Western Uganda Guide

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 name in May 1888 from the explorer Henry Stanley who used their 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. The Rwenzori Mountains National Park is located in south-western Uganda in the Rwenzori Mountains on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, extending from north to south for about 70 miles and from east to west by about 30 miles.

Rwenzori Mountains National ParkThey reach heights of 5,109m above sea level and are known for their beautiful plant life, waterfalls, lakes, and glaciers. 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 the park 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.

Rwenzori Mountains National ParkThe park the park has Africa's third highest mountain peak and for those undertaking longer trips in the mountains, there are a number of scattered 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. Professionally guided tours are available with an average 7-day climb costing aroun $1350 but a entry to the park for a day's unaccompanied trekking costs $35. This fee allows visitors to access the park for any activities, including staying there, although there is also accommodation at Kasese which lies 25.1 km away.

Visitors to Rwenzori Mountains National Park can also enjoy less strenuous climbs as well as nature walks and visits to local Bakonzo villages. The park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, however we recommend visiting between July to October or December to February as they are the dry and warm seasons in Uganda. 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 above right video and, for the latest information about the park, entry fees and costs of tours, please visit the official Rwenzori Mountains National Park website using the button link below.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

 
 
 
 
 
 

Rwenzori Mountains

Rwenzori Mountains

Rwenzori Mountains

Rwenzori Mountains

 


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