Rwenzori mountains hiking
See Mountain Gorillas in Uganda
11 Days Rwenzori Hike and Gorilla Trek in Uganda
This 11 days Rwenzori hike and Uganda gorilla trips in Uganda by our Kilimanjaro Rwenzori Trekking experts is a thrilling adventure. This Rwenzori and gorilla trek Uganda takes you through Mount Rwenzori and visit gorillas in Uganda via Bwindi Impenetrable National Game Park. Join our group tours for this 11 days Uganda safari expedition.
The Rwenzori mountains trekking happens in Rwenzori Mountains National Park situated in Kasese district. Magherita peak of mountain Rwenzori is its highest peak standing at 5,109 meters above sea level. Rwenzori has five distinct climate zones ranging from tropical zone to alpine zone. One can use various Rwenzori trekking routes to reach their destination on Mountain Rwenzori like Central circuit trail.
Additionally, this Rwenzori trail that takes you through the heart of Mountain Rwenzori. Next is Kilembe trail, regarded as the fastest route to Magherita peak. Then Bugoye trail that takes you to the Western part of the Rwenzori mountains. Also, this offers stunning views of the fresh waters of the Lake Albert and others.
Located in the Southwestern part of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is renowned habitat of over 400 species of Mountain gorillas in Uganda. Also, explorers all over the world that want to do Uganda gorilla tours always visit at any time of the year. Besides Bwindi gorilla trekking tours, the park is accommodative of other wildlife species like butterflies. Also birds, primates and unique flora like the vibrant orchids at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Get ready for the unmatched African adventure of the best 11 days Rwenzori mountains hiking and gorilla tracking Uganda trip. If you want short trips to Uganda to see gorillas, we got you covered. Additionally, we have 1 day, 2 day and 3 day gorilla trekking Uganda holiday tours for those who want group tours in Uganda.
Best time for your 11 day Rwenzori hiking and gorilla trekking tours itinerary in Uganda
The best months to see gorillas in Uganda and do Rwenzori mountains hiking are the dry months of June to August and December to February. Additionally, this is because of the clear skies, cooler temperatures hence optimal for wildlife viewing. Also, these Uganda gorillas in Bwindi move in search of food and water during the cooler weather conditions unlike in the rainy periods. The Rwenzori mountains hiking trails are not muddy as well hence making your Rwenzori and Uganda gorilla holidays in Bwindi perfect. Book a trip to Uganda to see gorillas with luxury Uganda gorilla safari or budget with Kilimanjaro Rwenzori experts.
Mountain Rwenzori and Bwindi Impenetrable Cultural Encounters
In the veiled landscape of the Rwenzori Mountains there lies a vibrant community of the Bakonzo and the Bamba. These are bound together by their different ways of life and tradition. On this 11 days Rwenzori mountains hiking and gorilla trek Uganda expedition you get to discover the distinct eco systems of Uganda. You also get to explore the unique African ways and culture. The Bamba and Bakonzo practice subsistence farming and are part of the Rwenzururu kingdom that was established in the 1960’s. These people are incredibly supportive during the Rwenzori trekking on Mount Rwenzori.
The Bakonzo and Bamba offer cultural insights through storytelling and also offer guidance through Rwenzori hikes. Additionally, they act as guides since they possess intimate knowledge about the Rwenzori mountain trails. Lastly, they will be your porters who also assist tourists in carrying luggage during the Rwenzori trek in Uganda.
While in the green tropical carpets of the Bwindi impenetrable park are the Batwa people. Also, the Batwa areoften referred to as the “keepers of the forest” because of their spiritual connection to nature. This indigenous community is popular for their unique hunting and gathering skills. Since they rely on the Bwindi tropical forest for medicine, food and shelter.
These Batwa people are so welcoming and friendly and they share their culture through story telling, Music and dance. The Batwa also offer guidance by identifying the mountain gorilla track in Uganda. Hence helping the tourists to easily spot and observe the various mountain gorillas in Uganda. This will make your gorilla tours Africa the best amonst the many available gorilla trekking safaris.
Bwindi and Rwenzori Trekking Rules And Regulations
- Keep a distance from wild animals like the silverbacks gorillas in Uganda and ensure not to provoke them.
- Always follow Bwindi and Rwenzori mountains park’s rules and the guide’s instructions.
- Be prepared for the unpredictable weather changes like the high winds and rains.
