Rwenzori Mountains National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. Multi-day treks climb through bamboo, moss-draped forest and a zone of giant heathers, lobelias and groundsels found almost nowhere else.
From Hotel Premier
The trailhead town for the Rwenzori range, and the gateway to the northern circuit.
The Rwenzori are one of the few ranges in Africa with permanent snow, and they sit almost exactly on the equator. Ancient writers called them the Mountains of the Moon. The highest peaks are often wrapped in cloud, which makes a clear view memorable.
Kasese is the busy town at their foot, and the base for almost every trip into the mountains. From Bushenyi it is a long morning's drive north, so it is best treated as an overnight trip or an early start.
What you will see
Inside Kasese and the Rwenzori
Day walks in the foothills
You do not need to trek for days. Shorter guided walks start near the park gate and give a taste of the forest and the views.
Margherita Peak
The highest point of the range, on Mount Stanley. It is a serious technical objective for experienced climbers with a guide.
When to go
Trekking is best in the two drier seasons, roughly December to February and June to August. The mountains make their own weather, so be ready for rain at any time.
Before you go
- Treks must be arranged with a licensed operator. Book well ahead, especially in the dry seasons.
- Pack for cold and wet. Good boots matter more than anything else.
- If you only have a day, consider Queen Elizabeth National Park instead and keep the mountains for a longer trip.
Stay close
Make Premier your base for Kasese and the Rwenzori
Our 24-hour front desk can help you plan the day, and ask a good local guide on your behalf.