Embarking on a 3 peak hike in the Rwenzori Mountains via the Central Circuit offers an exhilarating adventure through some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 9-day journey.
Kasese Airstrip
Nyakalengija-RMS Offices, Kasese
Led by experienced guides, expect to encounter unique flora and fauna, marvel at stunning vistas, and immerse yourself in the wild beauty surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage site
Day 1: Arrival in Kasese
Day 2: Nyakalengija (Trailhead) to Nyabitaba Camp
Day 3: Nyabitaba Camp to John Matte Camp
Day 4: John Matte Camp to Bujuku Hut
Day 5: Bujuku Hut to Elena Hut
Day 6: Summit Attempt – Mount Speke (4,890m)
Day 7: Summit Attempt – Mount Baker (4,842m)
Day 8: Summit Attempt – Margherita Peak (5,109m) and Descent to Nyakalengija
Day 9: Departure
Arrive in Kasese, the gateway to the Rwenzori Mountains. Transfer to your accommodation, meet with your guide, and prepare for the trek. Spend the rest of the day resting and acclimatizing.
Dinner and overnight in Kasese.
Enjoy your breakfast and start your trek from Nyakalengija, the trailhead for the Central Circuit. Trek through montane forest, crossing the Mahoma River, to reach Nyabitaba Camp. Overnight at Nyabitaba Camp.
Continue your ascent through the forest zone, encountering various bird species and primates along the way. Ascend steeply through bamboo and heather zones to reach John Matte Camp. Overnight at John Matte Camp.
Enjoy your breakfast and trek through giant lobelias and heather as you ascend further into the Rwenzoris. Pass by Lake Bujuku, surrounded by dramatic scenery, and arrive at Bujuku Hut near the shores of the lake. Overnight at Bujuku Hut.
Ascend steeply to Scott Elliott Pass, offering panoramic views of Mount Stanley and Mount Baker. Continue to Elena Hut, the base camp for the summit attempts of Mount Stanley’s three peaks. Overnight at Elena Hut.
Enjoy your breakfast and begin the early morning summit attempt of Mount Speke, one of the three main peaks of the Rwenzoris. Ascend the steep slopes, navigating glaciers and rocky ridges. Reach the summit of Mount Speke and enjoy breathtaking views. Descend back to Elena Hut for overnight stay.
Embark on the early morning summit attempt of Mount Baker, another of the three main peaks of the Rwenzoris. Ascend the challenging terrain to reach the summit of Mount Baker. Enjoy the stunning vistas before descending back to Elena Hut for overnight stay
Enjoy your breakfast and begin the early morning summit attempt of Margherita Peak, the highest peak in the Rwenzori Mountains. Ascend the steep slopes, navigating glaciers and rocky ridges. Reach the summit of Margherita Peak (weather permitting), and enjoy the unparalleled views. Descend back to Nyakalengija. Overnight at Nyakalengija or return to Kasese.
Pack up your luggage and Transfer to Kasese for departure or onward journey. This will mark the end of your safari.
This itinerary provides a challenging but rewarding adventure, allowing you to conquer the three main peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains via the Central Circuit route. Be sure to pack appropriately for high-altitude trekking and varying weather conditions, and consider hiring experienced guides and porters for support along the way.
