As seen on
Gorillas & Hiking Uganda's Rwenzori Mountains
Uganda - 3,975m
From
This trip supports
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Esential info
- Packing list
Grade:
Challenging
Type:
Activity
Transfers
Duration:
11 Nights
4 - 12
Group size
Leaders
Tour Highlights
- 3 days trekking in the Rwenzori Mountains
- Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Batwa Cultural Trail in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Mt Sabinyo or Mt Muhavura Hike
- Game drive in Lake Mburo National Park
- Mix of Refuge, Gorilla Conservation Camp Guesthouse & wonderful Safari Lodge accommodation
- Chimpanzee and monkey permits included in adventure cost ($230)
Explore the flourishing wildlife of Uganda on this gorilla trekking tour.
Bordering Uganda and the Congo, rise the mysterious Rwenzori Mountains, which Roman astronomer and cartographer Ptolemy famously named the 'Mountains of the Moon', and for centuries were mistakenly considered to be the source of the River Nile, which actually originates in Sudan & Ethiopia, further north.
This incredible wildlife adventure takes you hiking in this wondrous outpost of the world; including Mountain Gorilla tracking in Bwindi National Park, game drives and immersive experiences with local communities.
(Available as a small group tour or tailor-made holiday)
If you would like to learn more about Gorilla conservation in Uganda, read our Journal post here.
The Rwenzori National Park, covering nearly 100,000ha in Western Uganda, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to Africa's third highest peak, Mount Margherita at 5109m. 70% of the park is over 2500m in height and is renowned as one of Africa's most beautiful alpine areas, with glaciers, waterfalls and lakes. Rich in biodiversity thanks to the nearly constant temperatures, humidity and high insolation, the mountains are home to many endangered and endemic plant species, such as giant heathers, groundsels and lobelias.
Managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority, Rwenzori National Park is considered a model for the integration of cultural values into the Protected Area Management framework, as an innovative approach to resource management - the first of its kind in Africa. The name Rwenzori stems from ‘nzururu’, which means 'place of snow' in the Bakonzo language. 217 bird species have been recorded and the montane forests are home to threatened animals such as the African forest elephant, eastern chimpanzee and L'Hoest's monkey.
Gorilla Permits
To make sure you can go gorilla trekking during your adventure, there's an extra fee of $800 per person for the gorilla permit. This fee isn't included in the initial adventure cost and needs to be added on as an extra when you book. The permits are issued by the UWA on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it's essential to book your holiday well in advance to ensure we can secure a permit for you.
Your £1,500 deposit includes a downpayment of £650 or $800 for your adventure. This downpayment is set aside to buy your permit once your departure is confirmed.
Day 1: Arrival into Entebbe
Transfer
Guest house
You will be met at Entebbe International Airport by a a local YellowWood representative. You will be transferred to your hotel, Papyrus Guesthouse, and given any help you need to check in and settle. Your guesthouse is just a 10-15mins drive from the airport.
To leave you flexibility to rest after your journey and acclimatise to Uganda, as well as to allow clients flying in from different countries to all arrive and settle, we leave this afternoon and evening free for you to do as you wish. We can advise you on where to eat, and if you would like some ideas of where to explore.
Accommodation: Paypyrus Guesthouse or Via Via Guesthouse
Day 2: Kasese and on to Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Flights
Transfer
Breakfast
Guest house
We have an early start this morning in order to transfer to the airport for a scheduled flight (Duration 1hr 35m - price included, max luggage 15kgs in a soft bag) departing at 07.00. Prepare to be struck by the beauty of the often mist-shrouded peaks of the Rwenzori mountains as you come in to land.
On arrival you will be met by your local guide and transferred to Kilembe (Rwenzori Mountains National Park) and the Trekkers hostel / 'base camp' for your 3 days of trekking.
Once checked in, you will have the rest of the day to spend at your leisure, before starting your hike tomorrow.
Accommodation: Trekkers Hostel (basic, shared facilities, no electricity!)
Day 3: Trekking day 1 Hike to Sine Camp
Wildlife
Breakfast
Packed Lunch
Dinner
Mountain refuge
The trek starts at Trekkers Hostel Kyanjuki 12 kilometers from Kasese town past Kilembe Copper mines. You will meet your guides in the morning and run through the trek briefing. You start by walking 2.2km to the UWA rangers post at 1,727m.
