15 days Uganda Gorillas and Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour
Embark on the 15 days Uganda Gorillas and Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It’s an extraordinary journey from the towering peaks of Kilimanjaro to the dense forests of Uganda National Parks of Bwindi and Kibale. After trekking to the summit of Africa’s highest mountain, you will encounter endangered Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees in their natural habitats. 15 days Uganda Gorillas and Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour starts in Tanzania but can end in Uganda or Rwanda. From Kilimanjaro, you will fly to Rwanda then transfer to Uganda to track primates. On the last day of your 15 days Tour, drive to Entebbe for your flights back home. Alternatively, you can return to Rwanda and depart from Kigali airport.
15 days Uganda Gorillas and Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour in Details
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Your tour commences upon your arrival in Arusha, Tanzania. A transfer to Moshi town renowned for its nearness to Mount Kilimanjaro would follow; here lies your hotel. Once the journey concludes, allocate a period for relaxation: this will facilitate your acclimatization with these novel surroundings. The hotel will offer dinner, showcasing local cuisine, and providing an opportunity for relaxation.
Day 2: Moshi to Machame Gate – Kilimanjaro Hike
After breakfast, a transfer awaits you to Machame Gate: this is your starting point for the Kilimanjaro hike typically a 1-2 hour journey. Thrillingly embarking upon arrival into the lush Kilimanjaro rainforest is an experience guided by knowledgeable guides; furthermore, their assistance extends towards managing and carrying your belongings. A hike of approximately 6-7 hours culminates in reaching Machame Camp. Machame Camp, nestled among the mountains, provides a serene setting an ideal space for unwinding and reflecting.
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Through the heather and moorland zone, the day’s trek ushers you; breathtaking landscapes surround you, offering panoramic views of your surroundings. As Kilimanjaro ascends, it provides a truly breathtaking vista: its diverse ecosystems on full display. After approximately 4-5 hours’ hike: Shira Camp positioned at a higher elevation is your destination; a rewarding accomplishment indeed. Tomorrow ushers in a new set of challenges and adventures on your journey to conquer Kilimanjaro; therefore, rest well tonight.
Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp
Abandoning Shira Camp, you will navigate the rocky terrain of the Lava Tower; it presents unique geological features and offers stunning vistas. The trail then descends to Barranco Camp a place where traversing its iconic Barranco Wall awaits you. As you maneuver through rocky passages in this section of your hike, breathtaking views accompany your journey providing exhilarating moments. Upon hiking for approximately 6-7 hours, you shall finally arrive at Barranco Camp. There, a hearty dinner and a well-deserved rest will eagerly await your presence.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
Continuing the journey to Kilimanjaro’s summit necessitates an ascent from Barranco Camp towards Barafu Camp. Following breakfast, one resumes trekking and ascends gradually through alpine desert terrain. As you progress upwards, rocky landscapes and sparse vegetation define your environment as a transition occurs into an alpine desert setting.
You will arrive at Barafu Camp, your final stop before the summit, after approximately 6-7 hours of invigorating hiking. The camp provides a much-needed rest and strategic preparation for the challenging ascent, it offers dinner on-site to fuel you for tomorrow’s ambitious push towards conquering the peak.
Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
With an early wake-up call in the darkness of the morning, we begin the long-awaited summit day. We embark on a challenging ascent towards the pinnacle, commencing with our journey to Stella Point – an integral landmark. Atop Kilimanjaro stands Africa’s highest point Uhuru Peak. Navigating the steep and icy terrain demands determination and perseverance for an ascent that typically spans 7-8 hours.
Reaching Uhuru Peak rewards you with an awe-inspiring sunrise that illuminates the vast African landscape below a breathtaking sight. Pause savor and celebrate this incredible achievement and relish the sense of accomplishment inherent in summiting.
Once you have absorbed the breathtaking views, initiate your descent to lower altitudes. The journey towards Mweka Camp a path that meanders through rugged mountainous terrain typically spans about 5-6 hours; this offers an opportune moment for reflection on both triumphs and challenges of the day.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Departure
After breakfast at Mweka Camp, you initiate your descent from the mountain. You proceed through the lush rainforest, tracing back towards Mweka Gate; typically completed in around 3-4 hours an opportunity to reflect on your journey and absorb the forest’s sights and sounds. Upon your arrival at Mweka Gate, we will present you with summit certificates. These serve as tangible mementos to commemorate the successful ascent of Kilimanjaro Africa’s highest peak.
