Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rwenzori Mountains National Park in Uganda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in Africa. Known as the “Mountains of the Moon”, the park is famous for its snow-capped peaks, dramatic glaciers, and stunning alpine scenery despite lying close to the equator. Covering 996 km² along the Uganda–DRC border, the Rwenzori’s are home to Margherita Peak (5,109 m), Africa’s third-highest summit after Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya.

This park is a top choice for travelers interested in mountaineering in Uganda, Rwenzori trekking tours, birdwatching safaris, and cultural encounters with the local Bakonzo communities.

Highlights of Rwenzori Mountains National Park

• Climb Margherita Peak (5,109 m) the third-highest peak in Africa.
• Unique Vegetation Zones the Afro-alpine meadows, giant lobelias, and heathers.
• Rwenzori Trekking Routes – Central Circuit Trail (7–9 days) and Kilembe Trail.
• Birdwatching Paradise – more than 217 bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco.
• Wildlife on the Slopes – forest elephants, chimpanzees, blue monkeys, duikers.
• Cultural Experiences – visit Bakonzo villages and learn traditional farming and dance.

Things to Do in Rwenzori Mountains National Park

• Rwenzori Trekking Tours – multi-day hikes to explore glaciers, valleys, and peaks
• Climbing Expeditions – summit Margherita Peak for a once-in-a-lifetime mountaineering experience.
• Day Hikes & Nature Walks – short treks for waterfalls, crater lakes, and forest walks.
• Birdwatching Safaris in Uganda – spot Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori batis.
• Cultural Encounters – immerse yourself in Bakonzo traditions around Ruboni and Kilembe.

Best Time to Visit Rwenzori Mountains

• December–February & June–August – best for climbing, trekking, and photography.
• March–May & September–November – wetter, more challenging, but with lush scenery.

Accommodation in Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Whether you’re looking for a luxury safari lodge in Uganda or budget safari camps, Rwenzori Mountains National Park has it all:

• Luxury Lodges: Equator Snow Lodge, Rwenzori Mountains Safari Lodge.
• Mid-Range Options: Sandton Hotel Kasese, White House Hotel.
• Budget Stays: Ruboni Community Camp, UWA bandas at the park gate.
• Mountain Huts & Campsites: available along trekking trails.

How to Get to Rwenzori Mountains National Park

• By Road: Kampala to Kasese (~6–7 hours), then to Nyakalengija or Kilembe trailheads.
• By Air: Daily flights to Kasese Airstrip from Entebbe or Kajjansi.

Travel Tips

• Book a licensed trekking guide through UWA or a registered tour operator.
• Pack waterproof boots, rain gear, warm clothes, and trekking poles.
• Train physically Rwenzori trekking is more technical than Kilimanjaro.
• Combine your adventure with nearby parks: Queen Elizabeth NP (game drives & boat cruises) or Kibale NP (chimpanzee trekking).

Why Visit Rwenzori Mountains National Park?

Unlike Mount Kilimanjaro which is crowded, the Rwenzori’s offer a wilder, less touristy trekking experience in Uganda. It’s the only place in East Africa where you can hike through tropical rainforest, alpine valleys, and glaciers all in one journey. Whether you want to climb Margherita Peak or enjoy day hikes, Rwenzori Mountains National Park is Uganda’s ultimate adventure destination.