Active Uganda Adventure - 14 Days

Highlights

• Go whitewater rafting and bungee jumping along the Nile
• Explore quaint villages and sugar cane plantations by quad bike
• Embark on a rugged, three-day hike up Mount Elgon
• Look out for hyenas on a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Meet the Kataara women and learn about their poverty alleviation group

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe, Guided Tour of the City

Welcome to the vibrant city of Entebbe in central Uganda! Meet your driver outside Entebbe International Airport to transfer to your hotel. After checking in, venture back out on a guided tour of the city, starting at Entebbe Crafts Village. Immerse yourself in the bustling hub of activity as you wander along the narrow lanes and browse the array of wooden sculptures, Ugandan fabrics, jewelry, and other handmade goods. Continue the tour at a lively local market to savor some mouthwatering street food, such as the famous rolex, a chapati roll filled with eggs, tomatoes, and onions. 

Following your culinary adventure, visit St. John's Church, a colonial-era Anglican church nestled in the heart of the village. Admire the intricate architecture and take in the peaceful atmosphere inside before leaving the village and heading to Entebbe Botanical Gardens for a stroll through the peaceful oasis. Walk among the collection of exotic trees and flowers, looking out for the birds who call this haven home. End this action-packed first day at the beach overlooking the largest lake in Africa, Lake Victoria, where you can watch the fishermen coming in while the sun sets over the glittering water.

Day 2: Transfer to Jinja via Ziplining in Mabira Forest Reserve, Cruise to the Nile

Leave Entebbe after just one night to transfer to Jinja, a quaint town known as the "source of the Nile." Break up the three-hour drive with a visit to the Mabira Forest Reserve, the largest natural forest in the country, for a ziplining adventure. After a safety briefing, put on your gear and climb up to the first of five ziplines stretching 1,150 feet (250 m) across the picturesque Musamya River. As you fly over the dense canopy of the forest, enjoy panoramic views of the lush greenery, diverse flora, and glittering river. When you've completed the course, return to the car to complete your drive to Jinja.

Jump right into the action after dropping your bags at your hotel with a boat cruise to the source of the Nile, the longest river in the world. Enjoy a short, scenic drive to the shores of Lake Victoria, then set off by boat, passing small villages and fishing locals. If you want, you can sample water from the lake and the river to really immerse yourself in the experience of cruising from one life-sustaining water source to another. Keep an eye out for birds, crocodiles, or even hippos before returning to your hotel in Jinja.

Day 3: Nile Whitewater Rafting Adventure 

Set off on another aquatic adventure this morning, whitewater rafting down the Nile. After a safety briefing, put on your gear, and jump in the large rubber raft to start your expedition. The Nile, with its powerful currents and varying rapids, offers an ideal playground for both novice and experienced rafters, so don't be intimated. Between the heart-pounding rapids, there are moments of serenity where the grandeur of the Nile's surroundings becomes apparent, giving you the opportunity to take in the towering cliffs and dense vegetation.

End this adrenaline-packed activity with a delicious buffet lunch on a private island in the middle of the river. As you savor your meal in this idyllic setting, celebrate your successful journey down the Nile, then return to your hotel to rest. In the evening, meander down Jinja's main street to choose a restaurant for dinner. There are plenty of local and international dining options, so you won't go hungry. End the night with a colorful cocktail at one of the bars lining the road. 

Day 4: Off-Road Quad Bike Tour, Bungee Jump Over the Nile

Today's adventure keeps you on land as you jump on a 4WD quad bike or ATV to explore the diverse landscapes of Jinja. You'll start with a training session to ensure you're comfortable on the bike, so you don't need any prior driving experience. When you're ready, set off through the countryside, traversing rugged terrains and off-road paths. Pass through rural villages, wild forests, and expansive sugar cane plantations, witnessing rarely-seen sections of the Nile. After the ride, return to your hotel to rest before your next adrenaline-filled activity.

In the afternoon, transfer to a launch point for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, bungee jumping over the longest river in the world. Choose between having just your ankles tied so you're facing downward, creating a free-fall sensation, or your whole body tied for a more secure and comfortable feeling. When you're ready, jump off the tower and plummet 141 feet (43 m) toward the water. After enjoying one of the most unique perspectives you can get of the Nile, return to the hotel to relax after this action-packed day.

Day 5: Transfer to Kapchorwa, Meet the Sabiny People

Say goodbye to Jinja this morning as you set off on a 3.5-hour transfer to Kapchorwa, a quaint town nestled on the slopes of Mount Elgon. Leave the shores of Lake Victoria behind and follow the road through quaint villages and agricultural fields, offering glimpses of rural life. When you arrive at your hotel, settle in and relax before venturing into the mountains to visit the Sabiny people, who have been residing in the caves for centuries. 

Day 6: Visit a Coffee Farm, Hike to Sipi Falls, Abseil Adventure

Coffee is the most important export in Uganda, and today, you get to learn how it's made. Hike through banana plantations and past traditional homes to get to a homestay, where you'll harvest beans and turn them into a delicious cup of coffee. Follow your guide through the steps and listen as they teach you about the secrets of coffee making, giving you a deeper appreciation for the hard work that goes into producing each mug. Then, continue your trek through the plantation to get to a lodge for lunch. After a delicious meal, soak up your lush surroundings, and relax before this afternoon's hike.

Lace up your best shoes, as this 4.3-mile (7 km) trek is full of steep ascents and ladders to the top of Sipi Falls. Start the hike to the first of three waterfalls, known as the main falls, where you'll be greeted by a 311-foot (95 m) cascade. Watch as the water flows through the greenery below and take in the panoramic view of the misty hills, terraced farmlands, and distant peaks of Mount Elgon. Continue along the trail, passing ancient caves, to the next waterfall, Simba Falls, standing at 242 feet (74 m). Sit down to rest while you enjoy the view of the falls, as the next part of the trail is the most difficult. 

