17-Day Guided Uganda Cycling adventure: Follow the Waterfalls and the Nile

The moment you step off the plane and pass through customs, you’ll feel it: T.I.A. – This Is Africa. The customs officer takes their time to warmly welcome you, instantly immersing you in the warm and cheerful atmosphere of the Ugandan people. It feels like stepping into a warm bath – the perfect start to your holiday. Welcome to Uganda, the Pearl of Africa. A transfer will be waiting for you at the airport to take you to your first hotel in Entebbe.

In the afternoon, you have time to prepare for the real adventure. If you’ve brought your own mountain bike, it’s time to assemble it. Prefer to have our expert Ugandan team help you the next morning? No problem at all. It’s your holiday. If you’re hiring a mountain bike, you don’t need to do anything – your bike is already prepared and, after a few adjustments, ready for you to take.

Meals: Not provided
Accommodation: 2 Friends Beach Hotel

Your Uganda Cycling adventure kicks off bright and early today, right after breakfast. After a short transfer by boat, you’ll start cycling along adventurous off-road tracks. You’ll pass various communities just outside Kampala. The waterfalls, nestled in a lush, forested sanctuary, emit a soft, continuous hiss as the water cascades through narrow gaps between jagged rocks. Keep your ears and eyes open: vervet monkeys and red-tailed monkeys can often be spotted here.

Upon reaching the ‘hidden gem’ of the Ssezibwa Falls, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch with the sound of the waterfalls in the background and a beautiful view. Looking to make the most of this extraordinary location? Explore the cultural and historical significance of this spiritual site.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Bushbaby Lodge

Day 3 is all about discovery as you head towards the Griffin Falls. From Ssezibwa, we head towards the Griffin Falls. Before reaching Griffin Falls, you’ll cycle off-road through lush tea plantations, expansive sugarcane fields, and the untamed tropical rainforest of Mabira. Mabira is everything you imagine when you think of an African jungle. Picture yourself navigating your mountain bike along these forest trails, accompanied by the melodic calls of birds and the rustling of wildlife.

At Griffin Falls, choose between a guided tour or, for the thrill-seekers, an exhilarating zipline adventure.

The zipline sweeps you high into the canopy, offering glimpses of palm-nut vultures, African fish eagles, great blue turacos, and red-tailed monkeys—creatures often concealed by the dense forest floor. The zipline adventure offers breathtaking views over the rainforest, the thrill of soaring high among the treetops, enveloped by the earthy, rich scents of the rainforest. An unforgettable experience!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Griffin Falls Camp

From the Griffin Falls, we continue through the Mabira Forest, cycling between ancient, towering trees towards Jinja. Jinja, famed as the source of the mighty Nile River, attracts thrill-seekers from across the globe with its adrenaline-pumping activities. Today’s journey is packed with adventure—winding through the forest, traversing dirt trails, and encountering playful monkeys, vibrant butterflies, and colourful birds. Mountain biking is always thrilling, but in these pristine surroundings, it becomes nothing short of unforgettable.

When you arrive at Jinja, you’ll board a boat with your bike and cross to the other side of the Nile. The day ends perfectly with a colourful sunset painting the landscape in breathtaking hues.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Nile River Explorers Camp

Day five of your group tour through Uganda is a well-deserved rest day in Jinja, once known as a fishing village but now recognised as Uganda’s adventure capital. This promises plenty of excitement. While you can explore on foot, go kayaking, or try tubing, most adventurers come here for one thing: white-water rafting.

CvA travel has explored many places but nowhere matches the thrill of rafting in Jinja. Few spots worldwide boast rapids like those found in Jinja. Will you brave the wild river in an inflatable raft, battling rapids, or would you prefer to watch from the riverbank and capture stunning photos? Safety is our top priority – a dedicated safety boat always accompanies your rafting experience.

Prefer something more relaxed? Why not join us on a sunset cruise along the Nile? Marvel at the panoramic views, the vibrant landscapes, and the beautiful sunset while spotting wildlife along the river.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Nile River Explorers Camp

Optional Activities: Not Included
White-water Rafting on the Nile: €180 per person

On the sixth day of this group tour, it’s back to mountain biking. Today, you’ll follow the banks of the Nile, cycling along dirt paths, through authentic Ugandan communities, and across the lush countryside. Along the way, you’ll be treated to not one, but three spectacular waterfalls: the Itanda Falls, Busowoka Falls, and finally, the Kalagala Falls.

At CvA travel, we love discovering hidden gems, and the Itanda Falls is one of the most impressive. After the Murchison Falls, it is the second most powerful waterfall in all of Uganda. Amidst the rapids, natural islands have formed, offering breathtaking views. The area is also a haven for water birds like cormorants, which have made this region their home.

But today’s adventure offers more than just cycling. Later in the day, you’ll step into a canoe—with your bike on board—to cross the Nile and continue your journey.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Wildwaters Lodge Kalagala

On day 7, we continue following the banks of the renowned Nile. Once again, we delve into the authentic Ugandan lifestyle. But today isn’t solely about mountain biking. A car transfer will bring you to The Great Outdoors, a true haven for nature lovers. Set amidst lush woodland, it’s the perfect spot to rest, recharge, and prepare for the next day’s cycling adventure.

Need to cool off after a long day’s ride? Take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool at your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: The Great Outdoors

After a refreshing night’s sleep and an early start, you’ll be back on your bike, feeling energised and ready to go. Today’s ride takes you through stunning green landscapes. It’s no surprise Uganda is often called the ‘Green Pearl of Africa’. The terrain gradually becomes flatter, offering a more relaxed ride compared to previous days.

