An active journey into Uganda’s southwestern highlands, combining some of the country’s most remarkable primate experiences with mountain adventure and cultural discovery. Explore Batwa heritage in the forests of Mgahinga, challenge yourself on Mount Sabinyo, track golden monkeys through the bamboo forest and finish with an unforgettable encounter with mountain gorillas in Bwindi – discovering Uganda’s coffee culture and the dramatic Virunga landscapes along the way.
Day 1: Arrive in Uganda
Welcome to Uganda. Meet your representative at Entebbe International Airport and transfer to your accommodation near the airport. Take the evening to rest after your international journey.
Day 2: Entebbe to Kisoro
Begin your journey southwest towards Kisoro, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Virunga Mountains. Stop at the Equator for photographs and enjoy lunch at Igongo Cultural Centre before continuing through the countryside to Kisoro, arriving in the evening.
Day 3: Batwa Heritage Experience
A deeper look into the cultural history of southwestern Uganda. Explore the Batwa Trail in Mgahinga with a local guide, learning about traditional forest life – knowledge, hunting techniques, gathering and fire-making – culminating at Garama Cave with cultural storytelling and performance. The experience supports community initiatives and helps preserve Batwa heritage.
Day 4: Mount Sabinyo
A day for adventure. Set out early for Mount Sabinyo, one of the Virunga volcanoes. The hike is challenging, with steep sections, ladders and rugged terrain; on a clear day the summit offers the rare chance to stand where Uganda, Rwanda and the DR Congo meet. The round-trip can take up to about nine hours depending on pace and conditions, accompanied by an experienced guide and a Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger.
Day 5: Golden Monkeys & Uganda Coffee
Begin with a golden monkey tracking experience in Mgahinga, entering the bamboo forest in search of these striking, highly active primates. After lunch, discover another side of the region through a coffee experience – from growing and harvesting to processing, preparation and tasting. Later, continue towards Bwindi’s Rushaga area.
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
The highlight of the journey. After an early breakfast, head into the Rushaga sector of Bwindi for your trekking briefing, then enter the ancient forest with experienced rangers and trackers in search of a habituated gorilla family. Once you find them, spend up to one hour observing them in their natural environment before returning to your lodge for a well-earned afternoon of rest.
Day 7: Bwindi to Entebbe
After breakfast, begin the journey back to Entebbe, stopping at the Equator if time allows for photographs and a final chance to browse local crafts. Continue to Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight.
The Sabinyo hike is demanding and requires a good level of fitness. Steep terrain, ladders, mud and changing mountain weather can make it challenging, and the summit experience is weather dependent.
Gorilla trekking takes place in mountainous rainforest and can be physically demanding; trekking time varies with the location of the gorilla family. Permits are subject to availability and should be secured well in advance. Porters are available for travellers who would like assistance during the trek.
