Rwenzori Mountains National park
Lying along the western border of Uganda and covering an area of over 995 sq kms, named “Mountains of the Moon” for its mist-shrouded, snow-capped peaks. The mountain range has six peaks, carrying permanent snow and glaciers and offering spectacular scenery. In the centre of the range is Africa’s third highest mountain, Mt. Margarita reaching a height of 5,109 mtrs.
This is an excellent destination for keen hikers and climbers, although trekking to the higher peaks are demanding and require some mountaineering skills than for the first and second highest mountains of Africa (Kilimanjaro and Kenya). The best time of the year for hiking is during the dry seasons from mid December to end of March and from June to mid August. Wildlife encountered in this park includes, elephant, Genet, Vervet Monkey, Rwenzori Colobus, Rwenzori turaco, Chimpanzee and Duiker.
one day or multiple day treks can be organized from Ruboni village. the treks to select from include;
- A full day nature walk to Nyabitaba – 1 day
- Mahoma lake overnight trek – 2 days
- Mahoma trek – 3 days
- Rwenzori trek through Bukurungu – 7 days
- Central circuit trek with margarita climb – 7 days
Community tours: While trekking is the key priority, Community tours are a good option for those that don’t have time, budget and strength to scale the high mountains. Ruboni tourism village has a collection of community activities and experiences that showcase the nature and culture of Rwenzori mountains. community treks are also a good option for acclimatizing before ascending to the high peaks.
Accommodation: There is a range of lodges, guesthouses and camping sites in the area, and hotels are available in Kasese and Fort Portal. Huts and rock shelters and campgrounds are available on the mountains for climbers. In the community at the base camp you will find quality community accommodation facilities which include Ruboni community camp at the gate, 28km from Kasese and 82 Km from Fort portal, Rwenzori Turacco view campsite, all on the foothills of the National Park.
