With this tour through northeastern Uganda, you are guaranteed to gain an incredible experience. Encounter the many different cultures of the Karamoja region and cross the border into Kenya for a day on your mountain bike. As you cycle through various national parks, you will come face to face with wild animals like you have never seen them before. Adrenaline rushes guaranteed! This tour is undertaken by mountain bike or e-mountain bike and can be adapted to suit different fitness levels. The unpaved roads and numerous single tracks make it a challenging cycling trip and one you will never forget. We are certain that you will hold Uganda close to your heart after this journey.
This trip focuses on the northeast of Uganda, an area known as Karamoja. For years, this region was isolated and difficult to access, but today it is one of the most fascinating destinations for the adventurous traveller. The landscape here is rugged and vast. You cycle through a backdrop of expansive savannahs that are suddenly interrupted by enormous volcanic mountains and rock formations seemingly rising out of nowhere. The route we follow is known as the Warrior Nomad Trail.
This is a heroic journey running from the south to the far north of the region. You start in the plains of Pian Upe and finish in the mountains near Kidepo. It is a route where modern life often seems far away, and where you are truly at one with the elements. The paths vary from wide gravel roads to narrow trails winding through the wilderness.
A unique aspect of this tour is that we do not just stay in Uganda. The route takes a detour across the border into Kenya. You cycle through the forests of West Pokot and over the rolling hills of the East African Rift. The landscape here changes from dry savannah to greener highlands, providing a beautiful variety to your cycling days.
While many trips to Uganda revolve around nature, in Karamoja, culture takes centre stage. This is the land of the Karamojong, a proud people of semi-nomadic pastoralists. They are closely related to the Maasai in Kenya and have managed to preserve their traditional way of life exceptionally well. Their lives revolve around their cattle, which for them is not just property, but a status symbol and their lifeblood. During the trip, you will visit their villages, which are called manyattas. These are traditional settlements with low huts, surrounded by thorn-branch enclosures to protect the livestock (and the people) from predators. The welcome is often warm and colourful. You will see traditional clothing and jewellery, and learn about their customs. This is not about “gawping at locals”, but an interactive experience where you learn about their resilience and hospitality.
Although the region is known for its culture, the nature is at least as impressive. You will cycle through two of Uganda’s most extraordinary wildlife parks. The trip begins in Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, a vast area of savannah plains. Here, you have the chance to see animals you won’t easily find elsewhere in Uganda, such as the roan antelope or cheetahs. The grand finale of the trip is Kidepo Valley National Park. This park is located in the far north, bordering South Sudan. Connoisseurs often call it the most beautiful park in Africa due to its spectacular landscapes and its isolation. You literally cycle amongst the wildlife here. Think large herds of buffalo, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Lions and leopards are also found here. For safety, you are accompanied by armed rangers whilst in the park.
Your tour through Uganda starts in the city of Entebbe. With a group of at least 4 mountain bikers, you will cover a route through northeastern Uganda during this 17-day tour, even crossing the border into Kenya. You will cycle across beautiful green landscapes and straight through national parks where you will spot many extraordinary wild animals. At times, the adrenaline will rush through your body when you come face to face with them. The encounters with the local people and all their traditions and customs complete this trip perfectly. Eventually, you will reach the city of Kampala, and from there you will board your flight home.
Would you rather explore Uganda solo? That’s absolutely possible. Browse through our Individual Trips – Uganda or request a tailored quote. We’re here to help you plan the perfect journey, designed to meet your every wish.
You will find the departure dates for this trip in the table below.
| Departure date | Duration | Level | Availablility | Price p.p. | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09-05-2026 | 17 days | Available | € 3.795,00 | Book this trip | ||
| 04-07-2026 | 17 days | Available | € 3.795,00 | Book this trip | ||
| 19-09-2026 | 17 days | Available | € 3.795,00 | Book this trip | ||
| 04-02-2027 | 17 days | Available | € 3.795,00 | Book this trip | ||
| 07-05-2027 | 17 days | Available | € 3.795,00 | Book this trip | ||
| 02-07-2027 | 17 days | Available | € 3.795,00 | Book this trip | ||
| 17-09-2027 | 17 days | Available | € 3.795,00 | Book this trip |
Instead of a group tour through Uganda, would you prefer to book an individual trip? That is, of course, also possible. Look here for the options.
