Rwenzori Mountains National Park Uganda: Mountain Rwenzori is well known as mountain of the moon. It is located in the western parts of Uganda.  It is found in the East African Rift Valley and also connects to D.R. Congo. The conservation area is known as Virunga National Park in D.R. Congo. Mountain Rwenzori is the third highest mountain in Africa and it goes up to 16,700 feet above the sea level. The highest peak is snowcapped always because it rises above the clouds. Margherita peak is the highest and covered with ice and it is 5109m followed by Albert (5087m) and Alexandria (5083m) all on Mt Stanley. The 4^th highest peak is Mount Speke followed by Mount Baker as the 5^th. In 1899 Henry Morton Stanley who was an explorer from England who named the mountain ranges as Rwenzori Mountains (Clouds Mountain). He was a geographical photographer and researcher who described mountain Rwenzori as the Mountain of the moon. Rwenzori is said to have the glaciers for one of the source of River Nile which is the longest in the world.

Rwenzori covers 1000sq.km in the western sides of Uganda which include; Kasese, Kabarole and Bundibugyo. The park is well known wonderful plant life, glaciers, mountainous vegetation, snowfields, waterfalls, equatorial snow peaks, bamboo and rich, moist montane forest, lower slopes that are covered with moorland, huge tree heathers and everlasting flowers. All these make the scenery be attractive and beautiful. In fact, the mountain is said to have the most attractive Alpine places in the whole world.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park has the highest protected part of 120km on length and 65km on width. The mountain range of mountain Rwenzori that is not volcanic is said to be stretching nearer 110km by 50km wide and is a habitat to various rare plants, mammals and birds. There are nearly 219 bird species and 70 mammals. Rwenzori red duiker and Rwenzori climbing mouse are 19 of Albertine Rift Endemic of 219 bird species that are known but more are being discovered.

Rwenzori is a place of classic climbing and hiking.  It will take 9-12-day trek for experienced climbers to reach the highest peak Margherita. There are also shorter and non-technical treks that can be arranged to balance on the surrounding peaks. Those who love nature walks, Rwenzori is a place to go. Bakonzo comminity will move you around the village homesteads and will tell you stories about their culture like the home cooked local cuisine and you will also sleepover.

Rwenzori is less visited and for visitors who don’t like crowds they can decide to visit Rwenzori Mountains National Park for the best experience.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is under the management of Uganda Wildlife Authority(UWA) a government organization of Uganda. Bamba and Bakonjo tribes stay in the foothills of the mountain. These tribes have modified and got used the life style or culture of inhabiting the foothills of the mountain. This is so because these animals have lived in this place for longtime. They survive on farming and they apply terraces to avoid soil erosion. Some rare animals but the land has reduced in the area because of the increasing population in the area thus leading to illegal logging by the locals.   The park has the downfalls that are hindering its quick development like less funds, community encroachment, global warming which is also affecting the ice on the peaks. The government and NGO’s in Uganda plus international organizations have addressed the problem of poor funding by trying to give the park more funds.

Geography and Climate

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is situated in the east side of Albertine(western) African rift valley in the southwestern Uganda. The park crosses to the borders of D.R. Congo and Uganda. The park is also a world heritage site under UNESCO.  It borders DRC’s Virunga National Park which is almost 50km. It is located 25km away from the town of Kasese. The park covers three district, that is, Bundibugyo, Kasese and Kabarole. The park has the length of 120km and the width of 48km. The park is said to be 996 sq. km in total size. 70% of the park surpasses the altitude of 2,500m above sea level.

Rwenzori Mountains connects the equator across the border between DRC and Uganda. It extends east-west around 50km and also extends north-south for about 110km. it rises gradually from the hilltop plains of Uganda and falls gently on the west side of River Semiliki. It outflows from L. Edward and the main stream of L. Albert which is also one of the source of the Nile White.  The ranges of the mountain are not originally volcanic though crater lakes are the ones recently found in the surrounding area. Geologically, these mountains are young and were created in within the late Pliocene by crystalline rocks especially by granite and quartzite, amphibolite and gneiss. This rose in the western rift and led to division of Palaeo lake Obweruka thus creating today what is known as L. Albert and L. Edward.

