Hiking through the Rwenzori Mountains involves a whole range of climatic conditions: from hot and humid tropical rainforest, to savanna, moorland and heathland, and proper high mountain conditions, with snow often covering the summits. The sights, too, on this trek are also unmatched: lush rainforest, waterfalls, goliath ferns, huge lobelias and giant tree groundsel, upland moors, emerald-green mountain lakes, well-graded rocky terrain and – despite being in the middle of Africa – a glacier adorning the summit. The best time to undertake this strenuous trek is from end of June to mid-September, and end of November to early February. 

Because of the changeable climatic conditions and the very primitive trails, which in places require absolute surefootedness and a head for heights, this trek is only doable for experienced mountain hikers in good physical shape. The summit section to the Margherita peak (5109 m) is very strenuous due to the altitude and distance covered on that day. Crampons are required above 4,800 meters on the Margherita Glacier, which is at an incline of 30 degrees. There is a 20-meter section of glacier tongue which is even steeper (approx. 45°) and best negotiated with a rope. The last 50 vertical meters to the summit is made up of nicely graded rock, with some alpine grade 2 climbing (USA 5.2) at the start, getting easier towards the top. Trekkers who are not fixated on the summit can head straight for the beautifully set Kitandara lakes at 4,000 m.

For the trekking days all you need is a day pack with rain protection, warm clothes, water bottle etc. The rest of your belongings will be carried by porters. Trek kit includes sturdy, ankle-covering, waterproof trekking boots; gaiters; gum boots / wellington boots with good tread; a sleeping bag (comfort temperature rating down to -10°C); trekking poles for higher up. Clothing should provide protection from the sun, cold (down to -10°C), wind, snow and rain. For the ascent of the glaciated Margherita Peak, you’ll need crampon-compatible boots, ice axe, crampons, harness or full-body harness, and a rope.

Aside from the Rwenzori Mountains, the mountain gorillas are Uganda’s other great attraction. So, once you’ve completed this strenuous trek, why not head to southern Uganda and see the gorillas up close in Bwindi National Park. Seeing these ‘gentle giants’, as Dian Fossey called them, is one of the most incredible, unforgettable, and life-changing wildlife experiences you can have.