Trekking to Mount Stanley in the Rwenzori Mountains typically takes longer than 5 days due to the distance, altitude gain, and the need to acclimatize to the high altitude. The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” are located on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Mount Stanley is the highest peak in the Rwenzori range.
Kasese Airstrip
Nyakalengija-RMS Offices, Kasese
Expect the trek to be physically demanding but equally rewarding, with each step unveiling the raw beauty of the Rwenzori Mountains. Proper gear, physical preparation, and a sense of adventure are key to fully enjoying this spectacular journey. Whether you’re an enthusiastic trekker or looking to push your limits, the two-day trek from Nyakalengijo to Nyabitaba Hut to John Matte Camp and back promises a rewarding experience filled with breathtaking moments and the pure excitement of mountain trekking.
Day 1: Nyakalengija (1,450m) to Nyabitaba Hut (2,652m)
Day 2: Nyabitaba Hut (2,652m) to John Matte Hut (3,414m)
Day 3: John Matte Hut (3,414m) to Bujuku Hut (3,962m)
Day 4: Bujuku Hut (3,962m) to Elena Hut (4,541m)
Day 5: Summit attempt of Mount Stanley (5,109m) and descent to Kitandara Hut (4,023m)
Day 6: Kitandara Hut (4,023m) to Guy Yeoman Hut (3,261m)
Day 7: Guy Yeoman Hut (3,261m) to Nyabitaba Hut (2,652m) and Nyakalengija (1,450m)
Start the trek from the Nyakalengija trailhead. Hike through the montane forest, crossing the Mahoma River.
Arrive at Nyabitaba Hut, where you will spend the night.
Enjoy your breakfast and continue trekking through the forest zone, passing through the Kurt Shafer Bridge. Ascend through the bamboo zone and heather zone. Reach John Matte Hut for overnight stay.
Enjoy your breakfast and trek through the giant heather zone and traverse the Bigo Bog.
Ascend steeply to the Bujuku Valley. Arrive at Bujuku Hut, situated near the Bujuku Lake where you will eat dinner and overnight sleep.
Enjoy your breakfast and climb steeply through the Scott Elliot Pass.
Traverse the Upper Bigo Bog and Lake Bujuku. Arrive at Elena Hut, located near the base of Mount Stanley where you will eat dinner and then overnight.
Rise up early, enjoy your breakfast and start early for the summit attempt, typically targeting Margherita Peak, the highest point on Mount Stanley.
Descend back to Elena Hut. Continue descent to Kitandara Hut, passing through the Kitandara Lakes.
Dinner and overnight at Kitandara hut.
Enjoy your breakfast and descend through the Scott Elliot Pass. Pass through the Bujongolo Cave and the rock shelter at Kabamba.
Arrive at Guy Yeoman Hut for overnight stay.
Enjoy your breakfast and descend through the bamboo and heather zones. Cross the Kurt Shafer Bridge and hike through the forest.
Return to Nyakalengija trailhead, marking the end of the trek.
Please note that this itinerary can vary depending on weather conditions, group pace, and individual acclimatization needs. It’s crucial to have proper gear, including warm clothing and rain gear, as weather conditions in the Rwenzori Mountains can be unpredictable. Additionally, it’s advisable to trek with a licensed guide or through a reputable tour operator for safety and support during the trek.