We can’t wait to tell you absolutely everything about this tour through northeastern Uganda. By mountain bike or e-mountain bike, you will mostly cycle over unpaved roads and single tracks. Where one day you are connecting with the local people, the next you are face to face with wild animals… Read on quickly!
Your tour in Uganda couldn’t begin better than at the airport in Entebbe, the former capital of Uganda. You will receive a warm welcome from customs and be showered with the cheerful vibes of this country. Afterwards, our Ugandan team will be waiting to take you to Via Via Entebbe. By the nearby beach or at the hotel pool, you can relax wonderfully after the long flight. If you bring your own mountain bike, you will have time in the afternoon to assemble it. Landing late? No worries, there will be plenty of time for this the following morning as well. The Ugandan team is happy to help get you started. Are you renting a mountain bike through CvA travel? Then it will be ready for you the next morning—custom-fitted—so that after a few minor adjustments, you can jump straight on the bike.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Via Via Entebbe
This day of the tour through Uganda is not yet focused on cycling. Although a long transfer lies ahead, it certainly doesn’t mean nothing happens along the way. If you look around, you will immediately notice that Africa is a very different continent from any other in the world. Ugandans mostly live their lives outdoors on the streets, and it shows. You will see all sorts of colours, smell the Ugandan cuisine, and be greeted time and again with a big, broad smile from the locals. You will feel more than welcome in this country. After lunch in Mbale, we drive up from the foot of Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano on the border of Uganda and Kenya. You are already in the Mount Elgon National Park of the same name, passing coffee and matoke (banana) plantations along the way. We drive over an unpaved road through an incredibly green environment to the Sipi Falls. Once you arrive at the Home of Friends Guesthouse, you can enjoy panoramic views with a drink in hand as the sun slowly sets.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Home of Friends Guesthouse
In the morning, you will take a hike to the breathtaking Sipi Falls. You will visit the three largest waterfalls, all of which cascade down from the greener-than-green slopes of Mount Elgon. On the way to the various waterfalls, you will see farms, incredibly beautiful flowers we don’t have back home, and many coffee and banana plantations. In the afternoon, you have two options. Are you a true coffee lover? Then join a coffee tour and meet a local family. They will teach you everything about it, and you will truly feel like part of their family. At the end of the tour, you will even learn how to actually drink coffee according to their standards. Would you like to learn more about the Sabiny people and their ancestral home (the natural cave)? Then go on the cave experience. Taste the indigenous dishes, play ancient games, and enjoy the music as they sing and dance. Whichever activity you choose, it will be an unforgettable experience on this third day of your tour through Uganda.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Home of Friends Guesthouse
On this fourth day of your tour through Uganda, you finally jump on your bike. Right after breakfast, the adventure starts on the slopes of Mount Elgon. Via narrow cattle tracks, you zoom past all the greenery around you and descend. Afterwards, the road flattens out, and you reach the plains of the Karamoja region. As soon as you cross the bridge, you are in Pian Upe National Park. One thing is certain: you will be blown away by the beauty surrounding you. On one side, you see Mount Elgon, and on the other, Mount Kadam, with a flat landscape dotted with small rocky outcrops (kopjes) in between. Pay close attention, as you might just spot some wild animals. Early in the afternoon, you arrive at Pian Upe Eco Camp, which is situated just outside the national park. In the late afternoon, you will go on a wonderful safari walk in the park, enjoying the beautiful sunset.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Pian Upe Eco Camp (just outside the park)
Today you cycle straight through Pian Upe National Park. A unique and exciting experience where you will spot a lot—and we mean a lot—of wild animals. Cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, elands, buffaloes, antelopes: they all live here. We guarantee a massive adrenaline rush will course through your body every now and then. But don’t worry: the vehicle and the rangers (including rifles) will stay close to us. Safety first! In the middle of this park lies the Napedet Cave. Here we make a stop to admire the rock paintings of the very first inhabitants of this area and enjoy a ‘bush lunch’. You then continue the route to the camp where we will spend the night. Along the way, you will pass various local communities, where you will be introduced to the culture of Uganda. Don’t be surprised if you are greeted exuberantly with singing and dancing. A unique cultural experience on this fifth day of your tour.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Pian Upe Eco Camp (just outside the park)
