Best Route to Hike Mountain Rwenzori
The best route to hike Mount Rwenzori depends on climbers’ and hikers’ experience and the time available to conquer the spectacular peaks and valleys. But for novice hikers, the Central Circuit trail is the best hiking trail to embark on. The Central Circuit Trail provides a challenging yet enriching climbing experience. Experienced climbers can opt for the challenging Margherita Peak trail. In this guide to the best route for hiking Mount Rwenzori, expect to explore the different trails, each offering unique insights.
The Best Routes to Hike on Mt Rwenzori
When it comes to hiking expeditions, Mount Rwenzori never disappoints. Every climber has an option for where to begin their hike. Top hiking routes to conquer and usher you to the stunning summit views include the Kilembe trail, the Central circuit, and the Bukurungu trail.
The Central Circuit
The Central Circuit is a traditional hiking trail that any enthusiastic climber shouldn’t miss conquering on the Rwenzori Mountaineering adventure. This route is perfect for both first-time climbers and experienced climbers to conquer. It introduces tourists to the scenic Margherita Peak. The Margherita peak lies at the stunning Mount Stanley (5109m), and a hiking expedition to the summit can take about 7 to 9 days. It comes with multiple sites to appreciate along the way, including views of Weismann’s Peak and the Bujuku Valley. At the summits, climbers are mesmerised by the breathtaking views of Margherita Peak.
The Central Circuit traverses various spots, including five distinct vegetation zones, gorges, and the rocky slopes of the spectacular Stanley Mountain. It should be noted that the Central Circuit offers shorter hikes and quick access to the famous Margherita peak. As you traverse the Central Circuit, you may also come across the boggy path, which is just after John Maate Camp.
Bukurungu Trail
If you love discovering new experiences, then embarking on a guided hike on the Bukurungu trail should be a must-do. This hiking trail was launched recently for climbers to conquer the peaks of Mount Rwenzori. The Bukurungu hiking trail takes 8-9 days to complete. Before you get to the Margherita peak, expect to come across several features, including glaciers, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. This trail also takes you to the nearby Mahoma Loop. The beautiful lakes to expect to view as you walk through this trail include Lake Bukurungu, Mughuli, Irene, and Bujuku. Compared to the rest of the hiking trails on Mount Rwenzori, the Bukurungu trail is an open climbing route and a safe camping route.
The Kilembe Hiking Trail
The Kilembe (Southern Trail) is part of the Rwenzori trekking services. This hiking trail is open to tourism, and it is this trail that Professor Scott Elliott visited in 1985. It is the longest hiking route and requires the utmost acclimatisation to complete. Conquering the southern trail takes about 7 to 8 days.
Mahoma Loop
If you are looking for shorter hiking opportunities, then consider hiking through the Mahoma Loop. A complete trek on the Mahoma Loop takes about 3 days on guided walks. Hikers start their hikes from the Nyakalengija trail and, along the way, can choose from camping options.
Other shorter hiking loops to conquer include the 4-day Mutinda Lookout, which introduces you to the 3975m elevation. 4-day Rwenzori waterfall, which involves exploring the 3174m altitude. Lastly, there is a 5-day Weismann’s peak with an astonishing trek to the elevation of 4620m.
Safety Tips and Equipment to Pack
To successfully trek to the summits of Mount Rwenzori, expect to carry strong, waterproof hiking boots, layered clothing, hiking poles, sun protection gear, a daypack, a first-aid kit, headlamps, and more. To ensure a safe trek, always listen to your guide, stay hydrated, and acclimate to the altitude.
About the Rwenzori Mountains National Park
The Rwenzori National Park derives its name from the charming block Mt. Rwenzori. The Park holds the vast Rwenzori Mountains, which measure 120 km long and 65km wide. At the summit of Mt. Rwenzori, climbers have six peaks to conquer, including Mount Emin (4798m), Speke (4890m), Gessi (4715m), Baker Mountain (4843m), Stanley (5109m), and lastly, Mt. Luigi di Savoia (4627m). Rwenzori Mountain ranks among the top mountaineering destinations in Africa and worldwide.
The Mountain Huts/Camps to Stay
As you head to the summits of Mt. Rwenzori, expect breaks along the way. This is to let you have lunch and spend the night before you reach the Margherita peak. The campsites designated for climbers to rest en route to the Rwenzori Mountain summits include Kiharo Camp, Samilira, Sine Hut, Butawu Camp, Kalalama, Mutinda, Margherita, Bugata Camp, and more.
At the base of the Rwenzori Mountains, guests can also rest in some of the best lodges and guesthouses, including the Ruboni Community Camp, Rwenzori Trekkers Hostel, Equator Snow Lodge, and others.
Hiking fees for Mt. Rwenzori
Hiking permits should be secured for your mountaineering adventure on Rwenzori Mountain. The hiking fees for the Mount Rwenzori hiking experience or the Bukurungu trail range from USD 50 for non-resident foreigners, USD 40 for residents, and UGX 50,000 for Ugandans per person. The hiking fees include park entrance, but exclude the cook, porters, and other tents. But these can also be planned and incorporated when organising the final tour.
The best time to go mountaineering on Mt Rwenzori
When planning a successful Rwenzori Mountaineering expedition, timing should be a top priority. This can help you understand the ideal time to travel to explore this block mountain without any challenges. To guide you on your planning process, the dry season is the best time of the year to enjoy mountaineering tours in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. The two dry-season options to consider fall in June and extend into August. The other alternative ideal period to consider is December, January, and February.
The dry season offers clear visibility and ideal weather conditions that favour hiking expeditions to the summits of Mount Rwenzori. Given the nature of this adventure, you need altitude acclimatisation to embark on the round hiking tour.
Embarking on a Hike with Guides and Porters
Climbing Mount Rwenzori is safe when an experienced guide leads you. To help you with heavy luggage, you also need to hire a porter. The presence of these companions is essential, given their expert knowledge of the best route to hike Mount Rwenzori. Safety is assured when you embark on a hike to the summits of Rwenzori Mountain. You can be assisted when you encounter challenges conquering certain sections of your trail, and if you need first aid. Cultural insights are best given by the professional/experienced guides who lead you. The team assigned to you has lived and grown in the Rwenzori Mountains and understands their cultures and practices, as well as how clients should behave.
Wildlife Encounters
In addition to regular hikes, a visit to Mount Rwenzori also lets you spot a variety of species that live around the base area. The Rwenzori Mountains National Park is home to diverse animals, including primates (the Rwenzori colobus monkey and chimpanzee), the Rwenzori 3-horned chameleon, and birds.
The birds that make the Rwenzori Mountains NP an excellent birding destination include slender-billed starling, Rwenzori turacos, lagden’s bush shrikes, dusky crimsonwing, purple-breasted sunbirds, Archer’s robin-chat, cinnamon-chested bee-eaters, and many more.
Book your mountain-climbing tours with Native Africa Tours and conquer the best route to hike Mount Rwenzori. Get in touch with our team now when slots are still available.
