Peaks, Plains & The Nile: A Kenya Uganda Odyssey

Duration

14 Days

Minimum Age

-

Fitness Level

-

Accomodation

3x - Hotel
2x - Resort
8x - Lodge

Overview

This remarkable cross-border adventure takes us through some of East Africa’s most remote and diverse landscapes, combining trekking, wildlife, and rich cultural encounters. We begin in the bustling city of Nairobi and its unique National Park next to it. A flight takes us to Kitale where we travel to the slopes of Mount Elgon. We have the option to either cross into Uganda by road via the Suam border or undertake a unique cross-border trek over Mount Elgon, ascending Koitoboss and Wagagai Peaks before descending to the scenic Sipi Falls for waterfall hikes and a traditional coffee experience.

 

Continuing into the remote Karamoja region, we experience the culture of the Karamojong people before exploring the wild beauty of Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Africa’s last great wilderness areas. Our journey then leads us to Murchison Falls National Park, where game drives and a boat safari reveal the mighty Nile as it crashes through a narrow gorge. A birding excursion to the Nile Delta and rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary complete this unforgettable off-the-beaten-path East African expedition.

Tour Map

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Tour Plan

By Car Around Mt Elgon - 14 Days
Day 1 Arrival in Nairobi, transfer to Ole Sereni

We arrive in Nairobi and are met by the Kibo Slopes team for a warm welcome. A short transfer takes us to Ole Sereni Hotel, perfectly positioned overlooking Nairobi National Park. Depending on arrival time, we relax with views of grazing plains game as the sun sets behind the city skyline.

Accommodation: Ole Sereni Hotel

Meal Plan: Own arrangement

Day 2 Nairobi National Park gamedrives, David Sheldric Orphanage, Giraffe Center

This morning, we head into Nairobi National Park for game drives. With the city skyline in the background, we search for rhinos, lions, giraffes, buffalo, zebra, and antelope.

Later, we visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, learning about elephant conservation and rehabilitation. Lunch is at the historic Karen Blixen Coffee Garden, followed by a visit to the Giraffe Centre, where we come face to face with endangered Rothschild’s giraffes.

Accommodation: Ole Sereni Hotel

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch

Day 3 Flight to Kitale – Into the Green Highlands

We take a scenic morning flight to Kitale, enjoying aerial views of Kenya’s changing landscapes. Upon arrival, we visit the Kitale Museum, known for its natural history and cultural exhibits.

We then drive to Sirwo Cranes Haven, tucked into the foothills of Mt. Elgon, where cooler air and lush scenery welcome us.

Accommodation: Sirwo Cranes Haven

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4 Mt. Elgon National Park & Kitum Caves

Today is dedicated to exploring Mt. Elgon National Park. We enjoy game drives and forest walks with a packed lunch, moving through montane forest and open glades.

In the afternoon, we hike to the famous Kitum Caves, where elephants have carved salt-rich tunnels over centuries.

Accommodation: Sirwo Cranes Haven

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5 Drive to Uganda via Suam border, lunch, Sipi Falls hike

We drive through scenic borderlands via Suam, crossing into Uganda and descending toward the fertile slopes of Mt. Elgon. Lunch is at Sipi Falls Lodge, followed by a guided hike to the dramatic Sipi Falls, cascading down sheer cliffs. The afternoon is relaxed, soaking in panoramic views of the Karamoja plains below.

Accommodation: Sipi Falls Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6 Drive to Moroto, Karamoja museum, sundowner Mt Moroto

We journey into the remote Karamoja region, a rarely visited part of Uganda known for its strong cultural identity. After lunch in Moroto, we visit the Karamoja Museum, gaining insight into pastoral traditions and history.

Later, we enjoy a sundowner on Moroto Mountain, watching the sun dip over vast, untouched landscapes.

Accommodation: Hotel Africana Moroto

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7 Drive to Kotido for lunch, Karamoja village visit, drive to Kidepo National Park

This morning, we drive to Kotido for lunch at Karamoja Arts Eco Lodge, supporting local community initiatives. We then visit Nakapelimoru villages, interacting respectfully with community members and learning about daily life.

By afternoon, we enter Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Africa’s most spectacular and least crowded parks.

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 8 Kidepo Valley National Park game drives

We spend the day on extensive game drives in Kidepo, exploring open savannahs framed by rugged mountain ranges. Wildlife is abundant and often uninterrupted by crowds.

