Mountain climbing in Uganda
Uganda has beautiful hills, mountains, and valleys, and they give any tourist a memorable experience as they carry out adventurous activities like mountain climbing and hiking.
Hiking in Uganda comes in the form of hiking trails and the lower altitude hiking depends on what might suit the tourist. Hiking can be done by going up the volcanic mountains and it can also be a scenic walk through the forests or vegetation that grows on the slopes of the Mountains. This is an experience that will make you feel proud of yourself.
Some of the mountains where you can carry out mountain climbing and hiking include:
Mountain Rwenzori.
The Rwenzori Mountains are often known as the Mountains of the Moon. It is in the western part of Uganda. It is a block Mountain on the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic Of Congo. The Rwenzori Mountains have six Mountains namely: Mount Stanley at 16,763ft, Mount Speke at 16,040ft. Mount Baker at 15,889 ft. Mount Emin at 15,741 ft, Mount Gessi at 15,469 ft, and Mount Luigi di Savoia at 15,180 ft. Hiking or climbing the Rwenzori mountains can take 7 to 12 days to the Margherita Peak the highest point on this Mountain Range. At the top of this mountain, Beautiful views of permanent snow and a range of activities are done there. With the six mountains, Hikkers are free to choose which one suits their comfort. The hiking or climbing of Mountain Rwenzori can begin from the Mihunga trailhead through the slopes of Bujuku Valley, Nyabitaba, and then push to the peaks of the mountain.
Mountain Elgon
Mountain Elgon is in the eastern part of Uganda in the district of Mbale. This volcanic mountain is about 4,321 meters. Mountain Elgon is interesting with a cool climate and quite a low altitude. It is less congested with fewer tourists climbing it. Hiking to this mountain requires no special equipment. There are three popular trails for hikers. These include the Piswa, Sipi Falls, and Sasa being the shortest and busiest route to the Wagagai peak of Mountain Elgon. Hikers can decide to do a short or longer hike on this adventure. There is also an opportunity to view the Sipi Falls around the area. Tourists can choose 3- 4 days of hiking to Mountain Elgon.
Virunga ranges
The Virunga ranges are a chain of 8 mountains in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Mount Sabinyo at 3,669 m Mount Gahinga at 3,474 m and Mount Muhabura at 4,127m in Uganda. The Virunga Mountains allow both climbing and hiking through Mgahinga National Park as you enjoy the beautiful scenery of the rich vegetation, birds, Mountain Gorillas, and other wild animals. Hiking to Mount Sabinyo and Muhabura will take you about 8 hours, while it will take 6 hours to ascend and descend from the peak of Mount Gahinga.
Mount Moroto
Mount Moroto is in the northeastern part of Uganda in the Karamoja region. It offers different hiking options with no special equipment to climb or hike. The dry season is most favorable to carry out this adventurous journey. Tourists can choose from 1-3 days of hiking Mount Moroto.
Contacting a professional tour operator gives you a chance to enjoy this adventurous activity because they organize authentic safari packages that suit your budget. This will include accommodation, transport, and any information you might need to know about mountain climbing and hiking.
What to carry on a mountain climbing or hiking safari in Uganda:
- Boots since some surfaces are slippery and loose rocks.
- Drinking water to ensure proper hydration since sometimes climbing or hiking is done in the dry season.
- A back bag that might contain extra clothes and snacks.
- Warm jackets and sweaters in case you climb to the peaks of the mountains or deal with the coldness at night.