Rwenzori Mountains National Park

ABOUT THE PARK

The park was gazetted in 1991 and was recognized as a World Heritage site in 1994 and a Ramsar site in 2008.

Highest point: 5,109m above sea level on Mt Stanley’s Margherita Peak. The border with DR Congo bisects Mt. Stanley.

The Rwenzori is not volcanic like East Africa’s other major mountains but is a block of rock up-faulted through the floor of the Western Rift Valley.

The Rwenzoris were christened the “Mountains of the Moon” by the Alexandrine geographer Ptolemy in AD 150.

The explorer Henry Stanley placed the Rwenzori on the map on 24th May 1888. He labeled it ‘Ruwenzori’, a local name which he recorded as meaning “Rain-Maker” or “Cloud-King.”

The oldest recorded person to reach Margherita Peak was Ms. Beryl Park aged 78 in 2010.

The Rwenzoris – the fabled Mountains of the Moon – lie in western Uganda along the Uganda-Congo border. The equatorial snow peaks include the third highest point in Africa, while the lower slopes are blanketed in moorland, bamboo, and rich, moist montane forest. Huge tree heathers and colorful mosses are draped across the mountainside with giant lobelias and “everlasting flowers”, creating an enchanting, fairy-tale scene.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park protects the highest parts of the 120km-long and 65km-wide Rwenzori mountain range. The national park hosts 70 mammals and 217 bird species including 19 Albertine Rift endemics, as well as some of the world’s rarest vegetation.

The Rwenzoris are a world-class hiking and mountaineering destination. A nine- to twelve-day trek will get skilled climbers to the summit of Margherita – the highest peak – though shorter, non-technical treks are possible to scale the surrounding peaks.

For those who prefer something a little less strenuous, neighboring Bakonzo villages offer nature walks, homestead visits home cultural performances and accommodation, including home-cooked local cuisine.

HOW TO GET TO THE PARK?

Getting to Rwenzori Mountains National Park involves several steps due to its remote location in southwestern Uganda. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach the park:

1. By Air:

a. Flights to Kasese:

• From Entebbe International Airport (EBB): You can take a domestic flight from Entebbe to Kasese Airport, which is the closest airport to the park. The flight takes about 1 hour.
• Airlines: Airlines like Aerolink Uganda provide flights to Kasese. Check their schedules and book in advance.

b. From Kasese Airport to the Park:

• Transfers: From Kasese Airport, you can arrange a transfer to the park headquarters in Nyakalenjija. The drive takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on road conditions.

2. By Road:

a. From Kampala to Nyakalenjija (Park Headquarters):

• Distance and Time: The drive from Kampala to the park headquarters in Nyakalenjija is approximately 400-500 kilometers (250-310 miles) and takes about 6-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
• Route: The common route is via Fort Portal. From Fort Portal, you continue to Kasese and then to Nyakalenjija. The road conditions can vary, and parts of the journey may be rough.

b. Road Conditions:

• 4WD Vehicle: It is highly recommended to use a 4WD vehicle due to the rough and sometimes uneven road conditions, especially during the rainy season.
• Local Guides: If you’re unfamiliar with the route or prefer not to drive, you can arrange for a local guide or tour operator who can handle the transportation.

3. By Public Transport:

a. Buses and Matatus:

• From Kampala to Kasese: Public buses and matatus (shared minivans) run from Kampala to Kasese. The journey can take around 7-10 hours.
• From Kasese to Nyakalenjija: From Kasese, you would need to arrange a private transfer or hire a local vehicle to reach the park headquarters.

4. Local Transfers:

a. Arranging Transfers:

• Tour Operators: Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation from Kampala or Entebbe to the park. They can arrange for both road and air transfers.
• Park Headquarters: Once you arrive at Nyakalenjija, the park headquarters, you can organize your trekking permits, guides, and park activities.

Additional Tips:

• Travel Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documents, including park entry permits, trekking permits, and visas if required.
• Check Conditions: Road conditions and weather can vary, so check the current conditions and any travel advisories before setting out.
• Local Accommodations: If arriving a day before your trek, you might want to stay in nearby towns like Kasese or Fort Portal.