Sightings: Lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, cheetahs (occasional), ostrich, large herds of antelope

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 9 Drive to Murchison Falls, Gulu lunch and market tour

We depart Kidepo and travel south toward Murchison Falls National Park, passing through changing landscapes and local towns. We stop in Gulu for lunch, followed by a guided walk through Gulu Market, where we experience everyday life in northern Uganda — colorful stalls, fresh produce, local crafts, and lively interactions with traders. In the afternoon, we continue to Chobe Safari Lodge, passing by the powerful Karuma Falls, where the Nile surges through rocky channels.

We arrive in time to relax and enjoy views over the Nile as the day comes to a close.

Accommodation: Chobe Safari Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 10 Drive via Top of the Falls, lunch, drive to Pakuba Safari Lodge

We drive to the Top of Murchison Falls, where we witness the Nile force its way through a narrow gorge in a dramatic display of power and sound. We enjoy a packed lunch overlooking the river before continuing deeper into the park.

In the afternoon, we drive to Pakuba Safari Lodge, arriving in time to relax and take in the peaceful riverside setting

Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 11 Moring gamedrives, Bottom of the Falls Boat Safari

We head out for morning game drives in Murchison Falls National Park, carrying a packed lunch as we explore deeper into the savannah and riverine habitats. In the afternoon, we enjoy a boat safari to the Bottom of the Falls, cruising along the Nile and observing wildlife along the riverbanks beneath the dramatic cascade. We return to Pakuba Safari Lodge in the evening.

Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 12 Nile Delta Boat, lunch, dive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

We start the morning with a boat excursion to the Nile Delta, a prime birding area where the Nile meets Lake Albert. This wetland is home to an incredible variety of birdlife and offers excellent chances to spot rare species. After lunch, we drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda’s successful rhino reintroduction project arriving in time to relax at the lodge and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Accommodation: Amuka Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 13 Rhino Tracking, lunch, drive to Kampala

This morning, we track white rhinos on foot, accompanied by experienced rangers — a powerful and intimate conservation experience.
After lunch, we drive to Kampala, arriving in time to relax and reflect on our journey.

Accommodation: Cassia Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 14 Transfer to airport for departure or continue with Gorilla tracking extension

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our onward flight or continue our adventure with an optional gorilla trekking extension in southwestern Uganda.

Meal Plan: Breakfast only

On Foot Trek Over Mt Elgon - 17 Days
Day 1 Arrival in Nairobi, transfer to Ole Sereni

We arrive in Nairobi and are met by the Kibo Slopes team for a warm welcome. A short transfer takes us to Ole Sereni Hotel, perfectly positioned overlooking Nairobi National Park. Depending on arrival time, we relax with views of grazing plains game as the sun sets behind the city skyline.

Accommodation: Ole Sereni Hotel
Meal Plan: Own arrangement

Day 2 Nairobi National Park gamedrives, David Sheldric Orphanage, Giraffe Center

This morning, we head into Nairobi National Park for game drives. With the city skyline in the background, we search for rhinos, lions, giraffes, buffalo, zebra, and antelope.
Later, we visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, learning about elephant conservation and rehabilitation. Lunch is at the historic Karen Blixen Coffee Garden, followed by a visit to the Giraffe Centre, where we come face to face with endangered Rothschild’s giraffes.

Accommodation: Ole Sereni Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch

Day 3 Flight to Kitale – Into the Green Highlands

We take a scenic morning flight to Kitale, enjoying aerial views of Kenya’s changing landscapes. Upon arrival, we visit the Kitale Museum, known for its natural history and cultural exhibits. We then drive to Sirwo Cranes Haven, tucked into the foothills of Mt. Elgon, where cooler air and lush scenery welcome us. In the afternoon we visit Saiwa National Park in search for the elusive Sitatunga gazelles.

Accommodation: Sirwo Cranes Haven
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4 Drive to Mount Elgon National Park

After breakfast, depart Kitale and drive to the forested slopes of Mount Elgon National Park, an ancient extinct volcano that straddles the Kenya–Uganda border.
Enjoy a game drive through the park, where wildlife such as buffalo, antelope and a variety of birdlife can often be spotted among the lush montane forest and bamboo zones. A highlight of the day is a visit to the famous Kitum Cave, known for its dramatic volcanic chambers and the elephants that venture inside to mine salt from the cave walls.
After lunch at the bandas, continue with an afternoon game drive and take in the cool mountain air and spectacular scenery.

