National Park · Western Uganda
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994 — the Rwenzoris are Africa's tallest mountain range and one of the few places on the continent with permanent snow and glaciers on the equator.
How to get there
By road from Kasese, which sits at the base of the range.
What to find
Multi-day mountaineering to Margherita Peak (5,109m), shorter day hikes into the foothills, and Afromontane and glacial-zone flora found almost nowhere else.
Overview
The Rwenzori Mountains are the legendary "Mountains of the Moon". The national park protects about 996 km² of the range and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. Margherita Peak, on Mount Stanley, rises to 5,109 m, the third-highest point in Africa.
Climbing here is a real expedition: bogs, giant groundsels and lobelias, moss-draped forests and, near the top, glaciers and snow within a whisker of the Equator. The glaciers have shrunk sharply in recent decades, so now is the time to see them.
Highlights
- Summit climbs to Margherita Peak (5,109m) on Mount Stanley
- Surreal Afro-alpine vegetation: giant lobelias, groundsels and heathers
- Equatorial glaciers and high crater lakes
- Shorter foothill hikes and cultural walks with the Bakonzo people
Things to do
Central Circuit trek
The classic 7 to 8 day loop, with an optional summit attempt on Margherita.
Kilembe route
An alternative route from the south, climbing through beautiful valleys.
Day and short hikes
Foothill walks and 2 to 3 day treks for those without time for the summit.
Cultural walks
Visit Bakonzo villages on the lower slopes.
Best time to visit
The drier months (late December to February and June to August) are best. Even then, expect rain, mud and cold nights.
Getting there
Kasese is the gateway, about 7 to 8 hours by road from Kampala, or reached by flight. Trailheads are a short drive from town.
Where to stay
Huts and camps on the mountain, plus lodges and guesthouses in Kasese and the foothills.
See accommodation options in Uganda →
Good to know
- Summit climbs need good fitness, and ropes and crampons for the glacier.
- Bring good rain gear and gaiters. The bogs are famous.
- Allow time to acclimatise, as with any high-altitude climb.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.