Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is located in Western Uganda along the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 following its outstanding beauty of the ranges. With 386 square kilometres in size, Mount Rwenzori was established in 1991 and is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

It is open to tourists all year round. Mount Rwenzori has Africa’s third highest peak, called Margherita (5109 m). Most tourists take on this great adventure. It is shared by Kabarole, Bundibugyo, and Kasese districts. It was named Mountains of the Moon in the 18th century by Henry Murton Stanley.

Things to do in Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Mountaineering

This is one of the major activities taking place in Rwenzori Mountains National Park. There are different mountaineering packages that can be carried out here, and these are conducted by Rwenzori Mountaineering Services (RMS) and Rwenzori Trekking Services (RTS). Tourists can choose to use either Kilembe or Nyakalengijo depending on the booking with their reliable tour operator.

The central circuit starts from Nyakalengijo gate and trails through Nyabitaba at 2651 m, John Matte camp at 3505 m, Bujuku at 3962 m, Elena hut at 4541 m, Kitandara at 4023 m, Guy Yeoman at 3505 m, and Margherita at 5109 m. Tourists can take breaks at different stopovers and later complete their adventure as they reach the highest point in Margerita.

Birding in Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rwenzori Mountains National Park boasts over 217 bird species, hence making it a great spot for bird lovers. Notable birds to be seen on this tour include the Rwenzori Turaco, the handsome francolin, the blue-headed sunbird, the Rwenzori batis, the white-started robin, the long-eared owl, the barred-tailed cuckoo, the cinnamon chested bee eater, the blue-headed and golden-winged sunbird, among others. Tourists interested in this activity are therefore required to carry with them binoculars and good cameras for taking clear photographs.

Wildlife in Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Due to the fact that there is savannah grassland on the slopes of Mount Rwenzori, this is an opportunity to view a lot of wildlife. At this point, you also get to view the beautiful scenery of the area and its surroundings. Bushbucks, giant forest hogs, red duikers, forest elephants, Rwenzori climbing mouse, Rwenzori otter, golden cats, forest elephants, and three-horned chameleons can be seen.

Nature Walks

This is usually for tourists who would love to explore the mountains of the moon beyond the unknown by discovering the hidden treasures. This takes you through Nyakalengijo to Nyabitaba and later to Lake Mahoma. Learn about the plants and tree species during this movement.

Cultural Encounter

Get to know more about the culture of the people of the Rwenzori region. These are called Bakonjo, and they live on the slopes of Mount Rwenzori. Visiting these locals helps you to dig more into the rich history of these people as you listen to stories told by the elders mostly about the ways of living, how they practice agriculture, and how they have stood the taste of time. With the help of a local tour guide from the community, you will be able to visit the blacksmith and a local traditional healer’s place. Also attend and take part in a cultural performance that is being organised by the locals.