Featured
11 DAYS/ 10 NIGHTS – RWENZORI NATIONAL PARK.
11 days
Max Guests: 5
kampala
0
Description
Embark on an 11-day trek through the Rwenzori Mountains, aiming for the Margherita Peak, the
highest snowcapped summit. Choose between the Kilembe Trail or the Rwenzori Central Circuit,
both leading to the same destination. This challenging expedition offers diverse landscapes, from
lush forests to alpine meadows, showcasing unique flora and fauna found only in this equatorial
region. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you ascend towards the majestic Margherita
Peak, where breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment await at the roof of the Rwenzori
Mountains.
Summarized itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and overnight in Entebbe to rest after your flight.
- Day 2: Transfer back to Entebbe International Airport for your flight to Kasese Airstrip. Meet your guide and transfer to your accommodation near Rwenzori National Park. Alternatively, embark on an 8-9 hour drive directly to Rwenzori National Park.
- Day 3: Trek through the Afro-Montane Forest zone. Overnight at Sine Hut.
- Day 4: Continue your trek to the Bamboo Mimulopsis zone. Overnight at Kalalama Camp, surrounded by serene bamboo forests.
- Day 5: Trek further to the Alpine zone, reaching Bugata Camp for a night amidst high-altitude landscapes.
- Day 6: Trek to Bamwanjara Pass, experiencing the rugged beauty of the Rwenzori Mountains. Overnight at Butawu Camp, surrounded by breathtaking views.
- Day 7: Reach Mount Baker and Fresh Fields, trekking to Margherita Camp for an overnight stay at the base of the highest peak.
- Day 8: Descend to Stanley Glacier and return to Butawu Camp for overnight accommodation, reflecting on your journey through these spectacular mountains.
- Day 9: Trek to Lake Bugata, where you will spend the night at Kiharo Camp, surrounded by the peacefulness of the lake and its surroundings.
- Day 10: Return to Kyanjuki and overnight at the trekker's hostel.
- Day 11: Drive back to Entebbe, concluding your adventure in the Rwenzori Mountains.
Included/Exclude
Safari guide and vehicle
Accommodation on a full board basis in the park. (Bed and Breakfast for Entebbe)
Activities as per itinerary
House drinks
Park Entrance
Visa
Premium drinks
Additional services
Travel insurance
Tour Plan
- Day 1: Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and overnight in Entebbe to rest after your flight.
Meet your driver who will be waiting for you at the Airport exit lounge, he will have your name printed on the Airport signage to transfer your accommodation for an overnight. Afternoon at leisure. Optional activities available like Mabamba visit, Ngamba sanctuary visit, sunset cruise.
Accommodation options in Entebbe:
Upon arrival at the airport, your driver will be waiting for you at the exit lounge with a sign displaying your name. He will then transfer you to your accommodation for an overnight stay. Based on your arrival time, Optional activities are available such as a boat cruise to Mabamba wetlands, encountering the chimpanzees on the Ngamba Sanctuary on Ngamba Island, or enjoying a sunset cruise on Lake Victoria. These options allow you to tailor your experience and make the most of your time in Uganda.Accommodation options in Entebbe:
Hotel Number 5
Hotel No.5 is a serene luxury boutique hotel located in Entebbe, offering a luxurious and
comfortable stay. It features various room types including deluxe rooms and apartments, ideal
for longer stays.
The ensuite rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs,
bathrobes, slippers, and a secure safety box with password protection, a desk, and an electric
kettle for making tea or coffee.
The hotel provides excellent facilities including a 24-hour front desk, shuttle service, a shared
kitchen, and free Wi-Fi. There is also secure parking available and a swimming pool that caters
to both adults and children.
Guests can relax in the lounge area and enjoy complimentary house drinks. Hotel No.5 ensures a
relaxing and enjoyable experience for all its visitors.
Other luxury accommodations in Entebbe include; Protea Hotel, K- Hotel, Horizon Hotel, Lake
Victoria Hotel, and Admas Hotel among others.
Mid-range – Karibu Guest House
Karibu Guest House, established in 2012, is a boutique hotel located in Entebbe, conveniently 10
minutes from the airport. It offers a uniquely intimate experience with only 8 rooms, ensuring
personalized service and exclusivity.
The guesthouse prides itself on providing a high level of hospitality, featuring delicious cuisine,
a 24-hour reception, and fast, complimentary internet access.
Guests can also enjoy amenities
such as a swimming pool, spa services, and massages, enhancing their relaxation and comfort
during their stay. Karibu Guest House is designed to offer a tranquil and memorable retreat for
its lovely guests.
