Africa's Glacial Roof
The Rwenzori Mountains — Ptolemy's legendary 'Mountains of the Moon' — straddle the border between Uganda and DRC and are home to Africa's third-highest summit, Margherita Peak (5,109m). Unlike Kilimanjaro, the Rwenzoris are a true trekking experience through extraordinary equatorial vegetation.
The ascent takes you through zones of giant lobelia, groundsels the size of trees, heather forests dripping in moss, and finally the surreal glacial zone near the summit. The Rwenzoris are one of Africa's last great trekking frontiers — challenging, remote and utterly unforgettable.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Kampala to Kasese
Early morning departure from Kampala. Scenic 6-hour drive to Kasese at the foot of the Rwenzoris. Briefing at Rwenzori Mountaineering Services. Lodge accommodation.
Nyakalengija to Sine Hut (2,600m)
Trek begins at the park gate (1,646m). Through montane forest and farmland to Sine Hut through giant heather zone. 5–6 hours. Overnight Sine Hut.
Sine Hut to Nyabitaba Hut (2,650m)
Through bamboo forest and heather moorland. First views of the glaciated peaks on a clear day. 4–5 hours. Overnight Nyabitaba Hut.
Nyabitaba to John Matte Hut (3,400m)
The vegetation transforms dramatically — giant lobelias, groundsels and mossy trees. Cross the Bujuku River. 6–7 hours. Overnight John Matte Hut.
John Matte to Bujuku Hut (3,962m)
The iconic Afroalpine zone — surreal landscape of giant groundsels and lobelias reflected in Bujuku Lake. 4–5 hours. Overnight Bujuku Hut.
Summit Attempt — Margherita Peak (5,109m)
Pre-dawn start for the summit push via Elena Glacier. Margherita Peak on the DRC border — the third-highest point in Africa. Descend to Elena Hut. 10–12 hours.
Elena Hut to Nyabitaba
Long descent through all vegetation zones. Legs of iron required. Overnight Nyabitaba Hut.
Descent to Kasese & Kampala Return
Final descent to the park gate. Certificate ceremony. Drive back to Kampala. Arrival evening. Trek complete!
Conquer Africa's Mountains of the Moon
The Rwenzoris reward the brave — let Levine Adventures guide you.