At a height of 5109 metres, the Rwenzori Mountains National Park is located along Uganda’s western border. This is the fabled “mountains of the moon,” a World Heritage Site, whose unparalleled beauty and mist-covered peaks provide as a striking backdrop for one of our greatest national parks.
Situated in Western Uganda, the Rwenzori Mountains National Park spans 996 square kilometres and includes the districts of Kabarole, Kasese, and Bundibugyo. Its 1994 designation as a World Heritage site suggests that its preservation is crucial not just for the country and the region, but also for the entire world.
One of Uganda’s biggest and most important water catchment basins is the Rwenzori Mountain. Through the waters of the River Semuliki, which flow into Lake Albert, the rivers that descend down the mountain ranges provide a major source of water for the White Nile and nourish the economically significant lakes Edward and George.
The mountain ranges are picturesque due to their combination of stunning peaks, glaciers, valleys, rivers, lakes, and a wide variety of plant and animal life. In addition, Rwenzori is Africa’s third-highest mountain and features multiple prominent summits, ranking fifth, sixth, and seventh, making it visible from a distance. The mountain also has more than twenty lakes. The five main vegetation zones that make up the stratified vegetation of the Rwenzori Mountains National Park contribute to the park’s breathtaking appearance.
At 5,109 metres above sea level, Margherita Peak is the tallest of these peaks and the third highest peak in Africa. In 1991, the Rwenzori Mountains were designated as a National Park. 996 km2 of rough mountain terrain make up the park. Rwenzori Mountain National Park provides tourists with an unforgettable experience of an Afro-Montane rain forest, regardless of their level of competence as climbers or day hikers.
The lush vegetation found above 3000 metres, which includes enormous types of groundsel, lobelia, and Heather, is the main draw. A distinct variety of birds, including the olive pigeon, the lovely francolin, and the Rwenzori turaco, may be found in the Rwenzori Mountain National Park.
Numerous uncommon, endangered, and unique species of the Albertine Rift may be found in Rwenzori Mountains National Park, which is also a significant bird area. A few of these are the forest elephant, L’hoest’s monkey, chimpanzee, and leopard.
Tourism Activities in Rwenzori Mountain National Park
Hiking and Nature Walks
The finest area for hiking and ecological hikes is the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. All hikers and environment enthusiasts can access the Rwenzori Mountain at the core circuit zone via designated trails. The Buraro Chimpanzee Forest Trail and Lake Mahooma offer great trekking opportunities to the Bundibugo area via the Bwamba Pass, as well as community treks to Chimamba up to the Karangura Ridge.
Just beyond the park’s borders, in the settlements of Ruboni and Turaco View, are opportunities for trekking and guided woodland hikes. As a result, clients can stroll alongside the Mubuku River and witness the Baker and Portal peaks while hiking to an elevation of 2,300 metres above sea level. On a clear day, visitors can see the snow-capped Margherita peak (5109m), as well as chameleons, squirrels, vervet monkeys, and birds, all along this route.
The opportunity to visit the bamboo forest, Rwenzori settlements, and breathtaking vistas of the Rift Valley is provided by Bwamba Pass. Even before the road from Fort Portal to Bundibugyo was constructed in 1938, this was the most direct route between Ruwenzori Mountain and Fort Portal. It provides a strenuous walk across the Rwenzori Ridge in the north.
Mountain Climbing
For mountain climbers, this is one of the most unforgettable experiences during their time in Uganda. There are two beautiful paths (the Central Circuit trail and the Kilembe trail) that lead to the highest peak in the region, Margherita Peak, which is 5109 metres above sea level and the third highest peak in Africa. The paths meander through heath forests, alpine vegetation, glacial lakes, verdant valleys, bogs replete with lobelia, and, towards the end, snow.
The most difficult and popular trail for experienced climbers is the central circuit trail, which requires acclimatization before attempting the Margharita peak. After receiving a briefing from the office, climbers ascend 10 km from Nyakalengija Office to Nyabitaba Hut (2,652m). On their second day, they continue their ascent from Nyabitaba Hut (2,652m) to John Matte Hut (3,414m), On the third day, climb from John Matte Hut (3,414m) to Bujuku Hut (3,962m). On the fourth day, climb from Bujuku Hut (3,962m) to Elena Hut (4,430m). From Elena Hut (4,430m), climb to Margherita peak (5109m) for 2km one way and return to Elena hut. On the sixth day, climb from Elena Hut (4,430m) to Guy Yeoman Hut (3,261m). From Guy Yeoman Hut (3,261m) back to Nyabitaba Hut (2,652m) for 6km. Finally, on the seventh day, climb from Nyabitaba Hut (2,652m) back to Nyakalengija (1,646m). Generally, visiting the Rwenzori Mountains National Park takes seven days and six nights.
Bird Watching
The Rwenzori Mountains provide a chance to see birds, particularly the rare species that call the Rwenzori Mountain National Park home. 217 bird species may be found in the park, including endemic species from the Albertine Rift, which designates the Rwenzori Mountains as Important Birding Areas (IBAs). Most of the species found in the Rwenzori Mountains are found up to 1800 metres above sea level. These include the Rwenzori Turaco, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, Long-eared Owl, Handsome Francolin, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, White-starred Robin, Archers’ Robin-chat, Rwenzori Batis, Montane Sooty Boubou, Lagden’s Bush Shrike, Slender-billed Starling, Blue-headed Sunbird, Golden-winged Sunbird, Strange Weaver, and numerous varieties of Barbets, Greenbuls, Apalises, IIladopsis, Flycatchers, and Crimsonwings.
Cultural Expeditions
Situated on the foothills of Rwenzori Mountain National Park, Ruboni village is an ideal location to learn about the Bakonzo people. In Lukonzo, the word Ruboni means clean water. The Bakonzo people will lead you on a walk through their farms to reach their village. Discover their crops, livestock, and methods for preparing cuisine with fresh ingredients. You can also witness traditional dances, learn about their rituals, and hear about their mythology.
Along the rocky Mubuku River, the guide will also lead you to observe the woodlands and the people carrying crops. Along the way, the guide will point out numerous bird species, including the Rwenzori Turaco, tiny sunbirds, and Cinnamon-chested Bee-eaters. Vervet monkeys, squirrels, and chameleons are also present.