4 Days Hiking Rwenzori Mountains
per person
The 4 Days Hiking Rwenzori Mountains experience in Rwenzori Mountains National Park offers a unique exploration of the diverse vegetation and the historic Abruzzi trail. The trek leads climbers through Africa’s largest mountain range, spanning 120 km and rising up to 5,109 m above sea level, recognized as the highest in Uganda and the third in Africa. This region, referred to as “The Mystical Challenge,” is known for its snowy peaks, which are the source of the Nile. The national park, located along the Uganda-Congo border, protects a rich biodiversity, including 70 mammal species and 217 bird species, 19 endemic to the Albertine Rift. Besides hiking, visitors can engage in local activities, such as village walks, bird watching, and nature excursions, enriching their experience of the Bakonzo culture and lifestyle.
Safari Highlights
- Day 1: Nyakalengija (1650) to Nyabitaba camp (2651m)
- Day 2: Hike from Nyabitaba (2651m) – Johnmaate camp (3505m).
- Day 3: Trek from Johmaate camp (3505m)- Bujuku camp (3962m)
- Day 4: Begin at Johnmaate camp (3505m) and descends to Nyabitaba camp (2650m)
Day 1: Nyakalengija (1650) to Nyabitaba camp (2651m)
Start your day by contacting the Rwenzori mountaineering officer to hire equipment and arrange guides, chefs, and porters. Hiking begins from the park gates to Nyabitaba, covering 7km in 5-6 hours with a 1200-meter ascent. The trail passes through villages, dense bush, and elephant grasses, leading to cliffs and the River Mahoma before ascending to Nyabitaba camp. Wildlife sightings may include species such as colobus monkeys, chameleons, and Rwenzori Turaco birds, with an overnight stay at Nyabitaba camp. On Day 1, after briefing, trek to Sine Camp at 2650m, a 6-kilometer steady climb through Afro montane forest with opportunities to see various plant species and possibly more monkeys. A visit to the scenic Enock Falls is suggested before dinner.
Accommodation: Nyabitaba Hut
Day 2: Hike from Nyabitaba (2651m) - Johnmaate camp (3505m).
The journey begins with a descent through the forest to the Kurt Shafer bridge, followed by an easier walk-through bamboo forest that becomes difficult as hikers navigate slippery moss-covered rocks. Notable views of Mount Stanley and Speke can be seen from the Nyamileju rock shelter. The trek continues through the giant heather, lobelia, and groundsel zone, leading to Johnmaate camp where stunning views of Mount Stanley and Margherita Glacier are possible. The day concludes with dinner and overnight at the hut.
Accommodation: John Matte Hut
Day 3: Trek from Johmaate camp (3505m)- Bujuku camp (3962m)
Your trek will begin from Johnmaate camp (3505m) to Bujuku camp (3900m) and then return to Johnmaate for the night. The trail descends to cross the Bujuku River and traverses the lower Bigo Bog, home to Giant Lobelias. After crossing the bog, hikers continue to the upper Bigo Bog alongside the Bujuku River, with views of Mount Baker and Mount Stanley. Upon reaching Bujuku camp, located in the shadow of Mount Speke, Stanley, and Baker, they take photos of Bujuku Valley before retracing their steps. The hike includes visits to Kamalha and Cathy’s Falls before descending to Nywamba and Plozza Falls, where hikers can enjoy lunch. The day concludes at Forest View Camp, renowned for its stunning views and serene environment, ideal for meditation.
Accommodation: John Matte Hut
Day 4: Begin at Johnmaate camp (3505m) and descends to Nyabitaba camp (2650m)
The trek starts at Johnmaate camp (3505m) and descends to Nyabitaba camp (2650m) before returning to Nyakalengija (1650m) by retracing the route to the park gates. The 7 km walk takes approximately 2-3 hours, passing through the Mubuku River and fields. After reaching the park entrance gate, there will be dinner and overnight accommodations at a lodge of choice. The tour concludes with a descent to the basecamp in Kilembe for a debrief before heading to the hotel.
Accommodation: Geolodge Equator Snow Lodge/ Ruboni Community Camp
Meal Plan: Dinner
Park Entrance fees
Rwenzori trekking per day costs USD35 for non-foreign residents, USD25 for foreign residents and UGX 150,000 for East African citizens.
How much does it cost to hike the Rwenzori mountains?
In the Rwenzori National Park, Rwenzori trekking expeditions provide the best price, cost, and rate for the activity. The average price to climb Mount Rwenzori ranges from $1900 to $3000, with mid-range and budget travel agencies selling outsourced hikes at outrageous rates.
Things to know before climbing the Mountain Rwenzori
Our experienced guides, primarily from the Rwenzori region, offer comprehensive support for your trek, including expertise in first aid and mountaineering. They undergo annual training to adapt to changing mountain conditions. Porters will carry a maximum of 23kg per bag, and it’s recommended to use a large backpack with a day pack for personal items, ensuring waterproof protection.
All meals are provided, catering to dietary restrictions, and it’s advisable to bring favorite snacks for motivation. Accommodation is dormitory-style in huts, with a focus on environmental conservation and comfort, featuring wood stoves and solar power for charging devices in certain camps.
Insurance is necessary for all our hikes and all clients should obtain their insurance before arrival, covering Medivac and evacuation at an altitude of 4000 meters and above. We also recommend carrying bug repellent. Please be aware that without insurance, no journey will proceed.