Your goal today is the Sine Camp (2596m), just below the bamboo line, reached by a walk along the valley floor through the Afro Montane Forest zone, rich with bird life and with the potential to see blue monkeys scampering through the canopy. You climb steadily during the first 6kms, and after a river crossing start the slightly steeper ascent to Sine Camp. The trek covers 9.5km, taking aprrox. 7-8 hours.
The camp consists of wooden huts set between the trees, with a welcoming campfire, on a narrow ridge with long views. Enocks Falls are just 200m from the camp and offer a fantastic opportunity to breathe in the scenery and take photos of the bright green lichen growing on the many vines hanging from the trees.
Accommodation: Sine Camp (shared dormitory style - single rooms not available)
Day 4: Trekking day 2 to Samalira Camp
Wildlife
Breakfast
Packed Lunch
Dinner
Mountain refuge
From Sine Camp we start by climbing up through the bamboo forests which are quite steep, but very beautiful. As you climb through the upper part of the bamboo zone, there are small patches of mixed forest with trees that bear fruit that attract many different species of birds. You will hear the calls of the Rwenzori Turaco bird which has bright crimson wings, a magnificent sight as they fly between the trees. During the dry season, the female Malachite Sunbird comes down the mountain to feed on nectar producing flowers before heading back to the high altitudes to mate and rear their young.
At about 3000 meters you reach the heather zone, where the giant heather trees reach 15 meters in height and are truly magnificent. At 3147 meters you find Kalalama Camp which is an alternative to sleeping at Sine Camp, and has stunning views of the valleys and across the foothills you can see Lake George in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
From here we climb up a beautiful mossy ridge, before turning off to pass through more heather forests and then descend to a flat valley with many Lobelia plants and their beautiful flower stems. There is then a short climb to Kyalavula and a decent down a magnificent moss covered ridge to Samalira Camp (3170m) which has the most fantastic views.
The trek today covers 4.1km, taking about 3 to 4 hours.
Accommodation: Samalira Camp (shared dormitory style - single rooms not available)
Day 5: Trekking day 3 return to basecamp and on to Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp
Wildlife
Breakfast
Packed Lunch
Dinner
Lodge
It is sadly time to re-join the 'real world'; we take a trail down the Nyamwamba Valley - a stunning descent from 3170m - 1450m, with incredible views for much of the way; the deep valleys, high cliffs and dramatic waterfalls are possibly the best in the Rwenzori mountains. The hike takes approx. 5-7 hours and covers 10kms. The trail you follow was discovered only 6 years ago, and is by no means a well trodden path. In 1937, the explorer and geologist McConnell tried to find a way up this valley and failed, but thanks to the work of local guides in evolving and maintaining the paths, we are now able to experience this valley.
We start off following the river path as it flows down towards the valley, moving away when it becomes steeper, with waterfalls, to follow a narrow ridge for a while. We later re-join the waterway to pass back down through the bamboo forest and Afro Montane Forest zone, teaming with birds and primates - a suitably magnificent ending to a 'once in a lifetime' trek.
Just below Omusita Rest Area you may either continue straight down or branch to the left to slope down to a trail along the Nyamwamba River where the trees and forest are truly beautiful and continue onto the park entrance and back to the basecamp.
On our return we will transfer just under an hour to Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp in Queen Elizabeth National Park, for a shower and delicious dinner.
Accommodation: Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp
Day 6: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Transfer
Wildlife
Breakfast
Packed Lunch
Dinner
Lodge
We continue our travels south, down for another 225kms this morning (approx 3-4hr drive), arriving in Bwindi National Park, home to the Mountain Gorillas (gorilla beringei beringei), by lunch. Bwindi lies on the edge of the albertine Rift Valley, with mountains ranging in height from 1,160 - 2600m high. The forest itself dates back to the ice ages and is one of Ugandas oldest and most ecologically diverse. It is home to 23 endemic species of bird as well as a host of mammals that include the Gorillas of course, Baboons, Chimpanzees, Elephant and Antelope.
After a pause to settle into the Gorilla Conservation Camp, run by the Conservation through Public Health NGO, we set off to visit a local coffee plantation, before returning to the lodge for dinner, and to stay overnight.