Other mid-range accommodations in Entebbe include Boma Guest House, Papyrus Guest House,
Imperial Heights Hotel, Frontier Hotel, Santa Maria Health Resort, Saffron Beach Cottages, 2
Friends Hotel, Anderita Hotel, Peniel Beach Hotel, Acacia Beach Hotel among others.
Budget – Guinea Fowl guest house.
Guinea Fowl Guest House takes its name from the rare Numididae bird species found
exclusively in Africa. Known for its longevity among gallinaceous birds, it symbolizes the
guesthouse’s commitment to endurance and quality.
The guesthouse provides a range of room options designed for a cozy and comfortable stay.
Additional services include laundry facilities, luggage storage, secure parking, and special
massage treatments. Guinea Fowl Guest House aims to ensure a relaxing and memorable
experience for all its guests.
Other budget accommodations in Entebbe include the Airport View Hotel, Entebbe Travellers
Inn, Discovery Courts Hotel, Gorilla African Guest House, Hotel Royal Nest, Sienna Beach
Hotel, and Rosemary Courts Hotel among others. - Day 2: Transfer back to Entebbe International Airport for your flight to Kasese Airstrip. Meet your guide and transfer to your accommodation near Rwenzori National Park. Alternatively, embark on an 8-9 hour drive directly to Rwenzori National Park.
Mountain Rwenzori National Park located in southwestern Uganda was established in 1991 and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 due to its rich biodiversity. The park is home to over 70 mammal species and 217 bird species, including 19 Albertine Rift endemics. These unique species thrive in the lush green moss, lichens, and diverse forested zones that blanket the mountain's slopes. Standing as Africa's second tallest mountain, Rwenzori reaches a majestic height of 5,109 meters above sea level, adorned with snow-capped peaks., It gained international recognition when Sir Henry Stanley discovered it in 1888, renaming it "Mountains of the Moon" from its traditional name, Ruwenzori, meaning "cloud king" or "rainmaker." The lower slopes of Rwenzori are clothed in a variety of verdant vegetation, including bamboo, giant heather trees, moorland, vibrant flowers, and towering lobelias. As you ascend, the terrain steepens and becomes masked in mist, particularly during the early morning hours, adding to the mountain's mystical attraction Overnight at Trekkers Hostel.
- Day 3: Trek through the Afro-Montane Forest zone. Overnight at Sine Hut.
The trek begins at 9 am from Trekkers Hostel in Kyanjuki, where visitors gather at the UWA headquarters for a briefing by park rangers regarding park regulations and registration. The journey takes tourists through the 6 km Afro Montane Forest zone, characterized by gigantic timber trees and abundant wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and chimpanzees. Overnight accommodation is at Sine Hut, a wooden camp nestled amidst tall forest trees on a narrow bridge. From here, guests enjoy a stunning view of waterfalls as cascading waters rush down the rocks, just 200 meters away from the campsite. Overnight at Sine Hut.
- Day 4: Trek to Bamboo Mimulopsis zone. Overnight at Kalalama Camp
The trek starts at 08:30 from Sine Camp after breakfast, heading through the Bamboo Mimulopsis Zone. The trail features steep terrain and can become slippery and muddy during rainy weather, requiring a cautious pace. Upon reaching Kalalama Camp in the Heather Rapanea zone, hikers pause for a coffee break and some stretching before continuing to Mutinda Camp for the overnight stay. The slopes are lush with green vegetation that includes fruit-bearing plants and berries, attracting a diverse array of birds along the way.
- Day 5: Trek to the Alpine zone. Overnight at Bugata camp
The hike continues into the Alpine Zone, traversing tussock lawns and fields of everlasting flowers en route to Namusangi Valley. Here, hikers are treated to breathtaking views of sheer falls and the impressive Mutinda Peaks. The journey then proceeds to Bugata Camp, where you'll spend the night. The hike lasts approximately 7 hours, and for those who find it challenging, this is a point where they can choose to return.
- Day 6: Trek to Bamwanjara pass. Overnight at Butawu camp.
Continue ascending towards Bamwanjara Pass, surrounded by fields of everlasting flowers and Giant Groundsels. The terrain transitions into tussock lawns and hosts Giant Lobelias, whose nectar sustains the Scarlet-tufted Malachite Sunbird—a unique species found exclusively in the Rwenzori Mountains. Upon reaching the summit of Bamwanjara Pass, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic snow-capped peaks. A serene sanctuary awaits, providing a perfect spot to rest and soak in the natural beauty. Overnight accommodation awaits at Butawu Camp, marking the end of a trek lasting between 3 to 5 hours.
