10 Day Uganda Marathon, Volunteer and Gorilla Tour
This 10-day Uganda marathon, volunteer and gorilla tour is designed for travelers who want more than a standard safari. The experience combines time in the Masaka region for community volunteering and Uganda Marathon activities with a final extension to Bwindi for gorilla trekking. Along the way, you engage with local projects, join race-related events, experience the atmosphere of marathon day, and finish the journey with one of Uganda’s most memorable wildlife encounters. This itinerary suits active and socially minded travelers who want to combine purpose, adventure, and meaningful travel in Uganda.
Safari Highlights
- 10-day Uganda itinerary combining volunteering, marathon participation, and gorilla trekking
- Arrival and departure support in Kampala
- Transfer to Masaka with Equator stop and local orientation
- Two dedicated volunteer and community project days
- Participation in Kids Run Wild activities
- Uganda Marathon event experience and race day
- Transfer to Bwindi after the Masaka program
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Suitable for travelers seeking a purposeful Uganda travel experience
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kampala, Airport Transfer and Hotel Check-in
On arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met by a representative from AA Safaris and Tours and transferred to your hotel in Kampala. This is a light arrival day designed to allow you to rest after your flight. Depending on your arrival time, you may relax at the hotel or take a short walk around the nearby areas. Overnight at Holiday Express Hotel
Day 2: Transfer to Masaka, Equator Visit and Community Orientation
After breakfast, depart Kampala and drive toward Masaka with a stop at the Equator for photos and a short demonstration. Continue to Masaka where you will meet the Uganda Marathon team and local staff. Spend the afternoon learning about the community projects you will be involved in, including introductions to local culture, language basics, and everyday life in the area. This day helps you settle in and understand the purpose of the volunteering activities ahead
Day 3: Community Volunteer Project Day, Local Engagement Activities
Today you begin your volunteer experience by working on selected community projects. Activities may include supporting a piggery project for elderly residents, helping improve school facilities such as painting playgrounds, or assisting small local businesses with basic development ideas. You will spend time interacting with local people, understanding their challenges, and contributing directly to ongoing projects.
Day 4: Continued Volunteer Work and Community Impact Projects
Continue with your volunteer work, building on the previous day’s activities. This second day allows you to go deeper into the projects, see progress, and strengthen your connection with the community. It also provides a more meaningful experience than a short visit, as you engage in real, ongoing work.
Day 5: Kids Run Wild Event, Community Marathon Experience
Today you take part in the Kids Run Wild event organized by the Uganda Marathon team. Schools, orphanages, and local community groups gather for this event, creating a lively and meaningful atmosphere. You will help organize the event, participate in the run, and assist in handing out prizes such as medals, books, and learning materials. This is one of the most interactive and rewarding community days of the itinerary.
Day 6: Project Talks, Cultural Sessions and Race Preparation Day
Today is a lighter day designed for rest and preparation before the marathon. Attend talks and sessions led by project leaders, where you learn more about how the Uganda Marathon supports local initiatives. This is also a chance to reflect on your volunteer experience. Later in the day, relax by the pool or explore the town. In the evening, attend a pasta party and pre-race briefing where the race and medical teams explain the next day’s event.
Day 7: Uganda Marathon Race Day Experience
Race day begins early, with the marathon starting at 7 am. Run through scenic routes around Masaka, passing local communities where residents and children cheer you on. The atmosphere is energetic and supportive, making this a memorable experience. After the race, enjoy the finish line celebrations, followed by relaxation, recovery, and evening activities with other participants
Day 8: Transfer from Masaka to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, depart Masaka and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The journey takes about 7 hours, passing through rural landscapes and scenic countryside. Arrive in the afternoon and check in at your lodge, with time to rest before the next day’s trek. Overnight at Gorilla Mist Camp
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for briefing before starting your gorilla trek. The trek can take between 2 and 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. Once found, you will spend one hour observing them in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to the starting point and transfer back to your lodge.
Day 10: Transfer from Bwindi to Kampala, Departure
After breakfast, begin the return journey to Kampala. The drive takes about 7 to 9 hours, with a stop for lunch along the way. On arrival, continue to the airport for your onward flight. End of your Uganda marathon, volunteer, and gorilla tour.
Inclusions and exclusions
Inclusions
- Airport pick up and drop off
- Ground transfers throughout the itinerary
- Accommodation
- Community and volunteer program participation
- Uganda Marathon event support and linked activities
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Packed lunch and drinking water
- English-speaking driver guide and local coordination support
Exclusions
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Porter fees during gorilla trekking
- Tips and personal expenses
- Optional donations beyond the structured volunteer program
- Drinks and extras