Accommodation: CTHP Gorilla Conservation Camp
Day 7: Gorilla Tracking
Transfer
Wildlife
Breakfast
Packed Lunch
Dinner
Lodge
The excitement of seeing Mountain Silverback Gorillas up close in the wild will probably mean a light sleep, so it is no problem to arise early today for breakfast and to transfer to the park offices where we split into groups of 8, each with a Uganda Wildlife Authority tracking guide. Each group is allocated a gorilla family and the unforgettable experience begins to meet these gentle giants of Bwindi. Before your hike into the jungle starts, you will be given a briefing with information about your gorilla family as well as any health & safety considerations.
You will enjoy a transfer to the trailhead but from there you will be hiking to track the gorillas who build new nests every day so are always to be found in a new place. Expect long distances, uneven ground, potentially muddy conditions with rain overhead, and steep gradients at times. Depending on where your gorilla family are found, you might be walking for between 2 and 8 hours. On sighting the gorillas you spend an hour with them as they go about their daily life; a totally unique and breathtaking experience.
After the hour, your group will be guided back to the trailhead where a driver will be waiting to transfer you back to the Gorilla Conservation Camp for a well deserved shower and meal.
Accommodation: CTHP Gorilla Conservation Camp
Day 8: Bwindi Impenetrable - Batwa Cultural Experience
Transfer
Breakfast
Packed Lunch
Dinner
Lodge
Today we will have a fascinating tour by a Batwa guide to demonstrate their hunting techniques, gathering honey, pointing out medicinal plants and demonstrating how to make bamboo cups. Women of the community perform an emotive and traditional song and we gain an insight into the richness of this fading culture.
Echuya Batwa, commonly known as pygmies, are an endangered group of people around Echuya Forest Reserve in Kisoro and Kabale District of South Western Uganda. Originally forest dwellers, they have been almost entirely dispossessed of their land by the combined pressures of Government Gorilla conservation efforts and cultivators claiming land. Their home, before eviction, was the Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest of Uganda where they were hunter gatherers and had spiritual and religious ties with the forests. Specific sites are revered and considered central to their existence.
We begin the day early, departing for Southern Bwindi at 7:00 AM to experience the Batwa way of life before arriving at your accommodation. Although our destination this evening is 300 km away—a five-hour drive—there will be plenty to reflect on from the past few days, and much to see along the way. Tonight, you’ll unwind at Lake Mulehe Lodge, a tranquil retreat offering en-suite Twin and Double cottages with breathtaking views of the serene lake.
Accommodation: Lake Mulehe Lodge
Day 9: Mountain and Volcano Climbing in Mount Mgahinga National Park
Transfer
Wildlife
Breakfast
Packed Lunch
Dinner
Lodge
We enjoy a delicious breakfast, fueling up for our full day of hiking. All three volcanos in this park can be summited, but you have a choice of two hikes:
Mount Sabinyo Hike
Mount Sabinyo, at 3669m, takes about 8-10 hours to cover the 14km round trip. It is an exciting route that takes us up and over 3 peaks with an ascent of 1300m. From the summit, you will be on the border between 3 countries: Rwanda, Uganda & the Democratic Republic of Congo!
The trail to our first peak is a ridge walk with fantastic views, along the Eastern side of the mountain. Continuing to the second peak offers us breath taking drops into the gorges of Rwanda and Uganda. Our third and final peak is a steep hike with some technical aspects: ladders and some scrambling. Expect to see a diverse range of wildlife during the trek: duikers, Rwenzori turaco and sunbirds, as well as the endemic and endangered golden monkey (Cercopithecus minis kandti). Between 2 and 4000 individuals exist, living in troops of about 100, led by an Alpha male and feeding on bamboo shoots, seasonal fruits, flowers, leaves and small invertebrates.
Mount Muhavura Hike
Mount Muhavura is the highest peak at 4127m and this 12km round trip takes around 8 hours. Once at the top, hikers are rewarded on a clear day with views of the Virunga Volcanoes, Lake Edward, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the peaks of Rwenzori Mountains.
Towering above the land at an elevation of 1700m, this typical coned shaped volcano provides some of the best views in Uganda. The hike is steep, but very rewarding throughout. At the top you will find the most amazing view over the Congo and Rwanda.
We return to Lake Mulehe Lodge for a welcome shower and dinner after a wonderful trek.
