Mountain climbing and hiking in Uganda, Uganda is one of the magical countries in East Africa with the most picturesque plains, Volcano Mountains, scenic hills making it an exceptional mountaineering and hiking adventure destination. Mountain climbing and hiking in Uganda is one of the thrilling experiences any enthusiastic hiker or climber on Uganda safari shouldn’t miss out.
Mountain climbing and hiking in Uganda make a perfect complement for mountain gorilla trekking tours in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Southwestern Uganda or chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park and game viewing safaris in Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park. Hikers on Uganda safari can conduct either a short or long hiking safaris depending on their length of stay in the country.
Best places to visit for mountain climbing and hiking in Uganda
Mount Rwenzori
The Rwenzori Mountain ranges also best known as the ‘Mountains of the Moon’ is arguably the best mountaineering and hiking spot in Uganda and East Africa at large. This magnificent mountain lies in Western Uganda, Kasese district at the border between Uganda the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It is known for its highest peak ‘Margherita’ which also ranks as the 3rd highest peak in the world.
Climbing to the summits of Rwenzori Mountain ranges is by far a rewarding adventure experience any hiker who needs to challenge himself or herself shouldn’t miss try while on Uganda safari holiday. Margherita rises about 5109 meters and along the way to this peak; there are also other peaks to explore with opportunity to enjoy breathtaking view the surrounding areas.
A complete hike to the Margherita peak may take you about 8 days or more meaning, you have to be physically fit. There are many trails to explore including Mahoma loop which is considered to be the easiest to hike and Kilembe trail takes hikers the shortest time.
Mount Elgon
When it comes to mountain climbing and hiking adventures in Uganda, Mount Elgon never goes unmentioned. This stunning volcano lies in the Eastern side of Uganda at the border with Kenya. It is from Mount Elgon that Mount Elgon National Park derives itself, one of the 10 beautiful safari parks in Uganda.
Rising up to about 4321m is Mount Elgon’s Wagagai peak which ranks in the 8th position as the highest peak in Africa and 4th highest in East Africa. Hiking adventures to Mount Elgon peaks can also be incorporated with other safari activities in Mount Elgon National Park which also hosts several monkeys, elephants, buffaloes, birds, antelopes and a lot more plus scenic waterfalls.
There are many trails to explore Mount Elgon on Uganda hiking safari or mountain climbing adventure. They include the Sasa trail, Sipi trail and Piswa trail.
Hiking through Virunga Volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park hosts not only mountain gorillas and golden monkeys but also the 3 magnificent Virunga Volcanoes. These 3 volcanoes make up part of the 8 chain of the Virunga Mountains. They include Mount Muhabura (rising up to 4321m above the sea level), Sabyinyo (at altitude of 3645m) and Gahinga Volcano (at elevation of about 3474m).
A hike through Mount Gahinga can take you about 6 hours both ascending and descending. Sabyinyo which is shared by Uganda, Rwanda and DRC is hiked only in Mgahinga National Park and takes hikers 8 hours to make a complete hike.
Other best places to go for hiking safaris in Uganda include Sipi falls just at the foothills of Mount Elgon, Morungole Mountain and mount Moroto which can be explored during game viewing safari in Kidepo Valley National Park in Northeastern Uganda.
What pack for mountain climbing and hiking in Uganda?
- Hiking boots-lightweight and comfortable when you hiking.
- Camera
- Plenty of bottled drinking water
- Energy giving snacks
- First aid kit
- Safe sleeping bag
- Rain jacket
- Sweater
- Daypack
Best time to go for mountain climbing and hiking in Uganda
Uganda is open to hikers on mountain climbing and hiking adventure all year round but preferably, the dry season is ideal. The dry months to consider for your mountaineering adventure in Uganda run from June to September and December to February.