Trip Highlights of 9-Day Rwenzori Hiking Safari
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- Trek through one of Africa’s most breathtaking mountain ranges, the Rwenzori Mountains.
- Reach Margherita Peak, the third-highest point in Africa at 5,109m.
- Experience diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, bamboo zones, alpine meadows, and glaciers.
- Spot unique wildlife, including primates and endemic bird species.
- Enjoy stunning views of the Virunga Mountains, Lakes, and surrounding landscapes.
- Conquer steep ascents, rocky trails, and glacial landscapes.
- Experience the challenge and thrill of high-altitude trekking in Uganda.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Kasese during 9-Day Rwenzori Hiking Safari
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Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met by a safari guide who will brief you on the 9-day adventure. After a short rest, embark on a scenic drive to Kasese town, the gateway to the Rwenzori Mountains. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, offering stunning views of the countryside, rolling hills, and tea plantations. Upon arrival, check into your lodge, where you will enjoy dinner and prepare for the trekking expedition ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kasese
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Transfer to Nyakalengija – Start of the Trek to Nyabitaba Hut (2,652m)
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After an early breakfast, transfer to the Rwenzori National Park headquarters in Nyakalengija for registration and a briefing from the park rangers. Here, you will meet your guides and porters before starting your trek. The journey begins with a gradual ascent through farmlands and dense rainforests. You may encounter blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and various bird species along the way. After approximately 5-6 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Nyabitaba Hut for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Nyabitaba Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Nyabitaba Hut – John Matte Hut (3,414m)
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Today’s trek takes you through the bamboo zone and the famous heather forest, characterized by giant lobelias and groundsel plants. The trail involves steep and muddy sections, requiring careful navigation. After crossing the Kurt Shafer Bridge, which overlooks the Mubuku and Bujuku rivers, continue towards John Matte Hut. The hike takes about 6-7 hours. Upon arrival, enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and surrounding valleys.
Accommodation: John Matte Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: John Matte Hut – Bujuku Hut (3,962m)
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After breakfast, continue the ascent towards the Bujuku Valley, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. The trek involves crossing boggy areas and wooden boardwalks to navigate through the wet terrain. As you approach Bujuku Hut, you will get your first close-up view of Mount Stanley, Mount Speke, and Mount Baker. This section of the trek takes approximately 4-5 hours.
Accommodation: Bujuku Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Bujuku Hut – Elena Hut (4,541m)
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The trek becomes more challenging as you ascend to the upper Bigo Bog and climb steeply through rocky landscapes towards Elena Hut. This high-altitude camp is strategically located at the base of Mount Stanley and serves as a staging point for the final ascent to Margherita Peak. The hike takes about 4-5 hours. Upon arrival, prepare for an early morning summit attempt.
Accommodation: Elena Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Summit Attempt – Margherita Peak (5,109m) – Descend to Kitandara Hut (4,023m)
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Begin the summit attempt early in the morning, usually around 2:00 AM. The climb involves navigating steep rock faces, snowfields, and glacier crossings using crampons and ropes. Upon reaching Margherita Peak, enjoy panoramic views of the Rwenzori range and beyond. After taking photos and celebrating the achievement, descend to Elena Hut and later continue to Kitandara Hut for an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Kitandara Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Kitandara Hut – Guy Yeoman Hut (3,261m)
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Today’s descent follows a steep and rocky trail through the Kitandara Valley. The path passes through stunning alpine scenery and leads down to Guy Yeoman Hut. This section of the trek is quite challenging due to its muddy and slippery conditions. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountain landscape.
Accommodation: Guy Yeoman Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Guy Yeoman Hut – Nyakalengija – Return to Kasese
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The final day of trekking involves descending through the bamboo and montane forests back to Nyakalengija. This part of the hike takes about 6-7 hours. Upon reaching the park headquarters, you will be awarded certificates for completing the Rwenzori trek. Later, transfer back to Kasese town for a well-deserved rest and celebration.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kasese
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Transfer to Entebbe – Departure
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After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive back to Entebbe, marking the end of your adventure. If time allows, you may visit local markets or take a brief city tour before heading to the airport for your flight home.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Inclusions of 9-Day Rwenzori Hiking Safari
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- Airport transfers
- Ground transportation
- Accommodation as per itinerary
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Park entry and hiking permits
- Porters and guide fees
- First aid kit
- Drinking water during the trek
- Summit certificate
Exclusions of 9-Day Rwenzori Hiking Safari
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- International flights
- Visa fees
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, drinks, etc.)
- Travel and medical insurance
- Hiking gear (available for hire)
- Extra accommodation before or after the trek
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Embark on this
9 Days Rwenzori Hiking Safari and challenge yourself to conquer one of Africa’s most iconic mountain ranges while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Uganda's natural landscapes!
