This 12 Days Hiking Mountain Rwenzori Adventure offers a deep dive into the discovery of the untamed beauty of the Rwenzori Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rugged terrain, glacier-covered peaks, and diverse wildlife. The Rwenzori Mountain Range offers one of the most captivating and challenging treks in Africa. Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” the Rwenzori is home to the third highest peak in Africa, Margherita Peak on Mount Stanley.
12 Days Hiking Mountain Rwenzori Adventure Highlights:
- Unique species such as the Rwenzori turaco.
- Margherita Peak.
- Glacial landscapes.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by our meet-and-greet lounge host, who will ensure a seamless transition from the airport and aid you through fast-track assistance with visas and luggage collection. After the immigration and baggage collection process, you will be handed over to our driver guide to start your safari journey. You will then be transferred to your hotel for dinner and overnight. This marks the start of the 12 Days Hiking Mountain Rwenzori Adventure.
Dinner and overnight at Kampala Serena Hotel (Luxury), Mestil Hotel and Residences (Midrange), Airport Guest House (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 2: Transfer to Kasese
After breakfast at 0600hrs, you will embark on a drive to Kasese, a town located near the base of the Rwenzori Mountains with en-route lunch in Fort Portal. This approximately 6hrs drive showcases the picturesque countryside with lush tea plantations, banana groves, and views of the stunning Rwenzori range. Upon arrival in Kasese, you will settle into a cozy lodge for the night and make final preparations for the hike.
Overnight at Rwenzori Base Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3: Start of the Trek to Nyabitaba Hut.
After breakfast at 0600hrs, the real adventure begins. You meet with the local guides and support team including chefs and porters who will aid you throughout your hiking journeys. After the briefing, you will start hiking from the base camp in Ibanda, you’ll trek to the Nyabitaba Hut at an elevation of 2,652 meters. This four to five-hour journey takes you through tropical rainforests, home to colorful birds, playful monkeys, and beautiful flora. This first day offers a gradual acclimatization to the altitude.
Overnight at Nyabitaba Hut (Camp).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4: Nyabitaba Hut to John Matte Hut
Day four brings you to the John Matte Hut at 3,414 meters. This route, which takes about six hours, becomes steeper and more challenging, crossing bamboo forests and boggy sections along the way. Trekkers will encounter the Bujuku River and have a chance to spot wildlife like Rwenzori duikers and the elusive three-horned chameleon.
Camp overnight at John Matte Hut (Camp).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 5: John Matte Hut to Bujuku Hut.
The trek continues to Bujuku Hut at 3,962 meters. Passing through the Lower Bigo Bog, where stepping stones aid in crossing the swampy terrain, this part of the trail can be strenuous yet rewarding. Views of Mount Stanley and Mount Speke become increasingly breathtaking, offering a glimpse of what lies ahead.
Camp overnight at Bujuku Hut (Camp).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Bujuku Hut.
Acclimatization is essential for a successful summit. Spend a full day at Bujuku Hut, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitude. Short walks around the hut provide excellent views of Lake Bujuku and the towering peaks surrounding it.
Camp overnight at Bujuku Hut (Camp).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 7: Bujuku Hut to Elena Hut.
On day seven, you’ll ascend to Elena Hut at 4,541 meters, the last stop before the summit. The route is challenging, with rocky and icy sections that require some scrambling. This day provides closer views of the glacier and prepares you for the final summit push.
Camp overnight at Elena Hut (Camp).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 8: Summit Margherita Peak and Descend to Kitandara Hut
Summit day begins early. Climbing to Margherita Peak, the highest point on Mount Stanley at 5,109 meters, involves technical skills, as you’ll cross icy slopes and glaciers. Upon reaching the peak, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the African continent. After savoring the summit, descend to Kitandara Hut at 4,023 meters for a much-deserved rest.
Camp overnight at Kitandara Hut (Camp).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 9: Kitandara Hut to Guy Yeoman Hut
On day nine, you’ll descend to Guy Yeoman Hut at 3,261 meters. This trail leads through boggy landscapes, alpine forests, and stunning rock formations, with sightings of the lush Kitandara Lakes along the way. The day is long but offers stunning scenery, with lush vegetation giving way to open moorlands.
Camp overnight at Yeoman Hut (Camp).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 10: Descend to Nyabitaba Hut.
The descent continues to Nyabitaba Hut, where trekkers retrace their steps through the bamboo forests and lush greenery. This part of the hike often brings encounters with more wildlife, and as you descend, the changing vegetation is a refreshing sight.
Camp overnight at Nyabitaba Hut (Camp).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 11: Final Descent to Base Camp.
Complete your descent back to the Ibanda base camp. This day is marked by a sense of accomplishment and a return to lower altitudes, where the lush surroundings bring the journey full circle. From here, you’ll transfer back to Kasese for a night of well-deserved rest.
Overnight at Rwenzori Base Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 12: Return to Entebbe – Departure.
The final day takes you back to Entebbe. After breakfast at 0600hrs, you will embark on the scenic drive to Entebbe that brings closure to this unforgettable journey. You’ll have the opportunity to reflect on your adventure, share stories, and say farewell to your trekking team.
End of the 12 Days Hiking Mountain Rwenzori Adventure.
The 12 Days Hiking Mountain Rwenzori Adventure includes;
1. All entrance fees.
2. All ground transportation in a 4WD Vehicle.
3. All Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary.
4. English-speaking Experienced Safari guide.
5. Hiking permit.
6. Local Guides and Porters.
7. Sleeping bags.
8. Gas for fuel.
9. Rescue services while on the hike.
10. Service of a professional driver guide.
11. Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
12. Refreshments and snacks in the vehicle.
The 12 Days Hiking Mountain Rwenzori Adventure excludes;
1. All Tips to Hotels/Lodges/Camps staff and Safari Guide.
2. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks that are not accompanying meals.
3. International flight/s and departure taxes and other taxes.
4. Visa fees. Visas are available online or upon arrival at all Entry points.