Tembo Safari Lodge
Practical park-area comfort for the first wildlife chapter.
- 9-day Rwenzori trek with optional Margherita summit
- Queen Elizabeth wildlife and Kazinga Channel
- Kibale chimpanzee tracking at the finish
- From $4,825 per person
Safari Overview
The Rwenzori Mountains are the centre of this 15-day private Uganda wildlife safari: a nine-day Kilembe-side trek with an optional Margherita Peak attempt, Queen Elizabeth wildlife at the start, and a considered Kibale finish. The trek is demanding, weather-led, and paced to support the mountain section rather than crowd it.
- 9-day Rwenzori trek (optional Margherita summit)
- Wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest
- Private safari logistics, mountain team coordination, and transfers arranged
| Days | Destination / Experience |
|---|---|
| 1 | Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park |
| 2-3 | Activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park |
| 4 | Transfer to Mt Rwenzori National Park |
| 5-13 | 9-day hike in the Mountains of the Moon |
| 14 | Calm guide-led transfer to Kibale & afternoon chimpanzee tracking |
| 15 | Transfer to Kampala or Entebbe |
Use the Rwenzori hiking guide to compare mountain objectives, the Queen Elizabeth safari guide for the wildlife opening, and Kibale chimpanzee tracking for the forest finish before requesting your written route and price.
Expedition standard
A high-altitude trek, planned as an expedition.
This is a Kilembe-side Rwenzori trekking framework, not a fixed summit promise. The final camp sequence, porter plan, technical equipment, and any Margherita attempt are confirmed after the current mountain briefing, conditions review, and assessment of each trekker's experience.
- 5,109m summit optionMargherita Peak is technical and weather-led; it is never guaranteed.
- Real mountain terrainExpect long, wet and muddy days, bogs, rock or ladder sections, cold exposure, and slower movement at altitude.
- Guided camp systemMountain huts and porter support are confirmed in the written plan; they are not luxury-lodge nights.
- Safety firstEarly reporting of illness, guide turnaround decisions, suitable insurance, and flexible timing are non-negotiable.
We plan against current conditions and the official Uganda Wildlife Authority Rwenzori guidance; your written itinerary states the exact route and support.
Exact mountain route
The nine-day Kilembe camp sequence
This is the mountain framework used for this 15-day expedition. It adds a dedicated acclimatisation day at Mutinda rather than compressing the ascent. The mountain leader may adjust a camp, timing, or summit movement for weather, trail condition, hut availability, or a trekker’s wellbeing.
- Day 5 · Trek 1Kilembe / Trekkers (about 1,450m) to Sine Camp (2,596m)
- Day 6 · Trek 2Sine Camp to Mutinda Camp (about 3,582m)
- Day 7 · Trek 3Mutinda acclimatisation walk and lookout option; second night at Mutinda Camp
- Day 8 · Trek 4Mutinda Camp to Bugata Camp (about 4,100m)
- Day 9 · Trek 5Bugata Camp via Bamwanjarra Pass (about 4,450m) to Hunwick's Camp (about 3,974m)
- Day 10 · Trek 6Hunwick's via Lake Kitandara and Scott Elliott's Pass to Margherita Camp (about 4,485m)
- Day 11 · Trek 7Optional Margherita Peak (5,109m) attempt, then descend to Hunwick's Camp
- Day 12 · Trek 8Hunwick's via McConnell's Prong and Oliver's Pass to Kiharo Camp (about 3,430m)
- Day 13 · Trek 9Kiharo Camp through the Nyamwamba Valley to the park gate and Kilembe base
Journey Map
The 15-Day Hiking Route at a Glance
Follow the route from Entebbe or Kampala to Queen Elizabeth, the Rwenzori trail base, Kibale Forest, and back toward Entebbe.
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day 1 start
entebbe / kampala start
meet your guide and begin the westbound route toward Queen Elizabeth.
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days 1-3
queen elizabeth wildlife base
game drives, crater scenery, and Kazinga Channel support the opening safari days.
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day 4
rwenzori trail base
transfer toward Kasese and Kilembe for briefing, gear review, and trek preparation.
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days 5-13
rwenzori mountains trek
the 9-day hiking section moves through forest, bog valleys, alpine camps, and summit terrain.
