The 3 Days Rwenzori Mountains Nature Walk to John Matte Camp offers an exciting introduction to trekking in the legendary Rwenzori Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic landscapes, glacial peaks, and unique vegetation zones.
Often referred to as the Rwenzori Mountains, this spectacular mountain range rises along the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The trek follows part of the famous Central Circuit trail, taking hikers through dense tropical rainforest, bamboo forests, and the fascinating afro-alpine vegetation zones.
This short adventure is ideal for travelers seeking a rewarding mountain trekking experience without attempting the full multi-day summit expedition.
Trek Highlights
• Scenic trekking through the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains
• Walk through tropical rainforest and bamboo forests
• Wildlife sightings including monkeys and birds
• Spectacular views of Mount Stanley and Mount Speke
• Unique afro-alpine vegetation including giant lobelias and groundsels
Day 1: Nyakalengija to Nyabitaba Camp
Your trekking adventure begins at the offices of Rwenzori Mountaineering Services in Nyakalengija, located at the foothills of the mountains.
Upon arrival in the morning, you will meet your experienced guides and porters, receive a briefing about the trek, and arrange any necessary hiking equipment.
The trail begins by passing through local farmland before reaching the park boundary of Rwenzori Mountains National Park. From here, the route enters a dense tropical forest following the course of the Mubuku River.
As you hike deeper into the forest, you will cross the Mahoma River before beginning a long, steady climb up a ridge leading to Nyabitaba Camp.
This section of the trek offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as:
• Black-and-white colobus monkeys
• Blue monkeys
• Chimpanzees (often heard in the forest canopy)
• The colorful Rwenzori Turaco
The hike takes approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Overnight at Nyabitaba Camp.
Day 2: Nyabitaba Camp to John Matte Camp
After breakfast, the trek continues from Nyabitaba as the trail descends through the forest toward the Kurt Shafer Bridge, located at the confluence of the Mubuku and Bujuku rivers.
The journey then climbs through a dense bamboo forest before crossing a challenging stretch of moss-covered rocks and slippery terrain.
Along the way, you will stop at Nyamuleju Rock Shelter, a scenic viewpoint where hikers can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Stanley and Mount Speke.
As the trek continues, the landscape gradually changes into the afro-alpine vegetation zone characterized by giant heathers, lobelias, and groundsels.
After crossing a boggy section of the trail, you will arrive at John Matte Camp, where you will relax, enjoy dinner, and spend the night surrounded by the dramatic mountain scenery.
The hike takes approximately 7 to 8 hours.
Overnight at John Matte Camp.
Day 3: John Matte Camp to Nyakalengija
After breakfast, begin the descent following the same trail back toward Nyabitaba Camp. The journey down takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, where you will stop for lunch.
After lunch, continue descending through the rainforest to the trekking starting point at Nyakalengija.
The final descent from Nyabitaba to Nyakalengija takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, marking the end of your memorable Rwenzori Mountains trekking experience.
From here, you may proceed to your next destination or stay overnight at nearby lodges.
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
