Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Journey up the highest non-volcanic mountain range in the world and experience the breathtaking views of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Park Overview

For bizarre vegetation and the chance to straddle the Equator atop the highest mountain range in Africa, the mist-shrouded and jagged Rwenzori Mountains are definitely worth a visit. The 120km range spans the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Unlike East Africa’s other large mountains, the Rwenzori are not volcanic; rather, they were formed during the shift of the Rift Valley.

Often overshadowed by Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya, the ‘Mountains of the Moon’ (so called by Ptolemy!) offer you the chance to marvel at astonishing flora and fauna, a variety of forest mammals, and over 170 species of birds. If you’re lucky, listen out for the chorus of chimpanzees and forest elephants crashing through the undergrowth during your lifetime safari in Uganda.

Trips to Margherita Peak (5,109 metres) on the snowy summit of Mt Stanley will take trekkers through tropical jungle, surreal landscapes filled with giant lobelia, alpine savannah and glacial fields—not to mention hopping from tussock to tussock in knee-deep bogs! Just don’t forget to pack your wellingtons…

Wildlife Encounters

Mount Rwenzori

Mountain of the Moon

Meet one of the toughest mountains to climb in East Africa; surrounded by rainforest, deep bogs, and constant rainfall, it truly is a mountaineer’s dream. Experience the hidden flora and fauna and bask in the glory and majesty of the Rwenzori.

5109m Highest Point
70+ Mammal Species
217 Bird Species
Chimpanzees

Chimpanzees

Our closest living relatives, known for their intelligence and tool use. Several communities inhabit Rwenzori’s dense forests.

Forest Elephants

Forest Elephants

Smaller than savanna elephants, these elusive giants create pathways through the forest and play a crucial role in seed dispersal.

Three Horn Chameleons

Three-Horned Chameleons

The three-horned chameleon, also known as Jackson's chameleon, is characterized by the distinctive horns on the nose of adult males.

Forest Birds

Rare Forest Birds

Over 217 bird species including the Western Green Tinkerbird, Rwenzori Turaco and Strange Weaver.

Park Activities

Mountain Climbing

Mountain Climbing

Challenge yourself on Africa’s most technical mountain range with guided ascents to multiple peaks including Margherita, Baker and Weismann.

Bird Watching

Bird Watching

Discover over 210 bird species including the Golden-Winged Sunbird, Montane Masked Apalis, and Stripe-Breasted Tit.

Cultural Encounters

Cultural Encounters

After conquering Margherita Peak, enjoy cultural dances, music and storytelling at Ruboni as you interact with the Bakonzo community.

Photography

Landscape Photography

Capture surreal Afro-alpine landscapes, unique vegetation zones and dramatic cloud-covered peaks.

Nature Walks

Guided Nature Walks

Learn about medicinal plants and forest ecology with expert guides along the foothills trails.

Mount Rwenzori Climbing Experience

Duration and Difficulty: The Rwenzori ranges offer exceptional trails leading to different peaks on the summits. The notable routes include the Kilembe Trail and the Rwenzori Central Circuit Trail. If trekking is your passion, you have every reason to visit the Rwenzori Mountains for mountaineering adventures. It takes about 8 days or more to ascend and descend from the highest peaks. Treks usually start from Nyakalengija with a briefing, and take you through bamboo zones, heather zones, fig trees, rocky grounds and alpine bogs.

Less experienced trekkers also have options to explore the Rwenzori Mountains. They can trek the loop trail (6–7 days, reaching 4,372m) or spend 3 days exploring the moorland zone via an alternative branch off the main loop.

Cultural Heritage

Explore the rich cultural heritage surrounding Rwenzori Mountains National Park, where ancient traditions meet modern conservation efforts.

Bakonzo People

The Bakonzo (also known as the Bayiira, Banande or Abanyarwenzururu) are composed of 14 clans with unique totems. They speak the Konjo language and practice traditional religions, Islam and Christianity. Konjo speakers also live on the western slopes across the DR Congo.

Best Time to Visit

Rwenzori mountaineering adventures are best done during the drier months of the year. For the most successful hikes, plan your safari from December to February or June to August.

Mountain Climbing Preparation

Essential climbing gear includes waterproof hiking boots, snacks, rain jacket, camera, daypack, insect repellent, waterproof hat, gloves, trekking poles, sleeping bag and enough drinking water.

Safari Packages

Classic Safari With Primates of Uganda

Rwenzori Nature Walk

3 Days

Uganda Wildlife Safari

Rwenzori with Mountain Tribe

5 Days

Quick Gorilla Trek

Trek to Baker and Weismann Peak

7 Days

Accommodation

Luxury Accommodation Options

Equator Snow Lodge

Equator Snow Lodge

A luxurious lodge accommodation at the foothills of Rwenzori Mountains, built parallel to the Mubuku River and surrounded by the exceptional eco-system that the Rwenzori Mountains are famous for.

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Rwenzori International Hotel

Rwenzori International Hotel

Located at the foothills of the mountains of the moon (Rwenzori aka Ruwenzori) range, 15kms north of the Equator.From here you are also within easy reach of Queen Elizabeth National Park Queen’s Pavilion and Ishasha Sector and a wide range of attractions.

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Hotel Margherita

Hotel Margherita

We are located 3 km west of Kasese town on the road to Kilembe. The hotel is accessible by road using private vehicle or the numerous public buses to and from Kampala. Kasese also has an airstrip that services domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport

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Affordable Options

Luxury Lodge

Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge

Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge offers spacious and stylish cottages with stunning views of Lake George. Each cottage can accommodate couples, co-travelers, or even triple occupancy when needed. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and African charm of your stay.

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Ruboni Community Camp

Ruboni Community Camp

During your stay at Ruboni Community Camp with the beautiful mountains in the background, you will enjoy the tranquility of nature, the delicious meals and the highest level of hospitality from our staff.

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Renzori Backpackers

Rwenzori Backpackers

This is a budget facility situated in the valley of Kyanjuki just near the Kilembe trail only twelve kilometers away from the tow of Kasese.

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