Hiking the Rwenzori Mountains is not just a physical journey; it’s a soul-stirring odyssey through one of Africa’s last true wilderness areas. As you lace up your boots and set foot on the trail, you’re embarking on an adventure that will push your limits, expand your horizons, and leave an indelible mark on your spirit.
Imagine standing at the base of these legendary peaks, where mist-shrouded forests give way to towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The air is alive with the sounds of nature – the trill of birdsong, the rustle of leaves, the distant roar of rivers carving their way through the landscape. Each step forward is a testament to your resilience, your determination to conquer the unknown and embrace the wild.
Day 1: Arrival and transfer to Kasese
On arrival at Entebbe international port, your guide will welcome you to the airport and set off to Kasese, a town located near the Rwenzori Mountains.
Check into your accommodation and spend the day relaxing and acclimatizing to the altitude.
Take a leisurely stroll around Kasese town or around the hills and river banks of river Nyamwamba, soaking in the local atmosphere and preparing for your trek.
Day 2: Start the Hiking at Nyakalengija (Starting Point)
After breakfast, transfer to Nyakalengija, the starting point for your Rwenzori mountain trek.
Meet your guides and porters, complete registration formalities, and attend a briefing about the trek.
Begin your hike through the dense forest, following the trail to Nyabitaba Hut (2,651 meters) where you’ll spend the night.
Day 3: Nyabitaba Hut to John Matte Hut
Depart Nyabitaba Hut after breakfast and continue your ascent through the forest.
Trek past waterfalls, bamboo forests, and moss-covered trees as you make your way to John Matte Hut (3,414 meters).
Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and spend the night at John Matte Hut.
Day 4: John Matte Hut to Bujuku Hut
Today’s trek takes you through the magical Giant Lobelia and Senecio zone.
Ascend steep slopes and cross over the Bujuku River as you make your way to Bujuku Hut (3,977 meters), nestled in a picturesque valley.
Marvel at the stunning views of Mount Stanley and Mount Speke from Bujuku Hut, your accommodation for the night.
Day 5: Bujuku Hut to Elena Hut (Optional Summit Attempt)
For those attempting the summit, wake up early and begin the challenging ascent to Elena Hut (4,540 meters), the base camp for the summit push.
The trek to Elena Hut involves navigating rocky terrain and crossing the glacier before reaching the hut.
Rest and acclimatize at Elena Hut in preparation for the summit attempt.
Day 6: Summit Day (Margherita Peak) and Descent to Kitandara Hut
Rise before dawn for the summit push to Margherita Peak (5,109 meters), the highest point in the Rwenzori Mountains.
Begin the challenging ascent, navigating snow and ice as you make your way to the summit.
Enjoy breathtaking views from the top before beginning your descent back to Elena Hut.
Continue trekking to Kitandara Hut (4,023 meters), where you’ll spend the night.
Day 7: Kitandara Hut to Nyakalengija
Descend from Kitandara Hut to Nyabitaba Hut, retracing your steps through the diverse landscapes of the Rwenzori Mountains.
Say farewell to your guides and porters at Nyakalengija and transfer to your lodge.
Freshen up, enjoy a warm dinner and have a great night
Day 8: Departure
After your breakfast, you will checkout and set off for Entebbe to catch your flight back home.