Hiking Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon

Discovery Journeys To The Mountain of the Moon!

Hiking Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains features on the bucket list of many mountain hikers. The Rwenzori Mountains are block mountain ranges along the Uganda and Democratic of Congo Border. The highest peak of these mountain ranges Margherita stands at 5,109 meters above sea level. It is Africa’s third highest mountain peak after Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro respectively. Hiking these snow-capped mountains is truly remarkable and one of the best Uganda safari experiences.

These ranges are a water catchment area and are believed to be the highest source of the Great Nile River. Hiking Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains enables you to learn about the mountain’s significance in the climate and socioeconomic welfare of the people of East Africa.

Rwenzori Mountain ranges comprise several mountain peaks and a hike to any of these is adventurous. The mountains have glacial features some of which receding because of climate change. This is a very unique feature for a mountain range along the Equator within the tropics. It is only right to hike Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains to discover more about the wildlife and mountain ecosystem in general.

Rwenzori Mountain Hiking Itinerary Options

Hiking the Rwenzori mountains can be customized starting from a one-day Hike to more. It all comes back to your preferences and physical fitness. The one-day Rwenzori Mountain hike enables you explore the wildlife in the Afro-montane forest along the mountains lower slopes. This starts from around 1,450 meters above sea level. In the forest, you see several primates and birds and many other large mammal species if lucky. Some of the primate species you can see here include chimpanzees, blue monkeys, and reptiles including the rare three-horned chameleon.

This one-day hike is a steady ascent and mountain descent that also provides impressive scenic views. For more mountain exploration it is however recommended to have a 5 to 8-day Rwenzori mountain hiking adventure. Each of the Rwenzori Hiking expeditions is done to a certain mountain point.

The 8-Day Rwenzori Hike

The 8-day Uganda Rwenzori Mountain Hike is to the Margherita peak. It can be covered in 6 or 5 days by well-experienced and physically fit mountain climbers.

The 8-day Rwenzori Hike is a bit more relaxed and enables you to explore the mountain fully. Day one of this Uganda Rwenzori Mountains adventure starts at 1,450 meters. The adventure goes through the montane forests with an overnight at the Sine Hut at 2,596 meters above sea level. Depending on one’s fitness, there is a possibility of hiking to the Kalalama camp at 3,134 meters above sea level. At this mountain level, you would have already started having the incredible mountain views.

From the Sine Hut or Kalalama Camp, the hike proceeds through the bamboo zone to the Mutinda Camp. From Mutinda you hike through the boggy trail to Bugata Camp which is at 4,100 meters above sea level. On this trail, you will see giant lobelias and other unique plants. The hike gets more fun and adventurous as you ascend to Hunwick’s Camp which has incredible views of Mt Stanley, Mt Baker, and Weismanns Peak. Since the ultimate goal is to reach the summit the hike continues till one reaches peak, Margherita.

Hiking Gear for A Uganda Rwenzori Mountain Hike.

To successfully hike Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains you must pack the right hiking gear. Rwenzori Mountain hiking has become strenuous because climate changes lead to changes in landscapes because of the receding glaciers. The necessary Hiking gear include raincoats, heavy winter coats, hiking ropes, crampons, and torches Among others. Some of the hiking gear can be hired by the mountaineering service providers.

When planning to hike the mountain you do not just have to be physically fit but a little familiar with the use of ropes and crampons. The Mountain top is fully covered with ice and having an experience in the use of an ice axe is an added advantage. All Rwenzori hikes are monitored by experienced mountain guides and you can still be guided in case you are a first timer.

It is also vital to follow the guidelines issued by your hiking guide for your safety while on the mountain.

Best time for Rwenzori Hiking

Mountain Rwenzori can be hiked any time of the year but for the best experiences, it is recommended to hike in the dry months. These span from June to August and from December to February. Hiking in the dry season is a bit easy with minimal rainfall disturbances. It is also a great time for photography especially in the mountains that are truly less traveled paths.

We have led several expeditions to the mountains of the moon and can help you plan accordingly. Our 11-day Rwenzori hiking adventure is one of the best Uganda mountain hiking safaris you can take. This is fully dedicated to the mountain hike and on it, you can fully cover the major wildlife species and iconic features in the mountain. You can combine the mountain hike with other Uganda safari experiences including Primate trekking adventures with chimpanzees and mountain gorillas.

Apart from the Rwenzori mountains, East Africa has other mountain trekking experiences including Mount Kilimanjaro. Mount Kilimanjaro is situated in Tanzania and is Africa’s highest peak. Mount Kenya which has Africa’s second-highest Peak is another incredible mountain hiking and trekking adventure you can take. All these mountain hikes are at the center of open savannas where you can have a classic savanna wildlife safari.