Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The Mountains of the Moon

The Rwenzori range rises steeply on the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Ptolemy is often said to have called them the Mountains of the Moon, and they’re the source of streams that feed the Nile. Mount Stanley’s Margherita Peak, at 5,109 m, is the third-highest point in Africa.

The mountains are green and wet. You climb through bamboo forest and moss-covered trees to heath with giant lobelias, groundsels and everlasting flowers, then to rocky terrain, glacial lakes and, at the top, snow. The vegetation zones make it one of the world’s most unusual mountain environments.

Treks

The Central Circuit is the classic route, taking seven to nine days. You loop through several valleys, sleep in mountain huts and pass lakes, bogs and high passes. The Kilembe Trail is a shorter alternative, taking around four to six days to reach the main lakes and viewpoints. Neither requires technical skills until you reach the summit of Margherita.

You’ll also find shorter hikes from the trailheads, and community-led hikes through the foothills, that suit people who don’t have a week to spare.

Weather

Expect rain at any time of year. The driest windows are December to February and June to July. Even then, clouds often hide the peaks, and the trails are muddy. Bring waterproof clothing, gaiters and dry bags. The mountains are cold at night at higher altitudes.

Getting there

The trailheads are about 30 to 40 minutes from Kasese, which is about 6 to 7 hours by road from Kampala. It’s an easy add-on to a western Uganda safari, near Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kibale. Trekkers are required to travel with a licensed guide and porters.

Costs

Park fees and huts are charged per day. Trekking companies provide guides, porters and food, and the total cost depends on how many days you trek. Because the trek requires porters and equipment, it’s more expensive per day than a standard hike, but usually cheaper than Kilimanjaro.

Who should go

The Rwenzori is for people who like mountains more than animals, who don’t mind mud and who want to be somewhere that few travellers go. For a first Uganda trip focused on wildlife, start with gorillas and chimps. For a second trip, or a longer one, the mountains are worth the effort.