Overview
Rwenzori mountains range is most known especially for its extraordinary flora and the different vegetation zones. The vegetation zones are as follows: mountain forest zone (1500 – 2500 m); the bamboo zone (2500 – 3000 m); the heather and rapenea zone (3000 – 4000 m), which is characterized by the giant heathers Erica, but also giant lobelias and Senecio; the Alpine Zone (4000 – 4.500 m) with everlasting flowers or Helichrysum. The lower peaks are blanketed in moorland, bamboo, and rich, moist montane forest. Huge tree-heathers and colorful mosses are draped across the mountainside with giant lobelias and “everlasting flowers,” creating an enchanting, fairy-tale scene.
The landscape in the area swiftly shifts from thick bamboo, heather zone into the afro-alpine. These landscapes act as hosts to a shrieking 217 species of birds and 17 endemics. At about 1800 meters of height, the variety of birdlife will leave you captivated with sights at the Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, White-starred Robin among the others. 70 species of mammals are also part of the exploring list as well as some of the world’s rarest vegetation.
Trekking/ Hiking is possible any day of the year however the months of June, July and August then late December, January February are the driest and best months to trek although some say the wet seasons are the best as the mountains are often covered in snowmaking specular scenery.
This short 3-day Rwenzori mountain trek follows an easy circuit route, which takes you through the rainforest and bamboo zones at the foot of the mountains, to the giant heather and heath of the Alpine zone. The trek exposes you to the art of nature which involves rare vegetation, to various streams, rivers, and falls. With every hour and every altitude gain, the landscapes, colors, and critters are ever-changing. As you go higher, the trek rewards you with clear and fantastic views of Queen Elizabeth National Park as well as Lake George across the foothills.
Trek Summary
- Day 1: Arrive at Trekkers Hostel (Kilembe) in morning and meet with your climb guide and the rest of the team for briefing and also conduct a thorough kit check.
- Day 2: After a hearty breakfast commence walking. The trail becomes steeper as you enter the bamboo zone. During the rainy season this section of the trail can also become exceptionally muddy.
- Day 3: After breakfast at Kalalama Camp, we shall descend through the bamboo forest, back into the Afro montane zone and down the ridge to the Rangers Post, arriving early afternoon. It is a short walk down to the Trekkers Hostel, where your trek ends.