- Follow the trail marks and do not hike Rwenzori or trek Bwindi forests alone.
- During the hikes, ensure to rehydrate so as to keep in the right state of health.
- Carry insect repellents to reduce chances of getting infected by malaria in Uganda.
- Preserve the environment by minimizing irresponsible waste and trash disposal.
- Respect the customs and traditions of the local people that is the Batwa, Bamba, and the Bakonzo.
- Consult your doctor before the trip if you are healthy and fit to go for this 11 days Rwenzori hiking and Uganda gorilla tours.
- Beware of your surroundings and keep important documents like passports safe.
- In case you are not sure of anything it is best to ask your safari guide.
- Make sure to carry local currency as some vendors might only accept the local currency.
11 Days Rwenzori Hike and Gorilla Trek in Uganda Itinerary Overview
The 11 days Rwenzori Hike & Uganda gorilla trekking tours begins with an internal flight to Entebbe. Followed by a journey to Rwenzori Mountains National Park. The Rwenzori mountains hiking expedition begins from Nyakalengija, walking through rainforest, bamboo, and alpine regions.
Rwenzori wildlife observing colobus monkeys and special Rwenzori birds. Each day consists of strenuous but rich Rwenzori hikes with stopovers at camp areas like Sine, Kalalama, and Bugata. You will have glacial scenery and mountain observations. The Rwenzori mountains trekking culminates at Weismann’s Peak then drops down through varied scenery to the park headquarters.
After the Rwenzori trek, the tour continues to transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for a lifetime Uganda gorilla holidays trekking experience. The client is guided on this African Safari with Gorillas into the rainforest for a close interaction with the mountain gorillas in Uganda. This gorilla tours Africa experience further includes a birding adventure and a Batwa cultural experience. You will be are exposed to the Batwa llife and culture. The gorilla hike Uganda safari ends with a nature walk before proceeding to Entebbe for departure.
11 Days Rwenzori Hike and Gorilla Trek in Uganda Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Rwenzori national park
Board the safari vans from Entebbe international airport with our Kilimanjaro Rwenzori expert guide. Proceed on an 8 hour road trip to Kasese district. On your journey you will go through the community villages with captivating rolling hills spotted with green elevated trees. Also, the banana plantations and this marks the beginning of your 11 days Rwenzori and gorilla trek Uganda. You will then reach Kasese town and enjoy a lunch buffet with some of the Ugandan traditional cuisines. Next head to your hotel/safari lodge and check in then you will stay over for the night. Lastly enjoy dinner at the safari lodge as you prepare for your Rwenzori trekking the following day.
Day 2: Rwenzori hiking to the Sine Camp (2,596m)
Early in the morning after breakfast, you will board the safari vans with your Rwenzori trekking gear. Next, head to Nyakalegijja (1,600m) trailhead where you will be briefed by your safari guide. You will be briefed about the Rwenzori hiking journey and experiences ahead. Also, prepare your Rwenzori trekking gear and refreshments for the expedition. You will use the central circuit route, a trail through the heart of Rwenzori mountains in Uganda. This Rwenzori hiking trail offers heartwarming scenic views. Next, proceed for the Rwenzori mountains hiking tour through the steep rocky terrain landscape with dense vegetation. With also, unique tree species like the Hagenia abyssinica and Podocarpus.
On this Rwenzori mountains hiking expedition you will also get to spot wildlife like the black and white colobus swinging from tree to tree. The Central Circuit trail becomes more thrilling as you get to cross rivers like River Mubuku. Also, Mobuku river gently meanders from the glaciers of Mount Rwenzori. However, during the dry season the crossing of these rivers will be less challenging.
So, their flow won’t be as much as that of the rainy seasons. After crossing Mubuku River, enjoy a picnic of the snacks and refreshments taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Lastly, embark on your Rwenzori trek to Sine camp. Arrive at Sine camp, refresh and for the night enjoy the camping in the middle of the African wilderness. Savor on the delicious bush dinner and interact with other tourists.
Day 3: Rwenzori hiking expedition to Kalalama camp (3,200m)
Wake up to the sweet melodies of the unique Rwenzori birding species of the jungle like the Rwenzori turaco. Have a traditional Ugandan breakfast while your Rwenzori expert safari guide briefs you about the day’s adventures and experiences. You will then pass through the rocky steep landscape dominated by the tall, woody grass of the bamboo zone. As you take in the crisp air filled with a scent of the distinct bright yellow wildflowers. These will strengthen your sense of connection to the nature in the Rwenzori mountains in Uganda.
