Mount Ruwenzori
National Park
The Ruwenzori
Park is a splendid world of ice and snow, with
its massive ice-rime sculptures and mind-boggling
vegetation, and arguably surpasses other afro-alpine
areas in its beauty, wonder and interest to mountaineering
enthusiasts. This park, covering 996 sq.
kms. provides a magnificent environment for both
experienced climbers and casual day hikers.
These legendary mountains exhibit spectacular
scenic beauty and provide a unique habitat for
many rare and indigenous plants and animals.
The Highest mountain in the range, Mt. Stanley,
is the third highest in Africa after Mt. Kilimanjaro
and Mt. Kenya. Its highest peak, Margharita,
rises 5109 m above sea level. The giant
lobelia and the groundsell are hallmarks of the
Ruwenzori. All of the above make this park
an unforgettable visitor destination.
Decreasing temperature
with increasing altitude have resulted in marked
zoning of vegetation, which is of great interest
to scientists and a delightful experience for
visitors. In fact, more people visit the
Ruwenzori to explore and experience the fascinating
vegetation than to climb the peaks and glaciers.
The usual trip
lasts not less than 6 days, just long enough to
hike the Central Circuit Trail. Longer and
shorter trips can be arranged. No special
climbing equipment is necessary unless you intend
to climb one of the summits. However, hiking
the trails is arduous work, and weather conditions
are unpredictable and rainy. The driest
months are July, August and December, January
and February. Hiking should be undertaken
only by the physical fit.
Mount Ruwenzori Hiking Adventures
- 5 Days
Day 1
Kampala - Kasese.
A full Scenic days drive from Kampala takes you
across the Equator and through the Rift valley
to your overnight stop at Kasese.
Days 2
- 4 Trekking Days.
Assisted by guides and porters you hike up to
one of the Seven intermediate stages. There is
a great diversity of vegetation, the chance of
sporting some wild animals and breath taking views.
The route chosen for you will be based on the
skill and experience you have. Camp cook will
prepare meals and accommodation is in mountain
huts or tents.
Day 5
Return to Kampala.
Make a slow descent into Kampala via Mbarara passing
through small villages with their Ankole Cattle
and viewing numerous mattock plantations arriving
in Kampala late afternoon.
NB.
(1) This package can be extended to 10-12 days
depending on how high one would like to climb.
If you are serious climbers Baker (15889) and
Margarita (16763 ft) peaks are worth visit.
(2) There are numerous rugged
cliffs. Rock climbing equipment is needed.
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