Active Uganda Adventure - 10 Days
Highlights
- Tackle a three-day hike across Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano
- Go whitewater rafting and drink from the Nile River at the source
- Chase thrills with bungee jumping and ziplining experiences
- Experience the traditions, songs, and stories of the Sabiny people
- Join a guided walking tour of Entebbe and sample local street food favorites
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Entebbe, Guided Walking Tour | Entebbe |
| Day 2 | Transfer to Jinja via Mabira Forest Ziplining, Nile River Boat Tour | Jinja |
| Day 3 | Whitewater Rafting on The Nile | Jinja |
| Day 4 | Quad Biking, Bungee Jumping | Jinja |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Sipi Falls, Cave Cultural Experience | Kapchorwa |
| Day 6 | Coffee Experience & Hike, Sipi Waterfalls Hike | Kapchorwa |
| Day 7 | Mount Elgon Hike (Day 1): Kapkway to Tutum Camp | Mbale |
| Day 8 | Mount Elgon Hike (Day 2): Tutum Camp to Kajeri Camp | Mbale |
| Day 9 | Mount Elgon Hike (Day 3): Kajery Camp to Mude Camp | Mbale |
| Day 10 | Transfer to Entebbe, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe, Guided Walking Tour
Apwoyo! Hello, and welcome to Uganda. On arrival at the airport, someone will be there ready to greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Entebbe, a small city on the shores of Lake Victoria, Africa's largest lake. Rest up and relax ahead of this afternoon's guided tour of the city. You'll start with a visit to the vibrant Entebbe Crafts Village, where you can shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and handicrafts. Stop at the local markets to savor a famous street snack called a rolex (a tomato and onion omelet rolled with chapati), then explore St. John's Church, the colonial-era Anglican church.
After exploring the village, your guide will lead you to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Stroll through the lush gardens, admiring the vibrant array of colorful flowers and exotic plants. Finally, cap off your walking tour with a visit to the public beach by Lake Victoria. Relax on the soft sand and take in the tranquil scenery. The pristine shoreline offers views of stunning sunsets, and you might even catch a glimpse of local fishermen casting their nets.
Day 2: Transfer to Jinja via Mabira Forest Ziplining, Nile River Boat Tour
This morning you'll embark on a two-hour private transfer to Jinja, stopping at Mabira Ecotourism Center, Uganda's largest natural forest and home to numerous bird species, primates, and trees. Transfer to Griffin Camp for an exhilarating ziplining experience through the Mabira Forest canopy, soaring between the tallest trees with experienced guides. As you swing between the trees of this protected rainforest reserve, you'll admire the layers of foliage, spot the local wildlife, and see Griffin Falls. Cap off your adventure by crossing the Nile River on a spring bridge.
This afternoon, you'll witness firsthand the incredible power and beauty of the longest river in Africa as it begins its magnificent journey. Your explorations of the Nile River continue with a thrilling boat ride to the source, where the river spills from Lake Victoria and flows rapidly toward the Mediterranean Sea. Take the rare opportunity to taste waters from two of the world's largest water sources before returning to shore.
Day 3: Whitewater Rafting on the Nile
Today's whitewater rafting adventure will take you down the fast-flowing Nile, combining big thrills with picturesque nature. Navigate through five grades of rapids with a skilled guide and a safety boat accompanying you, taking in the stunning rural scenery along the way. After a safety briefing, you'll pop on a life vest and board large rubber rafts. Hold on tight and remember to breathe as you bravely conquer the river's many grades of rapids and heart-stopping plunges.
When you've successfully navigated the raging waters, it's time to celebrate with a delicious buffet lunch on a private island in the middle of the Nile. Savor your meal in this unusual setting and reflect on an adventurous morning and a newfound appreciation for the power and beauty of nature.
Day 4: Quad Biking, Bungee Jumping
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Embark on a fun quad-biking adventure this morning, exploring the diverse landscapes of Jinja and the shores of the Nile River. Your four-wheeled motorbike is easy to drive and will give you access to remote areas of Jinja, passing through rural villages, dense forests, and expansive sugar cane plantations as you witness rarely-seen sections of the Nile. After a quick training session, you'll jump behind the wheel and venture into the countryside, splashing through puddles and navigating potholes in the mud.
Day 5: Transfer to Sipi Falls, Cave Cultural Experience
Today you'll take a 3.5-hour private transfer to Kapchorwa, home to the great Sipi Falls. Nestled in the highlands of the Mount Elgon region, Kapchorwa's character is defined by its verdant hills, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views. This area is home to the Indigenous Sabiny people, known for their strong ties to tradition and rich cultural practices. Pass through Iganga before turning off to join the Tinyiri highway leading to Mbale. Alternatively, you could drive via Tororo for a chance to see baboons in the Busitema Forest. On arrival, check into the hotel and relax.