Proceed your Rwenzori hiking journey through the alpine zone characterized with the giant groundsels and alchemilla. Next, head to Kalalama ridge where you will enjoy a picnic at the flat, rocky outcrop under the elevated green canopies. Enjoy your food while appreciating the panoramic views of the glistening glaciers of the peaks of Mount Stanley and Mount Speke. Also various Rwenzori bird species like the bar tailed trogon soar above your head. Lastly, continue your journey to Kalalama camp (3,200m) and stay over for the night.
Day 4: Rwenzori hike to Mutwanga camp ((3,688m).
On this day, arise to the warm golden glow of the sunset on the surrounding mountains with sounds of the rustling trees. The loud pitched calls of the monkeys makes the Rwenzori wilderness come alive. Enjoy a soothing African inspired breakfast and prepare for your next Rwenzori trekking expedition. Ascend through the giant groundsels and lobelia of the alpine zone and hike Rwenzori through the massive boulders. Also through scrublands to Mutwanga River where you will enjoy a picnic stop for Rwenzori bird watching. Expect to see birds in the Rwenzoris like the turacos.
You will then continue the Central Circuit Rwenzori hike up to the Mutwanga camp(3,688m). Enjoy a night camp in the middle of the woods with the fire crackles. Also the spits of the campfire casting a glow on the surrounding trees. With rocks making them seem more dramatic as you hear the distant hooting of the owls while you enjoy a Rwenzori mountains wilderness dinner.
Day 5: Rwenzori trekking tour to Bugata camp (4,062m).
Arise in the morning and enjoy breakfast at the hut provided by the Rwenzori staff. Get briefed by you safari guide, then prepare your Rwenzori hiking gear. Go on the Rwenzori mountains hike passing through scree covered by the vegetation of lichens and mosses. Plus other hardy plants like the Rwenzori-Heather that are adaptive to the alpine condition. Spot the antelopes grazing and browsing on the leaves and shoots of the shrubs and trees.
As you proceed through the alpine zone you will then have a stop at Bugata River with crystal clear waters. Savor on the picnic lunch and refreshments while taking a moment to relax. View Rwenzori wildlife like the duikers. After this stop you will then ascend to Mutwanga camp. Enjoy dinner and also stay over for the night.
Day 6: Rwenzori mountains descent to Kiharo camp (3,900m).
In the early morning after your warm breakfast, prepare your Rwenzori hiking gear as you get a briefing from your Rwenzori expert guide. Start your Rwenzori trek from the camp passing through the steep rocky and barren landscape. Next, proceed to take on the challenging Rwenzori climb to the Weismann’s peak where you will encounter several rocky gullies and scree slopes under feet.
As you proceed on this Rwenzori mountains trekking Expedition, it becomes more challenging and thrilling. Use ropes and anchors for navigation on the Weismanns Peak. As you rich this Rwenzori summit you will be greeted by the striking sight of the shiny glaciers. These are on the peaks of Mount Speke and Mt. Stanley and you can take an all-around look of the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda.
Start descending Rwenzori hiking tour down the steep rocky outcrops and then rest at the base of the Weismann’s peak. Also, recharge and enjoy your refreshments. Next, continue your Rwenzori trek to Kiharo camp where you will enjoy a camp night stay over. And a heartwarming dinner prepared by the Rwenzori staff at the hut.
Day 7: Arrival at Rwenzori national park headquarters.
In the early morning hour,s wake up and enjoy breakfast. Next, prepare for the final Rwenzori hike through the distinct zones of Mountain Rwenzori. Proceed through the steep rock terrain descent in the lush vegetation with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Also, cross the Nyamwamba River with the help of your Rwenzori expert guide. Get to the montane zone characterized by montane vegetation like the tree ferns and the podocarpus trees.
On your Rwenzori mountains hiking tour, you will have different stop overs where you will get to enjoy refreshments. You can also view different birds and take awe-inspiring nature photography to create unforgettable memories. This Rwenzori trek via the Central Circuit trail takes you to the Rwenzori National park headquarters. You will be transferred to your safari lodge and rest for the night.
