The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Ruwenzori Mountains or the Mountains of the Moon, are situated in central equatorial East Africa, bordering Congo and Uganda.
The mountains are believed to be the source of the Nile and support glaciers.
The Rwenzori Mountains are characterized by tropical rainforests, alpine meadows, giant groundsel, giant Lobelia, a heather zone, bamboo zone, nival zone, and snow.
The Rwenzori Mountains have undergone an impact from climate change; in 1906, the mountains had 43 glaciers distributed among six mountains with a total area of 7 kilometers, but by 2005, less than half of these glaciers remained.
The Rwenzori Mountains span about 120 kilometers in length and 65 kilometers in width, with the highest peaks being Mount Stanley at 5,109 meters above sea level, with Margherita Peak being the highest point.
Other notable peaks include Mount Speke at 4,890 meters, Mount Baker at 4,843 meters, Mount Emin at 4,798 meters, Mount Gessi at 4,715 meters, and Mount Luigi di Savoia at 4,627 meters above sea level.
The majestic Rwenzori Mountains rise 5,109 meters above sea level.
The mountains were formed as a result of an uplifted block of crystalline rocks during the Pliocene epoch, which also led to the formation of African great lakes such as Lake Albert, Lake George, and Lake Edward.
The first traverse of the Rwenzori Mountains was completed by Polish climbers Janusz Chalecki, Stanisław Cholewa, and Leszek Czarnecki, with Mirosław Kuraś accompanying them on the latter half of the traverse in 1975.
The climb started on February 27th and ended on February 13th.
Rwenzori Mountains can be climbed from Virunga National Park in Congo, a World Heritage Site since 1979.
The park is home to mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, chimpanzees, forest elephants, buffalos, kobs, lions, and much more.
The Rwenzori Mountains also shelter a variety of wildlife species at their foothills, including forest elephants, chimpanzees, Okapi, and more.
Hiking the Rwenzori Mountains in Congo
Hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains in Congo begins at Mutsora Point in Virunga National Park.
The hike starts through Mutwangato Kyadonlire and includes spending a night at Kalonge, the first stopover hut.
The second day is strenuous, with a hike of 1,500 meters in elevation to a hilltop, where tourists spend the night at Mahangu hut.
On the following day, tourists hike to 4,303 meters above sea level through moss-covered tree trunks and roots to reach Kiondu hut, which offers spectacular views of the valleys and mountain tops.
The hike continues to Wasuwameso at 4,462 meters. Wasuwameso requires technical skills and fitness, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of Margherita Peak, Lake Vert, Stanley Plateau, Lake Noir, Alexandra Peak, and the glaciers.
The next day, you can continue to Moraine hut, crossing a very deep abyss.
You can also descend on the following day, passing through various points from the previous days and camping until you reach the slopes.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation options when hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains include Tchegera Tented Camp, Mikeno Lodge, Kibumba Tented Camp, and many others within Virunga National Park.
The best time to visit the Rwenzori Mountains is during the dry season from June to August when the weather is dry and provides excellent views.
Visiting during the wet season is not advisable as the trails become slippery, and the weather can be unfavorable.
Tourists planning to hike Mount Rwenzori should carry good waterproof hiking boots, rain jackets, insect repellents, sunscreen, warm clothing, energy snacks, drinking water, binoculars, and more.
Porters are also available to assist tourists with their luggage.