In the Netherlands, you’d expect to see cattle farms in the countryside. Here, it’s all about pineapple farms. We’ll make sure to stop for some freshly picked fruit to keep your energy levels high. By the end of the day, a transfer will take you to Amuka Lodge, where you can put your feet up and relax. Ready for day 9.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Amuka Safari Lodge

Day 9 may be labelled a rest day, but it’s packed with adventure waiting to be uncovered. After all, you’re in Uganda, so why not make the most of it? Today, we embark on an unforgettable rhino trekking experience. Yes, you read that right—tracking rhinos in their natural habitat. At Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch, a Ugandan ranger will lead us on foot to uncover where these endangered giants thrive in their natural habitat.

Interesting fact: Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch is home to the only white rhinos in Uganda. Since 2005, their mission has been to reintroduce these majestic creatures to their original habitat: Murchison Falls. During this trekking adventure, you’ll not only marvel at the rhinos but also spot other wildlife and a diverse range of bird species that call this sanctuary home.

Captured enough incredible moments? With your camera roll brimming with unforgettable memories, it’s time to continue the journey to Kabalega Resort in Masindi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Kabalega Resort

After yesterday’s remarkable rhino trekking experience, it’s time to get back on the bike. Today’s destination is the captivating Budongo Forest. This ancient and natural forest sits at the edge of Murchison Falls National Park. Budongo Forest is remarkable not only for its dense canopy but also for its expansive savannah landscapes. This diverse ecosystem teems with life, from playful chimpanzees and red-tailed monkeys to elegant black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, olive baboons, and a dazzling array of rare and vibrant forest bird species.

Today’s mountain bike ride takes you across rugged hills, with challenging technical climbs designed to push even the most seasoned riders. But isn’t that part of the excitement? After the climbs, you’ll find yourself cycling through flatter areas, eventually descending towards Budongo Eco Lodge, where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Budongo Eco Lodge

While some CvA travel tours involve plenty of hard work and cycling, this Ugandan journey also provides ample opportunities to experience the country in different ways. Day 11 is one such day.

Our adventures are anything but ordinary. Did you think the unique rhino trekking was the highlight? This tour has even more surprises for you. Today, you can choose from various optional activities. How about a chimpanzee trek? Who could resist such an incredible opportunity?

Alternatively, you can explore Budongo Forest on foot, immersing yourself in lush greenery, strolling among majestic mahogany trees, and experiencing Africa’s pristine wilderness. We keep repeating it, but this is exactly what makes this tour through Uganda so exceptional.

Prefer getting back on your bike? Go ahead! Your enjoyment comes first every single day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Budongo Eco Lodge

Optional Activities (Not Included):
Chimpanzee trek in Budongo €155 per person

Today’s itinerary includes cycling 50 kilometres from Budongo towards Murchison Falls National Park. The day you’ve been eagerly awaiting has finally arrived. Before reaching the falls, you’ll pass by ancient mahogany trees—an iconic feature of Uganda.

Around lunchtime, you’ll arrive at the awe-inspiring Murchison Falls. And guess where lunch will be served? Believe it or not, you’ll dine right at the top of the falls. Curious how that’s even possible? You’ll just have to join us to find out!

Once there, you’ll truly appreciate the scale, power, and uniqueness of these magnificent falls. Here, the river forces itself through a 6-metre-wide gorge and plunges spectacularly over 43 metres. This is Mother Nature at her finest. This is pure adventure—travel off the beaten path at its finest. You’ll be face-to-face with one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls—an experience not to be missed. Afterwards, relax at Pakuba Safari Lodge, where a delightful dinner awaits, as it does every evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Today, we swap our bikes for a 4×4 vehicle and set out on a thrilling game drive. We’ll venture through vast landscapes in search of the Big 5—exactly the reason you’ve come to Uganda, right? Day 13 could easily become your favourite day of the trip.

After the game drive, we’ll return to the lodge for lunch and some rest. In the evening, you have the option of a Nile River cruise, offering an entirely new perspective on Murchison Falls from below. While cruising, keep an eye out for elephants drinking at the riverbank, hippos bubbling beneath the surface, and crocodiles drifting along. An abundance of wildlife awaits! We’ll end the day with a memorable walk to the top of the falls, where you’ll witness possibly the most stunning sunset Uganda has to offer.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Certain places deserve extra exploration, and Murchison Falls National Park is certainly one of these special spots. One day simply isn’t enough, so we’re staying another day. On foot, you can explore Rabongo Forest or Kaniyo Pabidi Forest. Additionally, a path from the lodge winds towards the river, offering up-close wildlife and bird sightings. Remember, safety comes first—ranger guides accompany us on all activities.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Today is straightforward: we head back to Kampala, marking the conclusion of our incredible Ugandan journey. But… don’t forget to savour every sight along the journey.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Red Chilli Hideaway

Though our journey began near Uganda’s bustling capital, we haven’t yet had the opportunity to truly explore this vibrant city. Fortunately, Day 16 of your Uganda Cycling Adventure provides us with ample time. Admittedly, transitioning from the peaceful countryside into a lively city of over two million people can be quite a shift. Kampala is undeniably busy, but that’s exactly what makes it so charming. The streets buzz with activity, boda bodas weave effortlessly through crowds, souvenir shops are abundant, and the nightlife thrives with excitement.

Are your legs still strong enough for 300 steps? If so, head up to the Uganda National Mosque for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, followed by a delicious local lunch and perhaps a refreshing beer. And don’t forget, exploring Kampala by night is an absolute must.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Red Chilli Hideaway

After one final restful night at your accommodation, your unforgettable Ugandan adventure draws to a close. The incredible moments you’ve experienced are now treasured forever, both in your memories and captured on camera. Depending on your flight schedule, you might still have some time to enjoy a relaxed morning in Kampala before heading off to the airport.

Meals: Breakfast