Rwenzori mountains are wetter with annual rainfall that is unpredictable with the altitude of 2,000 -3,000 mm. This is the heaviest rainfall on the eastern slopes which receives the prevailing winds. In Uganda, the rain starts from March – May and again from September to December. It is good for hiking lovers to object for June-September which is the dry season to hike Rwenzori Mountains. The equatorial location of the ranges of mountain Rwenzori form regular air temperature oscillations amid 5°C -20°C in the Alpine and naval zones.  Freezing at night occurs occasionally from altitude of 3,000 m (current borderline between Ericaceous and Bamboo zones. It occurs to 4,000m (Alpine- Ericaceous zone boundary). Therefore, freezing happens 80%-90% for the nights in the Mountain Rwenzori National Park.

Biodiversity

Rwenzori Mountains National Park also has characteristics of tropical mountains. The mountain ranges have unusual vegetation that is arranged in distinct vegetation belts dispersed along the altitudinal gradient. Montane forest covers about 1,800m – 2,400m and differs from the defense forest which is specifically confined to valley bases and ridge tops that are shrub dominated places with scattered trees and grassy glades. Common trees include Dombeya spp., Podocarpus milanjianus, Symphoniaglobulifera, Albizia spp., Olea spp and Prunus Africana. Sinarundinaria alpine dominates the bamboo zone and it reaches its upper edge at about 2,600 (2,800) m on the west side and 3,000m o the east side. Ericaceous zone extends from the end of bamboo to 3,800 m (3,900) and is characterized by broad leaved trees; ‘Hagenia abyssinica, Rapanea rhododendroides and Hypericum spp. Or St. John’s Wort’, draped with Usnea spp. “Old Man’s beard, a lichen”, scattered tree groundsel which is mainly Senecio longeligulatus, arborescent heathers “Erica spp”, giant lobelias (mainly Lobelia stuhlmannii) and flowering shrubs (characteristically Helichrysum guilelmii), The main mosses are Sphagnum spp and Breutelia stuhlmannii.

Alpine zone is well known for plants like Helichrysum stuhlmannii which is also known as everlasting flower, Carex runssoroensis tussocks and Alchemilla spp. (Ladies Mantle). The famous plants are giant rosette of the lobelia and genera Senecio. It chiefly has, S. friesiorum L. wollastonii and S. adnivalis. They are well built in sheltered and ravines plus well-watered sites. Nearly all rock surfaces in Nival zone are enclosed by lichens of the genera Umbilicaria, mosses and Usnea, like the Rhacocarpus humboldtii that create lively orange carpets.

Rwenzori is remarkably ironic in endemics. It inhabits 6 butterflies, 1 hawkmoth, 12 small mammals and 19 bird species. This occurs also on the Albertine Rift which involves Rwenzori Leopard Panthera pradus Ruwenzori and Rwenzori hyrax Dendrohyrax arboreus ruwenzorii. 12 species are on the red list of IUCN of animals that are at risk. These include; ‘vulnerable’ Rwenzori Horse-shoe Bat (Rhinolophus ruwenzori), ‘vulnerable’ Moon striped Mouse (Hybomys lunaris), ‘least concern’ Rwenzori Turaco (Ruwenzorornis johnstoni), ‘near threatened’ Rwenzori Otter Shrew (Micropotomogale ruwenzori).

The park is a habitant of 70 species of mammals and it comprises six Albertine Rift Endemics. Twelve are widespread in the park whereas 3 are rare species in the park. More mammals are also found in the park and they include, Rwenzori otter, chimpanzee, elephant and leopard. Wildlife is not easy to be spotted in the thick forest. Primates can be spotted and these include colobus such as Angola and black-and-white varieties, small antelope like bushbucks, blue monkeys and rare reptiles like three horned chameleons.

Wildlife and Birding.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is the home of over 70 wildlife species and six Albertine rift endemics whereby endemic are 4 in the park then 3 are rare species. Mammals like chimpanzee, leopard, elephant and Rwenzori otter are also found in Rwenzori mountain. While spotting wildlife in dense forest is not easy but primates such as blue monkeys, white colobus are easier to spot, reptiles such as the three-horned chameleon and antelopes like bushbucks are also common.

Vegetation in Rwenzori mountain

Flora is common in Rwenzori Mountains National Park than fauna. Climbers can go through different vegetation zones to the peaks such as montane forest, bamboo, tree heathers and afro-alpine. The famous plants are giant rosette of the lobelia and genera Senecio.  This is the world’s rare botanical community plant that is not seen in mountains of East Africa that are above 3800m.

