Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The legendary Mountains of the Moon - Africa's most challenging peaks

5,109

Meters Peak

996

Square Kilometers

117

Bird Species

9

Days Trek

The Mountains of the Moon

The Rwenzori Mountains, known as the "Mountains of the Moon," are Africa's highest mountain range after Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya. This UNESCO World Heritage site features six glacial peaks, including Mount Stanley with its main Margherita Peak at 5,109 meters.

Location

Western Uganda, bordering Democratic Republic of Congo

Climate

Alpine with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 25°C

Best Time

December-March and June-August (dry seasons)

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Alpine Flora & Mountain Wildlife

The Rwenzori Mountains feature unique alpine vegetation zones, from tropical rainforest to glacial peaks. The mountains are home to giant lobelias, groundsels, and rare mountain wildlife adapted to high altitudes.

Mammals

  • Forest Elephants
  • Yellow-backed Duiker
  • Golden Cat
  • Chimpanzees
  • Blue Monkeys
  • Black & White Colobus
  • Mountain Gorillas

Birds

  • 117 Bird Species
  • Albertine Rift Endemics
  • Rwenzori Turaco
  • Rwenzori Francolin
  • Moorland Francolin
  • Alpine Chat

Flora

  • Giant Lobelias
  • Giant Groundsels
  • Alpine Heather
  • Mountain Bamboo
  • Mosses & Lichens
  • Alpine Flowers

Adventure Activities

Central Circuit Trek

The famous 9-day trek to the main peaks. Experience all vegetation zones from tropical forest to glacial peaks with stunning views.

9 Days Challenging Peak Summit

Peak Climbing

Climb Mount Stanley's Margherita Peak (5,109m) or other peaks. Requires technical equipment and mountaineering experience.

Technical Equipment Required Expert Level

Day Hikes

Shorter hikes in the lower zones to experience the unique flora and fauna without the full mountain challenge.

1-3 Days Moderate Scenic

Bird Watching

Spot rare Albertine Rift endemics and mountain birds in the unique alpine environment of the Rwenzoris.

117 Species Endemics Expert Guides

Photography

Capture stunning landscapes, unique alpine flora, and dramatic mountain scenery in this photographer's paradise.

Landscapes Flora Scenic

Cultural Visits

Visit local communities around the mountains to learn about traditional cultures and mountain heritage.

Cultural Community Educational

Where to Stay

Equator Snow Lodge

Luxury lodge with stunning mountain views and world-class amenities near the Rwenzoris.

Sandton Hotel

Comfortable hotel in Kasese with excellent service and mountain views.

Margherita Hotel

Well-appointed hotel with mountain-themed decor and excellent facilities.

Ruboni Community Camp

Community-run camp at the base of the mountains with comfortable accommodation.

Rwenzori View Guesthouse

Cozy guesthouse with beautiful mountain views and personalized service.

Mountain Lodge

Family-friendly lodge with spacious rooms and beautiful garden setting.

Ruboni Campsite

Basic camping facilities at the mountain base with proceeds supporting the community.

Mountain Huts

Simple mountain huts along the trekking routes for overnight stays.

Community Homestay

Authentic local experience staying with mountain communities.

Getting There

By Air

Fly to Kasese airstrip with scheduled flights from Entebbe. From Kasese, arrange transfer to the mountain trailheads (about 1 hour drive).

1 hour from Entebbe Daily flights

By Road

From Kampala via Fort Portal (375km, 6-7 hours) or via Mbarara (450km, 7-8 hours). Well-maintained roads throughout the journey.

6-8 hours from Kampala 4x4 recommended

Public Transport

Regular buses from Kampala to Kasese. From Kasese, arrange local transport to the mountain trailheads.

Budget option Local experience