Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Christened "Selenes Oros" (Mountains of the Moon) by the Greco-Egyptian writer and geographer Ptolemy in AD 150, the Rwenzori Mountains got their modern name in May 1888 by the explorer Henry Stanley from their a local name, Ruwenzori, which he recorded as meaning 'Rain-Maker' or 'Cloud-King.' The mountains themselves are not volcanic but were created as a result of uplifted rock about three million years ago in the late Pliocene era. Located on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the mountain range extends from north to south for about seventy miles and from east to west by about 30 miles reaching heights of 5,109m above sea level.

The Rwenzori Mountains National Park was designated in 1991 achieving World Heritage site status in 1994 to protect the highest parts of the mountain range and covers most of the centre and eastern half of the mountains ~ an area of some 384 sq miles. It is home to over seventy mammal species and 217 bird species. The mountains however are probably best known for their stunning views and as a world-class hiking and mountaineering destination. For those undertaking these longer trips in the mountains, there are a number of scattered by established camps including the John Matte Camp on the banks of River Bujuku, Elena Camp on Mount Stanley and Kitandara Camp which is situated on the shores of Kitandara Lake.

Visitors to Rwenzori Mountains National Park can also enjoy less strenuous climbs as well as nature walks and visits to local Bakonzo villages. If you have further information about the Rwenzori Mountains National Park whether it be reviews, places of interest or accommodation contact us using our contact form. Now check out the main tourist attractions in the park in the video below.

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