Birds in the park

In Rwenzori Mountains National Park , there are 217 bird species and Albertine rift endemics have made mountain Rwenzori an interesting area for birding, in which amongst 217 birds in the park, 17 are endemics. Others are found in forest zone at 1800m. It contains variety of bird species such as the Rwenzori Turaco, Archers’ Robin-chat, Montane Sooty Boubou, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, Handsome Francolin, Golden-winged Sunbird, Lagden’s Bush Shrike, Long-eared Owl, Slender-billed Starling, Blue-headed Sunbird and barbets like the Apalises Greenbuls, Flycatchersa and crimsonwings.

Activities in Rwenzori Mountains National Park Uganda.

Mountain/ volcano climbing in Rwenzori mountains National park.

In mountain Rwenzori there are two beautiful routes for climbers. These include gorgeous view point and the trail passes through the glacial lake, lush valley, dramatic mountain passes. It has the third highest peak in Africa.

The central circuit trail takes seven days. It’s such a tiresome circular tour to reach the high Rwenzori.  The climbing starts from Mihunga towards Bujuku valley and going through Nyabitaba for relaxation as your head to the peak of the mountain. Those visitors who wish to join the central circuit after Bujuku valley we have to pass through Scott Elliot and Freshfield so as to slope to Mubuku valley.

Recently, Kilembe trail has been reopened and it goes as far as to southern slopes of mountain Rwenzori. Kilembe trail head is close to Kasese town. Before reaching the central circuit at L. Kitandara. You pass through Nyamwamba valley and glacial lakes plus other attracting sites. Mount Baker is of the standard route scales but it makes the scenery shorter but interesting.

Nature Walks and Hiking in Rwenzori Mountains National Park Uganda.

Hiking from Buraro chimp forest and Lake Mahooma is an interesting game. in the way that you go through Kichamba, Karangura ridge, Bundibugo and Bwamba pass. There are various nature walks surrounding central circuit zone which include; Lake Mahooma and Buraro chimp forest trials. Walking from Kichamba community to Karangura ridge. You can also hike from Bundibugo community through Bwamba pass.

Ruboni and Turaco View is of the few communities that provide guided nature walks to the tourist few meters outside the park. Visitors hike 2300 meters above the sea level starting from river Mubuku, Baker and portal peaks. During the day, you can spot the Margherita peak that is snowcapped. squirrels, chameleons, vervet monkeys and many birds are some of the things that cannot be left out when hiking at mountain Rwenzori.

Cultural Encounters in Rwenzori Mountains National Park Uganda.

Ruboni Community Camp

In Bakonzo villages, daily activities like grazing animals and growing crops, cooking, cultural dances accompanied with drumming, traditional costumes and folk tells makes their culture exceptional. Bakonzo villagers guide you while walking on foot to the hills of Mount Rwenzori and in their homesteads. Ruboni village is found in heart of the foothills of Rwenzori mountains. It is a home of about 2,000 Bakonzo.

In Lukonzo language, Ruboni means clear water. It has clear crystal stream. You will sight villagers with loads of crops and wood on their heads. There is also a rocky Mubuku River in this region. Birds like, tiny Cinnamon-chested Bee-eaters, sunbirds and Rwenzori Turaco. Squirrels, chameleons and vervet monkeys are also spotted. Snowcapped Margherita peak is also sighted during a day. Don’t miss to view Baker and Portal Peaks that are seen rising above the forest.

Rwenzori Turaco View Camp Site

Mihunga villages faces the snowcapped peaks of Rwenzori Mountains. The Bakonzo have got used with the culture of the Rwenzori foothills that have good climate and steep green hillsides. It now over 300years with this community having no running water and electricity.

In the Turaco View Camp Site, visitors are taken through a cultural tour of the village. Traditional healers use herbs to heal different diseases. You can also tour village schools. A craft demonstration can also be performed for visitors by the community women and cultural performers.

Lucky visitors can spot colored turacos in the forest of Canopy. Other species that can be spotted are sunbirds, bee-eaters, black and white colobus monkeys.

Bulemba-Ihandiro Cultural Trail

This trail is about six to seven hours. You go through the holy valley and other great cultural sites for the Bakonzo tribe. A traditional healer will explain the powers of Muhima. Local black smith manufacturer will try as much as possible to clarify the spiritual meaning of the traditional Bakonzo stool. Other skills like fire making and basket weaving can be demonstrated by the Bakonzo craftsmen.

