10 Days Trekking Ruwenzori Mountains

Snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains, contrasting against a clear sky.

10 Days Trekking Ruwenzori Mountains

10 Days

Overview

Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Ruwenzori Mountains with our 10 Days Trekking Ruwenzori Mountains adventure. Known for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems, this trek is suitable for those with some physical training in mountaineering. The trek features lush rainforests, high-altitude glaciers, and captivating mountain scenery, offering an unforgettable experience for avid trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

Trip Highlights

Scenic Diversity: Experience the dramatic landscapes of the Ruwenzori Mountains, including lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and glacial peaks. Unique Flora and Fauna: Observe unique plant species such as giant lobelias and the Everlasting Flower, and spot wildlife including forest elephants, monkeys, and birds. Challenging Climbs: Engage in a range of trekking challenges, from steep climbs and bogs to glacier crossings and high-altitude ascents. Spectacular Views: Enjoy breathtaking views from Margherita Peak, the highest point in the Ruwenzori range, and traverse the stunning Elena Glacier and Stanley Plateau.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 :

Arrival at Entebbe International Airpor

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, your safari guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kampala. Enjoy an overnight stay at Africana Hotel or a similar accommodation, with bed and breakfast (BB) included.

Day 2 :

Drive from Kampala to Ibanda

Drive from Kampala to Ibanda, located near the trailhead. In the evening, you’ll receive a briefing, and food loads and final preparations will be arranged. Overnight at Ibanda, Tour Holiday Inn with full board (FB) accommodation.

Day 3 :

Ibanda to Nyakalengija

Travel from Ibanda to Nyakalengija Road Head (1,900 meters). Register with Uganda Wildlife Authority, listen to briefings, and arrange porter loads. Begin your trek up the Mubuku River system to Nyabitaba Hut (2,650 meters), with a 3-4 hour walk. Look for fresh forest elephant trails, listen to the tumbling rivers, and watch for monkeys and chimpanzees.

Day 4 :

Nyabitaba Hut to John Matte Hut

Descend the ridge to the Mubuku River, then climb through bamboo forest toward John Matte Hut (3,380 meters). This steep and challenging trail ascends along the north side of the Bujuku River through giant heather forest, taking approximately 6-7 hours.

Day 5 :

John Matte Hut to Bujuku Hut

Trek from John Matte Hut (3,380 meters) to Bujuku Hut (3,977 meters). Encounter notorious bogs known in the Uganda approach to the peaks, including traversing around Bigo Bog and Lake Bujuku. Look for the Everlasting Flower and giant lobelias along the way.

Day 6 :

Bujuku Hut to Elena Hut

Climb steeply from Lake Bujuku to Abruzzi’s camp, then continue to Elena Hut (4,580 meters). The climb features heavily populated giant lobelias, polished rock slabs, and short wall climbs. The hut is located near the foot of the Mt. Stanley Plateau. Note that sleeping space is limited.

Day 7 :

Elena Hut to Margherita Peak and Kitandara Hut

Start early for a traverse of the Elena Glacier to the Stanley Plateau. Use crampons for the glacier crossing and follow the Margherita Glacier to the summit of Margherita Peak (5,109 meters). Descend to Kitandara Hut (4,027 meters) for a comfortable overnight stay.

Day 8 :

Kitandara Hut to Guy Yeoman Hut

Climb steeply to Freshfield Pass (4,280 meters) and then descend following open ridges to the spectacular Bujongolo Rock Shelter. Enjoy views of dozens of waterfalls in the upper Mubuku River system before reaching Guy Yeoman Hut (3,450 meters).

Day 9 :

Guy Yeoman Hut to Nyabitaba Hut

Descend from Guy Yeoman Hut to Nyabitaba Hut. This involves a steep descent alongside the Mubuku River, passing Kichuchu Rock Shelter, and joining the original route near the confluence of the Bujuku River. The trek takes approximately 3.5 hours.

Day 10 :

Descend and Drive to Kampala

Complete your trek by descending from Nyabitaba Hut to the Nyakalengija Road Head (2 hours). Enjoy the tropical rainforest, look for forest birds and monkeys, and then drive back to Kampala. Arrive in the early evening for the conclusion of your adventure.