The 995 km² Rwenzori Mountains National Park, gazetted in 1991 and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, is a jewel of Uganda’s natural heritage. Often referred to as the “Mountains of the Moon,” a term coined by the Alexandrine geographer Ptolemy in AD 150, the Rwenzori is a range of unique beauty and scientific significance. The park is home to six distinct mountain massifs: Stanley, Speke, Baker, Emin, Gessi, and Luigi da Savoia.

Mount Stanley, at 5,109 meters, is crowned by Margherita Peak—the third highest point in Africa, surpassed only by Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya. This majestic range, located along the Uganda-Congo border at the edge of the Albertine Rift Valley, offers breathtaking landscapes, challenging climbing routes, and rich biodiversity. Its dramatic terrains and glacial peaks make it a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

History of Rwenzori Mountains
The Rwenzori range has fascinated explorers and scientists for centuries. In AD 150, Ptolemy described snow-capped mountains as the source of the Nile, a claim verified much later by explorer Henry Stanley. On May 24, 1888, Stanley placed the Rwenzori on the modern map, documenting the name “Ruwenzori,” which he interpreted to mean “rain maker” or “cloud-king.”

Today, the Rwenzori remains one of Africa’s most remarkable mountaineering challenges, offering adventurers the opportunity to traverse equatorial glaciers and scale snow-covered peaks. Its surreal botany and otherworldly terrain have earned it the enduring nickname, “Mountains of the Moon.”

Geographical Features
The Rwenzori Mountains stretch approximately 110 km in length and 50 km in width, forming the continent’s highest block mountain range. Unlike volcanic peaks, the Rwenzori was formed by the uplift of the Earth’s crust, creating an intricate landscape of cliffs, valleys, and glaciers.

The six primary massifs are crowned by numerous peaks:

  • Mount Stanley (5,109m): The highest massif, home to Margherita Peak.
  • Mount Speke (4,890m)
  • Mount Baker (4,843m)
  • Mount Emin (4,797m)
  • Mount Gessi (4,715m)
  • Mount Luigi da Savoia (4,627m)

Climbing the Rwenzori requires significant preparation. Trails originating from Kilembe, Mihunga, and Katebwa offer access to these peaks. Conditions are notoriously cold and wet, and expeditions often take a week or more. However, with experienced Bakonzo guides and porters, the challenge is achievable, rewarding climbers with unparalleled views and a deep sense of accomplishment.

Wildlife
Despite the harsh climate, the Rwenzori Mountains are home to diverse wildlife. The park boasts:

  • Mammals: 18 species, including elephants, buffaloes, giant forest hogs, chimpanzees, and leopards, although sightings of large mammals are rare. Blue monkeys and the endemic Rwenzori colobus are more frequently observed.
  • Birds: A remarkable 217 species inhabit the park, especially in the forest zones. Birdwatchers can spot the Rwenzori turaco, handsome francolin, strange weaver, red-throated alethe, and the scarlet-tufted malachite sunbird. The endangered lammergeyer also soars over the peaks.

Unique Vegetation
One of the park’s most striking features is its vegetation, often described as “botanical big game.” The Rwenzori’s vegetation zones include:

  • Montane Forest (up to 2,500m): Rich with biodiversity and towering trees.
  • Bamboo Zone (2,500–3,000m): Dense thickets of bamboo.
  • Heather Zone (3,000–4,000m): Characterized by giant heathers, draped in mosses and lichens.
  • Afro-Alpine Moorland (above 4,000m): Dominated by giant lobelias and groundsels, these endemic species create an alien-like landscape that is both surreal and captivating.

Cultural Significance
The Rwenzori holds deep spiritual significance for the Bakonzo people, who have lived on its slopes for generations. Central to their cosmology, the mountains are considered the home of Kitasamba, their principal deity. Eighteen sacred sites within the park are preserved as places of worship.

Access
The park is accessible via the Fort Portal-Kasese road, with key trailheads located at:

  • Kilembe (15km west of Kasese): Starting point for the Kilembe Trail.
  • Mihunga (22km from the Fort Portal-Kasese road): Central Circuit Trailhead.
  • Katebwa (6km off Nyakigumba): Trailhead for the Bukurungu Trail.
  • Kazingo: Accessible via Bundibugyo road, offering a shorter hiking option.

Air transport is available to Kasese from Kampala’s Kajjansi airfield or Entebbe International Airport.

Climate
The Rwenzori experiences a cold and extremely wet climate, with rainfall peaking between March–May and August–December. Daytime temperatures average 10°C but drop below freezing at night. Mist, rain, and snow are common, making weather-appropriate gear essential for all visitors.

When to Visit
The best times to climb the Rwenzori are during the drier months of January and June–July, when conditions are slightly more favorable.

Accommodation
Accommodation options range from community-run lodges and budget hostels to the upmarket Equator Snow Lodge. Shelters along trekking routes provide basic amenities, including wooden bunks, but climbers must bring their own sleeping bags and mats. Kasese, Fort Portal, and lodges in Queen Elizabeth National Park also serve as convenient bases for exploring the Rwenzori.

Activities and Attractions

  1. Mountain Trekking
    • Kilembe Trail: Operated by Rwenzori Trekking Services, this nine-day route leads to Mount Stanley, with a shorter six-day option to Luigi da Savoia.
    • Central Circuit: Managed by Rwenzori Mountaineering Services, this seven-day trek includes an ascent to Mount Stanley.
    • Bukurungu Trail: Starting at Kitumba, this trail ascends to Mount Gessi.
  2. Peak Climbing
    Climbers can tackle the highest peaks, including Margherita, Speke, and Baker. Specialized gear and technical experience are required, as weather conditions are often severe.
  3. Hiking
    • The appeal lies in the journey rather than the summit. Shorter hikes, such as the two-day trek to Lake Mahoma or the Kazingo Trail, provide opportunities to explore the Rwenzori’s stunning vegetation and landscapes.
  4. Birdwatching and Forest Walks
    The lower forest zones offer excellent birdwatching opportunities, with sightings of rare species and the three-horned chameleon.

Essential Gear
Visitors should pack warm clothing, waterproof gear, gumboots, energy snacks, and any necessary medications. For peak climbing, specialist equipment can be rented from trail operators.

Park Tariffs and Conservation Efforts
Twenty percent of all park fees are shared with local communities to promote conservation and support ecotourism. Payments can be made in multiple currencies, including Uganda shillings, USD, GBP, and Euros.