Uganda hiking and nature Walks
Uganda is ideal for taking your trips one stride at a time. Uganda is a hiker’s dream, with breathtaking mountain scenery and savannah roaming. For those seeking the ultimate challenge, the Rwenzori mountains offer the best technical hikes in Africa. Those who prefer a walk on the mountain side, Uganda offers day and multi day walks for amazing views of the Virunga ranges, the snowcapped peaks of Rwenzori and the amazing flora on the slopes of the mountain. Better yet, talk a nature walk, following the trails of the wildlife to their watering holes.
Our Top Safaris
Top Mountains to Climb in Uganda
Rwenzori Mountains – Mountains of the Moon
The Rwenzori Mountains are home to world-class hiking. The Rwenzori hike requires nine to twelve days and includes a walk to the Margherita summit, the highest point in the range at 5109 meters. You’ll probably have the slopes to yourself, and you won’t have to spend a fortune to reach the top, as you would with a Mount Kilimanjaro adventure. But be warned: reaching the summit is no simple task. Â Rwenzori is more difficult to ascend than Kilimanjaro because it is more technical and muddy, and you may experience altitude sickness.
There are other less lengthy non-technical treks that give amazing views and landscapes if you are not a seasoned hiker. You’ll see mountain vistas, various vegetation zones, and a wide variety of animals no matter which path you take. This park is home to approximately 70 distinct mammals and nearly 220 bird species, some of which are unique to this mountain region. The best months to climb the Rwenzori Mountains are from December to February and June to August.Â
Mount Elgon
Many visitors regard Mount Elgon as a fun and thrilling option to the more difficult climbs accessible in East Africa. Many of the same attractions are available, but with a milder temperature and lower height. You can choose between a lengthy and brief day trek because this hike needs no special gear or technical training. You must take a Uganda Wildlife Authority guide with you from the park entrance to ascend this peak. The Sasa route is the quickest and most straightforward. This journey takes four days total, with the first day being the most difficult. Prepare for showers and cold evenings. Mount Elgon is best climbed during the dry months of December to February and June to August.Â
Muhabura (4127 meters):
It is the beginning of the Virunga range, located on the Rwanda-Uganda frontier. It is a lengthier hike to the summit, requiring about 5 hours, which makes it difficult. It takes approximately the same time to return. It has a tiny crater lake at the summit that can be easily circumnavigated for vistas of the Virunga ranges.
Gahinga (3474m)
This is the smallest of the three mountains, located between Muhavura and Sabinyo, but closest to the former. It is a shorter and simpler trek. At the summit, there is a larger crater lake that is difficult to move around.
Virunga Mountains:
Uganda shares three of the magnificent Virunga Mountains, which span the boundaries of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The three are in southern Uganda, near Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The volcanoes provide great day hikes with some of Africa’s finest views. The Virungas are home to a variety of distinct and uncommon species, including Mountain Gorillas, Golden Monkeys, endemic birds, and mountain vegetation.
Sabinyo (3645m)
This is located on the shared boundary of three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the most difficult of the three due to the more rugged landscape with many craters, but it is also the most enjoyable and has the finest vistas of the Virungas extending across all three nations. It has three summits that resemble three spaced teeth, giving rise to the native moniker Sabinyo, which translates as “Old Man’s Teeth.”
Mount Moroto
Mount Moroto is a dormant volcano in Karamoja that climbs to over 3000 meters. Some see the peak as a scenic scenery, but it is also home to many people. Mount Moroto’s slopes are home to approximately 40,000 Tepeth, the early residents of Karamoja. You may pick between a 2-hour round-trip walk through Tepeth homesteads and a three-day trek to its highest summit. If you go up, you’ll be rewarded with cave art, cascades, and a diversity of bird species.
Uganda's Best Nature Walks
Lake Mburo National Park:
If you’re searching for a walking tour in Uganda, Lake Mburo should not be overlooked on your itinerary. The park is accessible by road from Kampala and is located between Bwindi forest and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. If you want to get off your feet, you can also tour the area on horses or on mountain bikes. Encounter herds of giraffes, impala, zebra, eland, topi and much more
Sipi Falls
Sipi Falls is a quiet and beautiful location with gentle hikes in the nearby hills. A day hike from the major waterfall to three smaller falls uphill is also possible. Both choices will provide breathtaking views of waterfalls and expansive valley scenery. Sipi also has a range of lodging choices, from upscale to more affordable. You’ll need a guide to visit some of the important places and enjoy coffee excursions. Consider it a pleasant way to help the local farms and community.
Mutanda and Bunyonyi Lakes
Lake Mutanda and Lake Bunyonyi are lovely places to unwind after a strenuous gorilla hike in the neighboring Bwindi Forest. The views from the lakes are breathtaking, and it is the ideal location for some light adventure in an isolated part of the nation. A variety of strolling paths will transport you deep into the nearby countryside. If you want to add to your journey, you can trek and canoe from Kisoro’s airport to Nkuringo sector in the south of Bwindi.
Try a Triathlon in Uganda for the dedicated Athlete
If you’re looking for the ultimate athletic challenge, Uganda has some excellent triathlon choices. The Kyaninga Triathlon takes place in May and consists of swimming across a crater lake, riding through communities, and running through the Rwenzori highlands. They compete in 1/8 and Olympic lengths. When you’re done, you can relax at the beautiful Kyaninga Lodge. If a race too much for you, you can also choose two of the three events or simply run the 5 km. The triathlon’s proceeds benefit Ugandan youth with impairments.
Activate Uganda provides a wide range of exciting and demanding events. Throughout the year, they hold running, mountain biking, swimming, and other multi-sport activities. View their interesting program schedule here.