Mount Rwenzori Hiking Safari
Overview
Safari Overview
Mount Rwenzori, Africa’s fabled “Mountains of the Moon,” offers one of the continent’s most dramatic high-altitude hiking experiences. This 5-day hiking safari takes you deep into the lush Rwenzori Mountains National Park in western Uganda — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — for an immersive trek through montane forest, bamboo zones, and stunning alpine landscapes. Ideal for hikers with limited time, this itinerary covers the lower and mid-altitude trails, with breath taking views of the glaciated peaks and exotic flora.
Safari Highlights
- Scenic drive through Uganda’s western countryside
- Hike through Afro-montane forests, bamboo, and alpine zones
- Spot endemic birds, chameleons, and unique Rwenzori flora
- Camp in rustic mountain huts and experience wilderness solitude
- Optional cultural walk in the Ruboni Village
Included/Exclude
- Airport pick-up and drop-off (if required)
- Private 4x4 vehicle with English-speaking driver-guide
- All ground transport and fuel
- Accommodation as specified (lodges and mountain huts)
- All meals as indicated
- Bottled drinking water during transfers
- Park entrance fees for Rwenzori Mountains National Park
- Experienced mountain guide and porters
- Camping fees and huts on the mountain
- Cultural village walk
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel and evacuation insurance (mandatory for trekking)
- Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, trekking poles, boots)
- Tips for porters and guides
- Alcoholic drinks and personal expenses
- Extra accommodation before or after the trek
Tour Plan
You’ll be met by your driver-guide in Entebbe or Kampala. After a short briefing, depart for Kasese, the gateway town to Rwenzori Mountains National Park. The drive (about 6–7 hours) is scenic, passing lush countryside, tea plantations, and the foothills of the Rwenzori range. Arrive in Kasese in the late afternoon, check in at your lodge, and prepare for your trek the next day.
Accommodation: Hotel Margherita / Sandton Hotel Kasese / Ruboni Community Camp (Budget)
Meal Plan: Dinner
After an early breakfast, transfer to the Rwenzori Mountains National Park headquarters at Nyakalengija for briefing and registration. Meet your experienced mountain guide and porters. Begin the trek by following the Mubuku River, crossing farmlands, montane forest, and the lush bamboo zone. You may see colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and various birds. Arrive at Nyabitaba Hut (2,651m) for dinner and overnight.
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Nyabitaba Hut (basic mountain hut)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, continue your trek through the forest zone, descending to cross the Bujuku River before climbing through the giant heather zone and moss-draped forests. Ascend to John Matte Hut (3,505m) where you’ll have panoramic views of the peaks and surrounding valleys. Dinner and overnight at the hut.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: John Matte Hut (basic mountain hut)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, begin your descent, retracing your steps back down through the bamboo and montane forest zones to Nyabitaba Hut, then continue to the Nyakalengija base where your driver will be waiting. Transfer back to Kasese for a well-earned hot shower, a warm meal, and a night at your lodge.
Trekking time: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Hotel Margherita / Sandton Hotel Kasese / Ruboni Community Camp (Budget)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, enjoy a short optional cultural walk in the Ruboni Community Village to learn about the Bakonzo people who call the Rwenzori home. Visit local homesteads, taste traditional food, or watch local craft-making. After the village experience, begin your drive back to Kampala or Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
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