OVERVIEW
12-Day Rwenzori Mountains Trek, Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Safari
This 12-day safari offers an unforgettable experience, combining gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and a thrilling 7-day trek through the Rwenzori Mountains along the scenic Kilembe route.
Detailed Itinerary for the 12-Day Rwenzori Trek, Gorilla Trek & Wildlife Safari
Day 1: Transfer from Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
You will be picked up by your Yaneta Safaris guide and transferred to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. A stop will be made in Mbarara for lunch, with the journey continuing toward Bwindi. Arrive in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay at Silverback Lodge.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park
After breakfast, the gorilla trekking adventure will begin in the Buhoma region. A briefing will take place before the trek begins. Tracking these gentle giants will be an exciting experience as you watch them interact and play. You will spend one hour with the gorillas, observing their fascinating behavior. Return to the lodge for lunch and relax in the afternoon. Dinner and an overnight stay will be at Silverback Lodge.
Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Boat Cruise
In the morning, leave for Queen Elizabeth National Park. Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This is a great opportunity to spot hippos, buffaloes, and various bird species. Afterward, head to Ihamba Safari Lodge for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Day 4: Game Drive and Transfer to Rwenzori Mountains
Begin the day with a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park to observe wildlife. Afterward, drive to Rwenzori Mountains National Park, arriving at the Kilembe Headquarters for registration with Rwenzori Trekking Services. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your lodge.
Day 5: Kilembe (1,450m) to Kalalama Camp (3,147m)
The trek begins at the Kilembe Ranger Post, entering the Forest Zone of the Rwenzori Mountains. Expect to encounter primate species like colobus monkeys and blue monkeys, as well as vibrant birdlife, such as the Rwenzori Turaco. After lunch at Sine Camp, continue to Kalalama Camp (3,147m) for the night.
Day 6: Kalalama Camp (3,147m) to Mutinda Camp (3,688m)
Start the trek from Kalalama Camp at 9:00 AM. The climb will be steep, passing through bamboo-mimulopsis and heather zones, filled with streams and waterfalls. After reaching Mutinda Camp (3,688m) in the afternoon, those with extra energy can hike to Mutinda Lookout (3,925m) for panoramic views of the Rwenzori Mountains. Return to camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 7: Mutinda Camp to Bugata Camp (4,062m)
Following breakfast, hike through boggy terrain into the alpine vegetation zone, where you’ll see giant lobelias and everlasting flowers. Climb steadily to Namusangi Valley (3,840m) for a spectacular view of the Mutinda Peaks. Continue to Bugata Camp (4,062m) for a stunning view of Weismann’s Peak and Mount Luigi of Savoy. Dinner and overnight stay at Bugata Camp.
Day 8: Bugata Camp to Hunwick’s Camp (3,974m)
Wake up early for breakfast and begin the hike to Bamwanjara Pass. The trek offers beautiful views of the glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks. After a brief stop at Bamwanjara Pass (4,450m), descend to Hunwick’s Camp for the night. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Baker before dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 9: Hunwick’s Camp to Margherita Camp (4,485m)
Today, trek up to Scott Elliot Pass and pass through wet areas and small rivers. After breakfast, hike toward Margherita Camp (4,485m), situated beneath Elena Hut. This historic camp was used by Prince Luigi Amadeo di Savoia, Duke of the Abruzzi. Marvel at views of Mount Baker and the surrounding glaciers. A briefing will prepare you for the summit attempt the following day.
Day 10: Summit Margherita Peak (5,109m) and Return to Hunwick’s Camp
The ascent begins early at 3:00 AM, reaching Margherita Peak (5,109m) to avoid the melting glaciers. Expect a challenging climb through rocky outcrops. Upon reaching the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Afterward, descend back to Hunwick’s Camp for dinner and a well-earned rest.
Day 11: Descend to the Ranger Post
Start the descent back to the Ranger Post after breakfast. The path leads through lush valleys, where you may spot colobus monkeys and the rare three-horned chameleon. Upon arrival at the Ranger Post, receive your certificate for summiting Margherita Peak. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your lodge.
Day 12: Return to Kampala
On the final day, depart for Kampala, with stops for lunch in Mbarara and a visit to the Equator for photos. You’ll arrive in Kampala in the afternoon, marking the end of this incredible 12-day adventure.
Book Your Adventure
For more details or to book your 12-day Rwenzori Trek, visit our Gorilla Trekking and Rwenzori Trekking pages.
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