Hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains

Tour Overview
Hike through the stunning Rwenzori Mountains, the 'Mountains of the Moon'.
Destination: Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Duration: 7 days
Price: $2,000.00
"Experience the breathtaking beauty of Uganda!"
— Your Unforgettable Adventure Awaits
Diverse Itineraries
Wildlife Encounters
Cultural Immersion
Stunning Landscapes
Detailed Itinerary
Day | Activity / Description |
---|---|
1 |
Arrival at Entebbe Airport & Transfer to Kasese/Nyakalengija Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), you will be met by your safari guide. Begin a scenic full-day road transfer to Kasese town, the gateway to the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. The journey takes approximately 7-9 hours, with stops for lunch and stretching. Check into your accommodation near Nyakalengija (the park's starting point) for dinner and overnight, preparing for the trek ahead. This day is crucial for travel and pre-trek arrangements. |
2 |
Nyakalengija (1615m) to Nyabitaba Hut (2651m) After an early breakfast, transfer to the Rwenzori Mountaineering Services (RMS) headquarters in Nyakalengija for briefing, equipment check, and meeting your team of guides and porters. Begin the trek through cultivated farmland and forest, crossing the Mubuku River. Ascend to Nyabitaba Hut (2651m). The trail is relatively gentle on this day, offering good views and a chance to acclimatize. (Approx. 5-6 hours hiking) |
3 |
Nyabitaba Hut (2651m) to John Matte Hut (3505m) Descend through the forest to the Kurt Shafer Bridge, below the confluence of the Mubuku and Bujuku Rivers. The trail then passes through bamboo forest, traversing a long stretch of slippery, moss-covered rocks. Views of Mount Stanley and Mount Speke may be seen from Nyamuleju rock shelter before entering the zone of giant heather, lobelia, and groundsel. Reach John Matte Hut (3505m). (Approx. 7-8 hours hiking) |
4 |
John Matte Hut (3505m) to Bujuku Hut (3962m) From John Matte Hut, the trail drops to cross the Bujuku River and enters the Lower Bigo Bog, the home of giant lobelias. Navigate the bog, jumping from tussock to tussock (expect some wet feet!). Cross the Upper Bigo Bog to Bujuku Lake, with views of Mount Baker to the South and Mount Stanley to the West. Reach Bujuku Hut (3962m), well-situated for acclimatization. (Approx. 4-5 hours hiking) |
5 |
Bujuku Hut (3962m) to Elena Hut (4541m) Leaving Bujuku, the trail continues through more boggy sections while climbing the steep slopes west of the lake and through the magical Groundsel Gully. Ascend to the Scott Elliot Pass (4372m). A metal ladder helps over a steep section. Take the right trail towards Elena Hut (4541m), situated on a rocky outcrop of Mount Stanley, offering stunning views (weather permitting). This is the base camp for the summit attempt. (Approx. 5-6 hours hiking) |
6 |
Summit Day: Elena Hut (4541m) to Margherita Peak (5109m) and Descend to Kitandara Hut (4023m) Very early morning ascent to Margherita Peak (5109m) on Mount Stanley. This involves crossing glaciers (requiring crampons and ice axe), slippery rock, and exposed areas. After reaching the summit and enjoying the breathtaking views, descend back to Elena Hut for a brief rest and lunch. Continue descent via Scott Elliot Pass to Kitandara Hut (4023m), known for its scenic lakes. (Approx. 8-12 hours for summit and descent) |
7 |
Kitandara Hut (4023m) to Guy Yeoman Hut (3505m) to Nyakalengija (1615m) & Departure Descend from Kitandara Hut, often passing through the Freshfield Pass. Continue the long descent through the bamboo forest, traversing slippery paths and steep rocks back to Guy Yeoman Hut. From Guy Yeoman, continue the final descent to Nyakalengija (1615m), the park gate. Collect your certificates, thank your porters and guides, and then transfer back to Kasese or begin the drive back to Entebbe Airport for your evening departure flight or an overnight stay in Entebbe (depending on flight timing). (Approx. 8-10 hours hiking and transfer) |