The nature walks lands you to the precious waters of river Kamusonge. A visitor can view mountain peak while taking shelter in the hut thus protecting self from equatorial sun. After the relaxation, you head to the museum which is thatched in Konzo design. You will sight objects used in the Rwenzururu Struggle. These include traditional dresses that are of significance to Rwenzururu kingdom.

Birding in Rwenzori Mountains National Park Uganda.

Montane forest is the best place for birding.  Sunbird, robins, barbets and bee-eaters are some of the 217 bird species found in Rwenzori Mountains.

Birding chances are greatest in the montane forest. Out of 217 bird species located in Rwenzori mountains, birds like Sunbirds, Robins, barbets and Bee-eaters are the common ones sited in the high Rwenzori. Also you can watch birds like Swifts, Bearded Vultures and Black Eagles circling for prey on the higher slopes of the mountain.  Sighting from the other side of the mountain you will view species like Rwenzori Turaco and Long-eared Owl.       

Variations

The route commonly used in the park is Mount Baker route. But also Kilembe trail will offer you shorter and longer treks. The route is scenic and you reach the dramatic heather zone before the first day ends. Most hikers always love to take a 3-day hike to L. Kopello where you sight the Rwenzori and have a wonderful experience. Other hikers decide to further the trail to Butagu Valley from Mount Baker Base camp toward the base camp of Mount Stanley on the Scott Elliot base climbing up to Mount Stanley.

Central Circuit

Day 1: Trail through the Mubuku river before climbing up a steep of glacial moraine up to Nyabitaba Hut which is 2651m.

Day 2: Begin with the Mubuku river which is steep descent and then hike boulder-strewn sides of the Bujuku valley via the forest, heather zones and bamboo to John Matte Hut which is approximately 3505m.

Day 3: Start by crossing a well-known Bigo Bog plus the Upper Bujuku valley under the great cliffs of mountain Baker. The route borders L. Bujuku up to the Bujuku Hut (3962m) at the top of valley nearby Speke and Mounts Stanley.

Day 4: Climb while in the route of the rocky Groundsel Gully and steep scree slopes to Scott Elliot Pass of 4372m for unforgettable view point back down along Mount Speke and Lake Bujuku down the U- shaped Bujuku valley. The climb ends at Elena Hut of 4541m at the bottom snowline of Mount Stanley.

Day 5: On this wonderful day, you can begin dawn with the chilly trek via the ice and snow to ascend to the Margerita peak which is at the top of Rwenzori mountains. The returning route to scott Elliot pass before the mist closure used to go down to Kitandara Gorge then to a mountain hut with twin Kitandara lakes of 4023m.

Day 6: start with the sharp Climb to the Freshfield of 4282m, you sight a bright yellow mosses that is carpeted and that provides a wonderful spot of Mountain Stanley and Baker. The trail goes down the Upper Mubuku Valley towards the Guy Yeoman Hut of 3505m

Days 6 and 7: Under Guy Yeoman, the trail is in line with the Mubuku down and the cliffs of Karirupea so as to finish the Central Circuit at Nyabitaba Hut. Hikers always sleepover here before continuing to the trailhead at Ruboni for more comforts.

Attractions in Rwenzori Mountains National Park Uganda.

Equatorial snow peaks.

Mountain Rwenzori has six separate mountains that are positioned in the north of the equator. The follow each other in terms of height as follows; Mountain Stanley (5,109m), Mountain Speke (4,890m) and Mountain Baker (4,843m). All these mountains have snow and glaciers permanently. A hiker can access the snow peaks by hiking Kilembe trail and Central circuit.

Land of the Triffids

The boggy, glacier-carved, misty valleys of Mt. Rwenzori form a bizarre botanical world populated by triffid-sized forms of heather, lobelia and groundsel, crunchy (everlasting flowers), brightly colored mosses and knotted trees wrapped with curtains of lichen. The results over the years have been associated to the forests of the Seven Dwarves and inevitably, Jabberwock and Tolkein’s Middle Earth. These bizarre plants are ranked among the world’s best botanical treasures that are found specifically on the highest mountains in East Africa. 

Lakes

Rwenzori Mountains National Park has got over 20 lakes situated with in. The one on bottom but can be easily accessed is Lake Mahoma (2,651m). This lake is in the bird-rich forest of Central Circuit. The gorgeous Lake Bujuku sleeps over the head of the glacier, deep and carved Bujuku valley in the gumshoe of Mountains Stanley, Speke and Baker. Nyamwamba Valley is climbed up by the Kilembe Trail and dams that were formed by icy moraine have shaped a series of eight charming lakes. Numerous streams and rivers originate from the mountains, developing links for the flora in the flood plains and backup local communities.

