Mount Napak Hiking & Trekking

Mount Napak Hiking & Trekking

Hiking and trekking Mount Napak (2,520m) on your Uganda Safari is an exciting off-the-beaten-path alternative to other mountains in the country.

Reasons to Hike Mount Napak

Mount Napak (2,520m) is Karamoja’s third highest mountain and known for it’s steepness and lush vegetation that makes it the toughest mountain to climb in northeast Uganda. Due it’s location bordering the Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, you’re up for breathtaking panoramic views of the Karamoja planes and distance mountain ranges.

Beyond the rewarding views and walking through the untouched forest, Mount Napak offers a cultural experience. The fertile foothills are home to the Bokora Clan of the Karamojong people. Your local guides will introduce you to several villages along the trail, sharing insights into the lifestyle and customs of the community.

Getting around

The night before the Mount Napak Hiking & Trekking we set camp at the foot of the mountain (1hr drive from Moroto and 2hr drive from Soroti town). The hike is guided by experienced local guides and porters are available on request. Food, snacks, camping gear and water is included.

How difficult is Hiking Mount Napak?

Hiking Mount Napak is a Challenging adventure which presents a demanding and rewarding adventure, best suited for experienced hikers with a strong fitness level. While some initial sections might offer moderate challenges, the overall trek is considered difficult due to the combination of altitude gain, rugged terrain, and extended duration.

• Significant altitude gains
• Rugged terrain: Steep trails, rocky paths, bushy sections, and uneven surfaces demand sure-footedness and stamina.
• Remote location: Limited access to amenities and potentially unpredictable weather conditions (April-September) add to the challenge.

Preparation

We strongly recommend that participants have prior hiking experience and a good level of fitness. Proper hiking gear, including sturdy boots, layered clothing, and a reliable backpack, is essential. Our experienced guides will ensure your safety and provide support throughout the trek.

Mount Napak Hiking Trail

Mount Napak Trail Diary

Section 1: Foothills and Initial Ascent

The hike starts at the foot of the mountain passing through community gardens and changing into rocky trails with gradual to moderate inclines at the mountain. The trail steadily gains elevation through the woodlands with minor shade.

Hikers thereafter will face a significantly increases in difficulty with less clear trails and, steep inclines, rocky paths and dense vegetation. Hikers will face demanding climbs requiring stamina and sure-footedness, with possible scrambling or basic rock climbing in certain areas.

As altitude increases steadily, the terrain becomes even more rugged, featuring exposed rocky areas and challenging rock formations. This section tests endurance, offering panoramic views as a reward. Potential for strong winds and temperature fluctuations adds to the challenge.

The final approach to the summit plateau involves navigating rocky ridges and with rain slippery rock formations. The vegetation opens up on the summit plateau and changes from woodland to grassland until reaching the summit.

Mount Napak Hiking Prices

Expectations

Included

• Experienced guides
• Porters for camping equipment and meals (not for personal items)
• Community and Conservation Contributions
• Seasonal available snacks, fruits, packed lunch, water and mango juice during the hike.

Excluded

• Transport to and from the hike starting point in Iriiri town.
• Personal expenditures and tips
• Porters for personal items (ability to book as extra)
• Accommodation before and after the trek. We recommend to sleep in Moroto (90min drive) or camp at the base of the mountain.

What to bring

• Day pack
• Walking sticks
• Water bladder of 3L
• Waterproof Head Torch
• Quick dry trouser and shirt with folding arms for hiking
• Warm windproof jacket / Fleece jacket
• Rainproof poncho during rainy season
• Light gloves and hat for the chilly hours of the day (rainy season)
• Hiking boots with good grip and ankle support for trail sections with loose stones and steep rock-faces.
• Suncream, cap and/or scarf

What to expect

• The mountain is untouched and undeveloped, it therefore does not have well defined trails and washroom or resting places.
• Guests carry their own snacks, 3L water and personal belongings for each day during the trek.
• Daytime temperature rises to 35C and evenings and mornings can be windy and as cold as 8C.
• Grass is tall and stinging plants in some sections of the trail so wear something that covers body parts.