Day 6 in Uganda is a special day. You are in a deserted but authentic area and will be immersed in the culture and ancient traditions of this region. You start with a bike ride along the foot of Mount Kadam. After about 20 kilometres, the climb begins; once at the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a fantastic view over the region. The bike ride continues, and you immediately notice you are in a different area. The local people dress differently, the houses look different, and even the language sounds different. Every now and then, you might even see a dromedary trotting past, which none of the locals find unusual. After lunch, you continue on foot for a village tour. As you walk, you will see what life is like in this region. You will visit traditional houses and see how the locals preserve milk and food, which they can keep for over a year. After the village tour, you hop back on the bike and, after 15 kilometres, reach a river. Here you can take a refreshing dip—if you wish—before covering the final kilometres to Kayla Peace Village.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Basic bandas or camping
Today we cycle across the border into Kenya. After a single track of about 30 kilometres, you cross the border and suddenly find yourself in the neighbouring country. A challenging road—going up and down a lot—awaits you before you descend the final stretch to Lake Turkwel. Once you arrive at the lake, you can enjoy the beautiful landscape surrounding you. In the afternoon, a boat trip is on the agenda. As you sail, you will take in the fantastic panoramic views, and a serene calmness will wash over you. You will take another refreshing dip and end this day with a group dinner featuring deliciously fresh, caught fish.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Camping by the lake
You rub the sleep from your eyes and wake up by the lake with a cup of Kenyan coffee. You enjoy the sun slowly rising until it shines in full glory high in the clear blue sky. After a wonderful bucket shower (welcome to Africa) and a hearty breakfast, you jump on your bike. Back to Uganda. A short ride, during which the change in climate is immediately noticeable. You will end this eighth day of your tour back in Uganda, enjoying a cold drink at Karamoja Safari Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Karamoja Safari Camp
Do you feel like your legs have covered quite a few kilometres already? We completely understand. That is why a wonderfully relaxing day lies ahead today. At the foot of Mount Moroto, you will take a relaxing nature walk led by a guide. Mount Moroto is an ancient volcano amidst the semi-arid plains of Karamoja and is also the highest mountain in the region. As you walk to the top, you will look out over breathtaking, vast landscapes and pass many local communities. In the afternoon, you will have time to rest properly after these three days of cycling in high temperatures. Later in the day, you will visit an authentic Karamojong nomad camp. You will be warmly welcomed by the locals and even receive your own Karamojong name (wow!). You will taste the local brews and experience the true culture of this country through all the customs and traditions they show you. You will feel anything but a tourist, but rather a part of the community. A unique and cultural experience you won’t soon forget.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Karamoja Safari Camp
It hasn’t happened much during this tour in Uganda, but today it is possible: a lie-in. After a lovely long morning, you get into the car to Kaabong. During this 4-hour drive, peering out of the window, you will enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The rolling landscape is fantastic, with enormous granite rocks jutting upwards. Once you arrive at the accommodation, you can take it easy. Still want to head out? Then take a walk to the nearby community and visit the local market. It’s the perfect opportunity to buy the best souvenirs for your family and friends back home.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Kaabong Resort