Ascend even higher, climbing uphill to the final waterfall, Ngasire Falls. Your journey doesn't end here, though, as the best way down is to abseil down the cliff. Meet the skillful instructors who will give you the necessary instructions, safety briefing, and gear. When you're ready, stand at the precipice overlooking the powerful water and begin your descent. Slowly lower yourself along the cliff face surrounded by rushing water, offering a unique perspective of the falls. When you reach the bottom, celebrate your achievement before returning to the hotel to wind down.

Day 7: Transfer to Mbale, Multiday Wagagi Hike: Mount Elgon to Tutum Camp

Bid farewell to Kapchorwa this morning as you set off on a one-hour transfer to Mbale, your starting point for a three-day trek to one of Uganda's highest peaks, Wagagi, which sits atop the volcanic Mount Elgon. Visit the Kapkway Exploration Center for a briefing on the trails you'll follow over the next three days, then start your trek to today's destination, Tutum Cave Camp. The 6.8-mile (11 km) stretch will take you through a diverse range of ecosystems, from lush forests to high meadows as you ascend.

Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and valleys while you walk, breathing in the crisp air. Stop for regular breaks to rest and eat your packed lunch. After four to six hours, you'll reach the camp, nestled amid volcanic rocks and an intricate cave system formed by ancient lava tubes. Discover geological formations around the camp, then sit down to rest and enjoy a nourishing dinner. Head to bed early to prepare for tomorrow's trek. 

Day 8: Multiday Wagagi Hike: Tutum Camp to Kajeri Camp

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at camp to fuel up for your second day of trekking up Mount Elgon. Today's journey will take you 10 miles (17 km) to Kajeri Camp, starting among volcanic rock before immersing you in the rainforest. You won't be bored on this trek, as the scenery is constantly changing, from rocky outcrops to alpine meadows, each step revealing new perspectives of the surrounding peaks. 

Keep an eye out for colorful birds along the way, as there are over 300 species in Mount Elgon National Park. Cross over the picturesque river, where you can take a lunch break on the shores. After six to eight hours, you'll approach the campsite, situated on the river below Kajeri Waterfall. Admire the cascade, take in the serene surroundings, and unwind after another long day of hiking.

Day 9: Multiday Wagagi Hike: Kajeri Camp to Mude Camp

Day 10: Transfer to Kampala, Explore the City on a Guided Tour

Trade the mountains for the city today as you set off on a four-hour transfer to the capital, Kampala. After checking in at your new hotel, venture out on a guided tour of the city, starting at the Uganda Museum. Browse the treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the country's diverse traditions, history, and biodiversity. After an educational visit, hop in a boda-boda, a bicycle or motorcycle taxi ideal for weaving in and out of the city's chaotic traffic. 

Day 11: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Evening Game Drive 

Return to nature this morning as you head 6.5 hours west to Queen Elizabeth National Park, nestled between Lake Edward and Lake George. Settle into your lodge and relax before tonight's game drive. After dinner, meet your guide, and jump in a safari car to set off across the savanna and look for the park's nocturnal inhabitants, particularly hyenas.

Day 12: Morning Game Drive, Boat Tour Down the Kazinga Channel

Continue your exploration of Queen Elizabeth National Park this morning with a game drive in the wildlife-heavy Kasenyi sector. Drive across the vast savanna and over rolling hills, keeping your eyes peeled for the famous Big Five (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinoceros). You're most likely to see lions here, as they often stalk the abundant Ugandan kob population. Look out for some colorful birds as well, since there are over 600 species throughout the park, such as the African fish eagle.

In the afternoon, discover the park's waterways with a boat cruise down the tranquil Kazinga Channel. The channel is teeming with life, so keep an eye out for herds of elephants cooling off by the water's edge, hippos wallowing in the shallows, and crocodiles basking in the sun. Listen to the calls of exotic birds and try to spot them flying over the mountainous backdrop. After a full day exploring the park, return to the lodge to rest for the night. 

Day 13: Track Chimpanzees, Meet the Kataara Women, Twin Lake Hike

Begin your day with a short drive to the Kalinzu Central Nature Reserve, a pristine reserve nestled between the national park and the Rwenzori Mountains. Meet your guide to discuss today's adventure—trekking through the forest to find chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Set off on one of the paths, venturing deep into the forest to find the chimpanzees' trail. When you finally find them, your guide will introduce you to the different family members, teaching you about their behaviors and personalities. Watch them swing from tree to tree or play fight with each other before returning along the same path.

Visit the Kataara women next and learn about their poverty alleviation group. The group was started to help the community, as many women in the tribe were widowed and couldn't create a livelihood for themselves. Since elephants were always trampling their gardens, the women decided to use the dung these gentle giants left to make paper, jewelry, and more handmade goods. You'll have time here to browse their shop and pick up some souvenirs to support the Kataara tribe and their conversation efforts.

In the afternoon, stretch your legs with a 4.3-mile (7 km) hike to the twin lakes of Mirambi and Katinda. Walk through lush forests with a soundtrack of birdsong as you ascend to a higher vantage point. When you reach the top, enjoy panoramic views of the shimmering crater lakes reflecting the beauty of the Rwenzori Mountains. Enjoy a refreshing soft drink or beer while the sun sets around you, then trek down the same path before it gets too dark and return to your lodge for the night. 

Day 14: Transfer to Entebbe, Depart

Your active Ugandan adventure comes to a close today, so after breakfast, transfer 6.5 hours back to Entebbe. If you have time before your flight, pop over to Entebbe Pier for a peaceful stroll along the shores of Lake Victoria. When it's time, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!