Accommodation: Lake Mulehe Lodge
Day 10: Bwindi National Park - Lake Mburo National Park
Transfer
Wildlife
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Lodge
With some big distances to cover between Bwindi and Entebbe, today we reluctantly leave the sanctity of the lakeshore and start the journey Eastwards (250km approx. 5 hour drive). We are by no means winding down from your experience yet though - we drive this morning, until lunch, before entering Lake Mburo National Park for a wonderful game drive this afternoon. Although one of Uganda's smaller National Parks, it has a wonderful selection of African birds and mammals to spot: impala, warthog, zebra, buffalo and is particularly known for its hippos and African fish eagles.
Tonight you stay in an eco friendly hotel/restaurant nestled on a scenic outcrop at the edge of the park: a secluded retreat in the Ankole ranch lands where we stay in comfortable and spacious 'cottages' dotted around the hill. During dinner the game spotting continues as herbivores often congregate at the water hole beneath the dining area.
Accommodation: Rwaboko Rock Lodge
Day 11: Lake Mburo National Park - Entebbe
Transfer
Breakfast
Guest house
We start our last full day in Uganda in the best way possible- with an early game drive to see the savannah awakening and the sun rising. Later, we transfer to Entebbe with a stop at the equator for photos and a little souvenir shopping (Approx 270km/5 hour drive). We will arrive in Entebbe during the afternoon, and check in at our familiar guesthouse located within easy reach of the airport for tomorrow's departing flight.
Accommodation: Paypyrus Guesthouse or Via Via Guesthouse
Day 12: Departure
Transfer
Breakfast
Depending on your flight departure time, after breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home. Time to start planning the next adventure!
Adventure Optional Extras
Single Room Supplement
Single rooms are available on a first come, first served basis. There are no single rooms available during the Rwenzori mountain trek (Day 2 - 5). We will charge on a pro-rata basis if a single room is not available to book for part of the trip where it would have been possible.
Private Transfer - One Way Arrival (1 to 4 people)
If your flight schedules do not align with our group transfers (please refer to the essential info page for more information), you will need to arrange private transfers. Note that these transfers are one-way, so if you require them for both arrival and departure, please select two. After booking, you will be prompted to complete a travel information form where you can provide us with your exact flight times and details. This will enable us to organise your private transfers accordingly. Please note that private transfers may be subject to availability.
Private Transfer - One Way Departure (1 to 4 people)
If your flight schedules do not align with our group transfers (please refer to the essential info page for more information), you will need to arrange private transfers. Note that these transfers are one-way, so if you require them for both arrival and departure, please select two. After booking, you will be prompted to complete a travel information form where you can provide us with your exact flight times and details. This will enable us to organise your private transfers accordingly. Please note that private transfers may be subject to availability.
Pre/Post Tour night for 1 person B&B
Stay at Papyrus Guest House or a similar hotel on a bed and breakfast basis before or after your adventure. Please note that if this hotel is unavailable, we may need to book an alternative property, so the rate provided is an estimate only.
Pre/Post Tour night for 2 people B&B
Stay at Papyrus Guest House or a similar hotel on a bed and breakfast basis before or after your adventure. Please note that if this hotel is unavailable, we may need to book an alternative property, so the rate provided is an estimate only.
Plant an additional 15 trees for your adventure
Carbon Compensation is not the perfect solution, and it is important to first reduce our carbon emissions as much as we can, yet trees remain an excellent natural technology to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to slow global warming.
For every client and guide who attends a YellowWood Adventure, we donate £30 to our partner charity WeForest to plant 15 trees to (over) compensate for the carbon footprint of the tour.
We also invite our clients to match this with an optional additional £30 for another 15 trees to be planted to help compensate for the carbon footprint of their international flights.
WeForest run many tree planting and tree maintenance projects such as this seedling nursery in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil and many other projects in other countries including Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania & India.
Click Here to find out more about their amazing projects around the world.
Not Included
- Gorilla permit
- International flights & airport taxes
- Insurance (compulsory)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Optional Activities in Bwindi Forest National Park
- Tips
- Gorilla Permits not included in the initial adventure cost and needs to be added on as an extra
Contents
Accommodation
We fully believe in, and practice Responsible Tourism, using local hotels, owned and run by locals. We put time and effort into building our relationship with them to ensure you have a a great trip.
