Rwenzori Mountains National Park is one of Uganda’s most spectacular and less-traveled destinations, known for its mystical beauty, alpine peaks, and challenging hiking routes. Nicknamed the “Mountains of the Moon,” the Rwenzori Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Africa’s third-highest peak, Margherita Peak (5,109 meters), on Mount Stanley.

Brief History of Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The Rwenzori region has long been shrouded in legend and mystique. Early geographers, including Ptolemy in 150 AD, referred to the mountains as the source of the Nile. In 1906, Italian explorer Luigi di Savoia became the first European to climb and map the highest peaks.

The park was officially established in 1991 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, recognized for its exceptional natural beauty and ecological significance. Despite past threats from political instability, conservation efforts have helped restore and protect its pristine ecosystems.

What to Do at Rwenzori Mountains National Park

1. Mountain Trekking and Climbing
The Rwenzori Mountains offer some of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Africa. The Central Circuit Trail (7–9 days) and the Kilembe Trail are the main trekking routes. Climbers can summit:

Margherita Peak on Mount Stanley

Mount Speke and Mount Baker

Treks pass through five distinct vegetation zones, from tropical rainforest to snow-capped peaks, offering dramatic scenery and diverse wildlife.

2. Nature Walks
For visitors not aiming for the peaks, guided nature walks through the lower slopes provide a gentler introduction to the park’s beauty. Trails around Ruboni, Turaco View, and Bwamba Pass are ideal for birdwatching and cultural encounters.

3. Bird Watching
With over 217 bird species, Rwenzori is a birder’s paradise. Notable species include:

Rwenzori turaco

Malachite sunbird

Barred long-tailed cuckoo

Golden-winged sunbird

Many species here are Albertine Rift endemics and are best seen in the montane forest zone.

4. Cultural Encounters
Visitors can explore the traditions of the Bakonzo people, who live at the foot of the mountains. Community-guided walks include storytelling, traditional music, farming practices, and visits to local homesteads.

How to Get to Rwenzori Mountains National Park

By Road:
The park is located near Kasese town, about 375 km from Kampala.

The journey takes approximately 6–7 hours by road via Fort Portal or Mbarara.

By Air:
Chartered flights are available from Entebbe International Airport to Kasese Airstrip, which is about 10 km from the park’s entrance.

Accommodations at Rwenzori Mountains National Park

There are several lodging options in and around Kasese and the nearby villages like Ruboni and Kilembe.

Budget & Mid-Range:
Ruboni Community Camp – Affordable and community-run, offering great views and cultural experiences.

Equator Snow Lodge – A comfortable mid-range lodge near the Kilembe trailhead.

Rwenzori Trekkers Hostel – Budget-friendly and ideal for climbers using the Kilembe Trail.

Upmarket Options (in Kasese or nearby areas):
Sandton Hotel Kasese

Springs International Hotel

Best Time to Visit

The best time to trek the Rwenzori Mountains is during the dry seasons:

June to August

December to February

These periods offer more stable weather and safer hiking conditions, though temperatures in the high altitudes can still be cold year-round.

Why Visit Rwenzori Mountains National Park?

To summit Africa’s third-highest peak

To experience rare alpine vegetation including giant lobelias and heathers

For its breathtaking glacial landscapes, waterfalls, and moss-draped forests

To enjoy authentic cultural tourism and off-the-beaten-path adventure

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is a must-visit for adventurous travelers seeking a unique, immersive experience in one of Africa’s most beautiful and least-explored mountain ranges. Whether you’re a serious climber or a nature enthusiast, the park offers unmatched beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural depth in the heart of western Uganda.