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FAQs: Hiking Safaris in Rwenzori Mountains
As a lover of adventure travel, I find Mountain Rwenzori hiking to be one of the most fascinating experiences in Africa. The diversity of plant and animal life in the mountains, coupled with the hike through different vegetation zones, creates an unforgettable experience that stays with you for a lifetime. The lush tropical rainforests, bamboo forests, montane forests, and alpine vegetation offer breathtaking scenery that is simply stunning. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including mammals, primates, and reptiles. The Rwenzori mountain peaks offer a challenging but rewarding hike that any adventure traveler would relish.
The Rwenzori Mountains, formed three million years ago, are a group of massifs separated by deep gorges and valleys with interlaced lakes and diverse vegetations. The towering peaks include Mount Stanley (5,109 meters), Mount Speke (4,890 meters), Mount Baker (4,843 meters), Mount Emin (4,798 meters), Mount Gessi (4,715 meters), and Mount Luigi di Savoia (4,627 meters). With a length of about 120 kilometers and a width of 60 kilometers, the Rwenzori Mountains offer a stunning landscape for adventurers.
The name “Mountains of the Moon” for Rwenzori Mountains originated from Greek explorers who were searching for the source of the Nile. A merchant named Diogenes reported that the source of the Nile was in a range of mountains that the locals referred to as “Mountains of the Moon” due to their snowy appearance. Sadly, this snow cover is gradually disappearing and may cease to exist in the future. Rwenzori Mountains National Park is one of Uganda’s three UNESCO Heritage Sites.
Where is Mountain Rwenzori Located?
The Rwenzori Mountains can be found in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, which is famously known as “The Mystical Challenge,” Africa’s tallest mountain range. The Rwenzori or Mountains of the Moon, which stands at 5,109m, is the snowy source of the Nile as named by early geographers. This national park is situated in western Uganda, bordering the Congo, and protects the highest peaks of the 120km long and 65km wide Rwenzori Mountains. Within the park, you can find a diverse range of wildlife, including 70 different mammal species and 217 bird species, with 19 of them being Albertine Rift endemic species. Apart from hiking up Mount Rwenzori, visitors can also partake in other activities like Bakonzo village walks, bird watching, sightseeing, and nature walks, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and daily lives of the Bakonzo people.
Hiking to the highest peak of Rwenzori Mountains
Margherita peak, located on Mountain Stanley at 5,109 meters above sea level takes between 7 to 10 days.
Besides Margherita peak, the Rwenzori Mountains offer several other peaks to explore. These include Savoia, Great Tooth, and Elena peak, with the majestic Mountain Stanley located on the left. From Weismann’s Peak, hikers can also see the beautiful Mt. Speke and Mt Baker in the middle. The stunning views of these peaks offer a unique and unforgettable hiking experience.
Cost of Trekking Mountain Rwenzori: Factors to Consider
The cost of trekking Mountain Rwenzori varies depending on the duration of the trek and your budget. We offer different packages for trekking Mountain Rwenzori, including all-inclusive and customized options.
The TEN DAY TREK is a popular option that takes you to four peaks, Margherita Peak, Mt Speke, Mt Baker, and Weismann’s Peak on the way back. The cost for this trek is $1,640 for one or two persons, and $1,520 for three or more persons. In addition, there is a UWA (Uganda Wildlife Authority) gate entrance fee of $35 per day, which is paid separately in cash. This package includes all porters, meals, and accommodation while on the mountain.
Alternatively, the one-day trek is a forest walk along the Munyamubuli River for sightseeing, bird watching, and learning about the tree species. The cost for this trek is $40 for one or two persons, and $35 for three or more persons. Again, there is a UWA gate entrance fee of $35 per day, paid separately in cash. This package includes all porters and meals.
If you are looking for more packages for trekking Mountain Rwenzori, we offer various options that can be tailored to your needs. Please contact us for more information, and we will help you book a trek that suits your preferences and budget.
How to Book for Rwenzori Trekking Safaris
Embarking on a trekking safari to Rwenzori Mountain has never been easier, thanks to Trek Africa Expeditions. Our team will assist you in booking a tailored package that suits your budget, time, and interests.
To start the booking process, simply contact us with your planned dates of travel. We will check the availability of accommodation and other services and suggest the next steps for booking. Once you confirm your booking with us, we will send you an invoice for payment to secure all services for your trip in advance.
As part of our service, we will also pay for your hiking and entrance fees at the park headquarters. This ensures that you can go on a hike to one of the best peaks of Rwenzori Mountains without any hassle.
With Trek Africa Expeditions, you can rest assured that all aspects of your Rwenzori trekking safari are taken care of. So why wait? Contact us today and let us help you plan an unforgettable adventure in one of Uganda’s most stunning natural wonders.
When is the Best Time to Hike or Visit Mountain Rwenzori?
Planning a hiking expedition to the Rwenzori Mountains can be done at any time of the year. However, it’s important to note that hiking these mountains is challenging, especially if you’re climbing the main peaks like Margherita peak, which is the highest peak of the Rwenzori Mountains.
One thing to keep in mind is that the lower levels of the glaciers are becoming harder to hike due to melting caused by climate change. Nonetheless, the guides who will accompany you during the trek are well trained and experienced in the use of ropes, which will assist you throughout the journey.
The best time to book a hiking expedition to the Rwenzori Mountains is during the dry season, which runs from June to August and December to February. During this time, the trails are less muddy and the weather is more predictable, making for a more enjoyable and safer hiking experience.
In summary, while you can book a hiking expedition to the Rwenzori Mountains at any time throughout the year, it’s advisable to plan your trip during the dry season for a more comfortable and safer hiking experience. Contact us today, and we’ll help you book a hiking expedition that suits your preferences and schedule.
