The Rwenzori Mountains (Also Ruwenzoris Mountains) lie along the Western border of Uganda and rise to a height of 5100 metres. Also legendary known as "mountains of the Moon", this World Heritage Site - and its incomparable, beautiful, mist-shrouded peaks provide a unique back drop to one of our most magnificent national parks in Uganda. In the Centre of the range, which boasts of Africa's third highest mountain, some of the peaks carry permanent snow and glaciers, while the lower slopes do not call for mountaineering experience, although the higher you go the fitter you need to be. Excellent walking routes, including the Bujuku circuit are provided through wonderful and unique scenery. For those who want to attempt a climb, several peaks provide challenges that match those in the Alps.

These fabled mis-covered "mountains of the moon" 120 km in the length and 48 km in width, were formed from block which was thrust up during the creation of the Western arm of the Great East African Rift Valley. At the Centre of the range, there are six peaks carrying permanent snow, three with glaciers. The highest of these peaks, and the third highest peak in Africa, is Mt. Margherita rising 5,1000 metres above sea level. The Rwenzori mountains were gazetted as National Park in 1991. The park covers 996 km2 of rugged mountain terrain. Whether they are experienced climbers or casual day-hikers, Rwenzori Mountain National Park offers visitors a unique experience of an Afro-Montane rain forest.

The main attraction is the luxuriant vegetation found above 3000m which includes the giant forms of Lobelia. Heather and Groundsel. Rwenzori Mountains National park is also home to the unique bird species such as the Rwenzori touraco, the handsome francolin and the olive pigeon. The mountain's wildlife include Elephant, Genet, Chimpanzee, Golden Cat, Forest Hog, Rock Hydrax, Sitatunga, Mongoose, Duiker, Vervet Monkey and Rwenzori Colobus.

You experience five different vegetation zones, from the tropical and bamboo forests up to the alpine zones. The hike does not require any specific climbing experience or training, but it is easy to whoever likes mountaineering. It is possible to complete the trial by ascending the main peaks, like Margherita on Mount Stanley (5.109 m), Mount Speke (4.890 m.), Mount Luigi di Savoia (4.627 m).

Rwenzoris can be accessed by road from Kampala via Mbarara to Kasese or from Kampala through Fort Portal and then 75 km South on the Fort Portal / Kasese road. The park is 25 km from Kasese town, then turning left inside to reach Ibanda and Niakalengija, following the sign post on the Kasese Road. Chartered planes are also available from Entebbe /Kampala to Kasese and then by road.

Stanley, whose main snow covered peak, Margherita, 5.109m, is the third in Africa, only after Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya. In the legend Rwenzori Mountains are known as the "Mountains of the Moon". The first climber to ascend the highest peaks of Rwenzori was the Italian Prince Luigi Amedeo of Savoy the Duke of Abruzzi in 1906. 2006 is the Centenary of the historical climbing. Joint initiatives will occur both in Italy and Uganda aimed at promoting the image of this little known area of the world, far from the international tourist circuits.

A trip into the Rwenzori Mountains provides exhilarating rewarding experience but one, which must be Well planned. The key to an enjoyable Uganda tours must be prepared! The central circuit hike takes six nights/seven days and reaches an altitude of 14,000ft (4,267m) above sea level.

The conditions on the mountain are a challenge to even an experienced hiker because this mountain is known for its un-engineered, steep and slippery trails, frequent rainfall, cold temperatures, bogs, mud, steep terrain and high altitude.
However you can try it, it's an exciting experience and since the periods of July-August, December-February are relatively dry for inexperienced hikers. During any season, rain gear, good sleeping bag, warm hat, gloves, heavy socks, gum boots, gaiters and a walking stick for balance are recommended plus a basic first aid kit.

Porters will be carrying your heavy equipment and food, leaving you with a small pack, rain gear, warm clothes, camera water and any other light luggage.
You can purchase your own food and Rwenzori mountaineering service can provide cooking utensils and cooks.