Ruboni

This place is found at the southeastern part of the Rwenzori Mountains. It takes seven-days through Central Circuit to reach the highest peaks. Ruboni is also the starting point for mountain walks, nature treks and birds which goes through the homesteads of native Bakonzo community.  Accomodation is catered for by the ranging of budgets provided by beautiful nature walks, mountain spotting on the Mubuku Valley.

Visitor Information Centre

All the information about the park activities are recorded at Rwankingi Park Headquarters which is close to Ruboni Community Camp at trailheads besides the offices of the park tour operators. Trekking equipment, guides and porters, are booked by guests at these locations.

Bulemba

Isaiah Mukirania Kibanzanga was the first king of Rwenzururu who is believed to contribute to the protection and saving of Bakonzo tribe from the oppression of Batooro. On 2rd September of each year, sacrifices are made on the sacred site by the Bakonzo as they attend their pilgrimage to Bulemba houses where the remains of King Isaiah Mukirania Kibanzanga are.

Tips and packing list when staying at the Rwenzori Mountains National Park Uganda.

When planning to visit the national park of Rwenzori Mountains, you should be prepared for the extreme coldness since the temperatures are always like that in the dry and cold seasons.  Try to escape hiking in rainy seasons since it is risky because the paths become mud and slippery. These rainy months are as follows; March – June and September – October. It is also good to note that Mount Rwenzori receives rain throughout the year but rain amount comes worse in the wet season.

Rwenzori Mountaineering Services rents climbing equipment’s but sometimes they are not of the highest quality recommended. Therefore, you need to come with your own waterproof clothes, walking sticks, crampons, hiking gear, sleeping bags, plastic bags and harnesses. Pack your own food, sunglasses, camera so as not to be inconvenienced while climbing.

When planning to climb to the top of the mountain peaks, try as much as possible to be in good health where you are free from heart and lung diseases. The energy used to hike may cause problems to these infected people. Drink water to avoid dehydration and also be flexible, always relax when it is needed don’t force yourself. Always know that if you take long on the altitude above 3500m you are likely to get ill. If you see these signs coming up know you are not okay; breathing difficulty, headache, fatigue, nausea and sleeplessness. Oxygen supplies are also recommended to be on your list.

Getting To Rwenzori Mountains National Park Uganda.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is found in the north of the equator on the Congo-Uganda border. When you use the route from north Kampala via Fort Portal which is almost 375km will lead you to the parks trailhead to Ruboni.  You can also use the southern pass via Mbarara and Queen Elizabeth National Park which is a distance of 450km to reach Ruboni.  Nyakalengija is 25km north to yhe town of Kasese and 17km off the road of Kasese to FortPortal.

The kampala – Kasese journey is estimated for 5hours – 6hours once you use road means like buses or privately owned cars. When you arrange a charter flight from Entebbe International Airport or from Kampala Kajjansi, it will cost you an hour to reach Kasese. A tour operator can help you to book a flight to Kasese. Buses are everywhere in the Kampala bus parks and Link bus is the commonly recommended one.  A four-wheel drive is also recommended for visitors who would love to hire or use their private cars to visit Kasese because the area is mountainous.  You will first stop Fort Portal and later proceed to south of Kasese.  The trail from Mubuku to the North of Kasese takes 15 minutes. When you pass Bugoye power plant you can arrange transport means to the gate.

Accommodation in Rwenzori Mountains National Park Uganda.

Hotel Margherita:

Hotel Margherita is positioned few miles from Kasese Town. This is a mid-range hotel that allows a visitor to view wildlife and forests. The hotel says it gives you Rwenzori experience by starting from their well-stocked bars, restaurant, smooth gardens, children’s play area and wonderful accommodation. The restaurant offers beverage and foods.  The gardens are specious with a wonderful and beautiful alpine botany. The gardens also have play grounds for children. For the hikers who still have energy after along day and feel like clubbing, rocky club can make you a night. Hotel Margherita offers quality and affordable accommodation, they have single, double and family suites.  Family suites can accommodate five people.