We choose hotels based on cleanliness, comfort, safety, proximity to our route (to avoid unnecessary extra road travel), and a warm client welcome, as well as reliability in their service to us. Some hotels will be basic, in modern buildings or in town centres. Wherever we can, we will choose smaller more characterful, individual hotels, but in areas where tourism is still developing, this may not be available. An aspect of our adventures is to escape the ‘trappings’ of modern Western lifestyles and to experience new things which are exciting and memorable, and reflects the countries we are visiting.
This is adventure travel and on occasion the advertised services at a hotel (eg wifi, or hot showers, or continuous power) may not be functional on our arrival. This tends to occur in the smaller, more remote hotels. Very rarely a hotel lets us down and we are required to find alternative suitable accommodation that might not be our first choice. This trip involves a range of guesthouses, eco safari lodges and thatched roof riverside tents
The list below gives information on our first choice of accommodation for this adventure; where hotels and hostels are fully booked or unavailable, we will use an alternative of a similar standard, and equally well situated. We will provide you with an accurate list of accommodation, with contact information to leave with relatives, prior to departure on your adventure.
Entebbe (Day 1 & 11): Paypyrus Guesthouse or Via Via Guesthouse
Kilembe (Day 2): Trekkers Hostel
Trekkers Hostel offers basic clean accommodation that uses shared bathrooms and toilets for all clients at the hostel
They also use solar power for lights since there is no electricity in Kyanjuku village.
Rwenzori Mountains (Day 3 & 4): Mountain Refuges - dormitory style, basic.
Sine Camp (shared dormitory style - single rooms not available)
Samalira Camp (shared dormitory style - single rooms not available)
Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp (Day 5)
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (Day 6 & 7): CTHPGorilla Conservation Camp
Lake Mulehe (Day 8 & 9): Lake Mulehe Lodge
Lake Mburo National Park (Day 10): Rwaboko Rock Lodge
Facilities
With the exception of some of the higher class hotels in Entebbe, hotels generally do not have heating or air conditioning. As nights can be chilly, please bring appropriate sleepwear if needed (see packing list for further information).
In areas where malaria is a problem, hotel rooms come with mosquito nets.
Unless you have booked a single room (where they are available) and paid the single room supplement for those nights, you will be sharing a twin room with another client (of the same gender).
Solo Travellers
If you are a solo traveller, please note you may encounter a single room supplement fee if you occupy a room with multiple beds. Hotels typically price their rooms based on double or twin occupancy and do not lower rates for single occupancy, especially on this adventure as a lot of the accommodation is in lodges. However, if you're open to sharing a room and we can successfully pair you with another solo traveller of the same sex, no supplement fee will be applied. Please note that we match people up on a first-come, first-served basis, and while we strive to accommodate everyone, we cannot guarantee availability. You can inform us if you would like to be matched with another traveller when you book and complete your advanced passenger information form.
Guiding & Your Group
Supporting you on your holiday will be a local, English speaking Ugandan guide. They will be joined by a trekking guide for the trek in the Rwenzori Mountains and for the hike up Mt Sabinyo. You will also be joined by a tracking expert from the Ugandan Wildlife Authority for the Gorilla tracking. This ensures you are in excellent hands in the mountains, and that you have access to local knowledge as well as being closely supported by YellowWood.
We work closely with our Ugandan Tour Operator partners both before and during your adventure to ensure that they understand your needs and the standard that YellowWood Adventures expects. We believe that it is a very important positive aspect of Responsible Tourism, to employ the expertise of local suppliers, as well as offering you a much more informative and authentic experience.
Your Group
Your group will be any number from our minimum group size of 4, up to a maximum of 12 clients. This number works really well with the ratio of guides, and ensures the optimum level of service to you during your adventure.
We get clients booking alone, as couples and in small groups of friends. If you have a group of friends or family who are interested in having their own customised trip, then please let us know and we can cost it for you.
Am I fit enough?
Your itinerary involves trekking over passes, summiting peaks and traversing plateaux and mountain valleys. You will encounter rough terrain, steep gradients and some scree and boulders at varying times. You will not always be walking on a defined path. The hike up Mt Sabinyo has some technical sections where you will use ladders and some scrambling techniques.
