Climbing the Rwenzori Mountains can be a rewarding and memorable experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation due to the challenging terrain and unpredictable weather. Also known as the "Mountains of the Moon," the Rwenzoris are a mountain ranges in eastern Africa located on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Protected by Rwenzori mountains national park, the ranges have the highest peak in Uganda and the third highest on the African continent – Margherita (5,109m) found on Mount Stanley, one of the massifs of the mountains. The mountain is mostly hiked by the experienced though there are also some packages for the beginners and unphysically fit hikers. As a beginner, you should be fully aware of the conditions, seasonal weather patterns, costs, and requirements to prepare yourself for this challenge and below is a beginner's guide to help you get started;
Research and Planning
During the preparation of the trip, make a good research about the mountains by reading guidebooks, online resources, and travel forums. Understand the various routes, climate, flora, and fauna of the region. Also, determine the best time to visit. The dry seasons of June to August and December to February are generally recommended for climbing.
Choose Your Route
To reach the Rwenzori summit, there are several routes one can opt for and among these include the Central Circuit route – the most popular route for beginners, which takes around 6 to 8 days to complete and then Kilembe route. Both routes offer a good mix of stunning scenery and manageable challenges.
Permits and Logistics
As you prepare for the Rwenzori Trekking, you have to obtain the necessary permits from the Ugandan Wildlife Authority (UWA) for trekking and camping in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. Make arrangements for transportation to the starting point of your chosen route. Most treks begin from the village of Nyakalengija when using a Central Circuit trip.
Physical Fitness
Climbing the Rwenzori Mountains requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Engage in cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking to prepare your body for the demands of the trek
Skill level
If you are new to mountain climbing, there’s no need to worry. Although the climb to the mountain’s summit is a multi-day, high-altitude trek, you do not necessarily have to be trained in climbing to get to the top, especially with a tour guide helping you. At the right time of year, the terrain and trail conditions are smooth enough for most committed hikers to reach the peak.
Age: Only those over the age of 10 can embark on this climb.
Moving speed
When climbing 10 – 20 thousand feet, it is important to pace yourself. The slower you go, the more oxygen you will get in your body and the better you will acclimatize.
Packing Essentials
A packing list is one of the most important things to note as you are going for a Rwenzori trip. Due to the varying temperatures, pack moisture-wicking base layers, insulated clothing, a waterproof jacket, gloves, and a hat. Don't forget sturdy hiking boots. In case you are a backpacker, including a sleeping bag must be one of the ideas to pass through the cold temperatures, a headlamp, a water bottle, and a trekking pole. Other personal items to pack include; Sunscreen, insect repellent, a first aid kit, and any necessary medications.
Guides and Porters
Hiring local guides and porters is highly recommended. They are knowledgeable about the area, can assist you in challenging sections, and help carry heavy loads. This makes the hiking to an altitude of nearly 5,000 meters is no picnic since you will get all the necessary assistance from the guide and porters that knows the terrain and local environment.
Acclimatisation
The altitude can affect climbers, so allow time for proper acclimatization. Plan your itinerary with rest days and gradually ascend to higher altitudes to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
Respect the Environment
Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Pack out all trash and adhere to park regulations. Respect local customs and traditions, and interact respectfully with the local communities you encounter.
Safety First
Be prepared for changing weather conditions. Rain is common, so waterproof gear is essential. Stay hydrated and eat nutritious meals to maintain energy levels. Also, listen to your guides' advice and be prepared to turn back if conditions become too challenging
Tipping
The crew that takes you up the mountain consists of a lead guide, assistant guide, chef, and a team of porters plays a huge role in the success of your summit, making sure that you take the proper precautions in what you eat, when you sleep, and how much you climb each day. Tipping guides and porters after the hike is important because you are directly helping their families and local communities with your tip.
Recommended time to explore the mountains of the moon
The Mountain Rwenzori got a very short dry season which is between June and August and the other is between December and February. These are also the best times to visit this national park.
You should however note that the dry season in Rwenzori does not mean no rain at all, there could be rain showers so plan to carry your rain gear with you.
Group expeditions to Rwenzori mountains
The groups are usually 5-10 people big and the size can vary depending on your operator’s regulations
Booking a group tour can get you some discounts with your operator
It also boosts one’s morale to finish the hike to the summit
Mountains of the moon: climbing Uganda’s highest peak
Climbing to Uganda’s highest peak is a typical 5-day activity starting from Nyakalengija (1600m) to Margherita Peak (5,109m). below is an example of a hike plan that you follow on your way to the top.