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day 14
kibale forest chimpanzees
after the descent, the route softens into Kibale for afternoon chimpanzee tracking.
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day 15 finish
return to entebbe
the journey closes with a guided return to Kampala or Entebbe.
What's Included
- Return airport or hotel transfers for the safari route
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for road transfers and wildlife viewing
- Fuel and driver-guide support for the listed safari days
- English-speaking safari guide and Rwenzori trekking team for the hiking section
- Lodge accommodation before and after the trek, quoted by your preferred comfort level
- Mountain accommodation and meals during the Rwenzori trek
- Bottled drinking water during road transfers and meals as listed
- Park entrance fees and confirmed itinerary activities listed in your written quote
- 1 chimpanzee tracking permit in Kibale Forest National Park per person
- Boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel (Queen Elizabeth National Park)
What's Excluded
- International flights to/from Uganda
- Visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal shopping and items of a personal nature
- Alcoholic drinks and beverages
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
What to Pack for the Safari and Trek
- Neutral-colored safari clothing and warm trekking layers
- Broken-in hiking boots plus comfortable closed shoes for safari days
- Sunblock or sunscreen for exposed mountain and savannah sections
- Insect repellent
- Special medication if needed
Bring patience, fitness, and a flexible mountain mindset.
For the mountain section, safari clothing is not enough: arrive with a waterproof shell and trousers, insulating layers, gloves, warm hat, headtorch, dry bags, and a sleeping bag. Your final equipment list confirms any specialist gear supplied or rented through the mountain team.
What is and is not assumed in the mountain plan
Base mountain support: Rwenzori guides, porter support for agreed trek logistics, mountain meals, and mountain-camp accommodation are included only when they are itemised in your written itinerary.
Technical summit equipment: do not assume crampons, ice axe, harness, ropes, ascenders, helmet, or specialised clothing are included in the public starting price. The mountain operator confirms whether each item is supplied, rented, or must be personally provided before the summit plan is accepted.
Personal kit: boots, waterproof clothing, warm layers, sleeping bag, headtorch, dry bags, personal medication, and insurance remain each trekker's responsibility unless your quote expressly says otherwise.
Day 1: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Your guide meets you in Kampala or Entebbe for the drive west toward Queen Elizabeth National Park. The journey crosses the Equator and continues through changing countryside into the Rwenzori foothill region.
- Private pickup, safari briefing, and route orientation.
- Equator stop for photos, refreshments, and a gentle break in the journey.
- Arrival at the lodge near Queen Elizabeth National Park for dinner and rest.
Day 2: Queen Elizabeth Wildlife and Crater Scenery
Start early for a game drive across the Kasenyi plains, where Uganda kob, buffalo, elephant, warthog, and predators may be seen in the cooler morning hours. Later, slow the pace with crater lake viewpoints and lodge time.
- Morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Crater lake scenery and photography stops when route conditions allow.
- Optional lion tracking can be added as a research-led experience.
Day 3: Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Use the morning for a relaxed park activity or a second wildlife drive, then board the Kazinga Channel boat safari. The channel is one of the route's richest wildlife moments, often with hippos, buffalo, crocodiles, elephants, and prolific birdlife along the banks.
- Flexible morning activity based on sightings, weather, and lodge location.
- Afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
- Final evening in the Queen Elizabeth area before the mountain transfer.
Day 4: Transfer to Mt Rwenzori National Park
Leave Queen Elizabeth after breakfast and travel toward the Rwenzori trail base. This day is intentionally practical: it creates space for check-in, mountain briefing, gear review, and a calmer start to the trek.
- Scenic transfer toward Kasese and the Rwenzori foothills.
- Guide briefing, gear check, and time to organize mountain layers.
- Overnight near the trek base.
Day 5: Trek Day 1 - Start the Rwenzori Trek
Begin hiking from the trail base into the Afro-montane forest. The first mountain day is a steady climb through tall trees, moss, birdlife, and possible primate sightings before reaching the first camp.
- Trail briefing and start of the guided Rwenzori trek.
- Forest ascent with chances for colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and mountain birds.
- Overnight at the first mountain camp.
Day 6: Trek Day 2 - Bamboo, Heather, and Waterfall Country
The trail rises into bamboo and heather zones, crossing streams and passing moss-covered slopes. The vegetation becomes increasingly unusual as you move higher, with giant heather and alpine flowers shaping the landscape.
