Rwenzori Mountains National Park (Location, Video and Lodges) – Uganda Hiking Safaris

A Uganda safari to Rwenzori Mountains National Park is by far the most rewarding experience especially if you plan to try yourself with challenging adventure experience. This protected area is 400kms away from Entebbe or Kampala, western Uganda and the nearby districts include Kabarole, Kasese and Bundibugyo.

It derives its name from Rwenzori Mountain ranges which 3^rd highest snow peak in Africa and comprises of 6 mountains-Stanley, Gessi, Savioa, Emin, Speke and Baker. Mountain Rwenzori National Park features a rare vegetation zone comprising of the bamboo, moist montane forest and moorland.

This park expands up to 1000sq.kms, inhabiting about 70 mammal species, 217 bird species 19 of which are Albertine rift endemics, waterfalls, the magical Rwenzori mountain ranges among others.

Wildlife Species to See at Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Mountains of the Moon, Rwenzori Mountains National Park inhabits the scenic Rwenzori mountain ranges comprising of blue cirque Lakes, waterfalls, unique vegetation as well as 18 mammal species, 217 avifaunal species, 9 reptiles, elephants, leopards, chimpanzees.

Activities in Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Mountain Climbing

The one experience not to be missed while on a Uganda safari in this park is mountaineering. Hiking through this mountain range takes you through distinct vegetation zones, glaciers and not to forget magical views over its peaks and surrounding areas.

However, to make a complete hike, you need to be physically well. The areas to explore on hike through Rwenzori Mountain range include Mount Stanley, Vittorio Emmanuelle which stands at 4889 meters on Mount Speke, Edward at 4842 meters on Mount Baker.

Trekking

To trek through Rwenzori Mountain range, you need a 7 day trek around the central tourism circuit and 5 day trek on the Kilembe route to southern parts of the park.

Nature Walks

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to Rwenzori Mountains National Park also has you covers. You can embark on nature walks where you have opportunity to explore different plant species, meet the Bakonzo communities for you to learn more about their cultures and traditions.

Bird Watching

This park is a home to about 217 bird species making it a birder’s paradise. A birding tour in this park rewards you with astonishing sights at bird species like Rwenzori Turaco, slender billed starling, Lagden’s bush shrike, blue headed sunbird, illadopsis, crimson wings, barbets, golden winged sunbird, the barred long tailed cuckoo, long eared owl, greenbul, handsome francolin, strange weaver, flycatchers, cinnamon chested bee-eaters.

Cultural Encounter

A cultural trip is what makes a safari experience in Rwenzori Mountains National Park complete. This is for you to learn more about traditions, cultures, drumming and unique dances. You can as well pay a visit to Ruboni village for a rewarding cultural experience.

Best time to visit Mountain Rwenzori National Park

Mountain Rwenzori National Park lies astride equator and most of its parts are wet compared to other parts in East Africa. The wet season or rainy season begins from March to May and from September to mid-December. Hiking adventures are perfectly done from June to September since most parts are drier.

Accommodation options at Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The accommodation choices at Rwenzori Mountains National Park include Hotel Margherita, Rwenzori International Hotel, Kitara lodge, Equator snow lodge, Tropical savanna guesthouse.

Where are the Rwenzori Mountains located?

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is in western Uganda about 5 to 6 hours or more to drive from Kampala to Kasese. You can start your journey from Entebbe/Kampala-Fort Portal or Kampala-Mbarara-Queen Elizabeth National Park then connect to Mountain Rwenzori National Park.