Weismann Peak Hike via Kilembe Trail
Overview
This 6-day trek follows the stunning Kilembe Trail, the southern approach to Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains National Park. Hike through tropical rainforest, bamboo forests, giant heather zones, and mystical afro-alpine bogs to reach Weismann Peak, one of the most accessible summits in the Rwenzori Range at 4,620 meters. Perfect for trekkers who want a challenging yet achievable high-altitude hike without the longer Margherita Peak climb.
Safari Highlights
- Scenic drive through Uganda’s western countryside
- Guided multi-day trek with expert mountain guides and porters
- Camp in rustic, well-maintained huts along the Kilembe Trail
- Explore the Rwenzori’s lush rainforest, giant lobelias, and breathtaking alpine views
- Summit Weismann Peak (4,620 m) for panoramic views of the high peaks and glaciers
Included/Exclude
- Professional mountain guide, rangers, and porters
- All park entrance and trekking permits
- Camping/hut accommodation on the trail
- All meals on the mountain
- Boiled drinking water during the trek
- Transport from Kasese to the Kilembe Base and back
- Hotel accommodation in Kasese on Day 1 (bed & dinner)
- RMS (Rwenzori Mountaineering Services) fees
- International or domestic flights to Kasese (or transfer from Entebbe/Kampala — can be arranged)
- Uganda visa fees
- Personal travel & evacuation insurance (mandatory)
- Sleeping bag, trekking poles, personal hiking gear
- Extra snacks and alcoholic beverages
- Tips for guides and porters
- Extra hotel nights before or after the trek
Tour Plan
Arrive in Kasese town, gateway to the Rwenzoris. Check in to your lodge and meet your trekking team for a detailed briefing on the route, gear check, and what to expect on the trail. If time allows, explore the local area or visit the Kilembe Mines. Overnight at your lodge.
Accommodation: Sandton Hotel Kasese / Hotel Margherita / Trekkers Hostel Kilembe
Meal Plan: Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to the Kilembe Base Camp (RMS headquarters) for final registration. Meet your guides and porters and start your ascent through lush montane forest filled with monkeys, birds, and colourful chameleons. Cross streams and wooden bridges before reaching Sine Camp, located among giant tree ferns and hanging moss.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Altitude gain: ~1,150 m
Accommodation: Sine Camp (rustic wooden hut)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After an early breakfast, continue through bamboo forest and giant heather trees draped in lichen. Pass moss-covered boulders and follow the trail up to Mutinda Camp, perched on a ridge with panoramic views of the valley below. For acclimatization, you may choose an optional afternoon hike to Mutinda Lookout (3,975m) for stunning views of the surrounding peaks and Congo border.
Hiking time: 5–7 hours
Altitude gain: ~1,000 m
Accommodation: Mutinda Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, climb steadily out of the heather zone into the giant lobelia and afro-alpine bog landscapes. Trek past small streams and wetlands using boardwalks. Reach Bugata Camp, your base for the final push towards Weismann Peak. Enjoy views of Lake Kopello and the surrounding highlands.
Hiking time: 4–6 hours
Altitude gain: ~500 m
Accommodation: Bugata Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake up early for your summit push. Hike through rocky ridges and alpine vegetation to reach the summit of Weismann Peak a rewarding vantage point with spectacular views of Mount Luigi di Savoia, Mount Baker, and the surrounding glaciers (weather permitting). Descend back to Bugata Camp for a snack, and then continue down to Mutinda Camp for overnight rest.
Hiking time: 8–10 hours
Altitude gain: ~550 m (ascent) and descent
Accommodation: Mutinda Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, descend steadily down through the bamboo zone and montane forest, retracing your route past Sine Camp to the Kilembe Base Camp. Celebrate with your guides and porters at the end of the trail. Transfer back to Kasese for a hot shower and onward travel connections.
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
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