Rwenzori International Hotel:

Rwenzori International Hotel is located 3km from the Kasese airstrip which is positioned at the bottom of mountain ranges. The hotel provides accommodation services with rooms that are comfortably furnished, with a well-equipped self-contained rooms that sum up thirty- five single self-contained rooms. The beds have beddings, T.V set, telephone and mosquito nets. The restaurant provides local cuisines that are affordable and delicious. The bar is well stocked with beverages and alcoholic drinks plus nonalcoholic. The hotel has a laundry service, court for badminton, a large garden, parking space, a tennis court, a fitness and health center. Sauna, steam baths and body massage are enjoyed by residents near the gym. Activities like hiking are also offered at Queen Elizabeth National Park and Mountain Ranges.

Katara Lodge:

Katara lodge is 16km from Queen Elizabeth’s Katunguru gate. The lodge is built in wood and grass thatched renewable materials and this helps in the environment conservation. They have salty water in swimming pool to avoid relying on chemicals and almost all their electrical are powered by solar energy. Katara lodge provides single self-contained- regular and family cottage. The lodges offer a fabulous view of Rwenzori ranges, beautiful bird species and farmlands.

Equator Snow Lodge:

The lodge is situated on the foothills of mountain Rwenzori and near the entrance of the park.  Below the lodge you will find Mubuku River flowing which will give you a warm relaxation. The cottages of the park are constructed with the round river rocks and this makes them special and unique worldwide.  On these rocks that were used to build the cottages, you will see local art that depicts the history of Rwenzori Mountain. The cottages offer self-contained accommodation rooms that have a balcony and fire for warming visitors during the cold nights. They also have fully stocked bar and also offer food and drinks with breakfast too in the restaurant.

Tropical Savannah Guest House:

Tropical Savannah lodge is budget lodge located along the Mbararato Kasese road in Kasese.it is affordable and offers room facilities like Wi-Fi, flat TV screen, showers, bathrooms and flush toilets, mosquito net, wardrobe, adequate ventilation and full length window. The lodge has a fully stocked bar with beverages that are alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The restaurant offers breakfast and lunch for local dishes on the daily basis. Do not forget that the guest house offers laundry services, tour services, car hire services and parking services.   

Ruboni Community Camp:

Ruboni community Camp is a budget hotel which is constructed besides the park gate near Nyakalenjija. It is one of the oldest lodges in Nyakalenjija area and is run by community. The location of the lodge gives residents a chance to enjoy the mountainous air. The hotel is constructed with bricks and thatched with grass on the roof. The hotel offers self-contained room facilities like showers, mosquito nets, toilets and balconies.  The restaurant which also doubles as information and meeting place offers also local and international foods. The camp also allows and organizes for visitors who would love to do community activities like forest walks, village walks, hill climbing, birdwatching, camping and visiting Mahoma trail inside the park.

Mihunga Safari Lodge:

The hotel is located in Mihunga Village close to Nyakalenjija. The hotel was opened by Rwenzori Mountaineering Services (RMS) in 2010. The lodge was built in wood and it offers accommodation facilities like self-contained services. It has a restaurant that provides local and international food.

Rwenzori Turaco View Campsite:

This is a budget hotel run by community and owned locally. It has roofs that are grass thatched and a camping site in Mihunga Village. This hotel has a restaurant that prepares both international and local foods.

Ihamba lakeside Safari Lodge.

Ihamba lakeside Safari Lodge is a mid-range hotel that is positioned close to the shore of Lake. George in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The hotel is near the fishing village of Kahendero and this gives travelers a chance to view mountain ranges of Rwenzori. The lodge is composed of six self-contained cottages and also offers facilities such as hot showers, comfortable beddings, bar and restaurant, Rwenzori Backpackers, house-keeping, laundry, fire equipment, parking space, and swimming pool. This budget facility is always used by hikers of mountain Rwenzori using the Kilembe Trail.

Sandton Hotel Kasese:

This hotel is situated in the middle of Kasese town on the Rwenzori main road.  The hotel accommodates international and local clients. It has a large conference and meeting rooms. The hotel has got a beautiful and quite gardens.

Park Entrance fee in Rwenzori Mountains National Park Uganda.

Rwenzori Mountains, Semuliki NP, Mount Elgon National Park, Tooro Semliki Game Reserve, Katonga Game Reserve and Pian Upe wildlife reserve are grouped in one catengory by UWA and they pay same fee. Their entrance fee is as follows; Non-residents pay US$35 and residents pay $25, East African nationals Ush15,000, Children aged five to 15 years pay US$5. Under-fives enter all protected areas for free.