Day 11 of this tour through Uganda might just be the most beautiful day of the entire trip. You will cycle in a stunning, varied environment over all sorts of single tracks and pass many traditional villages. After numerous small climbs and descents, a tough climb awaits you at the end of this ride. Tired but satisfied, you will reach an altitude of 2,000 metres. And it is not for nothing, because you will be rewarded with a fan-tas-tic view.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Timu Eco Camp
You will descend just as many metres today as you climbed yesterday. That means 20 (!) kilometres of pure enjoyment as you cycle along an unpaved path through the Morungole Central Forest Reserve. Although it is a tough stretch full of small climbs, the views over the magnificent, vast green plains more than make up for it. Views that still never get boring on this twelfth day of your tour. The final part of today is a challenge. A literal challenge. Namely, The Fly Challenge. In other words: the “can you cycle faster than a horsefly” challenge. Cycling 20 kilometres downhill in 30 minutes. We are curious to see if you dare take it on. If not, that is of course no problem. There are also vehicles that can take you down. And whether you take up the challenge or not: you will end up at the foot of Kidepo National Park. One of the most beautiful national parks in Uganda. Remote, unspoilt, and not yet discovered by tourists. A pearl where you experience the true African wilderness that you really do not want to miss.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Namoni Ecocamp Lodge / Kidepo Savannah Lodge
The heavy cycling on this tour in Uganda is over. Today you will go on a cycling safari through Kidepo National Park. A day where adrenaline regularly surges through your body as you stand just a stone’s throw away from wild animals. We set out with armed rangers. A gentle 20-kilometre ride awaits you. Gentler in terms of cycling, that is. Along the way, many zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, buffaloes, and even lions will cross our path. And as we said: that is truly thrilling! Day 13 of your tour is once again a day you will not easily forget.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Namoni Ecocamp Lodge / Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Today is dedicated to a long transfer towards the Amuka Rhino Safari accommodation. Along the way, you can let all the impressions of the past few days sink in and enjoy the beautiful landscapes as you peer out of the car window.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Amuka Safari Lodge
After breakfast, you will head to Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch, the proud home of the white rhinos. This ranch was founded in 2005 with the goal of bringing the white rhinos back from the south to their natural habitat in this area of Murchison Falls. You will go on foot in search of these wild animals, which can truly only be found in this specific spot in Uganda. Standing face to face with this extraordinary wild animal is guaranteed to be an amazing and unique experience.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Yellow Haven Lodge
Kampala will certainly take some getting used to. This bustling capital is—just like Rome—built on 7 hills and has no less than 2 million inhabitants. That is quite a change from the quiet environment of parks and forests you’ve experienced over the past few days. But of course, that makes it no less enjoyable. Kampala has both a traditional and a modern section. In the modern part, you will mainly find the nightlife, and in the traditional part, you will find cute, small shops where you can buy plenty of souvenirs. Be sure to climb the 300 steps to the Uganda National Mosque and enjoy the fantastic view over the city. Do you still have time and energy left for a real Kampala experience? Then hop on the back of a boda boda and let yourself be driven through the city’s busy traffic. But please note: pick a safe boda boda, one with a helmet and an orange vest. Naturally, you won’t just end this unforgettable trip without a proper send-off. In the evening, there is an extensive, communal dinner with local tastings and local beer. For the very last time, you will discuss all the incredibly beautiful moments of the past days together with the group. You will unanimously agree that this was an unforgettable experience. One that you would never have wanted to miss for the world.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Yellow Haven Lodge
With your suitcase, souvenirs, and all those beautiful memories, you will land back on home soil after a long flight. Tired but satisfied, you will look back on this fantastic trip. We are certain that you have taken Uganda into your heart. Are you secretly already looking forward to your next cycling tour?
Have you become just as enthusiastic about this cycling and group trip through Uganda as we are? Then take a look below to see what is included in the price.