Accommodation: Mount Elgon Bandas
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5 Crossover Trek: Roadhead to Koitoboss Peak (4221m) to Kayah Camp (3700 m)

This morning marks the beginning of a truly unique adventure crossing from Kenya into Uganda on foot across Mount Elgon. After an early breakfast, transfer to the road head at approximately 3,600 m to begin the ascent. The trail climbs steadily through high-altitude moorlands dotted with giant lobelias and groundsels toward Koitoboss Peak (4,221 m), the highest point on the Kenyan side of the mountain. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views across both countries before meeting your Ugandan trekking crew on the other side of the border. Continue descending into Uganda through spectacular alpine landscapes to Kayah Camp (3,700 m) where you spend the night in mountain huts.

Accommodation: Fly Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6 Wagagai Summit (4321 m) and Descent to Hunswick Camp (2850 m)

Rise early for the final ascent to Wagagai Peak (4,321 m), the highest point of Mount Elgon and one of East Africa’s most scenic summits. The trek traverses rolling alpine terrain with dramatic views across the enormous caldera that defines this ancient volcano. After celebrating at the summit and taking in the panoramic vistas stretching across Kenya and Uganda, begin your descent through varied vegetation zones—from open moorland into heath and bamboo forests. Continue down to Hunswick Camp (2,850 m) for dinner and overnight in huts.

Accommodation: Fly Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7 Descent to Base Camp and Transfer to Sipi Falls

After breakfast, we continue descending through lush montane forest filled with birdlife and cascading streams until reaching the base camp at approximately 1,720 m. From here, we are transferred by road to the beautiful Sipi Falls, located on the foothills of Mount Elgon overlooking the vast plains of eastern Uganda. The area is known for its dramatic waterfalls and world-class Arabica coffee grown on the fertile volcanic slopes. We relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Accommodation: Sipi Falls Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 8 Waterfalls & Coffee Experience at Sipi

Today we spend the morning exploring the stunning Sipi Falls, a series of three waterfalls cascading down the cliffs of Mount Elgon. We explore the scenic trails through local farms and villages, offering spectacular viewpoints over the falls and the Karamoja plains below. After lunch, we will visit a local coffee farm to learn about the traditional process of growing, harvesting and roasting Arabica coffee on the slopes of Mount Elgon. The experience concludes with a freshly brewed cup while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Accommodation: Sipi Falls Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 9 Drive to Moroto, Karamoja museum, sundowner Mt Moroto

After breakfast, we leave the peaks behind and journey into the remote Karamoja region, a rarely visited part of Uganda known for its strong cultural identity. After lunch in Moroto, we visit the Karamoja Museum. Through exhibits of traditional tools, beadwork, weapons, and household items, we gain insight into the pastoral lifestyle, social structures, and cultural heritage of this fascinating community. Later, we enjoy a sundowner on Moroto Mountain, watching the sun dip over vast, untouched landscapes.

Accommodation: Hotel Africana Moroto
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 10 Drive to Kotido for lunch, Karamoja village visit, drive to Kidepo National Park

This morning, we drive to Kotido for lunch at Karamoja Arts Eco Lodge.This community-based initiative showcases local craftsmanship and provides a glimpse into the creative traditions of the region. In the afternoon, we visit the Nakapelimoru Villages, home to one of the largest traditional manyattas (homesteads) in East Africa. Here we are welcomed by members of the Karamojong community and learn about their pastoral way of life, cattle culture, and social traditions. By afternoon, we continue our journey north toward Kidepo Valley National Park, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most spectacular and untouched wilderness areas. The park lies in a remote corner of Uganda near the borders with South Sudan and Kenya and offers vast savannah landscapes framed by rugged mountain ranges.

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 11 Kidepo Valley National Park game drives

Today we spend the day exploring the wild beauty of Kidepo Valley National Park, often described as one of Africa’s last great wilderness areas. The park’s remote location has helped preserve its pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife. During our morning game drive through the Narus Valley, we search for a wide variety of animals including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and several species of antelope. Kidepo is also known for predators such as lions and cheetahs, while the rocky outcrops and open plains provide excellent opportunities for photography. The park is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with numerous species inhabiting the grasslands, wetlands, and acacia woodlands. In the evening we return to the lodge for rest and overnight.