To get the most of out of this adventure, you need to be a regular walker and in good physical condition. The terrain requires that you are used to walking up and down steep gradients, and hiking for extended periods of time and on consecutive days. You will be walking at altitudes of up to 3669m.
Any hiking is undertaken at the natural pace of the group, with regular stops. Walking boots that have already been worn in are essential on this adventure. You will be carrying just a day pack with camera, spare layers and a bottle of water
For convenience, peace of mind, and to reduce the purchase of single use plastic water bottles, we highly recommend a filtration water bottle such as Aquapure Traveller (offer available - see section on Water)
Training
As with all active holidays, the fitter you are, the more you can relax and enjoy the stunning route, and the better you can cope with challenges such as the outside elements.
You are advised to get into a regular walking & or running pattern before the trip as convenient.
Please note that you need to have an open mind to adventure travel, and experiencing different cultures to your own, first hand.
Health
For general information on health issues in Uganda, please see the general information on Uganda, however, for this specific adventure, the following points are worth separate consideration.
Yellow Fever
Under International Health Regulations (2005), a certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required from all travellers aged 1 year or over.
You must have your Yellow Fever Certificate before applying for your Uganda e-visa.
Yellow fever is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes which predominantly feed between dawn and dusk, but may also bite at night, especially in the jungle environment. Symptoms may be absent or mild, but can be much more severe.
For more information please see here: Yellow Fever - Uganda
Malaria
Malaria is a potentially serious parasitic infection transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. In humans the disease is caused by five different species of the Plasmodium parasite. Malaria is widely distributed throughout tropical regions of the world including in parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America, the Caribbean, the Middle East and Oceania. Malaria is preventable and curable if diagnosed and treated promptly.
Choice of malaria prevention tablets depends on the malaria species common in the area to be visited and whether there is resistance to any of the available drugs. Certain drugs may not be suitable for certain individuals due to existing medical problems or interactions with their regular medication.
For more information please see here: Malaria - Uganda
Altitude
The highest altitude that you will be experiencing is at around 3669m which can be difficult for people coming from lower altitudes.
While we do our best to create an itinerary that allows for some time for acclimatising, altitude affects everyone differently, and to varying degrees. If you experience any of the following symptoms during this adventure, make sure to inform your guide and they will support you in descending to a lower altitude as soon as possible.
• Headache
• Fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Excessive shortness of breath
• Persistent rapid pulse
• Peripheral oedema (swelling of feet, hands or face)
Travel
Airport & Arrival and Departure Info
Your YellowWood adventure starts at the airport in Entebbe on the start day of the trip.
Included in the cost of your adventure is a group transfer to and from the airport.
Group transfers are only available on the official start and end dates of the trip. Arriving or departing on any other days means group transfers will not be included. If you plan to arrive before or after the adventure dates and need assistance with transfers or accommodation, please add these services when booking, or contact us directly to make the arrangements.
Once you have made a booking, you will be prompted to complete a travel information form where you can provide us with your exact flight times and details. This will enable us to organise your private transfers accordingly. Please note that private transfers may be subject to availability.
You are also welcome to book your travel independently, and we will provide clear instructions on how to meet the group at the designated time and location at the start of your trip.
Finding flights
Flights are not included in the cost of your holiday, and whilst we are happy to help advise you, responsibility for booking the correct flights rests with you. We recommend that you use a comparison tool such as www.momondo.co.uk or www.skyscanner.net when searching for flights. We will send you a Flight Information Sheet with further pointers on which flights to book for your adventure.
Scheduled domestic flight from Entebbe to Kasese
Please note the max weight allowance for this flight is 15kgs in a soft bag.
Travel by road in Uganda
In order to benefit from the natural and undisturbed beauty of the National Parks in Western Uganda, we need to be prepared to travel some distance, by road, to reach our destinations on this adventure. There are several days (Day 3, 6, 7 and 13) where you will be in private transport (minibus) travelling long distances. The roads are not always in great condition and the journey may be hot and dusty at times. However this is very much part of the adventure, and a wonderful opportunity to absorb the ambiance of East Africa, so we ask you to embrace the travel days, as without it, we would not be able to access the remote areas we then enjoy.
