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From $2,500 per person (USD)

Rwenzori Mountains Summit Climb Itinerary to Margherita Peak

Rising along the Uganda–Democratic Republic of Congo border, the legendary Rwenzori Mountains—often called the “Mountains of the Moon”—offer one of Africa’s most demanding and rewarding alpine expeditions. This Rwenzori Mountains Summit Climb Itinerary to Margherita Peak is designed for determined trekkers seeking to reach the glaciated summit of Margherita Peak at 5,109 meters on Mount Stanley. Unlike the dry volcanic climbs of East Africa, the Rwenzori experience is defined by dramatic vegetation zones, moss-draped forests, giant lobelias, bog crossings, alpine glaciers, and steep rock ascents. The journey demands endurance, patience, and careful acclimatization, yet it rewards climbers with rare equatorial snowfields, breathtaking valley views, and a profound sense of wilderness isolation rarely found elsewhere on the continent.

Rwenzori Mountains Summit Climb Itinerary to Margherita Peak

itinerary

Arrival in Entebbe or Kampala – Transfer to Kasese

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a scenic road transfer to Kasese is arranged. The drive passes tea plantations, crater lakes, and the foothills of the Rwenzori range. A pre-climb briefing is conducted in the evening, equipment is checked, and final preparations are completed.

Rwenzori Mountains Summit Climb Itinerary to Margherita Peak

Lodge Options in Kasese:
Sandton Hotel Kasese
Rwenzori International Hotel

Kasese to Nyakalengija (1,615m) – Trek to Nyabitaba Hut (2,651m)

After breakfast, registration takes place at Rwenzori Mountains National Park headquarters in Nyakalengija. The trek begins through cultivated land before entering montane forest. Blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and colorful birdlife may be observed along the trail.

The ascent continues steadily to Nyabitaba Hut. Clear views of Portal Peaks are sometimes visible.

Accommodation:
Nyabitaba Hut

Nyabitaba Hut to John Matte Hut (3,414m)

The trail descends into the Kurt Shafer Bridge area before rising through bamboo forest into heather zones. Sections of muddy terrain and bog crossings are encountered. The Bujuku River is followed toward John Matte Hut.

Acclimatization gains begin to be felt at this altitude.

Accommodation:
John Matte Hut.

John Matte Hut to Bujuku Hut (3,962m)

A challenging bog section across the Lower Bigo Bog is navigated. Giant lobelias and everlasting flowers define the landscape. Lake Bujuku appears dramatically below Mount Stanley and Mount Speke.

The altitude gain becomes more significant, and hydration is emphasized.

Accommodation:
Bujuku Hut.

Bujuku Hut to Elena Hut (4,541m)

A steep ascent leads toward Scott Elliot Pass before turning toward Elena Hut. Technical terrain increases, and temperatures drop noticeably.

This day is focused on summit preparation and early rest.

Accommodation:
Elena Hut.

Summit Attempt – Margherita Peak (5,109m) – Descend to Kitandara Hut (4,023m)

A pre-dawn wake-up is scheduled. Crampons and safety equipment are used for glacier crossings. Rock scrambling and ice sections are negotiated carefully under guide supervision.

Margherita Peak is reached at sunrise, offering views across the Congo Basin and East African highlands. After summit celebrations and photography, descent begins back to Elena Hut and continues toward Kitandara Hut.

Accommodation:
Kitandara Hut.

Kitandara Hut to Guy Yeoman Hut (3,261m)

The trail crosses Freshfield Pass before descending into scenic valleys dotted with lakes. Heather forests reappear as altitude decreases.

Rwenzori Mountains Kilembe Trail Climbing Itinerary (8–10 Days)

Accommodation:
Guy Yeoman Hut.

Guy Yeoman Hut to Nyabitaba – Descend to Nyakalengija

A steady descent through bamboo and forest zones leads back to park headquarters. Certificates are issued upon successful completion.

Transfer back to Kasese follows.

Lodge Options in Kasese:
Sandton Hotel

Return to Entebbe

After breakfast, transfer back to Entebbe or onward safari extension to Queen Elizabeth National Park may be arranged.

Accommodation in Entebbe:
Hotel No.5
Protea Hotel Entebbe
(optional extension)

Book this tour or craft your own experience

“Had a great trip with wild horn Africa when I visited volcano National park for 3days the experience was unforgettable,great memories and all thanks goes to our guide #Guma Kenny from Wildhorn Africa”
Neymar Imran

“I enjoyed my time with wildhorn Africa in kenya at Naivasha National part for 4 days had a great experience with different wild life with a help of our guide Juma”
Butumwa Djarumuzi

Included

Park entry fees
Professional mountain guides
Porters
Hut accommodation
Meals during the climb
Climbing equipment (excluding personal gear)
Rescue support
Transfers as indicated

Excluded

International flights
Uganda visa fees
Personal travel insurance
Tips for guides and porters
Personal trekking gear
Beverages beyond provided meals
Optional safari extensions

When is the best time to travel?

The most stable climbing conditions are generally experienced during the drier seasons from June to August and December to February. During these periods, rainfall is reduced, glacier visibility is improved, and trail conditions are comparatively manageable, although mud and moisture remain characteristic of the Rwenzori environment year-round. Climbers are advised that weather patterns remain unpredictable due to the equatorial alpine climate, and flexibility is essential. Proper preparation and acclimatization are strongly recommended regardless of season, as summit success is influenced more by physical readiness and weather windows than by calendar timing alone.