Challenging pace

Situated in the Bwindi impenetrable forest. Mgahinga’s most striking features are its three conical, extinct volcanoes, part of the spectacular Virunga Range that lies along the border region of Uganda, Congo and Rwanda. Mgahinga forms part of the much larger Virunga Conservation Area which includes adjacent parks in these countries. The volcanoes’ slopes contain various ecosystems and are biologically diverse, and their peaks provide a striking backdrop to this gorgeous scenery.

The Rwenzori mountains help to explain why Uganda is called the Pearl of Africa. The landscape here is astonishingly lush and green, like a prehistoric wonderland, with huge and unusual-looking plants. White heather hangs from branches like old men’s beards and dramatic snow-peaked mountains can be glimpsed between the trees. Mount Rwenzori also known as Mountains of the Moon came from Greek explorers trying to locate the source of the Nile. A merchant called Diogenes reported that the source of the Nile came from a group of mountains which the indigenes of the land called Mountains of the moon due to their snow-capped whiteness.

For the big 5, head to Murchison Falls National Park and expect: Big 5 sighting, boat trip to the base of the falls plus a hike to the top of the falls. Transfer to Kibale for chimp trekking. You will be fascinated by the primates population here. Queen Elizabeth National Park makes your next stop where you expect classic big games (including chances of sighting the rare tree-climbing lions) and boat trip on the Kazinga channel. Visit Bwindi for the ultimate gorilla experience. Exit Bwindi for the Airport.