7 days Mountain Rwenzori climbing

7 Days Rwenzori Mountain Climbing Adventure

Destination: Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda
Activity: Hiking & Mountain Climbing
Route: Central Circuit (up to John Matte or Bujuku depending on fitness)

Overview

Join us for a 7-day trekking experience in the legendary Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon.” This guided adventure takes you deep into one of Africa’s most scenic and challenging alpine landscapes. You’ll hike through bamboo forests, boggy valleys, moss-covered trees, and glacier-fed streams, with chances to spot rare plants and wildlife unique to the Rwenzoris. Ideal for adventurous travelers who want a true wilderness challenge without climbing to the summit.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kasese & Transfer to Nyakalengija (1,646 m)

• Meet your guide in Kasese town or at the airstrip

• Transfer to the Rwenzori Mountains National Park gate

• Final gear check and briefing

• Overnight at the base camp (hotel/lodge or campsite)

Day 2: Nyakalengija to Nyabitaba Hut (2,651 m)

• Trek begins through tropical forest

• Possible sightings: black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, birds

• Distance: ~8 km / 5–6 hours

• Overnight at Nyabitaba Hut

Day 3: Nyabitaba to John Matte Hut (3,505 m)

• Cross the Bujuku River and enter the bamboo zone

• Hike through the challenging and beautiful “Heath-Moss” zone

• Distance: ~11 km / 6–7 hours

• Overnight at John Matte Hut

Day 4: Acclimatization or Optional Hike to Bujuku Hut (3,962 m)

• Rest day or optional hike to Bujuku Hut depending on fitness

• Explore alpine vegetation and enjoy views of Mount Stanley and Mount Speke

• Return or stay overnight at Bujuku depending on group plan

Day 5: Return to Nyabitaba Hut

• Begin descent through the same trail

• Overnight at Nyabitaba Hut

• Relax and enjoy the change in scenery from alpine to forest

Day 6: Descend to Base Camp (Nyakalengija)

• Final descent through the rainforest

• Transfer to Kasese for celebration and rest

• Overnight at a lodge in Kasese (or transfer to hotel of choice)

Day 7: Departure or Transfer to Next Destination

• After breakfast, transfer to the airport or continue your Uganda tour (e.g. Queen Elizabeth or Kibale National Park)

What’s Included

• Park entry fees and permits

• Professional mountain guide and porters

• Accommodation (mountain huts and lodges)

• All meals during the trek

• Ground transportation from Kasese

• Drinking water

What to Bring

• Waterproof hiking boots

• Warm clothing and layers

• Sleeping bag

• Backpack (waterproof)

• Rain gear and gloves

• Headlamp and personal first aid

Difficulty Level

Moderate to Difficult. Requires good physical fitness. No technical climbing is required for this route, but terrain is steep, wet, and demanding.