Cycling Adventure through Uganda

This 15-day mountain bike adventure takes in some of the most unique nature and wildlife in Uganda, riding mostly off-road through villages, crater lakes and rainforest beneath the Rwenzori Mountains. From Fort Portal, the route winds between crater lakes before crossing the equator to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where riders cycle straight through the savanna among buffaloes, elephants and possibly tree-climbing lions.

The route then climbs from savanna to rainforest at Buhoma and the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to half the world's mountain gorillas, with a rest day for optional gorilla tracking. Riders cross the forest to island-dotted Lake Bunyonyi and ride its steep shoreline, then continue to Lake Mburo National Park to cycle among zebras and antelopes. The tour finishes with a visit to Mabamba Swamp, home of the rare shoebill stork, a ride back to Entebbe across Lake Victoria and a day in Kampala.

Highlights:

• Riding between crater lakes beneath the Rwenzori Mountains
• Cycling safari through Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Climbing to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, with optional mountain gorilla tracking
• Island lodge stay and a challenging ride along Lake Bunyonyi's shore
• Riding with zebras around Lake Mburo National Park
• Shoebill spotting at Mabamba Swamp on Lake Victoria

Surface and terrain:
Around 95% off-road on singletrack, dirt roads and wide gravel roads, including flat savanna but mostly hilly terrain. Several tough climbing days, including a 1,535 m ascent to 2,300 m near Bwindi and short, steep hills around Lake Bunyonyi.

Weather:
Evenings at altitude near Bwindi (2,300 m) can be chilly, so a warm layer is recommended.

Suitable for:
Fit mountain bikers comfortable with singletrack, rough dirt roads and challenging climbs, wanting to combine riding with wildlife safaris. Shorter route options are available on several days.