With proper planning and preparation, reaching Rwenzori Mountains National Park can be a smooth process, allowing you to enjoy one of Uganda’s most spectacular natural landscapes.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park offers a variety of accommodation options both inside and near the park. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right place to stay during your visit:

ACCOMODATION

Rwenzori Mountains National Park offers a variety of accommodation options both inside and near the park. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right place to stay during your visit:

Inside the Park:

1. Huts Along Trekking Routes:

• Nyabitaba Hut: Located at the start of several trekking routes, Nyabitaba Hut provides basic accommodation and serves as a starting point for treks to higher altitudes.
• John Matte Hut: Positioned at a higher elevation, John Matte Hut is used by trekkers on the central circuit and is a key stop for those aiming to reach higher peaks.
• Bujuku Hut: Located near Bujuku Lake, this hut offers a rest stop for trekkers and is situated in a picturesque area of the park.
• Kitandara Hut: Found on the western side of the park, Kitandara Hut is a base for those trekking through the park’s western regions. Facilities: The huts are basic, with communal sleeping areas and limited facilities. Trekkers are advised to bring their own sleeping bags and some essential gear.

Outside the Park:

1. In Kasese:

• Mountains of the Moon Hotel: A comfortable option in Fort Portal, this hotel offers well-furnished rooms and a range of amenities including a restaurant, bar, and conference facilities.
• Equator Snow Lodge: Located in Kasese, this lodge provides a range of accommodations, from budget to mid-range, with amenities including a restaurant and garden.

1. In Fort Portal:

• Crater Safari Lodge: Situated near Fort Portal, this lodge offers luxury accommodations with stunning views of the crater lakes and surrounding areas.
• Kyaninga Lodge: Located outside Fort Portal, this lodge features luxury cottages and is known for its beautiful setting and excellent service.

1. Community Campsites:

• Local Campsites: There are several community-run campsites around the park where visitors can camp. These sites are basic but provide a closer-to-nature experience.

Booking and Tips:

1. Advance Booking:

• Huts: For accommodation inside the park, it is essential to book in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons. You can make reservations through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or through a local tour operator.
• Lodges and Hotels: For accommodation outside the park, booking in advance is also recommended, particularly during peak travel seasons.

1. Trekking Preparation:

• Gear: If staying in park huts, bring essential trekking gear, including a sleeping bag, warm clothing, and waterproofs.
• Food and Water: Some huts may provide basic food, but it’s wise to bring your own supplies. Ensure you have access to clean drinking water.

1. Travel Packages:

• Tour Operators: Many tour operators offer comprehensive packages that include accommodation, transportation, guiding services, and park entry fees. This can simplify your travel logistics and ensure a smooth experience.

By selecting the right accommodation and preparing adequately, you can enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay while exploring the stunning landscapes and unique ecosystems of Rwenzori Mountains National Park.

HOW TO BOOK WITH DESJOURNEYS

DesJourneys is a travel company that specializes in bespoke travel experiences, particularly for African destinations. If you’re looking to travel with DesJourneys to a destination like Rwenzori Mountains National Park, here’s how you can work with them:

1. Initial Contact and Inquiry:

a. Contact DesJourneys:

• Website: Visit the DesJourneys website to find contact information or use their inquiry form to get in touch.
• Phone/Email: Reach out directly via phone or email for a personalized response.

b. Provide Travel Details:

• Trip Information: Share details about your travel dates, destination (e.g., Rwenzori Mountains National Park), preferences, budget, and any specific requests or interests.

2. Custom Itinerary and Proposal:

a. Discussion:

• Consultation: DesJourneys will likely schedule a consultation to discuss your preferences, travel goals, and any special requirements you may have.
• Destination Details: They will provide detailed information about the destination, including accommodation options, activities, and travel logistics.

b. Itinerary Creation:

• Customized Itinerary: Based on your input, DesJourneys will create a tailored itinerary that suits your needs. This will include details on accommodation, activities, transportation, and other essential elements of your trip.

c. Review and Adjustments:

• Feedback: Review the proposed itinerary and provide feedback. You can request changes or adjustments as needed to better fit your preferences.

3. Booking and Confirmation:

a. Confirm Itinerary:

• Finalization: Once you’re satisfied with the itinerary, confirm it with DesJourneys.
• Booking: They will proceed with booking all elements of the trip, including accommodation, transportation, and activities.

b. Payment:

• Payment Process: Follow DesJourneys’ payment instructions to secure your bookings. They will provide details on deposit requirements and payment methods.

4. Pre-Trip Preparation:

a. Documentation:

• Travel Documents: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, such as visas, permits, and travel insurance. DesJourneys can assist with obtaining any required permits for Rwenzori Mountains National Park.

b. Packing and Preparation:

• Packing List: Prepare according to the destination’s climate and activities. For Rwenzori, ensure you have appropriate trekking gear, warm clothing, and waterproofs.

5. During the Trip:

a. Support:

• 24/7 Assistance: DesJourneys often provides ongoing support during your trip to address any issues or changes that may arise.
• Guided Tours: Enjoy the pre-arranged guided tours, activities, and accommodations as per your itinerary.

b. Feedback:

• Experience: Share feedback with DesJourneys about your experience to help them improve their services and assist future travelers.