Day 1: arrival to Rwenzori, Nyakalengija (1600m) to John matte hut (3420m)
Hiking in Nyakalengija at the head office where you are briefed and after this, you pick your hiking equipment and get ready. The guides and porters are always ready and you will start the hike passing through the local settlements, tropical forests, montane forests, bamboo forest and part of the alpine. As you hike, you have a stopover at Nyabitaba hut for lunch and then proceed through the Kurt Schaffer Bridge, which is at the conference of Mubuku and Bujuku Rivers. When you reach john matte, you have dinner and spend the night.
Day 2: John matte to Elena hut (4563m)
After breakfast at john matte, you pass through the rocky and slippery area as you cross-different rivers and stream. Along this route, you are able to spot the Margherita and Alexandra peaks at a distance. You then proceed with the hike through the lower bigo bog where boards were put to make movement easier, you spot various plants like giant lobelia, groundsels, and everlasting flowers among others. continue to hike through the rocky parts of Mount Stanley to Elena hut where you have dinner and spend the night.
Day 3: Elena to Bujuku camp (3930m) – Hiking to the top
On this day, you start the hike at around 2am, ready with your hiking gear and headlamps, you hike through the rocky area, and you use the ropes as you hike on some spots to the Stanley glacier. After the Stanley glacier, you continue with the hike through the rocks to the Margherita glacier. The hike through the Margherita glacier leads you to Margherita peak, which is the highest point of the Rwenzori.
You descend back to Elena hut where you will rest and have lunch. And then continue to descend to Bujuku hut where you have dinner and spend the night.
Day 4: Bujuku to Nyabitaba hut (2660m)
After breakfast at Bujuku you move through the upper bigo bog, continue descending through the lower bigo bog to john matte where you will rest and have lunch. You proceed to Nyabitaba hut where you have dinner and spend the night.
Day 5: Nyabitaba back to Nyakalengija
After breakfast at Nyabitaba, you will descend back to Nyakalengija through the bamboo forests. The path down can be slippery and muddy with little to hold on to and requires careful balancing over the vertical mud or steep rock. After about 5 hours of trekking you reach Nyabitaba hut where you have a stopover for lunch and continue to descend for more 3 hours to Nyakalengija.
Upon arrival at Nyakalengija in the late evening, your driver is be ready to transfer you to your hotel where you spend the night.
How to plan a Rwenzori mountaineering experience
· Assess your physical condition and make sure you're prepared for the trek's demands.
· The Rwenzori's high altitudes can cause altitude sickness. Plan for acclimatization days.
· Check the duration of the tour to ensure it fits your schedule and preferences.
· Different routes vary in difficulty; choose one that matches your hiking experience.
· Ensure you have appropriate gear, including waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear, and camping equipment.
· Confirm the permits you need to enter the national park and hike the Rwenzori Mountains.
· Look for experienced guides and porters to assist you during the trek.
· Consult a doctor before the trip to ensure you're physically fit for the challenge. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization is important during the climb.
· Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and more.
· Decide if you prefer a small or large group for a more personalized experience.
· Know the type of accommodation available during the trek and decide if it meets your comfort level and plan to carry some extras like sleeping bags.
· Research the weather conditions during your travel dates and pack accordingly.
· Prepare with training hikes and exercises to build stamina and strength.
· Understand the total cost, including transportation, permits, guides, and other expenses. Make sure you have enough money for your trip.
· Choose a tour operator that prioritizes responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
· Rwenzori has several routes of varying difficulty levels. Select a route that matches your group's fitness and experience levels. routes include the Central Circuit and the Kilembe Trail.
· Arrange transportation to and from the trail head, whether by public transport or private hire.
· Plan the logistics for food, water, and waste disposal during the trek.
· Understand the potential risks and hazards of mountaineering. Carry a first aid kit, communication devices.
· Respect the local culture and customs
Common mistakes to avoid when planning Rwenzori mountaineering trip
1. Underestimating physical fitness requirements.
2. Ignoring weather conditions and packing inadequately.
3. Neglecting acclimatization to high altitudes.
4. Skipping proper gear and equipment preparation.
5. Not booking permits or guides in advance.
6. Overlooking the need for experienced guides.
7. Failing to research and follow local regulations.
8. Not considering the impact on the fragile environment.
9. Neglecting proper travel insurance coverage.
10. Not informing someone about your itinerary and plans.
Discounted group tours to the Rwenzori mountains
Unlike Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Rwenzori group trips are unpopular and Rwenzori Mountaineering services is among the operators that have started the theme of group mountaineering in Rwenzori.
Discounted group tours could look like this
Ø 2-4 people $1350 per person
Ø 5-10 people $1200 per person
Ø 11-20 people $1160 per person
Rwenzori Mountaineering services that runs the central circuit trail offers the unique Rwenzori trips via the oldest trail in Rwenzori Mountains National Park that shares the border with Congo’s Virunga National Park that offers also Climbing Nyiragongo Tours.