- Continue the climb through bamboo and heather-rapanea vegetation.
- Waterfalls, stream crossings, and changing mountain views.
- Overnight at the next Rwenzori camp.
Day 7: Trek Day 3 - Acclimatization and Higher Ridges
This day protects the rhythm of the trek. Depending on the route plan and weather, it may be used for acclimatization, a nearby lookout, or a controlled move into higher terrain so the body adjusts before the more demanding sections.
- Acclimatization or shorter highland walk guided by the mountain team.
- Time to monitor comfort, boots, layers, and altitude response.
- Overnight in the mountain camp system.
Day 8: Trek Day 4 - Giant Lobelia and Bog Valleys
Move into one of the Rwenzori's most distinctive zones, where tussock grass, boardwalks, everlasting flowers, giant lobelia, and broad valleys create a wild alpine atmosphere. The hiking can be wet and slow, but the scenery is remarkable.
- Cross boggy valleys and higher alpine vegetation zones.
- Views toward peaks, lakes, and waterfall-shaped valleys when clouds lift.
- Overnight at a higher mountain camp.
Day 9: Trek Day 5 - High Passes and Peak Views
Continue over ridges and pass country with wide views toward the main Rwenzori peaks when the weather opens. This is a demanding mountain day, with careful pacing and steady guidance from the trekking team.
- Traverse high ridges, bog edges, and steeper trail sections.
- Potential views of Mt Stanley, Mt Baker, and surrounding peaks.
- Overnight at the planned high camp.
Day 10: Trek Day 6 - Margherita Camp or Summit Positioning
Move toward the summit-positioning area, passing dramatic lakes, rock sections, and exposed high-altitude terrain. The team reviews weather, energy levels, and safety before any summit attempt is considered.
- Approach the Margherita summit zone or the planned high camp.
- Safety briefing for cold, wind, glacier conditions, and turnaround timing.
- Early dinner and rest ahead of the most demanding mountain section.
Day 11: Trek Day 7 - Optional Margherita Summit and Descent
If conditions and ability allow, this is the summit attempt day, beginning very early. Guests who do not summit can follow the guide's safer traverse plan. After the highest section, descend toward the next camp for recovery.
- Optional Margherita Peak attempt under strict guide and weather judgment.
- Alternative traverse for guests not attempting the summit.
- Long descent to the next overnight camp.
Day 12: Trek Day 8 - Descend to Kiharo Camp (3,430m)
From Hunwick's Camp, begin by climbing onto the ridge toward McConnell's Prong, one of the best viewpoints for the three main peaks and Scott Elliott's Pass. Continue to Oliver's Pass at 4,505m, about 3km from Hunwick's Camp.
The trail then cuts below Weismann's Peak to the confluence of the Nyamwamba River, which flows through Kilembe and Kasese toward Lake George in Queen Elizabeth National Park. If conditions and energy allow, hikers may add Weismann's Peak (4,620m) from Oliver's Pass for clear-day views of Margherita, Mt Stanley, Mt Speke, and Mt Baker.
After crossing the confluence, descend the valley toward Kiharo Camp. The route passes deep vegetation, high cliffs, bogs, and glacier debris ridges left by slow-moving ice that once shaped this valley.
- Height profile: climb 530m, then descend 1,075m.
- Distance: 11km.
- Approximate hiking time: 4 to 7 hours.
- Overnight at Kiharo Camp; meal plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 13: Trek Day 9 - Descend to Basecamp (1,450m)
Descend from Kiharo Camp at 3,430m through the Nyamwamba Valley toward the park gate and Trekkers Hostel. This is one of the most beautiful sections of the Rwenzori, with waterfalls, deep forest, moss-covered rocks, and sweeping valley views.
The trail follows the river in places, then climbs away to bypass steep waterfalls. Wildlife sightings are possible along the route, including duikers, primates, hyrax, and many bird species. Pause at a scenic rock shelter before continuing through pristine forest to the park gate and down to basecamp.
After debriefing and certificate presentation, transfer to your preferred hotel for dinner and an overnight stay - a fitting close to the 9-day Rwenzori hike.
- Height profile: descend 1,980m.
- Distance: 16km to the park gate, then 2.2km to basecamp.
