The Rwenzori Mountains National Park is located on the slopes of Mount Rwenzori, also known as the Mountains of the Moon. This snow-capped mountain in Uganda straddles the equator and experiences tropical heat. The forest is 5109 meters above sea level, with Margarita standing at its highest point. The national park was established and initially identified on the global map in 150 AD by the geographer Alexandrine. The national park was established in 1991 and granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1994 to safeguard the various wildlife species that inhabit this area. The equatorial mountain, which is situated 5,109 meters above sea level and forms the border between the country and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is the third highest peak in East Africa. The national park spans an area of roughly 996 square kilometers.
The various vegetative angelic zones include local communities’ farms, montane forests, bamboo under mimulopsis, a heather zone with giant tree heathers and stunning forms of giant lobelia. These serve as habitats for a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, giant forest hogs, bushbucks, leopards, and primates like the black and white colobus monkey and blue monkeys. Hyraxes are an uncommon species to see in this park. It should be noted that animals are elusive and highly shy. It features more than 200 species of birds, the majority of which are limited to the Albertine Rift Valley. Some examples of these include the black collared apalis, big blue turaco, Rwenzori turaco, and malachite sunbird.
Tourist activities in Rwenzori Mountains National Park.
The Rwenzori climbing is the most well-liked activity in the national park. You can explore this for however many days you want to spend on the trail, however a seven-day hike is often advised. The Rwenzori Mountaineering Services typically organizes the Central Circuit Trail, with adventures beginning at Nyakalengija. They offer porters and guides to help with heavy equipment, and because the Rwenzori region is cold, it’s a good idea to pack rain gear, extra clothes, water, phone and camera covers, a sleeping bag or mat, hand gloves, and any other items you might need for the trip.
While the area is not well developed with facilities, the central circuit offers basic huts, camping rooms, and guestrooms for Rwenzori mountaineering. The Rwenzori backpackers hostel serves the Kilembe trail. Other activities available in Mountain Rwenzori include bird watching, hiking, mountain climbing, and guided nature walks presented on an opportunity to see the mountains of the moon. Additional lodging options are available at the neighboring fort gateway and in the towns of Kasese near Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority oversees the management of the national park, which is best visited in the dry season. Entrance fees are $35 for foreign non-residents, $25 for foreign residents, and 15,000 Uganda shillings for nationals of East Africa.