Later you'll explore Sebei culture with a special cave experience. This intimate excursion brings you face-to-face with the ancient traditions, songs, and stories of the Sabiny people, all within the natural setting of a cave. Hear captivating stories and legends that have been passed down through generations, dance to their tunes, and savor delicious warrior snacks freshly prepared over a roaring fire. You'll learn about various aspects of Sabiny culture, including the customs surrounding circumcision, name-giving ceremonies, the significant role of war, and campfire storytelling.
Day 6: Coffee Experience & Hike, Sipi Waterfalls Hike
Lace up your walking shoes—there are two hikes planned for today. Begin with a scenic walk through banana plantations and local homes, leading you to a traditional homestay where an authentic coffee experience awaits. You'll be warmly welcomed by a local who will guide you through the entire coffee-making process, from the crop to your cup. Gain a newfound appreciation for the work that goes into your morning brew, and enjoy a local lunch. After, you'll venture to Sipi Falls for a four-hour hike that explores this collection of three dazzling cascades.
The Sipi Falls trail stretches for around 4 miles (7 km) and features steep ascents and ladder climbs. Start at the upper falls, which boast a sheer 310-foot (95 m) drop, followed by the 250-foot (75 m) middle falls, where you can explore an ancient cave behind the falls. End the rewarding hike at the lowest falls, taking in the misty atmosphere, near-constant rainbows, and panoramic views. While you're here, take the chance the abseil over the Sipi Falls, scaling the surrounding rocks and descending descend down to the base of the falls.
Day 7: Mount Elgon Hike (Day 1): Kapkway to Tutum Camp
Today you'll embark on an epic three-day hike in Mount Elgon National Park. This massive extinct volcano straddles the Uganda-Kenya border, boasting the world's largest surface area and a massive caldera spanning over 25 miles (40 km) at its summit. Its highest peak, Wagagai, reaches 14,172 feet (4,321 m). Start your day early with breakfast at your lodge and request a packed lunch and a bottle of water to fuel your hike. A private transfer will take you on a 90-minute drive to Mbale, where you'll start at the Kapkway Exploration Center, the Uganda Wildlife Authority's headquarters.
Here you'll gain the brief for your chosen trail, and once equipped with local porters and supplies, you'll set out on your trek toward Tutum Cave Camp (8,750 ft/ 2,667 m), passing through lush montane and bamboo forests. Marvel at the hidden Tutum Cave surrounded by dense foliage. At the end of the day, enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the remote camp. Today you'll cover 7 miles (11 km) and gain an altitude gain of almost 3,000 feet (900 m).
Day 8: Mount Elgon Hike (Day 2): Tutum Camp to Kajeri Camp
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the exciting hike ahead. Today you'll continue toward Kajeri Camp (11,099 ft/ 3,383 m), traversing diverse vegetation and landscapes on a 10.5-mile (17 km) trek. Start by navigating a short rocky section before immersing yourself in the rainforest. As you continue on the Sipi Route, you'll transition into an area abundant with bamboo plants, offering yet another distinct landscape to explore.
Approximately one-third of the way through your trek, you'll cross the picturesque Sipi River. From here, embark on a longer ascent, and after about an hour, prepare to be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the plateau. Notice how the vegetation changes as you hike under the warm African sun, providing you with an ever-changing backdrop for your journey. Finally, arrive at the idyllic Kajeri Camp, situated directly on the river below the Kajeri Waterfall. Here, you'll be able to unwind, take in the serene surroundings, and reflect on the day's hike.
Day 9: Mount Elgon Hike (Day 3): Kajery Camp to Mude Camp
It's day three of your hike, and today's final adventure will take you to Mude Camp, located at an altitude of 11,482 feet (3,500 m), covering 15.5 miles (25 km) with a small altitude change. Lace up your hiking boots for the last time and make the slow descent, where you'll join the scenic Sasa Trail, filled with lush vegetation, small streams, and an array of different bird species. Take the time to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, and don't forget to capture these moments on camera!
Upon reaching Mude Camp, you'll have the opportunity to rest and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Feel a sense of accomplishment as you gaze upon the trail you've just conquered in a remote location. Soon you'll continue the descent to the base of the mountain. Observe any wildlife or native flora that you may have missed during your ascent, and look for your driver, who'll transfer you to your hotel for a well-deserved dinner, shower, and peaceful rest.
Day 10: Transfer to Entebbe, Depart
It's your final morning in Uganda. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before a private driver collects you for the five-hour drive to the airport at Entebbe in time for your outbound flight home or onward. Safe travels!
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