Rwenzori Mountains National Park, straddling Uganda’s western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site captivating global adventurers. Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” this 996-square-kilometer park boasts Africa’s third-highest peak, Mount Stanley (5,109 meters), alongside glaciers, waterfalls, and surreal alpine flora.
The Rwenzori offer a stark contrast to Uganda’s savannahs, with snow-capped peaks, bamboo zones, and misty valleys hosting rare species like the Rwenzori turaco and three-horned chameleon. Hiking is the main draw, with the Central Circuit (7 to 9 days) summiting Margherita Peak, or shorter treks (2-3 days) to lower ridges like Mount Baker. Porters and cooks assist, as trails demand fitness and preparation for wet, cold conditions.
The park is 400 kilometers from Kampala (6-8 hours by road via Fort Portal) or a 1-hour flight to Kasese Airstrip, followed by a 1-hour drive to the trailhead at Nyakalengija. The dry seasons (June-August and December-February) offer the best weather, though rain and fog are common year-round, pack waterproof gear and warm layers.
From primate filled foothills to icy summits, Rwenzori’s otherworldly beauty and challenging treks make it a bucket-list destination for mountaineers and nature lovers worldwide.