- Approximate hiking time: 5 to 8 hours; early start recommended for onward travel.
- Meal plan: breakfast and lunch.
Day 14: Recovery Transfer to Kibale and Chimpanzee Tracking if Timing Allows
After the intensity of the Rwenzori hike, this day is intentionally gentle. Your guide collects you from the recovery hotel and drives you toward Kibale National Park at an easy pace, with time for quiet views, comfort stops, and a gradual return from mountain rhythm to forest atmosphere.
Chimpanzee tracking is scheduled only if recovery, the transfer, permit time, and the park briefing window make it responsible. If those factors do not align, the team protects the recovery night and moves the chimp activity or onward timing in the final confirmed itinerary.
- Private transfer with your guide from the post-trek hotel toward Kibale National Park.
- Calm arrival rhythm with time to reset after the 9-day Rwenzori hike.
- Afternoon chimpanzee tracking only when recovery and permit timing allow.
- Chance to see other primates, forest birds, and the rich Kibale canopy during the walk.
Day 15: Transfer to Kampala or Entebbe
After breakfast, begin the return journey to Kampala or Entebbe. Your guide manages timing around traffic, refreshment stops, and onward flight plans, bringing the 15-day hiking and wildlife safari to a smooth close.
- Breakfast and departure from the Kibale area.
- Scenic return drive with flexible comfort stops.
- Drop-off in Kampala, Entebbe, or at the airport depending on your plan.
Where You Stay
This expedition uses a deliberately short lodge shortlist before and after the mountain section. The 9-day Rwenzori trek is different: it uses fixed mountain camps and huts, shown separately with their own camp visuals.
Named lodge galleries use property images where they are available in our image library. The Rwenzori-base cards are clearly labelled with general destination and trail photos, not room or property photos. Final properties depend on availability, route confirmation, and your requested comfort level.
Day 1-3
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Standard
Enshama Game Lodge
Simple, route-friendly stay near Queen Elizabeth activities.
Mid-range
Buffalo Safari Lodge
Comfortable base for game drives and Kazinga Channel access.
Elephant Hab
Mid-range Queen Elizabeth base for game drives and Kazinga access.
Luxury
Mweya Safari Lodge
Classic premium lodge positioning inside the Queen Elizabeth area.
Kyambura Gorge Lodge
High-end lodge option with stronger design and service for luxury guests.
Day 5-13
9-day Rwenzori hiking accommodation
These nights are arranged through the Rwenzori trekking camp system. They are not sold as standard, mid-range, or luxury lodge tiers; the comfort difference comes through private guiding, porter support, meals, pacing, and the lodge quality before and after the trek.
Day 14-15
Kibale Forest and Entebbe finish
Day 14 is the main post-trek lodge night near Kibale. Day 15 is normally a transfer and departure day, but an Entebbe overnight can be added if flight timing requires it.
Standard
Kibale Forest Camp
Reliable forest-area stay after the Rwenzori descent.
Isunga Lodge
Good-value base for the Kibale chimpanzee tracking day.
Mid-range
Kibale Tourist Safari Lodge
Mid-range forest lodge choice for the post-trek Kibale chapter.
Chimpanzee Forest Lodge
Atmospheric mid-range stay for the final forest chapter.
Luxury
Primate Lodge Kibale
Premium forest positioning for chimpanzee tracking access.
Chimpundu Lodge
Luxury forest lodge option for a more refined Kibale recovery finish.
Why choose this safari?
Choose this route when the mountain is the reason for the safari.
This 15-day plan is built for travelers who want more than a quick wildlife loop. It gives the Rwenzori enough time to feel serious, keeps Queen Elizabeth and Kibale as strong safari chapters, and leaves room for private pacing before and after the trek.
Mountain-first planning
The Rwenzori section drives the schedule, with safari days arranged around acclimatisation, recovery, and realistic trail movement.
Wildlife before the climb
Queen Elizabeth gives the route a classic safari opening before the itinerary turns toward the high mountains.
Primate finish
Kibale works well after the descent, giving the final chapter a forest rhythm instead of another long road day.
Private adjustment
We can soften, extend, or upgrade the plan around trekking experience, lodge preference, and onward travel.
Pricing and quote guidance
From $4,825 per person, then adjusted to the confirmed mountain plan.
