Entrance Fees for Mountain Rwenzori Trekking
Comprehending the Entrance Fees for Mountain Rwenzori Trekking:
Access to the park’s activities and facilities is contingent upon the payment of entrance fees for Mountain Rwenzori Trekking. Foreign non-residents are required to pay USD35 per day, foreign residents USD25 per day, and East African citizens UGX 150,000 per day, dependent on their residency status. These expenses are paid to the Uganda Wildlife Authority and allow visitors to participate in a variety of activities within the park.
Beginning the Mountain Rwenzori Trekking to Margherita Peak: The trek to Margherita Peak typically commences at the Trekkers Hostel in Kyanjuki, Kilembe, which is situated at an altitude of 1,450 meters and is 12-kilometers from Kasese town. It is recommended that the trek be initiated at approximately 9:00 a.m., with a deadline of 11:00 a.m. The initial portion entails a 2.2km walk to the UWA rangers post, which is situated at an elevation of 1,727 meters. Here, visitors are required to pay the entrance fee and receive a briefing on the park’s regulations from the rangers.
Detailed Itinerary for Mountain Rwenzori Trekking to Margherita Peak: Day 1: Hike to Kalalama Camp (3134 meters)
A hike up the valley floor through tall Afro Montane Forest Zone trees commences the excursion. Blue monkeys and black and white Colobus monkeys may be observed by visitors, in addition to a variety of avian species. The route enters the Bamboo-Mimulopsis Zone, which is distinguished by a precipitous ascent through bamboo thickets. Kalalama Camp, located at 3,147 meters in the Heather-Rapanea Zone, provides an opportunity to observe the Rwenzori Turaco and other avian species.
Day 2: Ascension to Bugata Camp (4100 meters)
Trekkers circumvent Mutinda Camp and ascend to Bugata Camp at 4,100 meters following an early start. The trail traverses ridges, descends into valleys, and traverses streams and cascades. Toilets, bathrooms, and solar lighting comprise Bugata Camp’s indispensable amenities. Furthermore, a helicopter platform is accessible for emergency rescue operations.
Day 3: Hunwick’s Camp hike (3974 meters)
The journey to Hunwick’s Camp via Bamwanjarra Pass entails the traversal of bogs, valleys, and ridges, all of which are adorned with luxuriant vegetation. Trekkers are treated to breathtaking panoramic vistas of the three primary summits at Bamwanjarra Pass. The route proceeds through steep sections before reaching Hunwick’s Camp, which provides breathtaking views of Weismanns Peak, Mt. Stanley, Mt. Baker, and McConnell’s Prong.
Margherita Peak (4485 meters) is the destination for the fourth day of the hike.
Before reaching Margherita Camp at 4,485 meters, the final segment involves descending to Lake Kitendara and then ascending Scott Elliott’s pass. The Duke of Abruzzi camped at this historical site during the 1906 climb to Margherita Peak, situated between massive rocks.
5. Day 5: Margherita Peak (5109 meters) summit
Start the day early by waking up at 2 a.m. for a quick breakfast before commencing the ascension of Mt Stanley at 2:30 a.m. This early start is essential because of the unpredictable weather conditions, which frequently result in heavy clouds and precipitation between 1 pm and 4 pm, even during the drier seasons. The ascent to Margherita Peak, which stands at 5,109 meters, offers magnificent vistas; however, it necessitates meticulous timing to prevent inclement weather. For those who are inexperienced in mountaineering, an alternative approach is to remain on Stanley glacier and ascend to a vantage point on the southern border of Alexandra Peak, which provides a panoramic view of Congo and the lower mountain ridges. Descend directly to Hunwick’s Camp at 3,874 meters after reaching the summit.
DAY 6: Descend to Kiharo Camp (3640 meters)
The day commences with a descent from Hunwick’s Camp to Kiharo Camp, a distance of 11 km that requires a walking duration of 4 to 7 hours. Begin your ascent from Hunwick’s Camp and ascend a ridge toward McConnell’s Prong, which provides you with breathtaking views of all three peaks and Scott Elliott’s Pass. The trail then ascends to Oliver’s Pass, which is situated at an elevation of 4,505 meters and is situated 3 kilometers from Hunwick’s Camp. The route continues below Weismann’s Peak until it approaches the confluence of the Nyamwamba River, which flows down to Kilembe and Kasese.
Day 7: Ascend to Basecamp (1450 meters)
The final segment of the trek entails a descent from Kiharo Camp to the park gate, a distance of 12.2 km, and an additional 2.8 km to Trekkers Hostel. For individuals who must return to Kampala or engage in other activities, it is recommended that they depart early due to the estimated walking duration of 5 to 8 hours.
Mountain Rwenzori Trekking to Margherita Peak is practicable at any time of year. Nevertheless, June to August and December to February are the most suitable months for trekking due to the lower rainfall and less treacherous forest trails. Accommodation discounts may be available during the months of March through May and November as a result of increased precipitation.
