This 12-day expedition takes you into the legendary Rwenzori Mountains, often called the Mountains of the Moon. The trek leads through dense rainforest, misty valleys, and dramatic alpine landscapes before reaching the summit of Mount Stanley, home to Margherita Peak (5,109 m)—the highest mountain in Uganda and the third highest in Africa.
The journey follows the famous Central Circuit Trail and passes several mountain huts deep in the wilderness. Along the way you will see unique Afro-alpine vegetation such as giant lobelias and groundsels, cross boggy valleys, and trek beneath glaciated peaks.
With the support of experienced guides, cooks, and porters, this expedition combines true adventure with the comfort of a fully organized mountain trek.
Trek Highlights
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Summit Margherita Peak (5,109 m) – Uganda’s highest mountain
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Trek through the iconic Rwenzori Mountains National Park
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Explore multiple ecosystems from rainforest to glaciers
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Experience unique Afro-alpine vegetation including giant lobelias
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Cross the legendary Bigo Bog wetlands
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Stay in remote mountain huts along the Central Circuit
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Stunning views of Mount Stanley, Mount Speke, and Mount Baker
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Fully supported expedition with guides, cooks, and porters
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Optional extension to Queen Elizabeth National Park or gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 1 - Arrival in Entebbe
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport where our team will meet and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, you can relax from the journey or explore the nearby area before your expedition briefing.
Overnight in Entebbe or Kampala.
Day 2 - Drive to Kasese
After breakfast, travel west across Uganda toward Kasese, the gateway town to the Rwenzori Mountains. The scenic drive passes tea plantations, rolling hills, and rural villages. Once in Kasese, you will meet the mountain crew and prepare your equipment for the trek.
Overnight in Kasese.
Day 3 - Nyakalengija to Nyabitaba Hut
After a short drive to Nyakalengija village, the trek begins. The trail winds through farmland before entering thick tropical forest along the Mubuku River. Expect steep sections and beautiful views as you climb to Nyabitaba Hut (2,651 m), the first overnight stop on the mountain.
Hiking time: 4–5 hours.
Day 4 - Nyabitaba Hut to John Matte Hut
Today’s hike descends briefly to the Mubuku River before climbing into the bamboo and heather zone. The trail can be muddy but the scenery is spectacular. As altitude increases, you will begin to notice giant groundsels and lobelias. The day ends at John Matte Hut (3,505 m).
Hiking time: 5–6 hours.
Day 5 - John Matte Hut to Bujuku Hut
Cross the famous Bigo Bog wetlands using wooden boardwalks and grassy tussocks. The trail gradually climbs into the beautiful Bujuku Valley, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Rwenzori. Tonight you stay at Bujuku Hut (3,962 m) near Lake Bujuku.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours.
Day 6 - Bujuku Hut to Elena Hut
Today you hike higher into the alpine zone. The trail climbs steadily toward Elena Hut (4,541 m), located near the Stanley Glacier. This hut serves as the base camp for tomorrow’s summit attempt.
Hiking time: 4–5 hours.
Day 7 - Summit Margherita Peak
The summit day begins very early in the morning. With headlamps and climbing gear, you ascend rocky sections before reaching the glacier. From here the route continues across the ice to the summit of Margherita Peak (5,109 m).
Standing on the highest point in Uganda is an unforgettable moment, with sweeping views across the Rwenzori Mountains and into the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
After celebrating at the top, descend back to Elena Hut or continue down toward Kitandara depending on conditions.
Hiking time: 8–12 hours.
Day 8 - Descend to Kitandara Lakes
Today’s trek leads down to the scenic Kitandara Lakes, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. This is a great day to relax slightly after the summit climb and enjoy the beauty of the Rwenzori landscape.
Overnight at Kitandara Hut.
Day 9 - Kitandara Hut to Guy Yeoman Hut
Climb over Freshfield Pass before descending into the Mubuku Valley. The trail passes through mossy forests and striking alpine vegetation before reaching Guy Yeoman Hut (3,505 m).
Hiking time: about 6 hours.
Day 10 - Descend to Nyakalengija and Return to Kasese
The final mountain stage descends through bamboo forest and lush rainforest back to Nyakalengija village. After saying goodbye to your mountain crew, transfer back to Kasese for a hot shower and a well-earned rest.
Overnight in Kasese.
Day 11 - Return to Entebbe
After breakfast, travel back to Entebbe. Enjoy the scenic drive across western Uganda and relax at the hotel in the evening.
Overnight in Entebbe.
Day 12 - Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight home or next adventure.
Included
- Accommodation
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner — specify)
- Transport (Safari vehicle / Tour bus / Airport transfers)
- Professional tour guide
- Park entry fees
- Activities listed in the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water
- All government taxes
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Emergency medical evacuation
Excluded
- International flights or visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (tips, shopping, laundry)
- Optional activities not in the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages
- Extra meals or snacks not included
- Accommodation before and after the tour (unless added)
- Medical or vaccination costs
