up early in the morning to cover distance between destinations, this will be a lifesaver.
Hand sanitizer.
If you tend to acquire a runny nose in the winter or perspire much when hiking, this will come in handy. Additionally, you should never be without one, regardless of your destination.
Emergency medical supplies
Hiking expeditions are notoriously risky, and accidents like cuts and dislocations of joints are all too prevalent. Remember to include all the necessary items for your first aid kit, including bandages, tablets, moleskin, pain relievers, and drugs for any difficulties that may emerge due to the high altitude.
Several spare memory cards and batteries for the camera
Having wonderful memories is the only way to genuinely say a vacation was enjoyable, and there’s no penalty for carrying whichever camera you choose on your trip. There are plenty of picturesque spots to stop and take pictures along the route, so bring along an additional memory card and some spare batteries—there isn’t much power up there—because you’re free to bring your photography gear.
If you want all of your services booked and verified, it’s preferable to choose a reputable safari provider. If you’re having trouble deciding which firm to work with, Katland Safaris can help. If you want to know more about our reputation, you can check out our TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings pages. We have years of expertise in trip planning and provide trustworthy service.
