Rwenzori Hiking and Gorilla Safari for Photographers

This 12-day Rwenzori Hiking and Gorilla Safari is designed for nature-loving photographers. The trip combines the beauty of Uganda’s highlands and rainforests with the thrill of photographing rare mountain gorillas. You will hike through valleys filled with giant lobelias and cross alpine zones rich with dramatic scenery. The highlight of the hike is reaching Margherita Peak at 5,109 meters above sea level. After the mountains, travel to Bwindi for close-up gorilla photography. Finally, relax at Lake Bunyonyi before heading home. Each day brings new opportunities to capture stunning landscapes and remarkable wildlife through your lens.

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a representative will meet and greet you. After immigration clearance, transfer to your hotel in Entebbe. Enjoy your evening rest in a calm setting as you prepare for the days ahead.

Overnight: Papyrus Guest House – Mid-range guest house in Entebbe.

Day 2: Travel from Entebbe to Rwenzori Mountains

After breakfast, begin your drive to Rwenzori Mountains National Park. The journey takes about seven hours. Stop for lunch in Fort Portal before proceeding to Mihunga near the park entrance. These snow-capped peaks include Margherita, Africa’s third highest point.

Overnight: Ruboni Community Camp – Budget banda near Rwenzori Mountains.

Day 3: Hike from Nyakalengija to Nyabitaba Hut (2,651m)

Start your trek at the Rwenzori Mountaineering Services in Nyakalengija. Rent gear and meet guides. The trail moves through farmland and forest along the Mubuku River. Cross the Mahoma River before climbing a steep ridge. Watch for monkeys, birds, and the Rwenzori turaco. After 2–3 hours, arrive at Nyabitaba Hut for rest.

Overnight: Nyabitaba Hut – Budget mountain hut in Rwenzori Mountains.

Day 4: Hike to John Matte Camp (3,505m)

Begin early and descend to Kurt Shafer Bridge. Pass through bamboo forest and mossy rock paths. Reach Nyamuleju rock shelter for views of Mount Stanley and Mount Speke. Continue through the giant heather zone to reach John Matte Hut. The trail takes 7–8 hours.

Overnight: John Matte Hut – Budget mountain hut in Rwenzori Mountains.

Day 5: Trek to Bujuku Camp (3,962m)

From John Matte Hut, descend and cross the Bujuku River. Enter Lower Bigo Bog and jump from tussock to tussock. You might get wet, but the bog is rich with giant lobelias. Continue to Lake Bujuku and take in views of Mount Baker and Mount Stanley. Reach Bujuku Hut in 4–5 hours.

Overnight: Bujuku Hut – Budget mountain hut in Rwenzori Mountains.

Day 6: Climb to Elena Camp (4,541m)

Leave Bujuku and pass through more bog. Climb steep slopes west of the lake. Head into Groundsel Gully forest and take the steep trail to Elena Hut. Enjoy the view of icy Mount Stanley. Hikers not going to the peak continue to Kitandara. Your hike lasts 5–6 hours.

Overnight: Elena Hut – Budget mountain hut in Rwenzori Mountains.

Day 7: Summit Margherita Peak (5,109m) and Descend to Kitandara Hut (4,430m)

Begin before dawn for your summit climb. Cross three glaciers and climb over ice-covered rocks. The ascent takes 4–5 hours depending on weather. Reach Margherita Peak and take stunning photos of the surrounding glaciers. After the summit, descend back to Elena Hut for lunch. Continue to Scott-Elliot Pass and then to Kitandara Lakes. The descent takes 3–4 hours.

Overnight: Kitandara Hut – Budget mountain hut in Rwenzori Mountains.

Day 8: Hike to Guy Yeoman Camp (3,261m)

Climb the steep headwall near Mount Baker and walk along its southern side to Fresh Field Pass. Enjoy panoramic views of the Congo and Mount Stanley. Begin a long descent over mossy trails and rocky paths. Stop at Bujongolo rock shelter before reaching Guy Yeoman Hut. Hiking takes 6–7 hours.

Overnight: Guy Yeoman Hut – Budget mountain hut in Rwenzori Mountains.

Day 9: Final Descent to Nyakalengija Base Camp (1,615m)

Descend through Kichuchu cliffs and cross the Mubuku River twice. Walk through thick bamboo forest and return to Nyabitaba Hut. Continue down to Nyakalengija, where your mountain adventure ends. Reach the base in 7–8 hours. Check in at your lodge and relax for the evening.

Overnight: Ruboni Community Camp – Budget banda near Rwenzori Mountains.

Day 10: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Start your morning with a relaxed hot breakfast at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains. Enjoy the cool breeze and listen to the gentle sounds of the Mubuku River flowing nearby. The peaceful atmosphere offers a refreshing start to your day. Take time to appreciate the beautiful views and calming environment.

Later in the day, begin the journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Drive through scenic countryside with lush green landscapes and small villages. Stop along the way for a lunch break and stretch your legs before continuing the drive. Your guide will keep you informed and ensure the journey remains comfortable.

In the afternoon, arrive at Bwindi, home to the famous mountain gorillas. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its thick forest and rich biodiversity.

Overnight: Ride 4 a Woman Guesthouse – Budget guesthouse outside Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Day 11: Gorilla Trekking and Travel to Lake Bunyonyi

After breakfast, head into Bwindi Forest with expert guides and rangers. Move through thick vegetation and climb steep slopes in search of mountain gorillas. Guides rely on their deep knowledge of the forest and gorilla movements from the previous day.

Once you find the gorillas, spend one full hour watching them. Observe how they interact, feed, and communicate. Their behavior often reminds visitors of humans. This moment creates deep appreciation for nature and conservation.

In the afternoon, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi for a peaceful evening. Cross over by boat to Kyahugye Island and check into Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort.

Overnight: Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort – Mid-range resort on Kyahugye Island.

Day 12: Boat Ride and Transfer to Entebbe

Start the morning with a guided boat ride across Lake Bunyonyi. Learn about its many islands and their legends. After the tour, begin your journey back to Entebbe. Arrive in time for your evening flight.

Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch.

End of Rwenzori Hiking and Gorilla Safari in Uganda

Summary of Safari Highlights:

• Hike to Margherita Peak, Africa’s third highest point

• Trek through diverse zones with giant lobelia and heather forests

• Photograph glaciers, peaks, and alpine landscapes

• Experience gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

• Relax and photograph scenic Lake Bunyonyi