Foreign Travel Advice
For the latest travel advice from the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information, check www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. As the situation in our destination countries can change, please do ensure you check regularly before your adventure. We also receive notifications direct from the FCO so we are always aware of the ‘status’ in our destination countries.
E Visa
A single entry visa is required to enter Uganda. Applications can be done online via the link: https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
Insurance
Holiday insurance is essential for all Yellow Wood Adventures. Unfortunately, anyone without insurance is not able to take part in the holiday, so please make sure you arrange cover. We recommend arranging your insurance cover when you book so that if you have problems during the run up to your holiday, and need to cancel, you are covered.
YellowWood partners with battleface as a travel insurance provider. Click here for a quote.
battleface insurance is provided in the UK by battleface Insurance Services Limited, a UK insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Details provided on this webpage are for information only. Terms, conditions, exclusions, and limitations apply. Always read the description of cover contained within your policy to ensure it is suitable for your needs.
Prior to the holiday, we will ask you to send us details of your insurer, policy number, 24 hour emergency assistance contact details and the name, address, and telephone numbers of your NOK or persons to be notified in the event of an emergency.
You must ensure the travel insurance you purchase provides you with suitable cover for the entirety of your trip. Your travel insurance must include cover in the event that you have to cancel for a reason outside your control prior to departure, for any medical expenses you may incur whilst away (including repatriation in the case of medical need) and for the activities which you may participate in during your trip.
General Information
For information on Uganda, such as climate, weather, language, social norms, food & drink etc, please have a read of our Country specific information.
Gorilla Tracking
Please remember to bring your passport for registration, appropriate, water proof hiking boots and a light rain coat. To protect from stinging nettles, we recommend long pants and long sleeved tops. A pair of old gardening gloves can help grabbing onto the vegetation while most hotels/lodges provide a walking stick that come in very handy especially when hiking downhill. A small waterproof backpack is an excellent idea to carry a light snack, bottled water as well as protection for your camera.
Gorilla Permits
To make sure you can go gorilla trekking during your adventure, there's an extra fee of $800 per person for the gorilla permit. This fee isn't included in the initial adventure cost and needs to be added on as an extra when you book. The permits are issued by the UWA on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it's essential to book your holiday well in advance to ensure we can secure a permit for you.
Your £1,500 deposit includes a downpayment of £650 or $800 for your adventure. This downpayment is set aside to buy your permit once your departure is confirmed.
Chimpanzee and monkey permits
The cost of your adventure is inclusive of the Chimpanzee and monkey permits which is $230 in total please note the Gorilla Permits are separate to this.
Please take into consideration the time of year when you are travelling before making your final packing decisions.
Please bring a full first aid kit and any prescription medication with you. Consult your doctor regarding advice around inoculations and the prevention of disease contraction.
Receive a 15% discount off Water-to-Go filtration water-bottles to help reduce plastic waste.
Compulsory
- Credit / debit card for use in ATMs, where available (cash preferable however)
- US$ or £GB to exchange for local currency
- First aid kit: paracetamol, anti-diarrhoea tables, rehydration sachets, antihistamine cream, ibuprofen cream, thermometer & blister kit (eg plasters & zinc oxide tape).
- Quality Insect repellent
- Prescription medication & antibiotics such as Azithromycin to stop serious traveller's diarrhoea
- Passport, flight, & Insurance Documents
- Sunscreen
- Yellow fever certificate
- Electricity adaptor
- Binoculars
- Money belt
Rwenzori Trekking Packing List
- Summer shorts and shirts
- Warm long sleeved shirt
- Warm long walking trousers (not jeans!)
- Rain jacket
- Fleece jacket (one or more, and/or a down jacket) - for additional warmth; or a warm anorak/jacket which should not be too heavy
- Warm hat and sun hat that has peak and shades the back of your neck
- 2 pairs of gloves, thin liners and a warm pair
- Hiking shoes or high quality hiking trainers (well worn in)
- Lighter weight walking shoes for the start of the climb
- Several pairs of warm, cushioned socks
- Rubber boots for children - provided for adults
- Good quality sleeping bag (min rating of 4 seasons)
- Soft bag, hold all or ruck sack (framed or unframed). Large enough to hold your personal gear on the mountain; this will be carried by a porter
- Day bag (min capacity 8kgs). Big enough for you to carry your daily water, lunch, camera, wet weather clothing and fleece
- External protective cover for both bags
- Head torch or normal torch with spare batteries
- 3 litre water bottles which you will carry daily
- Water treatment tablets/iodine or filter
- Spare dry bags
- Wash kit and small towel
- Basic first aid kit
- Lip salve
Clothing
- Swimwear
- Long trousers, shorts, t-shirts, shirts, socks, underwear & warm sweater
- Rain jacket
- Trekking shoes and lightweight shoes
Optional
- Phone & charging cables / plug
- Camera & charging cables / plug
Gorilla Tracking
- Passport for registration
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Light rain coat
- Long sleeved trousers and tops
- Pair of gloves (old gardening gloves are ideal)
- Small waterproof backpack
This trip supports
Need a little help?
