Uganda has several mountains where tourists can go hiking or climbing. These include Mount Rwenzori, Mount Elgon, Mount Sabinyo, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Gahinga, among others.
In Rwanda, tourists can hike Mount Karisimbi, Mount Sabinyo, Mount Bisoke, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura. Most hiking activities in Rwanda take place in Volcanoes National Park, but you can also enjoy hiking in other places, such as Nyungwe Forest National Park.
When planning a hiking or mountain climbing safari in Uganda and Rwanda, it is important to carry the right gear. This includes good hiking boots, a compass, a map, a first aid kit, drinking water, energy snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, warm clothing, repair tools, sunglasses, a hiking backpack, a raincoat, garden gloves, food, and any other essentials you might need. Porters are available to help carry luggage at affordable prices.
Uganda is located in East Africa and is known as the “Pearl of Africa.” The country is rich in wildlife, birds, scenic landscapes, rivers, waterfalls, forests, diverse cultures, and mountains, making it one of the top tourist destinations in Africa.
Rwanda, located in Central and East Africa, is famously known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” It offers amazing views of the African continent and is home to five of the Virunga Massif volcanoes that stretch across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Top Mountains to Climb in Uganda & Rwanda
Below are some of the best mountains you can hike in Uganda and Rwanda:
Mount Rwenzori
Mount Rwenzori is Uganda’s highest mountain, standing at 5,109 meters above sea level. Its highest peaks are permanently snow-capped. The mountain spans 120 kilometers in length and 65 kilometers in width. It consists of six massifs separated by deep gorges, with Mount Stanley being the highest peak.
Also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” Mount Rwenzori has diverse vegetation zones, including bamboo, evergreen forest, alpine, nival, and heather zones. The top is covered with glaciers and snow. Mount Rwenzori is a top choice for hiking in Uganda, offering breathtaking views, wildlife, unique tree species, birds, and more. The trek can last 7 to 10 days, depending on the route you take.
Mount Elgon
Mount Elgon is located in eastern Uganda, near the border with Kenya. Its highest point, Wagagai Peak, is on the Ugandan side. Mount Elgon has the largest intact caldera in the world, making it an ideal place for hiking safaris.
It is believed that Mount Elgon was once Africa’s highest mountain, surpassing Mount Kilimanjaro. However, erosion over thousands of years has reduced its height to 4,321 meters above sea level. Mount Elgon is the oldest solitary volcano in the world and has the largest volcanic base. It is known for its unique vegetation, rare bird species, enchanting waterfalls, and stunning views of the Karamoja plains. The climb is not too strenuous and is very rewarding.
Mount Karisimbi
Mount Karisimbi is the highest mountain in Rwanda, standing at 4,507 meters above sea level. It is also the tallest of the eight Virunga Massif volcanoes and is located at the border of Rwanda and Congo. The name “Karisimbi” comes from a local word, “Amasimbi,” meaning “snow.”
On the middle slopes of Mount Karisimbi is the site where famous primatologist Dian Fossey built her research institute for studying and conserving mountain gorillas. She was tragically killed there in 1985.
Climbing Mount Karisimbi is a great activity to combine with gorilla trekking in Rwanda. The hike offers opportunities to see primates and birds, and the summit provides panoramic views of the Virunga volcanoes. You can also visit Dian Fossey’s grave and learn about her life.
Mount Muhabura
Mount Muhabura is the third-highest of the eight Virunga volcanoes. It is located on the border of Uganda and Rwanda, with an elevation of 4,127 meters above sea level. Mount Muhabura is also the steepest of the Virunga volcanoes, so climbing it requires technical skills and experienced hikers.
The mountain features a beautiful 40-meter-wide crater lake at the summit. From the top, hikers can enjoy scenic views. The hike can be completed in one day.
