Volcano Hiking in Uganda
Volcano hiking in Uganda is one of the popular touristic adventures in Uganda. There are three volcanoes in Uganda availed for hiking, namely Muhabura, Sabyinyo and Gahinga volcanoes; all located in the south west of Uganda in Kisoro District on the border between Rwanda and Uganda. All the three volcanoes can be hiked in one day and unlike some volcanoes in other countries, those of Uganda do not have accommodations at the top for overnight. Volcano hiking in Uganda, a tourist needs to have a hiking permit, have packed lunch and enough water. We bring to you a detailed description of the three options for volcano hiking in Uganda for one to choose from.
Mount Sabyinyo
The first option of Volcano hiking in Uganda, we have Mount Sabyinyo hiking that sits on the border between three countries namely Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic republic of Congo, elevated at 3645 meters high. This means that when you are on top of Sabyinyo you are between the three countries and you have a views of the three countries and a good views of all the 8 volcanoes in the range from all the tree countries. The terrain on the slopes of Mount Sabyinyo are ragged with many sharp ridges thus making its hike a strenuous one. The hike is done in one day and takes 8 hours (4 hours to the summit and 4 hours back) this time may change depending on the fitness of the hiker either decrease or increase. On the very steep sections handmade ladders were improvised to support hikers. Volcano hiking in Uganda sets off from the park headquarters with the briefing on the hike by the ranger hike. Free walking sticks are provided to hikers and porters are available for hire. Mount Sabyinyo is also habitant for the golden monkeys, Buffalo, elephant, gorillas but are rarely seen on the trail.
Mount Muhabura
Another option for Volcano Hiking in Uganda is Mount Muhabura hiking, elevated at a height of 4127 meters, Muhabura is the third tallest peak in the Volcanoes. When at its peak tourists have a clear view of other volcanoes, the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and lakes like Edouard, Bunyonyi, Rwenzori all in Uganda and Burere and Ruhondo twin lakes as well as Lake Kivu in Rwanda. This is the genesis of the name Muhabura which means “seen from far”. Hiking Muhabura Volcano in Uganda is done in one day and it takes 8 hours climbing up and descending. Hiking Muhabura is physically demanding as the slopes are very steep, muddy and slippery. The high altitude and mist make it more draining. The mountain is also surrounded by small crater lakes, thick equatorial rain forest and it can rain anytime of the day. For greater tourism experience, tourist are advised to hike in the months of December, January, May June and September with minimal rainfall.
Gahinga Volcano
Hiking volcanoes in Uganda also has Gahinga Volcano hiking as another option. It is located in Mgahinga National Park located in the south western part of Uganda on the border with Rwanda. Gahinga means a pile of stones. You will find many of the piles in gardens and farms around the park that people clear from their fields. Gahinga volcano is the lowest in the range of volcanoes standing at about 3474 meters high above sea level. Its slopes are covered by a dense bamboo forest that is home to a famous gorilla’s family called “Nyakagezi”. It is also home to various primates and animals including monkeys, black fronted duikers, several cats, bush bucks, chameleons and many Albertine bird species. So, when you are hiking in Uganda, especially in Mount Gahinga you might get a chance to also see these unique animal species on your way. The rails to the summit are very narrow and muddy with very dense vegetation which makes it a bit challenging. The hike of Mount Gahinga lasts for around 6 hours which might vary depending on the physical fitness of the hiker.
In addition to the three hiking options provided above, volcano hiking in Uganda can be combined with other tours including gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, bird watching, game drive in different parks around Uganda. You may check our website www.rwandaecocompany.com for more details on different destinations in Uganda.
What to bring on a Volcano hike in Uganda? When you are on a hiking trip, it is recommended to bring with you hiking boots, hiking gear (rain coat, waterproof pants), a long sleeve shirt, lunch snacks and enough mineral water. To make sure that your hiking tour would be a memorable one, Reach out to us, our tour consultants would advise on the best itinerary. We will also help you arrange your transportation and booking your hotel.
