Thinking of enjoying Rwenzori Mountain climbing in Uganda where you will climb the third highest peak in Africa? Then you are at the right place where views of varied and spectacular landscapes as well as some of the most breathtaking summits will be relished with fewer crowds compared to Mount Kilimanjaro. Even with its beauty and exceptionality, the Rwenzori Mountain climbing experience doesn’t usually receive the hype that it deserves.
The Rwenzori mountain ranges are over 120 kilometers long along the Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo border. While it is not as high as Mount Kilimanjaro, it also requires a great deal of endurance as well as technical skills to challenge the 5,109-meter-high snow-capped summits. The word Rwenzori means “rain maker” in the local Rukonjo dialect and the mountain range is popular for its muddy as well as tiring hike. However, this is slightly less challenging in the dry season from June to September and December to February.
While treks range from 2-8 days, the most popular and rewarding Rwenzori Mountain climbing adventure is about 8 days and done by few travellers, compared to the more popular Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa’s highest peak) found in northern Tanzania. The treks usually begin with walks through the dense tropical forests marked by gargantuan fig trees that are always covered with primates, especially blue monkeys, to the Bamboo zone that extends to 2,800 meters above sea level with thumping accomplishment from stems that rattle in the crosswinds.
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It is always steep to ascend Rwenzori Mountains and participants always require a great deal of stamina-based fitness to challenge the drastic gains in elevation. While approaching the heather zone at 3,500 meters above sea level, you will be amazed by the huge Lobelias and in the higher areas find rare animals like the Rwenzori leopard. All in all, expect between 3 and 8 hours of walking between camps/huts where overnights and dinner are provided.
During the dry seasons of June to September and December to February, you will enjoy Rwenzori Mountain climbing experiences, because the climbing trails are drier due to absence of downpours. The climbing trails during the wet seasons of March to May and October to November are slippery, making the climbing experience a little harder. However, it will surprise you to hear that this signature experience is provided all year round and visitors that don’t enjoy crowds always prefer the wet months.
On what you need to bring for the Rwenzori Mountain climbing experience, don’t miss waterproof and fleece rain jacket, breathable and rainproof safari pants, and sturdy hiking boots and gaiters. Don’t forget the long and short-sleeved shirts, gardening gloves, cotton socks, re-usable water bottles, sunglasses, a first aid kit, insect repellant, sunscreen, and toiletries such as lip balm, tissue paper, face towel, hand and body lotion, toothbrush and toothpaste, wet wipes and hand sanitizer.