Rwenzori Mountains National Park, straddling Uganda’s border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, captivates global travelers with its diverse attractions. Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” this 996-square-kilometer park blends towering peaks, rare wildlife, and cultural gems into a must-visit destination.
Margherita Peak(5,109 meters) on Mount Stanley headlines the park, offering climbers a glacier-crowned summit with panoramic views, accessible via the Central Circuit or Kilembe Trail. Below, the Kitandara Lakes, twin alpine pools at 4,000 meters, dazzle with turquoise hues amid jagged ridges. The park’s giant lobelias and groundsels, otherworldly plants unique to high altitudes, thrive in boggy valleys, enchanting hikers and photographers.
Wildlife shines with the elusive Rwenzori leopard and over 70 mammal species, while 177 bird species, including the vibrant Rwenzori turaco, animate the forests. The Bakonzo villages near Nyakalengija provide cultural immersion, with traditional dances and crafts reflecting centuries of mountain life. Waterfalls like those near Mutinda Camp add scenic splendor to treks.
Reachable by a 6-8 hour drive from Kampala or a 1-hour flight to Kasese, Rwenzori’s attractions blend adventure and tranquility, making it a jewel for explorers worldwide.