Hiking Trails

Rwenzori Hiking Trails,
Trekking Routes

Explore the breathtaking Rwenzori Hiking Trails in Uganda, from the challenging Margherita Peak climb to scenic treks through lush forests and alpine meadows. Discover itineraries, costs, best hiking seasons, and essential tips for an unforgettable adventure in the Mountains of the Moon.

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Central Circuit

The Central Circuit Trail is the most popular and comprehensive route through the Rwenzoris. It is ideal for those seeking a full experience of the park, including summiting Margherita.

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Kilembe Trail

The Kilembe Trail is a newer and more challenging route leading to Margherita Peak. It starts from Kilembe, near Kasese town, and provides an alternative to the Central Circuit.

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Bukulungu Trail

The Bukurungu trail was made after the major trails of the Central circuit and Kilembe. The trail is ideal for those who love the wild nature, because it offers stunning sceneries with 4 magnificent lakes

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Rwenzori Mountain Trekking Trails

The Rwenzori Mountains National Park is home to several routes and trails, including the Central Circuit Trail, the Kilembe Trail, and the Bukurungu Wilderness Camping Trail.

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The Central Circuit Trail of Rwenzori Mountains

The Central Circuit route in the Rwenzori Mountains is a world-renowned walking path that has become the best way to reach one of the highest peaks in Africa. Ibanda, a small hamlet in the district of Kasese, is home to the Central Circuit trailhead in the community of Nyakalengeji. Discovered by hunters in the early 20th century, the trail leads to Margherita Peak and other summits in the Rwenzori Mountains, providing a unique and hard trip. When compared to other routes in the Rwenzori Mountains, this one is preferable because of the flatter and less difficult terrain. This trail in the Rwenzori Mountains is suitable for hikers of all skill levels, who will have the opportunity to explore a variety of ecosystems and take in breathtaking scenery.

History of the Central Circuit Route

The Central Circuit may be traced back to the early 1900s, when hunters uncovered a road that explorers would take to navigate the dense forest and harsh terrains of the Rwenzori highlands. Those pioneers who ventured to the mountain in the early days paved the way for what is today a famous trekking route in the Rwenzori Mountain. Since its formal establishment in the 1950s, the trail has grown in popularity, drawing hikers from around the world who want to experience the breathtaking Rwenzori mountain range. Hikers from all over the world have begun to recognize the path for its uniqueness.

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Time required to reach the summit of Margherita Peak through the Central Circuit 

In the past, hikers completed the challenge in a minimum of five days. However, we have recently encountered individuals who have surpassed expectations, achieving the summit of Margherita Peak and returning to the base in just three or four days. This, however, is undertaken by highly experienced and well-trained hikers, as the trail requires long hours of walking each day and involves reaching varying altitudes on a daily basis. The majority of trekkers choose the 6-day or 7-day itinerary, which provides a relaxed and enjoyable experience. This approach allows for a steady pace and sufficient time for acclimatization, essential for high-altitude conditions. The extended yet standard trekking days in the Rwenzori Mountains provide hikers with a strong assurance of successfully reaching the summit while fully immersing themselves in the rich ambiance that the region offers, including scenic views of the expansive landscape.

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Kilembe Trail

In order to ensure the long-term viability of the Rwenzori Mountains and other national parks in Uganda, the Kilembe Trail, a major route in the region, is overseen by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Rwenzori Trekking Services is in charge of the trail. It is an exciting path that takes hikers and explorers to the top of Uganda and is notable for its significance as one of the ways to Margherita Peak, the highest peak in Africa. Through its varied elevations, which provide distinctive flora and a wealth of cultural heritage, the Kilembe trail assures hikers of an amazing experience.

History of Kilembe Trail

In 1896, on a pioneering journey over the Rwenzori Mountains, Professor Scott Elliot initially traced the Kilembe Trail. Scott Elliot Pass was named after the professor in recognition of his work after his journey. The Rwenzori Trekking Services renamed the path in 2011 to the Kilembe Trail in honor of the town of Kilembe in the Kasese region, which is famous for its Kilembe mines. Hikers utilize the trail to reach the top and other trekking possibilities in the Rwenzori Mountains, as well as to explore other peaks in the beautiful range. It has become highly significant since then.

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Duration for Summiting Margherita Peak on Kilembe Trail

Out of all the trails in the Rwenzori Mountains, the Kilembe trek is the most difficult and not recommended for beginners. Physical endurance, mental toughness, and some level of experience are all necessary. The amount of time it takes to reach the top of Margherita Peak depends on the hikers’ speed and degree of experience. In order to have a more leisurely and stress-free experience, it is recommended to do an 8-day Margherita summit climb. Because of the high terrain, experienced hikers may need as much as seven days to finish this trip. 

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Bukulungu Wilderness Camping Trail

The Bukurungu Wilderness Camping Trail is the third main ascent route in the Rwenzori Mountains, following the Central Circuit Route and Kilembe Trail routes.

The Bukurungu Wilderness Camping Trail was initiated in 2018 as part of a partnership between the Uganda Wildlife Authority and WWF.

Hiking the Bukurungu Trail is an unforgettable experience for those who value authentic, untainted wilderness. The scenery, which includes four magnificent alpine lakes (Irene, Mughuli, Bukurungu, and Bujuku), will be breathtaking as you traverse mountain rivers, cascades, and an unspoiled environment.

On the 8-day ascent to Margherita Peak in the Rwenzori Mountains, you will have numerous opportunities to pause and appreciate the scenery from On Morukumi to the entrance of Mihunga Park. The complete journey will be organized and supervised by Rwenzori Trekking Safaris in partnership with Bujuku Eco-Tours.

In contrast to the Kilembe and Central Circuit paths, the Bukurungu trail is an open-air camping route that is well-maintained and provides secure camping spots. These spots are provided by the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. There are no cottages with bunk bedrooms on the track.

From Omukorukumi’s Kasanzi park entrance, the Bukurungu trail winds its way to Mihunga park gate, where it intersects with the Central Circuit trail in the Bigo swamp. Along the way, it passes between the Portal peaks and Mount Gessi. The Bukurungu Trail traverses the Central Circuit trail, featuring accommodations at different camps along the path to ascend Margherita Peak and subsequently descend via the Central Circuit trail to the Mihunga Park gate.

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Why Choose Us

Competitive Pricing & Value for Money

We offer affordable trekking packages without compromising quality. Our all-inclusive prices cover permits, guides, porters, accommodation, and meals ensuring a hassle-free trekking experience.

Dedicated team

From planning your trek to reaching the summit and beyond, our dedicated team is here to assist you every step of the way. We are always ready to answer your questions and provide expert advice

High-Quality Equipment & Safety Standards

Safety is our top priority. We provide well-maintained trekking gear, trained rescue teams, and emergency response measures, ensuring you trek with confidence.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Tourism

We are committed to responsible tourism that preserves the Rwenzori ecosystem and benefits local communities. Our eco-friendly practices ensure that your adventure leaves only footprints behind.