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 12 Drive to Murchison Falls, Gulu lunch and market tour

We depart Kidepo and travel south toward Murchison Falls National Park, passing through changing landscapes and local towns. We stop in Gulu for lunch, followed by a guided walk through Gulu Market, where we experience everyday life in northern Uganda — colorful stalls, fresh produce, local crafts, and lively interactions with traders. In the afternoon, we continue to Chobe Safari Lodge, passing by the powerful Karuma Falls, where the Nile surges through rocky channels. We arrive in time to relax and enjoy views over the Nile as the day comes to a close.

Accommodation: Chobe Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 13 Drive via Top of the Falls, lunch, drive to Pakuba Safari Lodge

We drive to the Top of Murchison Falls. Here the mighty Nile is forced through a narrow seven-meter gorge before plunging over 40 meters below, creating one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world. We take time to walk to the viewpoints where the thunderous roar of the falls and the mist rising from the gorge create an unforgettable spectacle. After enjoying a packed lunch, we continue our drive through the park toward the northern sector where wildlife is abundant. The route offers opportunities to spot animals along the way as we make our way to Pakuba Safari Lodge, located in the heart of the park with beautiful views across the savannah plains and the Nile.

Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 14 Moring gamedrives, Bottom of the Falls Boat Safari

We head out for morning game drives in Murchison Falls National Park, known for its excellent wildlife viewing, and we search for elephants, giraffes, buffalo, Uganda kob, hartebeest, and possibly lions or leopards resting in the shade. We enjoy a packed lunch while out in the park, allowing us to spend more time exploring the diverse landscapes.
In the afternoon we embark on one of the park’s most iconic experiences—a boat safari along the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls. As we cruise upstream, we observe hippos, crocodiles, and a wealth of birdlife along the riverbanks. Herds of elephants and other animals are often seen coming to the water to drink. Approaching the base of the falls, the Nile narrows dramatically before surging through the gorge above us, creating an awe-inspiring sight. After this memorable excursion we return to the lodge for dinner and overnight at Pakuba Safari Lodge.

Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 15 Nile Delta Boat, lunch, dive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Early this morning we set out on a special boat excursion toward the Nile Delta, where the Victoria Nile flows into Lake Albert. This tranquil area is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with excellent chances of spotting rare and sought-after species including the prehistoric-looking shoebill stork, along with pelicans, herons, kingfishers, and numerous other water birds. After lunch, we drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda’s successful rhino reintroduction project arriving in time to relax at the lodge and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Accommodation: Amuka Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 16 Rhino Tracking, lunch, drive to Kampala

After breakfast, we head out on foot with experienced rangers for an exciting rhino tracking experience. Walking through the sanctuary’s open grasslands and woodland areas, we track the rhinos and observe them up close in their natural habitat while learning about the conservation work being done to protect these remarkable animals. This guided experience provides a rare opportunity to appreciate these endangered giants from a safe but intimate distance.
After lunch, we drive to Kampala, arriving in time to relax and reflect on our journey.

Accommodation: Cassia Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 17 Transfer to airport for departure or continue with Gorilla tracking extension

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our onward flight or continue our adventure with an optional gorilla trekking extension in southwestern Uganda.

Meal Plan: Breakfast only

Included

  • Meal plan as specified –BB (bed and Breakfast), HB (Half board; breakfast and dinner), FB (Full board; breakfast, lunch and dinner) in the hotels
  • Airport transfers and safari on 4x4 vehicles
  • English speaking driver guides
  • David Sheldrick entry fee
  • Giraffe Center fee
  • Flight to Kitale
  • Park Fees
  • Sipi falls hike
  • Karamoja village fees
  • Boat to bottom of falls
  • Nile delta boat
  • Ziwa Rhino tracking

Excluded

  • International arrival and departure
  • Drinks in hotels and lodges/ telephone/ laundry/visa fees/ tips
Group Package(Fixed Departures)
Departure Dates

18 Jan 2027 - 27 Jan 2027:
6 Jun 2027 - 19 Jun 2027:

Individual Package

By Car Around Mt Elgon - 14 Days:
From 4 pax $ 4,730 p.p.s


On Foot Trek Over Mt Elgon - 17 Days:
From 4 pax $ 6,400 p.p.s

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