- Day 7: Trek to Mount Baker and Fresh Fields. Overnight at Margherita camp
The trek continues from Mt. Baker and Freshfields Pass towards Butawu River, leading to Elena Camp at Margherita Camp. This camp, surrounded by towering peaks, holds historical significance as the original basecamp used by the Italian Prince Luigi Amadeo di Savoia, Duke of the Abruzzi, during his monumental expedition in 1906. The Duke's expedition team, comprising biologists, surveyors, a geologist, and a photographer, made significant discoveries and opened new routes in African mountaineering history. Many peaks still bear the names chosen by the Duke to honor the Italian Kingdom and Queen Margherita, inspiring the naming of Margherita Camp. From Margherita Camp, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Baker and Scott Elliot Pass. The return journey follows the crest, crossing several marshy areas and small streams along the way.
- Day 8: Trek to Stanley Glacier and descend back for an overnight at Buwatu Camp.
The trek begins early at 4:30 am with a quick snack before heading up towards Stanley Glacier in the pre-dawn hours. The ascent from Elena can be tricky if there's snow and ice, requiring careful navigation. Once on Stanley Glacier, the terrain becomes easier, leading past Small Lake near Margherita Camp. From there, the journey continues towards Margherita Peak, which stands in the distance. Descending from Margherita Peak to Butawu Camp, located at 3,974 meters, can be challenging and slippery, especially in rainy conditions. After summiting, hikers may descend directly to Butawu Camp. However, in the event of heavy rainfall, it may be necessary to stay overnight at Margherita Camp. Depending on conditions, the next day's trek could bypass Butawu Camp directly to Bugata Camp
- Day 9: Trek to Lake Bugata. Overnight at Kiharo
Enjoy a bit of a sleep-in and a late breakfast at 8:30 am before starting the hike by 9 am. The ascent up Bamwanjara Pass is steep, and in rainy conditions, it can be quite slippery, slowing down progress. While crossing the pass, you may have the opportunity to spot hyraxes basking in the sun near their rock shelters. These creatures are preyed upon by the Rwenzori Leopard, a rare sight but occasionally glimpsed by lucky visitors. The leopard has historically been hunted for its fur, and while sightings are rare, there are occasional reports of its presence in the area. There's a lookout spot in a small rock shelter for those hopeful of spotting a leopard. On misty or overcast days, there's a slight chance of catching a glimpse of these elusive creatures moving stealthily among the rocks. After the day's trek, settle in for the night at Bugata Camp.
- Day 10: From there proceed back to Kyanjuki. Overnight at Trekker’s hostel.
In the early morning hours, begin your trek around Lake Bugata and the outlet of Kopello Lake, then ascend 200 meters to the junction of the two valleys. As you descend into the upper areas of the Nyamwamba Valley, you'll encounter dense clusters of Giant Groundsel and lush evergreen vegetation. If you spent the night at Kiharo Camp, wake up to the echoing calls of the Rwenzori Turaco and other bird species. Enjoy a hearty breakfast before continuing your hike down the valley, where a multitude of bird species dart in and out of the thick foliage. In clearings, chameleons are commonly spotted crawling along branches, feeding on insects. You might also catch a glimpse of a Duiker, grazing amidst Giant Lobelias and various blooming flowers. After descending several kilometers, ascend another 200 meters to a ridge overlooking the valley. Cross several small valleys and streams to reach Kyalavula, which means "view" or "lookout" in the original Bakonzo language, offering stunning vistas down the valley and across to Lake Edward in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Samalira Camp, situated at 3,147 meters, is nestled in an open valley at the base of several cascades descending from the mountain. The downhill trek takes approximately 2-3 hours. Overnight at trekkers’ hostel
- Day 11: Drive back to Entebbe. End of services.
Tour Location
kampala
Frequently ask Question
Client’s Review
Write your comment
Book With Confidence
Customer care available 24/7
Hand-picked Tours & Activities
Safety Environments
No-hassle best price guarantee
Recent Tours
-
(3) Comments
Maverick
5It was a very peaceful and calm sailing with Sofia, my skipper for the day. The wind was a bit weak initially but it really picked up when we were sailing back. Sofia is very active and an excellent skipper and a very good guide and pointed lot of different types of boats to me, the meaning of the horns. The island we went to was hilly and a very small beach and we had a good lunch there.
John Murphy
4The experience was great, there was a lot to see. A few comments, 1. The audio was quite soft at times so I could not hear the commentary and history but the audio I could hear was entertaining and well read 2. Different drivers give different service so if you do not have a map it is easy to miss spots. I recommend having a sign/audio in the bus that tells you which stop you are at
John
5We LOVED this tour. Our group’s ages range from 18-26 and the tour was perfect for us. It is somewhat physically challenging but if you are in decent shape, it’s manageable and so worth it! Their team gives you all the gear you need (wetsuits, shoes, helmets, life jackets, etc) so all we brought was a swimsuit and a towel. This has been the favorite activity of our group so far on our travels.