Hit the Top of the World Trail near Kibale Forest
The Top of the World Hike takes you to villages, crater lakes, Tea Plantations, and incredible views.
The Top of the World Hike is for those that love stunning, panoramic views of Mountains, lakes, and the vast countryside. The trail is perfect for photographers that want to capture some of Uganda’s scenic wonders. Additionally, there is interaction with villagers along the path. The Top of the World Hike combines scenery with the culture, traditions of the local communities.
It is no wonder that it is a popular activity with visitors to Kibale Forest and Fort Portal.
Early morning, while it is still cool, as the sun rises, is the best time to hit the Top of the World Hiking Trail. The hike is doable by most with an average level of fitness,
With the top of the World hike, you have two choices. The first one is that you hike up and down. The second one is that you hike up, and your driver-guide will meet you at the top. There you can have lunch at a restaurant at the top.
Either way, it is one of Uganda’s rewarding and enjoyable hikes.
The Top of the World Hike starts at the tranquil crater Lake Nyabikere (meaning lake of frogs). Even from the starting point, you can see the Rwenzori Mountains on a cloudless day. We suggest an early sunrise hike. You will need a daypack, have a liter of bottled water with you, a snack, or a meal such as a freshly made Rolex, a most popular fast-food dish in Uganda, or some fresh fruit. Wear hiking boots, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, have a light rain jacket in your daypack. Additionally, a
broad-brimmed hat will protect you from the equatorial sun.
For support on the hike, a walking stick made of a thin wooden pole here can most often be obtained if you like to steady yourself when the trail is slippery from rain during the night.
There are two different trails that you can take to the top of the world viewpoint. There is the effortless way, which can even be taken by vehicle to the “Top of the World Cottages.”
The more challenging trail is what most choose to do. At your side will be an experienced and knowledgeable local guide. The guide will give you historical and cultural insights. You will learn about the formation of the crater lakes, the local legends, and the culture, which will make the three hours on the trail much more enjoyable.
Often you will be greeted with a friendly ‘How are you?” by many children you meet as you hike along the trail.
The trail takes you through hamlets with lush gardens, banana groves, coffee, and tea plantations. You will encounter plenty of people who are often carrying a load on their head whizzing by you while you. Meanwhile, you may be huffing and puffing on the same trail.
The second crater lake that you pass by is known for its solo hippo that can be spotted. Other times, it is the serenity of the crater lake where you might find a fisherman in a boat made of reeds.
The Top of the World Hike is not difficult for most. That is one reason it is popular.
The best thing is the views from the top of World hill. Hopefully, you have a cloudless day, and you can see the crater lakes below you, Fort Portal, the Rwenzori Mountains, Kibale Forest, and more.
While at the top, you can have lunch at a restaurant that is there. Afterward, you can descend to the starting point. Your driver-guide will meet you and return you to your lodge or continue to the next destination.
Further, you can choose to stay overnight in one of the cottages at the “top of the World.”
Let us know if you want to include the hike in your safari with us.
