9-Day Hiking Adventure and Kidepo Valley Safari

This 9-day Hiking Adventure and Kidepo Valley Safari combines thrilling wildlife encounters, challenging mountain hikes, and unforgettable water adventures. You will track rhinos on foot at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, enjoy scenic game drives in Kidepo Valley National Park, hike Mount Elgon to the spectacular Wagagai Peak (4,321 meters), and wrap up the journey with white-water rafting on the Nile in Jinja.

It is an ideal itinerary for adventurous travelers seeking a perfect balance of nature, culture, and adrenaline-filled experiences in Uganda.

What to Expect

• Rhino trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• Scenic drives through remote northern Uganda
• Game drives in Kidepo Valley National Park
• Cultural encounters with the Karamojong community
• A 2-day hike on Mount Elgon to Wagagai Peak
• A boat cruise at the Source of the Nile
• White-water rafting on the River Nile

Price Includes

• Airport transfers
• Private safari vehicle and fuel
• Services of an English-speaking professional driver-guide
• All accommodation and meals as specified
• All park entry fees and activities
• Drinking water and refreshments
• All government taxes and VAT

Price Excludes

• International flights
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses
• Alcoholic beverages

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

After an early morning pickup, drive north through rural Uganda to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. You will arrive in time for lunch before heading out in the afternoon for rhino trekking. This guided walk offers a rare opportunity to observe rhinos on foot in a protected natural environment where they roam freely.

Accommodation: Midrange lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 2: Transfer to Kitgum

Following breakfast, continue your journey north with a stop in Gulu, often referred to as the “capital of northern Uganda,” for lunch. Afterward, drive on to Kitgum, passing through traditional villages and scenic countryside.

Accommodation: Midrange guesthouse
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 3: Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park

After breakfast, visit the ancient painted rocks before proceeding to Kidepo Valley National Park in the remote Kaabong District. Although the drive is long, it rewards you with stunning views of vast plains, rocky outcrops, and traditional settlements. Arrive in the afternoon, check in, and relax.

Accommodation: Midrange lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 4: Game Drive in Kidepo Valley National Park

Begin the day with an early morning game drive, one of the highlights of this safari. Explore the Narus Valley, home to lions, elephants, giraffes, eland, zebras, leopards, and large herds of buffalo.

In the afternoon, continue towards the seasonal Kidepo River in search of cheetahs and ostriches. Later, visit a local Karamojong community to learn about their traditions, lifestyle, and culture.

Accommodation: Midrange lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 5: Transfer to Mount Elgon National Park

After breakfast, drive to Mbale Town, located at the foothills of Mount Elgon. En route, visit the beautiful Sipi Falls. While in Mbale, interact with locals and hear the fascinating legend behind Mount Elgon’s local name, Mount Masaba.

Accommodation: Midrange hotel
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 6: Hiking to Wagagai Peak (Mount Elgon)

After breakfast, set out on an unforgettable hike up the slopes of Mount Elgon. This challenging yet rewarding trek leads you to Wagagai Peak, the highest point on the mountain at 4,321 meters above sea level. Reaching the summit is a true once-in-a-lifetime achievement.

Accommodation: Midrange hotel
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 7: Transfer to Jinja

After breakfast, drive east to Jinja. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy a relaxed town tour, followed by a boat cruise to the Source of the Nile. This one-hour excursion offers beautiful river views and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Accommodation: Midrange hotel
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 8: White-Water Rafting on the Nile

Start the day early and head out for an exhilarating white-water rafting experience on the River Nile. This adventure provides the perfect finale to your safari, delivering excitement, adrenaline, and unforgettable memories.

Accommodation: Midrange hotel
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 9: Departure

After breakfast, drive back to Kampala or Entebbe in time for your outbound flight, marking the end of your Hiking Adventure and Kidepo Valley Safari.