Hiking Mount Imatong: A 6-Day Adventure Through the Southern Route

After a hearty breakfast, we'll venture eastward, journeying for approximately 2.30 hours to reach Torit, the capital of Eastern Equatoria State. Upon arrival, we'll take a well-deserved break at Hotel Torit, enjoying a delicious lunch while our guide secures the necessary tour permits from the state authorities.

Following this essential step, we'll continue our adventure for another 3 hours, heading towards Katire Town Center, the heartland of the Imatong people. Once we arrive, we'll check into the comfortable Imo Resort for the night.

After a relaxing coffee break, we'll embark on a captivating nature walk along the banks of the Kinyeti River. Our exploration will include a visit to a stunning waterfall and a glimpse of historic British buildings dating back to the Second World War.

We'll then delve into the vibrant heart of Katire Town Center, where we'll encounter a fascinating blend of cultures. Katire is home to people from various ethnic groups, including the Lango, Lotuko, Acholi, Madi, and Kakwa. This cultural tapestry adds a unique richness to our exploration.

Accommodation: Imo Resort

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner

Our day begins at dawn, as we set off on a scenic drive to Gilo Forest, a lumbering site nestled within the mountain range. The winding road, carved by the British during the Second World War, takes us through breathtaking landscapes. Upon reaching the lumbering compound, our guide and helpers will arrange our luggage while the drivers return to the resort.

From here, our adventure truly begins. We embark on a 3-hour hike through the dense forest, immersing ourselves in the lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna. The mountain slopes are adorned with pine and eucalyptus plantations, a testament to the British influence in the region.

We enjoy our packed lunch amidst the serene beauty of the first village we encounter, ensuring we stay hydrated with the provided drinking water throughout our journey. After a brief nature walk within the village, we continue our ascent, traversing through picturesque landscapes for another 3 hours.

Our destination is the village of the traditional healer, where we'll spend the night. This unique encounter promises to offer insights into the local culture and traditions.

Accommodation: Tent

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner

We awaken at the break of dawn, eager to embark on the final ascent to the summit of Mount Imatong. Before departing, we enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with some light snacks.

The traditional healer performs a sacred ritual in our presence, invoking the blessings of the mountain gods and ensuring our safe ascent. This tradition is a vital part of respecting the mountain's spiritual significance and averting any potential adverse weather conditions.

As we venture deeper into the thick forest, we encounter the house beneath the rock where the first Imatong man resided. The sons of the traditional healer, accompanied by our guide, leave offerings of tobacco at the house to honor the spirits of this revered ancestor.

Continuing our ascent, we reach the summit, where the sons of the healer once again lead the way to pay respects at the traditional rocky house built by the first Imatong man. We follow suit, leaving behind a few stones as a token of our respect and reverence.

The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, rewarding us for our arduous climb. After exploring the summit's majestic beauty, we descend back to the camp for a well-deserved lunch.

Our adventure continues as we head back to the village of the paramount chief, where we'll relax and spend the night. A traditional evening dance awaits us, providing a fitting conclusion to our unforgettable journey.

Accommodation: Tent

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner

We rise early at 5 AM, ready to embark on our return journey to Juba. The drive back takes approximately five hours, during which we can reflect on the incredible experiences we've had in the Imatong Mountains.

Upon arriving in Juba, we'll check into our hotel for the night. If time permits, we may even have the opportunity to explore the city and discover some of its hidden gems. As our adventure comes to a close, we bid farewell to South Sudan, carrying with us unforgettable memories of its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

Accommodation

• Budget: La Mer Inn
• Midrange: Royal Palace
• Luxury: Radisson Blu

On our final day, we'll savour a delicious breakfast before embarking on a city tour of Juba. We'll explore the city's vibrant streets, discover historical landmarks, and immerse ourselves in the local culture.

As the day draws to a close, we'll head to the airport to board our flight back home. We depart South Sudan with hearts filled with gratitude for the unforgettable experiences and memories we've created.