Rwenzori Mountains National Park
The Rwenzori Mountains National Park covers almost 100,000 hectares in western Uganda and includes most of the Rwenzori mountain range. This range is home to Mount Margherita, Africa’s third-highest peak at 5,109 meters. With its glaciers, waterfalls, and lakes, this park is considered one of Africa’s most stunning alpine areas. The park protects many natural habitats for endangered species and is known for its rich and unique plant life, including giant heather.
The Rwenzori Mountains National Park encompasses the highest parts of the mountain range, which stretches 120 kilometers in length and 65 kilometers in width. The park is home to 70 different types of mammals and 217 bird species, including 19 that are only found in the Albertine Rift. Some of the world’s rarest plants can also be found here.
The Rwenzori Mountains are a top destination for hiking and mountaineering. Skilled climbers can reach the summit of Margherita, the highest peak, on a trek that takes between nine to twelve days. However, there are also shorter, less technical routes for those who prefer easier hikes. For visitors who are not looking for strenuous activities, nearby Bakonzo villages offer nature walks, visits to local homes, cultural performances, and home-cooked meals. There are also local accommodations available.
Activities and Attractions in Rwenzori Mountains
National Park
Mountain Hiking Experience
The Rwenzori Mountains offer a world-class hiking experience. The most challenging activity in the park is hiking to the highest peak, Margherita, which can be very difficult for inexperienced hikers. However, there are also shorter and easier hikes that don’t go as high up. There are two main hiking routes to the top of the mountain. The first is the Central Circuit Trail, which starts at Mihunga and takes seven days. This hike is organized by the Rwenzori Mountaineering Services. The second route, called the Kilembe Trail, starts in Kilembe, near Kasese town. It was opened recently and is organized by Rwenzori Trekking Services. This trail takes five days to reach one of the summits.
To plan a hike in the park, it is best to work with Abim gorilla Tours as we help clients arrange transport, book accommodations, and coordinate with the Rwenzori Mountaineering Services to organize porters, guides, and cooks.
Bird Watching
The park is home to 217 bird species including several Albertine Rift endemics. Among these are 17 species that are endemic to the park making Rwenzori an important birding area (IBA). The forest zone at 1800m contains a diversity of birds including the Rwenzori Turaco, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, Long-eared Owl, Handsome Francolin, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, Archers’ Robin-chat, White-starred Robin, Rwenzori Batis, Montane Sooty Boubou, Lagden’s Bush Shrike, Slender-billed Starling, Blue-headed Sunbird, Golden-winged Sunbird, Strange Weaver and several varieties of Barbets, Greenbuls, Apalises, IIladopsis, Flycatchers and Crimson wings.
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