Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori
I just wanted to give you everything you need about the Bukurungu trail in Mount Rwenzori. Is your plan to visit the Rwenzori Mountains National Park to discover off-the-beaten-track areas and trails? If yes, be prepared to take on the newly-discovered Bukurungu Trail on your next hiking safari. Besides being new, another thing that makes this Trail stand out is that local community members manage it. It also provides opportunities for wild Camping (not spending overnights in Huts) as with other Trails such as the Kilembe Trail and the Rwenzori Central Circuit Trail.
For those who love flora, the Bukurungu Trail on Mount Rwenzori is a paradise. It showcases a variety of vegetation zones, from the lush tropical forest on the lower slopes to the Heather and Lincen zones, and the Alpine, Rock, and Moorland zones. This rich diversity in flora makes the Trail a unique and exciting choice for your Rwenzori hiking adventures. As it winds through the Northern spur of the Rwenzori Mountains, the Trail unveils several captivating attractions such as the Katebwa cultural sites, the Kakaka areas in the Kabarole district, the Bukurungu Flats, and the serene Lake Muhule.
What you need to know about the Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori
The Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori, officially opened for hiking adventures in 2018, has been a hidden gem since 2015. Under the partnership of Uganda Wildlife Authority and WWF, this Trail, though less popular than the others, is the epitome of adventure. It’s a haven for travelers seeking the thrill of wild and undiscovered nature. It is also a perfect trail for plant lovers eager to explore different vegetation zones. The Trail also offers breathtaking views of various Lakes, including Lake Irene, Lake Bukurungu, Lake Mughuli, and Lake Bujuku, adding extra excitement to your journey.
Hiking Mount Rwenzori via Bukurungu Trail
Hiking to the highest Peak of the Rwenzori Mountains range (5109 meters above sea level on Mount Stanley) via the Bukurungu Trail lasts eight days. This makes it longer but more rewarding than the Kilembe and Rwenzori Central Circuit Trails.
The typical Hiking Tours via the Bukurungu Trail are a visual treat. Starting from Kasanzi Park Gate (located in Omukorukumi) and later joining the Central Circuit, the Trail leads hikers to the majestic Margherita summit. The Trail passes between Mount Gessi and the Portal Peaks, offering stunning views of several Lakes and deep gorges. The diverse vegetation zones, remains of war heroes, the gorgeous round tombs, a renowned chimpanzee viewing site, and many cultural sites along the Trail add to its scenic beauty, inspiring hikers to embark on this picturesque journey.
The Management of Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori
The management of Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori is under the Rwenzori Ranges Guides and Escorts Association (RRHA). This is a private Operator on behalf of the local community. Like the other hiking trails on Mount Rwenzori, Bukurungu also has a booking agent with whom we partner to provide unforgettable Rwenzori hiking safaris. For our Rwenzori Mountain climbing, the package includes Park entry fees, Camping, a Ranger, and porters to create a lifetime trip.
Climbing Tours along the Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori
The Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori can be best explored in 10 days. It begins from Entebbe or Kampala and is followed by a transfer to Kasese for an overnight stay.
Day 1
On the first day, you are picked up from any location in Entebbe or Kampala for a 6-7-hour drive to Kasese. Two routes lead to this western Uganda district: via Fort Portal and Masaka/Mbarara. Arrival is in the evening, and you will spend the night in Kasese.
Day 2
The second day of your Mount Rwenzori hiking safari is when the actual hike begins. Hikers are transferred to Kasanzi Gate (in Omukorukumi) for briefing, registration, and paying the Park entry fees. Later, you are joined by Porters and Park Rangers for the hiking adventure. On this day, you explore the stunning bends west of the ridge that overlooks Isule and Kasuka Valleys. This is before continuing to Akebitakuli for a lunch break. The adventure continues with a hike through the Montane forest overlooking a Bamboo forested Valley with unique plant species such as Impetios colobus, and birds such as the Rwenzori Turaco. Overnight is at Rwigho Camp.
The Rwigho to Kambeho Camp hike is done on the third day of the trip. It passes through heather trees and moss hanging from them. Expect to see many scenic trees, blackberries, and alchemilla, among other plant species.
Day 4
On the fourth day, visitors leave Kambeho Camp at 3700 meters above sea level, climbing along the River Lhume. It starts early when the day is still fresh. It involves taking on the only steep Mughuli bypass while watching the unique vegetation along the Lake shores. Wildlife species are common along the Bukurungu Trail, especially on this day when Tree and Rock hyraxes, Rwenzori red-duikers, and wild pigs are common. This day’s hike ends at Mughuli Camp for an overnight.
On the fifth day, hikers leave Mughuli Camp for Bukurungu East Camp at 4291 meters. They can view two Mountains—Mount Gessi and the Portal Peaks. Thanks to the high altitude, this is a relaxation point for acclimatization, especially for hikers interested in continuing to the Margherita peak. They pass through different vegetation types—giant lobelia species, alchemilla, and others. Lunch break is at Kinyamiyeye, and overnight is at Bukurungu East Camp.
Day 6
On the sixth day, hikers using the Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori leave for Lake Bujuku while joining the Rwenzori Central Circuit. They cross River Bujuku to the lower Bigo bog and go to the Camp. At this point, a steep climb starts to the upper Bigo bog, with views of the mystical Margherita peak. Overnight is at Omukendeghe Camp.
On the seventh day, the hike to the next Camp (Irene Lakes Camp) continues, trekking to the Alpine zone and all the way to the northeastern flank of Mount Stanley. Please be prepared to reach Margherita’s peak the next day.
Day 8
On day eight, the ascent begins as early as 2:00 a.m. for the hike to Margherita Peak, 5109 meters above sea level. Enjoy a moment of celebration and photography before returning to Bigo Camp for an overnight stay. However, a lunch break is en route at Irene Camp.
Day 9
On the ninth day, Hikers leave Bigo Camp for Mihunga Gate for a unique scenic viewing experience. They overnight in Kasese Town. Accommodation options include Tropical Savannah Guesthouse, Kamwe-Kamwe Hotel and Spa, Rwenzori Imperial Hotel, Kikorongo Safari Lodge, and Ruboni Community Camp.
The Best time to explore the Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori
The Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori can be explored all year round, but different seasons provide different pros and cons. The wet season (March to May, September to November) is marked by higher rainfall levels, making trails muddy and slippery. It is for this reason that many hikers about the rainy season.
June to early September and December to February are considered dry. Clear blue skies, low rainfall levels, and warm temperatures characterize these months, which are considered the best to explore the Bukurungu Trail in Mount Rwenzori. However, it is usually cold (especially at night) in January and February, which is the ideal time to enjoy views of the snow-capped peaks.
