Virunga Wonders
Explore vibrant Kampala on a running or walking tour, cycle with zebras, summit a volcano, meet golden monkeys or gorillas, and drift on dreamy crater lakes — eight days of southwest Uganda at its most wild and wonderful.
Virunga Wonders is a 8-day adventure through the southwest of Uganda, blending wildlife, primates, hiking, and culture. Cycle among zebras in Lake Mburo, summit Mount Sabyinyo where three countries meet, and encounter golden monkeys or the gorillas in Mgahinga - the choice is yours. Relax on the peaceful waters of Lake Bunyonyi before stopping near Mbarara to learn about Ankole long-horned cattle traditions on your way back. This mid-range safari offers the perfect balance of adventure and leisure.
Curated by Ugandan adventurists for like-minded visitors, this trip will make you fall in love with the country through the eyes of those who call it home. Book below!
Trip Highlights:
Explore the best of southwest Uganda, including landscapes, culture and wildlife.
Active tourism – run, cycle and hike your way across Uganda and experience a country in motion!
Authentic, off-the-beaten path itineraries, with the option of inviting like-minded Ugandan adventurers to be part of your trip.
Carefully selected accommodations offering comfort and views.
Your 8-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kampala – Welcome to the Pearl of Africa
Arrival and transfer to Explorers Hub Hotel, Kampala
Optional afternoon walk (depending on time of arrival)
Day 2: Kampala Run & Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
Guided Kampala Morning Running Tour (substitute with a more leisurly walking tour possible upon request)
Drive to Lake Mburo National Park (approx. 6h) with evening game drive
Overnight at Leopard’s Rest Camp (or similar)
Day 3: Cycling Safari & Transfer to Kisoro
Guided cycling safari among giraffes and zebras
Freshen up at lodge and transfer to Kisoro, with lunch en-route (expect an 8h drive)
Arrive and check in at Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge (or similar)
Dinner and overnight stay with panoramic lake views
Day 4: Golden Monkey Habituation (Gorilla Upgrade available)
Golden monkey habituation experience - upgrade to gorilla tracking is available at a surcharge of US$700 per person
Afternoon relaxation at lodge or swim in Lake Mulehe
Dinner and overnight stay
Day 5: Hiking Mount Sabyinyo
Full-day guided hike of Mount Sabyinyo (3,669m ASL, 1,400m altitude gain)
Stand at the summit, the meeting point of three countries (Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo)
Return to lodge for dinner and rest
Day 6: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Following a leisurly breakfast, drive to Lake Bunyonyi (3h)
Lunch and check-in at BirdNest Lodge (or similar)
Afternoon boat trip exploring some of the 29 islands
Dinner and overnight stay
Day 7: Return to Entebbe (via Ankole)
Drive from Lake Bunyonyi towards Kampala (total driving time approx. 8-9h)
Scenic lunch stop in Mbarara, with cultural insight into Ankole cattle traditions
Continue Entebbe, arriving by evening
Day 8: Departure from Entebbe.
Breakfast at the hotel - Transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight.
Trip Costings
Note: Further group discounts are available, please indicate below.
Virunga Wonders Adventure Package
(couple/ 2 people sharing)
from US$2,400/person
Gorilla Tracking Update
plus US$700/person
Optional 10% addition to subsidise a Ugandan runner to join your journey at a locally affordable rate.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
✔ Transport in 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof and professional driver/guide
✔ All meals and water throughout the trip
✔ Accommodation in mid-range lodges as listed
✔ All activities mentioned in the itinerary
✔ Park entry fees and permits
✔ A personalised welcome gift from us to you
Virunga Wonders Adventure Package
(single/ private rooms)
from US$3,600/person
Gorilla Tracking Update
plus US$700/person
Optional 10% addition to subsidise a Ugandan runner to join your journey at a locally affordable rate.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
✘ International flights to/from Uganda
✘ Travel insurance (mandatory)
✘ Ugandan visa (guidance offered upon booking)
✘ Personal expenses, souvenirs, and tips
✘ Hiking gear (available for rental if required)
Booking Enquiry for the Virunga Wonders Adventure Package
Please register your interest in the Virunga Wonders Adventure Package here. A member of our team will then share a personalised offer with you.
Why do we offer a 10% contribution to subsidise local travel?
We offer guests the option to add a 10% contribution to their booking to support a Ugandan adventure and travel enthusiast to join the journey at a locally affordable rate. This is part of our commitment to making tourism in Uganda more inclusive and accessible to domestic travellers. Through the Rustic Expeditions Foundation, this contribution helps subsidise local participation, opening up travel experiences that would otherwise be out of reach to many Ugandans.
It also adds a meaningful dimension to your own journey, offering the chance to experience Uganda alongside a local travel enthusiast, and to see the country through a different perspective.
Who We Are
Rustic Expeditions Ltd was founded by two friends who met through their shared love of hiking and running. Majority Ugandan-owned and female-led, we hold a deep passion for showcasing our country’s incredible landscapes, cultures and outdoor experiences, putting Uganda on the map as Africa’s next adventure capital. Find out more here.