12-day Rwenzori Peaks & Coffee Safari
Shrouded in mist and legend, the Rwenzori Mountains — Africa’s third-highest range after Kilimanjaro and Mt. Kenya — remain one of the continent’s least explored wildernesses. This Rwenzori hike is an expedition through a UNESCO World Heritage Site of surreal plants, rare wildlife, and tropical glaciers. Over several days, you’ll trek across ancient forests, high-altitude valleys, and shimmering ice fields before summiting Margherita Peak (5,109m).
After descending from the Mountains of the Moon, unwind with a coffee farm tour that supports over 800 local farmers and families — from smallholder growers to workers who roast and process Uganda’s finest beans.
This is a journey that challenges your spirit, rewards your effort, and leaves a positive footprint in the communities you visit.
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where your guide greets you with a warm smile and a refreshing welcome. Depending on your arrival time, explore Entebbe’s Botanical Gardens, visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, or unwind with a sunset cruise on Lake Victoria — the perfect start to your Ugandan journey.
To the Foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains
Your journey west begins! Drive through vibrant towns and lush countryside to Kasese, nestled at the base of the Rwenzori Mountains. The road trip (6–7 hours) offers a changing panorama of rural life, tea plantations, and distant mountain silhouettes. Settle into your lodge and prepare for the trek ahead.
Into the Forests of the Mountains of the Moon
After breakfast, meet your mountain guide and begin your ascent into the mystical Rwenzori Mountains National Park. The trail climbs through the Afro-montane forest to Sine Camp (2,596m), surrounded by waterfalls and ancient trees. This is where your adventure into Africa’s third-highest range truly begins.
The Bamboo Zone and Heather Trees
Hike to Mutinda Camp (3,588m), a magical area of moss-draped trees and cloud forest. In the afternoon, you can climb to Mutinda Lookout (3,975m) for breathtaking views over Kasese and Queen Elizabeth National Park — a perfect acclimatization hike.
Valley of Giant Lobelias
Today’s trail takes you through a wonderland of everlasting flowers and giant lobelias. Arrive at Bugata Camp (4,062m), with sweeping views of alpine valleys and glacial streams. The hike is challenging but deeply rewarding.
Glacial Lakes & Scarlet Sunbirds
Ascend via Bamwanjara Pass (4,450m) to Hunwick’s Camp (3,874m). Watch for the scarlet-tufted malachite sunbird among the alpine flowers. From camp, you’ll enjoy unforgettable views of Mt. Stanley, Mt. Baker, and Weismann’s Peak.
The Duke’s Trail to Margherita Camp
Follow the legendary route once taken by Prince Luigi Amedeo, the Duke of Abruzzi, to Margherita Camp (4,485m). The trail passes crystal-clear rivers and glacier valleys — a day steeped in both beauty and history.
Summit Margherita Peak (5,109m)
Begin your climb at 2:00 a.m. for the final ascent to Margherita Peak, Africa’s third-highest summit. Cross glaciers and rocky ridges as the dawn breaks over the Congo Basin — a moment few ever experience. Descend to Hunwick’s Camp for a well-deserved rest.
(For less technical climbers, an alternative summit to Cheptegei Peak at 4,907m offers a stunning and safer challenge.)
Descend to Kiharo Valley
Descend via McConnell’s Prong and Oliver’s Pass (4,505m), with views of Margherita, Mt. Speke, and Mt. Baker. On a clear day, you might spot hyrax basking on the rocks. Continue to Kiharo Camp, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush forest.
Farewell Rwenzori, Hello Coffee Country
Enjoy the final descent through the scenic Nyamwamba Valley, where waterfalls tumble over moss-covered rocks. After your park exit and debriefing, transfer to a nearby coffee farm lodge to unwind. Sip freshly brewed Ugandan coffee and rest after your mountain triumph.
Spend a day on a local coffee estate that supports over 800 community members. Learn how coffee is grown, harvested, roasted, and brewed — and enjoy a fresh cup overlooking the plantations. Meet the local farmers whose work sustains the families and community.
Wake up to the aroma of freshly brewed cup of coffee on this Ugandan coffee plantation. Enjoy the morning and afterward, transfer back to Entebbe for your onward flight — your adventure ending as richly as it began.
Gorilla trekking minimum age is 15 years
Pricing is price per person sharing in a double/twin room
Single supplement is available on request. Costs apply
