Morungole Mountain Hike – Kidepo Valley Area, Northeastern Uganda
Difficulty
location
days
LIVE. LAUGH. TREK.
The Morungole Mountain Hike is one of Uganda’s most culturally rich and visually striking treks. Rising above the rugged plains of Kidepo Valley National Park, Mount Morungole is home to the Ik people, one of Uganda’s smallest and most remote ethnic groups.This hike blends demanding but rewarding trekking with deep cultural immersion. You’ll climb through pristine montane forests, rocky ridges, and sweeping savannah views, eventually reaching highland villages perched on Morungole’s slopes. This experience is perfect for travelers seeking adventure, culture, remote landscapes, and meaningful human connection.
DETAILED itinerary
Day 1: Morungole Mountain Hike – Visit to Ik Community After breakfast, drive from Kidepo to the trailhead. Meet your guide — often from the Ik community — for a briefing before beginning the ascent.The trail climbs gradually through wooded valleys, steep ridges, and open viewpoints overlooking the Karamoja plains and South Sudan’s distant mountains.Along the way, learn about the Ik way of life: their highland farming, traditional homesteads, music, marriage customs, and the challenges of living in this remote environment. Spend time interacting with families and exploring ridge-top villages before descending to the base.Trekking Time: 6–8 hoursHighlights: Ik cultural experience, stunning mountain scenery, panoramic Karamoja wildernessMeals: Packed Lunch (if provided)Optional: Overnight in Kidepo or add a second day for deeper cultural immersion.
BEST TIME TO GO
All Year Round
INCLUDED
Professional local guide(s)Community feesPacked lunch (if arranged)Park or trailhead transfers (if provided)Cultural experience fees
ADDTIONAL NOTES
What to Bring Strong hiking bootsBreathable clothingHat & sunscreenRain jacketSnacks & waterCamera for landscapes & cultural photosThis trek offers one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Uganda’s wilderness — a rare combination of mountain adventure and human connection.