During your mountain bike tour through Uganda, staying at unique accommodations is also important. A nice place to spend the night and a good bed should never be missing. On this tour through Uganda, we ensure that every day and night is a joy. The carefully selected accommodations will make your trip, we promise. CvA travel pays extra attention to choosing these accommodations for every tour. For the Uganda cycling and tour holidays, luxury and sustainability are often central. After all, it’s not just about the overnight stay, but rather the total experience of these trips. And let’s be honest: how great is it to unwind in a lovely spot with plenty of opportunities to relax and do activities after a hard day of cycling? Below is a selection of our accommodation gems. Good to know: The accommodations are chosen with an eye towards giving something back to the community.
Step inside the gates of this guesthouse and be enchanted. Because honestly, that is exactly what happens. Why? Because from moment one, you are blown away by the panoramic view. The garden is a lovely place to recover, relax, and above all, to just ‘be in the moment’.
At the foot of Mount Kadam and Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, you will find this special eco-camp, part of Karamoja Conservation Zones. This is an initiative that strives to restore biodiversity. In addition, economic opportunities are created for the community by hiring only local people. How wonderful is it to spend the night here and give something back by supporting this place with our stay?
Right in the heart of the Karamoja region, you will find the Karamoja Safari Camp. This accommodation forms the best base for our adventure within this pristine part of Uganda. During this overnight stay, you will sleep in a luxury glamping tent equipped with all conveniences. Never slept in a luxury tent before? Then this will be a very good first time.
Just a stone’s throw from one of the most beautiful national parks in Uganda—we are talking about Kidepo—you will find this accommodation. You could almost crawl on a safari from here, which also means the views from this lodge are truly fantastic. The vast Narus Valley, the striking Mount Morungole, and even the mountain ranges of South Sudan looming ahead lie before you. Do you believe us if we say you can spot elephants from the terrace? No? Then it’s time to discover it with your own eyes.
Close to the Kidepo National Park, you will find the Kaabong Resort Hotel. From here, you once again have a beautiful view of the Kaabong mountains. By the way, you will never have to be bored here, as there is plenty to do. Think of a visit to historical sights or local attractions, or wander through craft markets like a local.
This means you will cycle in a group with travellers of various fitness levels, which works effortlessly. Finding a stage too tough? Simply get into the support vehicle and join in again later. In the national parks, we always cycle together: safe and a special experience to share. If you are travelling with a fitter partner or companion, an e-mountain bike is ideal. This way, everyone cycles at their own pace, yet you still share the same unique experience. Our local guides know the terrain inside out, guide you along the most beautiful routes, and assess on the spot which paths best suit the group – always keeping the overall experience as the top priority.
This cycling trip is guaranteed to depart with a minimum of 4 participants. With 4 participants, you can count on 1 guide and 1 driver. Would you prefer to travel with your own custom-made group? We can organise a bespoke group trip starting from just four people. You decide the departure date and can add or shorten days, or adjust the route completely. Whether you opt for a relaxed version with e-mountain bikes, a sporty challenge, or an extreme journey – we ensure it perfectly matches your wishes.
You will set off with an experienced team. The guides know the region like the back of their hand and know exactly where the beautiful trails are. They are trained in bicycle maintenance (‘advanced mechanics’), so in the event of a breakdown, you will be helped quickly. The trip is fully catered, including meals, water, guides, park entrance fees, and transfers.
Bicycles: You can bring your own mountain bike (make sure it is ‘Africa proof’) or rent a bike from our fleet of Specialized mountain bikes and e-mountain bikes.
Safety: In the parks and border areas, we work together with rangers and local authorities to guarantee a safe trip.
Are you ready for a life-changing adventure? Discover the rugged northeast of Uganda by bike.
In other words: check the list below so that you are well-prepared when you set off on your cycling and group trip through Uganda. Below you will find a number of items that should not be missing from your suitcase. You will also find more information below about the required clothing. Because of the warm temperatures in Uganda, we mostly cycle in short clothing.
Itching to set off on an extraordinary ride? Can’t wait to hop on the saddle and explore your dream destination at your own pace? Take a look at all our cycling journeys below – or get in touch to request a tailor-made adventure designed just for you.
We hope to see you soon.
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