5 Of The Best Places To Go Hiking In Uganda

5 of the best places to hike in Uganda -where can I go hiking in Uganda? Uganda has plenty of hiking opportunities. It is a true hiker’s paradise with spectacular mountain landscapes to sweeping savannas. Hikers on Uganda safaris can hike and climb up the country’s stunning Virunga Volcanoes, the Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon foothills, the savannas dotted with wildlife, and the tropical forests.

The amazing part about Uganda safaris is that any hiking trail can be incorporated into your tour. Some trails require a certain level of physical fitness such as the Central Circuit to the Margherita Peak on Mount Rwenzori or trails leading to the Wagagai Peak on Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda. Here is the list of the best places to hike in Uganda;

The Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon

The Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon is, without doubt, a hiker’s dream destination when it comes to climbing/hiking tours in Uganda and Africa at large. Located in Western Uganda within the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Mount Rwenzori attracts climbers with an interest to conquer its peak- the Margherita Peak. Its peak ranges at an altitude of 5109m, and getting there requires you to be physically fit.

Mount Rwenzori also features many other mountain ranges and they have peaks worth conquering on a hiking tour in Uganda. They include Mount Baker (4843m), Mount Stanley (where the Margherita peak lies 5109m), Mount Emin (4798m), Mount Gessi (4715m), Mt. Speke (4890m), and Mount Luigi di Savoia (4627m). The Central Circuit is considered to be the longest trail leading to Margherita Peak and hiking through it takes about 8 days. Other shorter trails are also available including the 3-day Mahoma loop, Kilembe trail, and chimpanzee trail.

Mount Elgon

Mount Elgon is found in Eastern Uganda on the border with Kenya. Its highest peak is Wagagai which is located on the Ugandan side. A 1000 years ago, the Wagagai Peak was ranked as the highest peak in Africa although it gradually eroded to currently 4321m making it Africa’s 8^th highest peak and the 4^th in East Africa. Mt. Elgon is also most popular for its largest caldera measuring 50x80km making it the world’s biggest caldera. Hiking Elgon volcano isn’t easy but possible and the available trails to hike through include the Budadiri trail 4-5 days hike through the bamboo forest or hike through the Piswa trail.

The sipi Falls

The Sipi waterfalls are an amazing hiking spot that hikers on Uganda safaris should consider conquering. This is located in Eastern Uganda, at the base of Mount Elgon. The Sipi Falls comprise 3 waterfalls with an altitude range of 85m, 75m, and 100m. This is a popular location for hikers and it takes you about 3-4 hours to complete your trek.

Murchison Falls hike

If you are visiting Murchison Falls National Park for game viewing, hiking to the top of the falls should be a must-do. The hike to the top of the falls starts as soon as you reach the bottom of the falls, leave the boat and take 45 minutes trekking and this is a moderate hike. You will be viewing some interesting birds and on reaching the top, you will be mesmerized by the powerful roar of the falls while it squeezes itself into a narrow rock of 8m. Next to Murchison Falls, you will also view the stunning Uhuru waterfalls.

The Virunga Mountain ranges

Three of the eight Virunga volcanoes are found in Uganda and specifically in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These Virunga volcanoes are located on the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Congo. They offer amazing day hikes with incredible views, and they include Mount Muhabura (4127m), Sabyinyo (3645m) and Gahinga (3474m).

Mount Muhabura is part of the chain of Virunga Volcanoes located along the Rwanda-Uganda border. It offers longer hikes to its summits about 5 hours but rewards hikers with remarkable views of the Crater Lake and surrounding Virunga volcanoes.

Gahinga Volcano is the smallest of the 3 Virunga Volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. At its summits, there is a huge Crater Lake to be viewed. Gahinga volcano is set between Muhabura and Sabyinyo Mountains.

Mount Sabyinyo- this is found at the border of the 3 countries, Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda. It is one volcano known to offer the most challenging hikes due to its rugged terrain. Hikers have 3 peaks to view while on the Sabyinyo volcano hike.

Other places to consider for hiking safaris in Uganda include Mount Moroto, Morungole, and the Batwa trail, etc.

Get ready for the ultimate Ugandan adventure! Grab your backpack, hit the road in a 4×4 rental car, and discover the breathtaking beauty of this East African Gem. Explore vibrant cities, trek through lush rainforests, and encounter incredible wildlife – all at your own pace. Create unforgettable memories on your self-drive journey of a lifetime!