Journey

Uganda: Wild and Wonderful Adventures

Enquire for pricing

This is the inspiration needed for those true adventurers, those who crave the thrill and desire to push their physical limits!

Centred in Western Uganda, this itinerary spotlights two exhilarating activities: hiking the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, famously known as the Mountains of the Moon for their snow-capped peaks, and river rafting along the Birira River, a hidden gem with minimal tourist traffic compared to the more popular Jinja spots.

For running and cycling enthusiasts, Kapchorwa, the Land of Champions, awaits. Located on the slopes of Mount Elgon, this region is home to Olympic and World champions who live and train here, offering an inspiring backdrop for your adventures.

Highlights

Rafting in one of Uganda's lesser-known rivers, a true hidden gem
Get on the river with Sadat Kawawa, a professional kayaker sponsored by Red Bull
Hike the Rwenzori, a mountain rage located on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo
Climb to Margherita Peak, the third-highest point in Africa at 5,109 metres
Run through the Land of Champions on the foothills of Mount Elgon

Book your next adventure

Birira River (Kayaking & Rafting)

SANA Gorilla Rafting offers an unforgettable adventure deep in the tropical rainforest. Participants will raft or kayak the incredible Birira River in West Uganda, surrounded by the lush greenery of the Bwindi Forest and its amazing local wildlife.

Guided by Sadat Kawawa, a Ugandan professional white water kayaker and raft guide, this experience promises both excitement and natural beauty. For more information, including documentaries by Red Bull and CNN, click here.

The Birira River is a Class IV river, featuring continuous rapids that provide great fun, activity, and adrenaline. However, the trip is not solely about thrills. As the river winds through a canyon in the majestic tropical rainforest of West Uganda, participants can expect lush green scenery on each side, close enough to touch and almost taste. Rafting in an inflatable boat with 2-6 people, including an experienced guide, offers the chance to see an extraordinary variety of wildlife, from countless different birds to monkeys, if lucky. Additionally, a special surprise prepared by the locals awaits on the side of the river.

Rwenzori Mountains (Hiking)

The Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda, home to six of Africa's highest peaks, are famously known as the "Mountains of the Moon." While 30,000 people climb Mount Kilimanjaro in nearby Tanzania annually, only about 1,000 venture into the deep valleys, montane forests, jagged peaks, and glaciers of the Rwenzori. Despite its rich trails and biodiversity, this area remains an off-the-beaten-path paradise for adventurers.

The term "Mountains of the Moon" is ancient, dating back over 2,000 years. It refers to a legendary mountain range in East Africa, believed to be the source of the Nile. The name originated from Diogenes, a Greek merchant who traveled to East Africa and claimed to have found the source of the Nile, which the natives called the Mountains of the Moon due to their snow-capped peaks.

Various circuits are available to reach the peaks and witness the stunning scenery, and vary from 4 - 8 days. Contact us to learn more!

Kapchorwa (Running)

Kapchorwa is a premier high-altitude training hub in East Africa and the running mecca of Uganda. At 1,800 meters on the flanks of Mount Elgon, this farming town is home to elite endurance runners like Joshua Cheptegei, Jacob Kiplimo, Peruth Chemutai, and Stephen Kiprotich, earning it the title "Land of Champions."

Offering fresh mountain air, challenging terrain up to 2,600 meters, and endless red dirt trails, Kapchorwa provides a unique experience for runners, hikers, and cyclists. Its remote location keeps it relatively untouched by tourism, allowing visitors to explore alongside world-class athletes.

Guests can enjoy guided runs by professionals, and embark on various training programs. Plenty of hikes and scenic walks can also be organised from the area, such as a visit to the beautiful Sipi Falls, arguably the most spectacular waterfalls in all Uganda and East Africa at large, Sipi Falls consists of three waterfalls cascading downward at 100m, 85m and 65m.

Hiker at Sipi main waterfall. Photo credit Juma Chebet @jumachebet Large