The Rwenzori Mountains, located on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, are often referred to as the “Mountains of the Moon” due to their stunning beauty and mystique. One of the most exhilarating ways to experience this majestic range is through an eight-day trekking adventure.
Below is a detailed itinerary on what you can expect on an eight-day Rwenzori trekking expedition:
Kasese Airstrip
Nyakalengijo-RMS Offices, Kasese
Throughout this immersive journey, expect to traverse a variety of terrains, from dense rainforests alive with the sounds of exotic birds to rugged alpine fields beautified with colorful wildflowers.
Arrive in Kasese, the gateway to the Rwenzori Mountains, either by road from Kampala or by air to Kasese Airport. Meet your guide and transfer to your accommodation for resting and preparation for the next day.
Overnight stay in Kasese.
After breakfast, transfer to Nyakalengija, the starting point of the trek. Meet the guides and porters, obtain permits, and begin the ascent. Trek through lush montane forest to Nyabitaba Hut, the first overnight stop on the central circuit route.
Distance: Approximately 9 kilometers.
Duration: 4-6 hours.
Overnight stay and dinner at Nyabitaba Hut.
Enjoy your morning tea and depart at Nyabitaba Hut, continue ascending through the forest and heather zone. Pass through the Kurt Shaffer Bridge and traverse the Bujuku River. Reach John Matte Hut, situated in the middle of the heather zone.
Distance: Approximately 11 kilometers.
Duration: 6-7 hours.
Overnight stay and dinner at John Matte Hut.
Enjoy your breakfast and Continue to the ascent through the Alpine Zone, passing through the Bigo Bog. Enjoy lunch and Ascend to Lake Bujuku, surrounded by towering peaks and lobelias. Arrive at Bujuku Hut, nestled beneath Mount Baker and Mount Speke.
Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers.
Duration: 4-5 hours.
Overnight stay and dinner at Bujuku Hut.
On this day, you will Rest and acclimatize at Bujuku Hut. Optional side trips to Lake Bujuku or Mount Speke for acclimatization purposes.
Overnight stay and dinner at Bujuku Hut.
Enjoy your tea and Ascend steeply to Scott Elliot Pass, passing through high alpine vegetation. Have lunch and traverse the Bujuku Valley and climb up to Elena Hut.
Distance: Approximately 4 kilometers.
Duration: 3-4 hours.
Overnight stay at Elena Hut.
Early morning take your coffee and start the summit attempt of Margherita Peak, the highest peak in the Rwenzori Mountains. Descend back to Elena Hut and continue to Kitandara Hut.
Distance: Approximately 12 kilometers.
Duration: 10-12 hours (summit day).
Overnight stay at Kitandara Hut.
On this day, you will start your day by taking breakfast and descend through the Fresh field Pass, passing through the beautiful Nyamutere Valley. Have lunch and continue the descent to Guy Yeoman Hut.
Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers.
Duration: 5-6 hours.
Overnight stay at Guy Yeoman Hut.
Enjoy your tea in the morning and make your final descent through the forest to Nyakalengija.
Meet your car and driver and transfer back to Kasese.
This itinerary provides a comprehensive climbing experience in the Rwenzori Mountains, including summiting Margherita Peak, the highest point in the range. It’s essential to be well-prepared, physically fit, and properly equipped for high-altitude climbing. Additionally, hiring experienced guides and porters is recommended for safety and support during the ascent.