You will return to Arusha for an overnight stay. Relax, unwind, and reflect on your Kilimanjaro adventure; prepare fervently for the forthcoming segment of your journey exploring Uganda’s gorillas and chimpanzees.
Day 8: Transfer to Kigali Rwanda
Continue your journey by transferring to Kigali, Rwanda. There, you will board a flight destined for Kigali International Airport; upon arrival, in Kigali, an invigorating lunch awaits before proceeding further. We will transfer you to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda: a sanctuary famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. Upon your arrival at Bwindi, please proceed with checking into your accommodations; there you can take some time off and rejuvenate after the journey.
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Following breakfast, a transfer will take you to the park headquarters. There, an informative briefing on gorilla trekking awaits; it explains the guidelines and safety measures crucial for encountering these magnificent creatures. Experienced Park rangers will guide you on an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience: venture through the dense forest, scouting for a habituated gorilla family that calls Bwindi home. In their natural habitat observe and photograph these majestic creatures; it is both exhilarating and deeply moving to witness them in person.
For lunch and relaxation, you will return to the lodge. In the afternoon, an option awaits: engaging in a cultural encounter with the Batwa community – delving into their traditional way of life and exploring their rich cultural heritage.
Day 10: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, you initiate a picturesque journey to Lake Bunyonyi. This typically takes about 2 hours depending on the sector of Bwindi you are departing from. On reaching your destination the “Switzerland of Africa,” as many often dub it due to its breathtaking natural beauty, you will proceed with checking into your accommodation. You may enjoy optional activities for the rest of the day: canoeing on the lake’s tranquil waters, swimming, or exploring nearby islands all offering unique experiences.
Day 11: Lake Bunyonyi to Kibale Chimpanzee Forest
Depart for Kibale Forest National Park renowned for its population of chimpanzees and diverse primates. You’ll make a stop along your journey, specifically a lunch break en route to Kibale. Furthermore, a visit to Semliki National Park where exploration into the fascinating hot springs is possible. These are not only known for their therapeutic properties but also boast unique geological features. After you arrive in Kibale, take a moment to check into your hotel; unwind and marvel at the beauty of the encompassing forest.
Day 12: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale
After breakfast, you will proceed to the park headquarters for a comprehensive briefing on chimpanzee tracking. Experienced trackers and park rangers will guide your exhilarating chimpanzee tracking experience. Through dense, lush forest embark upon an adventure like no other: one where encounters with these remarkable primates in their unspoiled habitat are not just possible but probable. Behold, as they engage in complex yet profoundly simple interactions, and unfold before your eyes. Observing a multitude of primates and bird species in the forest enhances the overall experience; indeed, this trek provides an exciting opportunity.
After your adventurous wildlife encounters, return to the lodge for a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll get an optional visit opportunity at the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary renowned for its diverse birdlife and scenic beauty.
Day 13: Kibale National Park to Kampala
Relish your lodge’s breakfast in Kibale National Park, then begin the journey towards Kampala – Uganda’s vibrant capital city. As you travel, pause to appreciate and explore Fort Portal’s scenic crater lakes that provide not only stunning views but also perfect photography opportunities. Furthermore; take a trip to tea plantations: there you can garner knowledge about the intricate process of tea production all while indulging in picturesque plantation landscapes. Upon your arrival in Kampala: check into the hotel; savor local cuisine and immerse yourself in city life throughout the night.
Day 14: Kampala City Tour
Embark on a comprehensive city tour of Kampala: the vibrant capital of Uganda. This journey will introduce you to numerous cultural and historical landmarks, enriching your understanding of the city’s rich heritage. Begin by visiting the Gaddafi Mosque; this architectural marvel offers panoramic views–a testament not only to its beauty but also its prominence within Kampala. Visit the historical Namirembe and Rubaga Cathedrals. These are significant religious sites within the city. Extend your tour to include a visit to Buganda Mengo Palace for an insight into the traditional culture of the Buganda Kingdom and its rich heritage. Further exploring Kampala’s vivacity awaits at Owino Market; it is indeed a bustling hub of activity in this vibrant capital.
Next, revel in your visit to the Bahai Temple and the Uganda Martyrs Shrine at Namugongo; this is an immensely significant religious site a tribute to those martyred for their faith. As evening sets, indulge in a delightful dinner experience: it unfolds at Ndere Troupe Center where traditional Ugandan music and dance performances will captivate you.
Day 15: Departure
After breakfast, we will transfer you to Entebbe international airport. On your arrival at Entebbe Airport, our guide shall accompany and support you until the time of departure. End of the 15 days Uganda Gorillas and Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour with Jungle Escape Africa.