Bwindi Impenetrable Park
You might already know the famous Bwindi Impenetrable Park by name. This park is renowned for its impressive, powerful, and rare mountain gorillas. You can come face to face with these magnificent creatures during a hike through the rugged, humid jungle. Together with an experienced ranger and a small group, you’ll make your way through the dense forest.
But the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is vast and has much more to offer. Besides spotting gorillas, you can also explore a variety of hiking trails. What makes these trails extra special is the incredible diversity of wildlife. The forest is home to around 120 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 220 different types of butterflies. The steep valleys and winding rivers create challenging routes, where every step takes you deeper into the mysterious world of Bwindi…
- Mubwindi Swamp Trail: The name says it all – a hike towards a swamp area! Be careful not to sink and get swallowed by the Ugandan marsh… Just kidding, this is pure enjoyment. You’ll walk for four to five hours through the forest and be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the unique wetlands and the surrounding green hills, where you can hear birds chirping and gorillas roaring.
- Waterfall Trail: Looking for a shorter walk while hiking in Uganda? No worries, there’s plenty to choose from. You can opt for a shorter hike to a stunning waterfall. This hike takes around three hours, making it a great option for less experienced hikers. Along the way, there’s a high chance of spotting unique bird species and other wildlife.
- Buhoma-Nkuringo Trail: Do you see yourself as a true diehard and aren’t afraid of a serious blister or sweaty armpits? Then brace yourself for this longer hike. This route connects the Buhoma and Nkuringo gorilla trekking areas. During this six- to seven-hour trek through densely forested slopes, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the famous Virunga volcanoes.
- Ivi River Trail: Another trail that will keep you busy for about six to seven hours follows the Ivi River and offers great chances to see wild monkeys, birds, and other animals. The trek is quite long but not overly strenuous – that’s a bonus!
Kibale National Park
This park is known for a primate that closely resembles humans: the chimpanzee. These intelligent beauties can be found throughout the park. During your trek, you’ll be accompanied by a ranger who will share all the ins and outs about these fascinating creatures.
And while this is a popular park among many tourists, there are plenty of quieter areas and hiking trails where you don’t have to worry about noisy crowds. Here, you can enjoy peaceful, secluded moments in nature. Here’s a selection of trails to explore:
- Kanyanchu Primate Walk: This is the most popular (and therefore busiest!) hike, due to the high chance of spotting chimpanzees. The trek lasts about three hours, and besides chimps, you may also encounter other primates such as red colobus monkeys, blue-tailed monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys.
- Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk: Looking for a more off-the-beaten-track hike in Uganda? This trail is much quieter and less crowded. It leads you through a mysterious wetland landscape bordering Kibale National Park. The walk takes about two to three hours and is perfect for bird enthusiasts, with over 200 bird species, including the famous Great Blue Turaco.
- Sebitoli Forest Walk: Another lesser-known route is located in the northern part of the park and takes you through dense forests and along enchanting rivers. The trail is quite manageable, taking around three hours to complete. There’s a high chance of encountering small monkeys, birds, butterflies, and even elephants!
- Nocturnal Forest Walk: As the name suggests, you can also take night walks in Kibale. This is only for adventurers who aren’t afraid of the dark, of course! It’s a truly special experience, as you’ll spot completely different wildlife at night compared to during the day. Think of nocturnal animals such as galagos, genets, and owls.
- Kanyanchu River Trail: A four-hour hike following the Kanyanchu River. As you walk, you’ll once again witness an incredible diversity of butterflies and other wildlife along the route.
Mount Elgon
Mount Elgon offers breathtaking hikes through one of Uganda’s most stunning and least explored mountain regions. Each trail provides an incredible, unique mix of flora and fauna. And of course, you’re guaranteed spectacular views. It’s a must-visit for adventurers seeking an unspoiled area with amazing hiking opportunities.
- Sasa Trail: We start with the most popular route in this area. This trail begins in Budadiri and takes you through spectacular landscapes, including bamboo forests and heathlands. The trek lasts about four days and offers a challenging yet rewarding climb to the Wagagai peak.
- Sipi Trail: This route begins at the beautiful Sipi Falls and winds through lush forests and picturesque waterfalls. It’s a longer trek of about six days, so it’s not for the faint-hearted. Enjoy the serene surroundings and the rich birdlife you’ll encounter along the way.
- Piswa Trail: A route where you’re unlikely to meet any other tourists. The trek starts in Kapwata and takes you through dense forests, vast swamps, and towering giant lobelias. Within about seven days (definitely not a short stroll), you’ll reach the summit.
- Day Hikes: Not much of a mountain goat and prefer a shorter hike? No problem. You can take day trips through the lower hills, such as the Sipi Falls day hike, where you’ll admire three mighty waterfalls and enjoy endless breathtaking views.
Rwenzori Mountains
The Rwenzori Mountains are a must-visit for both mountain goats and nature lovers alike. This mountain range straddles the border between Uganda and the DRC, offering rugged hiking trails as well as a variety of ecosystems. You’ll find everything from tropical rainforests to alpine landscapes. And with such diverse terrain, you can expect an incredible range of plants and wildlife—so pack that pocket encyclopedia! Whether you’re up for a long trek or a short day hike, there’s something for everyone:
- Central Circuit Trail: A challenging yet popular trek lasting seven to ten days through the heart of the mountains. The journey starts at Nyakalengija and takes you through lush tropical rainforests, bamboo forests, towering giant lobelias, and finally to the icy glaciers on the highest peaks, including Margherita Peak on Mount Stanley.
- Kilembe Trail: This route begins in Kilembe and offers an alternative way to reach Margherita Peak. The trek typically takes six to eight days and passes through stunning landscapes, including the Mubuku Valley and Nyamwamba Valley, with breathtaking views and unique flora and fauna.
- Day Hikes: Short on time or not keen on a multi-day trek? There are several day hikes available, such as the trek to Lake Mahoma. This hike provides spectacular views of the mountains and surrounding valleys while leading you through dense forests, where you can spot various bird species and monkeys.
- Bwamba Pass: Looking for a mix of history and culture? Then this is an epic route for you. The trail runs through the Bwamba Valley, home to the Bakonzo people. These mountains are their homeland, and their villages are built on steep slopes and terraced farmlands. Listen to their fascinating stories about their way of life as you hike through this unique landscape.
