Rwenzori Mountains National Park

At a glance

• Where: Western Uganda, on the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, near Kasese.
• Status: A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Highest point: Margherita Peak, about 5,100 metres, on Mount Stanley.
• Best for: Multi-day treks, mountain scenery, birds and rare plants.
• Suggested stay: A day walk, or six to nine days for the main circuit.

Trekking options

• Short walks and day hikes in the lower forest, with guides from the park headquarters. A good option if you want a taste of the mountains.
• Central Circuit. The classic multi-day trek, moving through forest, bamboo, heath and moorland and staying in mountain huts.
• Kilembe trail. A more demanding route with high-altitude scenery.
• Margherita Peak. The summit climb needs glacier equipment and experienced guides, and it is not for first-time hikers.

Vegetation zones

The slopes change with altitude. Montane forest gives way to bamboo, then to heather and giant erica, and finally to moorland with giant lobelias and groundsel that grow nowhere else in such size. Many bird and plant species here occur only in the Albertine Rift, which makes the range a draw for botanists and birders.

How hard is it?

Multi-day treks are tough. Trails are often wet and muddy, huts are simple, and altitude affects most people above about 3,500 metres. You need good fitness, waterproof gear and warm clothing. Tell us your experience and we suggest the right route, with extra days for acclimatisation.

Best time to visit

The drier months, December to February and June to July, are the most comfortable. The mountains make their own weather and rain can fall in any month, so pack for cold and wet.

Adding Rwenzori to a Uganda trip

Rwenzori lies north of Queen Elizabeth National Park, near the western loop. A one- or two-day walk fits easily between Kibale and Queen Elizabeth. A full circuit is a separate trip that we can place before or after your gorilla trek.

Frequently asked questions