Day 8: Transfer and arrival at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
In the morning after breakfast, check out of your safari lodge/ hotel and board 4×4 vehicle to Bwindi Impenetrable Park. The journey to Bwindi to visit gorillas in uganda is adventurous. Additionally, you get to pass through different Uganda towns with unique traditional architectural buildings. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is approximately 280–350 km (174–217 miles) from Rwenzori Mountains National Park (Kasese). From Kasese to Rushaga or Nkuringo (southern Bwindi) its about 7–8 hours. Arrive at Buhoma town and enjoy a traditional meal at the local restaurant as you take a rest from the long trip. You will then check in to your hotel/safari lodge and then rest for the night.
Day 9: Silverback gorilla trekking Uganda at Bwindi Impenetrable
In the morning after breakfast you will be briefed about the Uganda gorillas and the environmental etiquette. Also about the experiences and activities of the day. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, has twenty-seven (27) members of the gorilla family in Uganda and three of whom are silverbacks. Begin your Bwindi gorilla trekking as you navigate through the dense rainforests and muddy paths with scattered vegetation. You will get to spot the different species of mountain gorillas like the Susa group led by dominant silverback Uganda gorilla Susa. Also the kuringo group that is known for its playful nature and many others.
Later in the afternoon you will have lunch then continue with the gorilla tracking Uganda since this is one of the best gorilla tours in Africa. You will have opportunities to observe the majestic Uganda gorillas a they socialize and interact. You will be amazed by their rare intelligence and social behavior characterized by their gentle nature. Lastly, head back to your hotel/safari lodge and take a rest.
Day 10: Birdwatching in Uganda and nature walking safaris.
On the 10th day of your Rwenzori hike and Uganda gorilla tours expedition, have a warm meal, wake up and board the safari van. Go on the Uganda birdwatching and nature walk adventures at Bwindi Impenetrable park. You will explore the diverse habitats of the montane forests and tropical forests. Observe and spot endemic bird species like the Shelley’s Crimsoning and regal sunbird some just soaring just above your head. Later, have a picnic lunch under the tropical trees of the Bwindi park as you enjoy the surrounding breathtaking scenery. Embark on the nature walk and observe the unique flora. And some of these have medicinal uses like the Prunus Africana plant that is used to treat various ailments.
In the evening you will then visit the Batwa community, the indigenous people of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Hence, learn about the Batwa culture and traditional way of living. You will learn about subsistence farming, hunting and gathering practices. In the evening you will enjoy story telling from the elders. They will narrate to you more about their origins and cultural customs while you get to share their customary meal with them. You will also enjoy cultural performances from the Batwa people as they portray their beautiful culture through music, dance and drama. Lastly, head back to the hotel/safari lodge for a rest and dinner.
Day 11: Departure from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.
In the morning after breakfast you will get a final briefing from your safari guide. Take a guided walk through the dense forests of Bwindi in Uganda and observe the unique flora and fauna. Also, you might not have seen some flora and fauna the past days. So, you might spot wildlife like bush pigs and duikers roaming freely in the Bwindi grasslands. You will then get back to your safari hotel lodge and this marks the end of your 11 days Rwenzori hike and gorilla trek Uganda safari tours. Lastly, prepare for your departure back to Entebbe International Airport. Hence, this marks the end of our adventurous Uganda safari journey.
Note: You can also modify our itinerary and opt for gorilla and chimpanze trekking after the Rwenzori mountains hiking expedition. Inform our Kilimanjaro Rwenzori Experts in time before your trip to Uganda to see gorillas.
Rwenzori trekking itineraries
Rwenzori Guide
- Rwenzori trekking guide
- When to visit Rwenzori
- How to get to Rwenzori
- Luxury Rwenzori Accommodations
- Budget Rwenzori Accommodations
- Attractions in Rwenzori
Kilimanjaro climbing tours, Tanzania
Kilimanjaro Guide
- Kilimanjaro climbing guide
- Luxury Kilimanjaro Hotels
- Cheap Kilimanjaro accommodations
- Gameparks near Kilimanjaro
Useful links + other African safari packages
- Rwenzori trekking services
- Kilimanjaro Climbing guide
- 3 day gorilla trekking self drive to Bwindi
- Rwenzori trekking guide
- 3 day Queen Elizabeth self drive from Kampala
- self drive Uganda
- Car rentals 4×4 East Africa
- Masai Mara Great Migration
- Serengeti Wildebeest Migration
- Big 5 safari Uganda
- Best time to visit Rwenzori
- what to pack for your trek
- Kilimanjaro vs Rwenzori
11 days Rwenzori trekking and gorilla gorilla tours Africa Inclusions and Exclusions
This trip adventure includes
- Transportation.
