Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is a stunning national park located in western Uganda. It is home to the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon.” The park offers breathtaking landscapes, unique flora and fauna, and exceptional opportunities for mountaineering and trekking adventures. Rwenzori Mountains National Park offers a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience for nature and adventure enthusiasts. Its towering peaks, diverse vegetation, and challenging treks make it a remarkable destination for those seeking a thrilling mountaineering or trekking adventure in Uganda.

Location

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is located in the Rwenzori Mountains range, which straddles the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park covers an area of about 996 square kilometres (385 square miles).

Rwenzori Mountains

The park is famous for its majestic Rwenzori Mountains, which include the third-highest peak in Africa, Mount Stanley. The mountains are known for their dramatic scenery, towering peaks, and glaciers. The highest peak, Margherita, stands at an elevation of 5,109 meters (16,763 feet) above sea level.

Alpine Vegetation and Biodiversity

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is renowned for its unique and diverse vegetation zones, ranging from tropical rainforests to bamboo forests and alpine meadows. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its exceptional biodiversity, including several endemic plant species. Visitors can witness giant lobelias, groundsels, heathers, and other plant species found only in the Rwenzori Mountains.

Mountaineering and Trekking

The park offers incredible opportunities for mountaineering and trekking adventures. Experienced climbers can attempt to summit Mount Stanley and conquer its challenging peaks, while less experienced trekkers can explore lower-elevation trails and enjoy the stunning scenery. The most popular trek is the multi-day Rwenzori Mountains trek, which takes hikers through various vegetation zones and offers breathtaking views.

Wildlife

The Rwenzori Mountains is home to a variety of wildlife, including several primate species such as chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and blue monkeys. Other notable wildlife includes elephants, duikers, hyraxes, and various bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco and Rwenzori batis.

Bird Watching

The park is a paradise for bird watchers, with over 217 bird species recorded. Bird enthusiasts can spot various colourful and endemic species, including the Rwenzori turaco, Rwenzori nightjar, bearded vulture, and long-eared owl.

Cultural Encounters

The local Bakonjo and Bamba communities have a rich cultural heritage and have been living in harmony with the mountains for generations. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with these communities, learn about their traditions, and witness cultural performances and rituals.

Accessibility to Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The park can be accessed by road from the nearby town of Kasese, which is approximately 400 kilometres (248 miles) from Kampala, the capital city. The nearest airport is in Entebbe, which is served by international and domestic flights.