All adventures can be tailored as private bespoke trips.
Please contact us for more information:
+44 207 846 0197
Related Adventures
Booking Process
Select dates: Choose the dates for your adventure and consider adding any extra adventures or add-ons to enhance your experience.
Check the box to agree to our Terms & Conditions.
Make Booking: Click on "Make Booking." If you're booking more than 56 days before your adventure, you'll be redirected to secure WorldPay to make your deposit. If it's 56 days or less before your adventure, you'll need to make full payment. Rest assured, your money is held securely by the Travel Trust Association.
Your booking will show as 'pending' in your YellowWood online account.
Confirmation: We'll be in touch as soon as possible to confirm your booking or discuss any availability limitations. Please refrain from booking transport or flights until we've emailed you to confirm your booking. (Note: Receipt of your booking form is not confirmation.)
Making payment: Once your booking is confirmed, we'll change the status of your final invoice from 'Pending Approval' to 'Outstanding,' indicating that it's ready for payment online.
You will receive a reminder email for your final payment 56 days before the departure date.
Feel free to contact us with any questions about your adventure or booking, we're here to help!
Grading
To help you choose the right adventure for you, we have given each itinerary a grading that relates to the level of Walking / Trekking you will experience during the trip. This grading can be found on the Yellow map on the adventure page of the website.
All of our trips involve a level of general activity so are designed for people who are in good health, enjoy the outdoors, and have a taste for adventure and some level of fitness. As will be clear from our destinations, the climate (and altitude) may be different to that which you are used to, so please take this into consideration when choosing the most suitable holiday.
Please read our Adventure Itinerary & Essential Information for more information and don't hesitate to contact us if you would like to chat through whether you have found a suitable adventure for you.
Grade 1-3: Entry Level
You need to be in good physical health to enjoy your active holiday, but you don’t need to be an experienced hiker. These itineraries offer a mix of sightseeing and easier walking for around 2-4hrs a day, with the emphasis on sights and cultural experiences.
Walks will be well marked or on defined pathways, and often around sites of interest. The expected amount of descent/ascent will depend on the landscapes of the destination, but will not exceed 400m/day, and will often be much less. Walks are at low altitude (below 3000m).
You will not be required to carry more than a day sack with water and essentials. Ensure you are aware of the weather conditions likely in the destination you are visiting and have a pair of comfortable and worn in walking shoes/boots.
Grades 4-6: Intermediate
You need to have a good level of fitness and be a regular walker for these adventures, with ideally some trekking experience. You can expect to be walking for 3-6 hours per day, not including rest stops, normally on good trail paths but with some uneven surfaces at times.
You will not be required to carry more than a day sack. You may be walking in more challenging temperatures. You will generally be walking at low altitude (below 3000m) but may walk at altitudes up to 4000m. The amount of ascent could be up to 800m in a day but will frequently be less. You may walk on consecutive days.
Ensure you are aware of the weather conditions likely in the destination you are visiting and have suitable clothing for this adventure.
Grades 7-9: Challenging
You need to have a good level of fitness with previous experience of trekking. Extra training before your trip will ensure that you get the most out of your adventure. Areas will be remote and terrain uneven.
Expect to walk for 5 – 8 hours a day, not including breaks, with some very steep ascents and descents. You will be walking at altitude (over 3000m but not higher than 5000m).
Ensure you are aware of the weather conditions likely in the destination you are visiting and have suitable equipment/clothing for this adventure (see the packing list for your adventure).
Please check individual itineraries for details of what you will need to be carrying with you.
Get in touch
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