Arrow Trekking and Safaris – Conquer Africa’s most iconic peaks with expertly crafted mountain adventures.
Trip Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 6-day trek to Hunwick’s Camp, a journey deep into the heart of Rwenzori Mountains National Park, home to Africa’s third-highest mountain range. Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” the Rwenzoris are famous for their dramatic landscapes, unique Afro-alpine vegetation, and breathtaking glaciers.
This trek offers a perfect blend of challenge and beauty, taking you through diverse ecological zones, from lush tropical rainforests teeming with life to high-altitude alpine zones filled with rare flora. Along the way, you’ll cross scenic valleys, pass by pristine glacial lakes, and witness some of Uganda’s most spectacular mountain scenery.
This experience is designed for adventurous trekkers looking to explore one of Africa’s least-traveled yet most rewarding mountain ranges.
Itineray
Upon arrival in Kasese, you will be transferred to the trekking base in Kilembe, a small town nestled at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains. Here, you will meet your experienced mountain guides and porters who will accompany you on your trek.
Your guides will conduct a pre-trek briefing, covering essential information about the route, terrain, safety precautions, and equipment. You will also have time to double-check your gear, ensuring you are well-prepared for the trek.
You will spend the night at a comfortable lodge in Kilembe, allowing you to rest before the adventure begins the next morning.
- Altitude Gain: +1,146m
- Distance & Trekking Time: 9.5 km, 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Tropical rainforest
- Meals Provided: Lunch & Dinner
The trek begins with a gentle ascent from the Rwenzori Trekking Services trailhead in Kilembe. The path winds through dense montane rainforest, where you’ll hear the calls of exotic birds and may spot blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and L'Hoest’s monkeys.
As you move deeper into the jungle, the air becomes cooler, and the sounds of rushing streams accompany your journey. You will cross several wooden bridges over crystal-clear mountain streams before reaching Sine Camp, nestled at 2,596m. This campsite offers incredible views of the lush valleys below, making it a perfect place to relax after your first day of trekking.
Optional Activity: A short hike to Enock’s Falls, a beautiful waterfall near the camp, is highly recommended before settling in for the night.
- Altitude Gain: +986m
- Distance & Trekking Time: 6.1 km, 6-7 hours
- Habitat: Bamboo forest & heather zone
- Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today’s trek is steeper and more demanding, leading into the bamboo zone where the trail becomes narrow and occasionally slippery. You will cross wooden boardwalks over boggy sections, taking in the dramatic landscape.
The bamboo gives way to the heather zone, where towering giant heathers draped with hanging moss create a mystical atmosphere. The landscape begins to open up, revealing panoramic views of the valley below.
After several hours of climbing, you will arrive at Mutinda Camp (3,582m). If you have energy left, you can opt for an extra ascent to Mutinda Lookout (3,925m), a short but steep climb that rewards you with stunning 360-degree views of the Rwenzori Mountains.
- Altitude Gain: +480m
- Distance & Trekking Time: 5.1 km, 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine meadows & rocky terrain
- Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Leaving Mutinda Camp, you will enter the Afro-alpine zone, one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Here, giant lobelias, groundsels, and everlasting flowers dominate the landscape, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
The trail crosses several glacial streams and climbs steep ridges before reaching Bugata Camp (4,062m), which overlooks the picturesque Bugata Lake. The camp is often shrouded in mist, adding to its mystical appeal.
The views from here are breathtaking, with towering peaks visible on clear days. The dramatic shifts in vegetation and terrain make this one of the most visually stunning days of the trek.
- Altitude Loss: -88m
- Distance & Trekking Time: 6.2 km, 5-6 hours
- Habitat: High-altitude moorland & rocky ridges
- Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today’s route follows a series of ridges and valleys, with stunning views of the main Rwenzori peaks, including Mt. Baker, Mt. Speke, and Mt. Stanley.
Hunwick’s Camp (3,974m) is located in a scenic valley with stunning sunset views over the mountains. This remote and peaceful campsite provides a true sense of isolation and adventure.
- Altitude Loss: -544m
- Distance & Trekking Time: 9.5 km, 6-7 hours
- Habitat: Montane forest & river valleys
- Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The descent begins, taking you through lush river valleys and dense montane forest. The trail is alive with the sounds of Rwenzori turacos, sunbirds, and other endemic species.
Kiharo Camp (3,430m) is set in a picturesque valley surrounded by giant lobelias and heathers, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day of hiking.
- Altitude Loss: -1,980m
- Distance & Trekking Time: 12.2 km, 7-8 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest & bamboo forest
- Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch
The final leg of the journey descends back into the tropical rainforest, where the warm, humid air signals your return to lower elevations. By the afternoon, you will arrive at Kilembe, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees.
- Professional mountain guides, porters, and cooks.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
- Tents and sleeping mats.
- Transportation to and from the mountain gate.
Excludes
- International flights and visas.
- Personal trekking gear (can be rented).
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides, porters, and cook.
- Beverages and personal expenses.
FAQs
The Rwenzori Mountains are Africa’s third-highest mountain range, after Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya. Unlike volcanic mountains, the Rwenzori range is formed by uplifted rock masses and is known for its permanent glaciers and snow-capped peaks, despite being near the equator. The park boasts diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude glaciers, making it one of the most scenically stunning and ecologically rich mountain ranges in the world.
Yes, a trekking permit is required for all visitors entering Rwenzori Mountains National Park. The permit fees vary depending on the length of the trek and the route chosen. Permits can be obtained through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or registered tour operators.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park is home to over 70 mammal species and 217 bird species, many of which are endemic. Some notable wildlife includes:
- Rwenzori colobus monkeys
- L’Hoest’s monkeys
- Forest elephants (rarely seen)
- Rwenzori three-horned chameleons
- Scarlet-tufted malachite sunbirds (found in alpine zones)
Yes, the park offers various lodging options ranging from budget to luxury accommodations:
- Basic Huts & Campsites – Used by trekkers along the trails.
- Mid-Range Lodges – Found near the park’s entrance, offering comfortable stays.
- Luxury Lodges – Located in nearby towns like Kasese and Fort Portal.
Absolutely! Many travelers combine their Rwenzori adventure with:
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park
- Wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Enquiry
Other Trekking Packages
Stories from Our Adventurers
Hear from those who’ve walked the paths, seen the wildlife, and lived the adventure with Arrow Trekking & Safaris. Their feedback says it all!
Arrow Trekking & Safari
– Your gateway to unforgettable adventures in East Africa, from thrilling safaris to epic mountain treks!
Experiences
© 2015 – 2025 Arrow Trekking and Safari. All rights reserved