- Park entrance fees.
- Guide fees.
- Birdwatching afraid.
- Guided nature walks.
- Uganda trekking Gorilla Permit
- Rwenzori trekking permit.
- Meals.
- Accommodations.
- Community visits.
This trip adventure excludes
- Visa fees.
- Personal expenses.
- Travel insurance.
- International flights.
- Pre and post trip experiences.
- Equipment rentals.
- Porter fees.
Travel necessities for this 11 days Rwenzori hike and gorilla trek in Uganda
- Back pack.
- Water bottle.
- Insect repellent.
- Sunscreen.
- Flashlight/torch.
- Hiking boots.
- First aid kit for emergencies.
- Sleeping bag.
- Water purification tablets.
- Camera and binoculars.
- Power bank.
Trekking costs and Finances for this 11 days Rwenzori hike and gorilla trek in Uganda
- Local currency (Ugandan shillings).
- Credit cards.
- Rwenzori Trekking permits
- Uganda gorilla trekking permits.
- Guide fees estimated (30$-58$ per person, per day)
- Porter fees estimated (20$-50$ per person, per day)
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Accommodations for your Uganda gorilla holidays
Before your 11 days Rwenzori hiking and Uganda gorilla trekking tours, consider checking out these Bwindi accommodations so that you make your perfect choice. Either a luxury or midrange or a budget hotel will always impact on your Uganda gorilla trekking cost. Your Uganda gorilla trekking cost will either increase or reduce depending on your choicce of the Bwindi accommodation. Please note that hotel prices are approximate and may vary based on the season and availability. It’s advisable to contact our Kilimanjaro Rwenzori experts directly for the most current rates and to make reservations.
Buhoma Sector (Northern Bwindi – Popular & Easily Accessible)
Best for: First-time visitors, short treks, and best-developed facilities
- Luxury Bwindi Hotel: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp (Inside the park, 5-min walk) – $800–$1,200 per night
- Mid-Range Bwindi Hotel: Silverback Lodge (1 km, 5-min drive) – $150–$250 per night
- Budget Bwindi hotel: Buhoma Community Rest Camp (500m, 2-min walk) – $30–$80 per night
Ruhija Sector (Eastern Bwindi – High Gorilla Sightings, Fewer Tourists)
Best for: Photographers, birdwatchers, and quieter gorilla trekking tours
- Luxury Bwindi hotel: Bakiga Lodge (1 km, 5-min drive) – $180–$300 per night
- Mid-Range Bwindi Hotel: Agandi Lodge (1.5 km, 7-min drive) – $100–$180 per night
- Budget Bwindi hotel: Broadbill Forest Camp (2 km, 5-min drive) – $40–$100 per night
Rushaga Sector (Southern Bwindi – Best for Gorilla Habituation Experience)
Best for: Tourists interested in the 4-hour gorilla habituation experience in Uganda
- Luxury Bwindi hotel: Gorilla Safari Lodge (500m, 3-min drive) – $500–$800 per night
- Mid-Range Bwindi lodge: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge (1 km, 5-min drive) – $150–$250 per night
- Cheap Bwindi lodge: Rushaga Gorilla Camp (2 km, 7-min drive) – $50–$120 per night
Nkuringo Sector (Southern Bwindi – Challenging Hikes, Fewer Tourists)
Best for: Experienced hikers, scenic views, and Batwa cultural interactions
- Luxury Bwindi Accommodation: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (1 km, 5-min drive) – $700–$1,000 per night
- Mid-Range Bwindi lodge: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (500m, 3-min drive) – $250–$400 per night
- Cheap Bwindi Accommodation: Bwindi Backpackers Lodge (2 km, 7-min drive) – $30–$90 per night
Cancellation Policy for your 11 days Rwenzori trekking and gorilla hike Uganda safari tours
Note that; if this 11 days Rwenzori and gorilla trek Uganda safari tour is cancelled without one having a travel insurance, the funds are not 100% refundable. However we will work with you to reschedule the next trip. The cancellation policy goes as follows;
- More than 30 days prior to departure; 20% cancellation fee.
- Between 15-29 days prior to departure; 75% cancellation fee.
- Less than 15 days prior to departure; 100% cancellation fee.
You might also like:
