Rwenzori, Chimps and Gorilla Trekking - Uganda

17 days, Guided Group, Fixed Departure

What a combination! Trek through the fantasyland of the Mountains of the Moon - from coffee plantations and tropical forests through ever-changing vegetation as you gradually increase in altitude to some of Africa's highest peaks. This amazing climb towards the snow-capped peaks of Mount Stanley, Speke and Baker also sees you summitting the true highest point, Margherita Peak (5109 metres) - a route far removed from the crowded slopes of Kilimanjaro. The second half of the trip is predominantly wildlife based - trekking in search of chimpanzees, monkeys and baboons in Queen Elizabeth National Park and of course, finally a full day tracking the majestic mountain gorillas living deep in the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The scenery is stunning in this part of the country and with its rolling hills and mountains it is often referred to as Little Switzerland. With forest and wildlife walks and local community visits as well as some free time in the capital Kampale to perhaps enjoy some white-water rafting this is a totally magnificent combination and a real African experience. Please note the Rwenzori peaks involve challenging ascents involving crampons and ice-axe - for experienced trekkers only.

Days 1 to 3. Outbound

Fly overnight to Entebbe and transfer to Kampale. From here you travel via Fort Portal to Kasese, the gateway to the Rwenzori Mountains.

Days 4 to 7. Rwenzori Trekking

Travel to Nyakalengija. Start trekking to the Nyabitaba Hut (2650 metres) through coffee plantations, forest and over the Mahoma River. The hut is set on a forested ridge with a view of the surrounding peaks and the Bujuku Valley. The trail then descends through forest to cross the Bujuku River and on through a Giant Heath and Grounsel forest. Break at the Nyamileju Hut - or "Place of Beards", a name that refers to the moss and lichen hanging from the trees. Continue to the John Matte Hut at 3550 metres. A tough day next as you travel through the two infamous Bigo Bogs (things get really muddy here!) to Lake Bujuku (3900 metres). Here you should have a wonderful view of Mounts Stanley, Speke and Baker. The incredible ice cave on Mount Speke should also be clearly visible. You may now choose to ascend Mount Speke (involving an element of rock climbing - experienced climbers only). Trek through groundsel gully and via the Scott Eliot Pass (the highest point of the Loop Trail at 4372 metres) and ascend to the Elena Hut (4541 metres).

Days 8 to 10. Summit Margherita Peak

An early start sees you scrambling up to Margherita Peak (5109 metres). You are now on the summit of the highest mountain range in Africa! Descend to the Kitandara Hut. The next day, ascend a pass at 4282 metres then descend to the Bujonglo Cave, Base Camp for the Duke of Abruzzi's 1906 expedition. Overnight at the Guy Yeoman Hut at 3450 metres before continuing down the next morning through bamboo growth back to the trail head. Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Day 11. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Enjoy an early morning game drive and Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge in search of Red Tail Monkeys, Chimps and Baboons. Later transfer to the gorilla sanctuary through the beautiful mountain scenery of Little Switzerland.

Days 12 and 13. Mountain Gorillas

Margherita Peak may have been the summit but this is definitely the climax! Take a memorable 8 hour trek to find the Mountain Gorillas. The tracking starts at the area where the gorillas were the previous day. With luck you will spend a full hour with these incredible creatures. Depending on size, the group may split and on the alternate day you will take a forest walk to the Munyaga waterfalls or visit local villages.

Days 14 to 17. Kampala and Homeward

Return to Kampala for some optional white-water rafting. Transfer to the airport for your overnight flight back to the UK.