The guide price is $4,825 per person for this 15-day hiking safari. The final written quote can change with Rwenzori route confirmation, mountain support team, permit needs, lodge style, room setup, season, and group size.
- Guide price: from $4,825 per person before final route, lodge, permit, and group-size confirmation.
- Typically included: private safari vehicle, driver-guide, park logistics, selected accommodation, meals as agreed, and arranged mountain support.
- Main variables: summit attempt, porter and guide ratios, lodge tier, chimpanzee permits, special gear support, and airport timing.
- Payment flow: we confirm the route and send a written quote or invoice before any payment is requested.
- Cancellation policy: permit, mountain support, and lodge rules can affect refunds, so we share cancellation terms in writing before confirmation. Read the Cancellation & Refund Policy.
Traveler readiness
Treat the Rwenzori section as a real mountain trek.
The itinerary is rewarding, but the mountain days can be wet, cold, muddy, steep, and slow. We check your hiking background before confirming the final plan.
- Bring layered waterproof clothing, broken-in boots, gloves, warm sleepwear, and a daypack that works in rain.
- Travel insurance should cover trekking at altitude, emergency evacuation, and the activities you plan to join.
- Summit goals are weather and safety dependent, so the guide's decision on the mountain comes first.
FAQ
Questions before committing
These are the questions we usually clarify before turning the route into a final private quote.
How much does a Rwenzori trek cost?
This 15-day itinerary starts from $4,825 in the site's public standard configuration. The final written quote confirms the room basis, route, camps, permits, porter plan, technical equipment, season, and availability.
Is Margherita Peak technical?
Yes. The optional Margherita Peak attempt is technical and depends on current glacier and trail conditions, guide assessment, prior experience, and a confirmed specialist-equipment plan.
How fit must I be for the Rwenzori Mountains?
You need strong hiking fitness and the ability to cope with consecutive long, wet, muddy, steep, and high-altitude days. The mountain team reviews your hiking background before confirming the final plan.
What is included in a Rwenzori trekking package?
The written itinerary confirms the exact inclusions. It can itemise Rwenzori guides, agreed porter logistics, mountain meals, mountain camps, road transfers, lodge nights, and only the regulated activities and permits listed in the final quote.
Do I need crampons for Margherita Peak?
Do not assume any technical summit equipment is included or unnecessary. The mountain team confirms whether crampons and other specialist gear are required, supplied, rented, or must be personally carried after reviewing current conditions and your summit plan.
Where do hikers sleep in the Rwenzori Mountains?
This route uses the Kilembe-side mountain camp system: Sine, Mutinda, Bugata, Hunwick's, Margherita and Kiharo, subject to the final route and mountain conditions. These are mountain camp or hut nights, not lodge rooms.
Is travel insurance required for Margherita Peak?
Travel insurance should explicitly cover high-altitude trekking, the planned technical activity if confirmed, emergency medical care, and evacuation. Check the policy wording before committing to a summit plan.
What happens if I cannot summit?
The guide's safety decision comes first. If weather, conditions, health, pace, or technical readiness make a summit attempt unsuitable, the team follows the safe turnaround or descent plan and protects the wider itinerary where practical.
When is the best time to trek the Rwenzori Mountains?
Choose dates around your preparation and allow for mountain flexibility. Rain, glacier and trail conditions can change, so the trekking team confirms current advice, camp logistics, and summit suitability before the route is locked.
How long is the Rwenzori route and how high does it go?
The mountain chapter is nine days, beginning around 1,450m at Kilembe and reaching Margherita Camp at about 4,485m. The optional Margherita Peak summit is 5,109m and is not guaranteed.
How are rescue and changing glacier conditions handled?
Trekkers must report illness or difficulty early and follow guide decisions. Mountain timing, camp movements, technical sections, or summit plans can change for weather, trail, glacier, or health reasons; evacuation cover must be in place through suitable insurance.
Get Your Written Rwenzori Route, Support Plan & Price
Send your dates, trekking background, group size, and lodge preference. We will return a written Rwenzori route, camp sequence, mountain-support plan, confirmed inclusions, and a price shaped around your readiness and travel window.
Before we quote, we check the mountain route, summit ambition, permit timing, support team, gear needs, and your trekking background—then send the exact inclusions in writing.