9 Days Rwenzori Bukurungu Trail Trek To Margherita Peak at 5109m

A Detailed 9 Days Rwenzori Trek To Margherita Peak Via Bukurungu Trail

Day One

A representative of our firm will meet you at Entebbe International Airport or at your accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala. He will transport you west of the capital, Kampala, to Kasese town for an overnight stay at a hotel, where you will love the panoramic views of the cloud-covered Rwenzoris from your balcony or the unobstructed vistas of the savannah of Queen Elizabeth National Park below Kasese town, prior to your trek to the Rwenzori Mountains the following morning. The journey to Kasese requires 5-6 hours by the Kampala to Fort Portal route, covering 372 km, or 6-7 hours via the Kampala-Masaka-Mbarara highway, spanning 422 km. En route, there will be a lunch stop in either Fort Portal or Mbarara before continuing to Kasese town for an overnight stay.

Second Day

Enjoy an early morning meal before transferring from your accommodation in Kasese town to Omukorukumi, a journey of one hour, and commence your climb to reach the RMNP / Kasanzi Gate for registration at the Park Ranger outpost. Proceed along the trail that curves westward along the ridge, providing a view of the Kasuka and Isule valleys, and continue to EKebitakuli for a warm lunch while resting. Subsequently, trek through the montane rainforest that overlooks the bamboo-forested lowlands. Observe plant species such as Disastairssi, Scadoxus cyrtanthiflorus, and Impatiens colobuss, as well as the screams of black and white Colobus monkeys, the Rwenzori Turaco, and various other avian species. While on the trail, one may observe chimpanzee nests and faeces or detect their sounds. The path will guide you through the heather zone and arrive at Rwigho Camp (2650 m) for an overnight respite immediately following the crossing of River Rwigho. The duration will be about 6 to 7 hours.

Third Day

Following breakfast, the path traverses the heather trees (Ericathiasis), adorned with abundant moss draping from their branches.

This is the heather zone, characterized by numerous heather trees, scotch pines, alchemilla, blackberries, and various other plant species. While on the walk, you may observe black and white Colobus monkeys, Vervet monkeys, sunbirds, and the rare and exquisite Rwenzori turaco within the park. On this day, you will observe several huge lobelias, everlasting flowers, and rock shelters. Overnight stay at Kambeho Camp (3700 m). This hike will require 5 to 6 hours, including a break for a delicious lunch at Mitiyighaghire.

Fourth Day

Following breakfast, commence a climb alongside the Lhume River during the early morning hours, when one is still invigorated and eager to ascend the very steep Mughuli bypass. Consider descending to Lake Mughuli, which is inside MTN network coverage, allowing you to communicate with friends and family about the beauty and experiences encountered along the way. Numerous short peaks are accessible for climbing, contingent upon your arrival time at the camp and your physical condition. The vegetation near the lake is very captivating. Fauna observable along the trail includes the Rwenzori red-duiker, rock and tree hyrax, and wild boars. Within the vicinity of the camp, one may embark on a self-guided trek to investigate the waterfalls. The estimated duration for the climb from Kambeho to Mughuli Camp (3877 m) is approximately 6-7 hours, including a break for a hot lunch at the Mulhalhama resting viewpoint.

Fifth Day

This camp is situated between the Portal Peaks and Mount Gessi, serving as a tranquil location for acclimatization for climbers aiming to scale these mountains. A five-hour journey from Mughuli Camp involves a relatively moderate crossing that passes alchemila flora, various huge lobelia species, and the amazing unknown leaf that resembles a human palm. The journey from Mughuli Camp to Bukurungu Camp (4291 m) will require 6 to 7 hours, including a break for a nice lunch at Kinyamiyeye. On this day, assuming the weather is clear, your eyes and hands on the camera will capture all the prominent peaks: Edward on Mount Baker, Margherita and Alexandra on Mount Stanley, Vittorio Emanuela on Mount Speke, Kihuma on the Portal Peaks, and Mount Gessi.

Day Six

From Bukurungu East Camp, we proceed to Lake Bujuku (3962 m).

Seventh Day

Today, we ascend into the alpine zone and hike to the campsite on the northeastern slope of Mt. Stanley, Irene Lakes (4495 m). Preparing to ascend Margherita Peak the following morning.

Day Eight

Commence with an early breakfast followed by walking towards Margherita Peak (5109 m). A brief luncheon at Irene Lakes Camp prior to descending to Bigo Camp (3440 m).

Day Nine

Your final day departing from the splendor of Rwenzori leaves you yearning for a return. Utilize your guide and porters to traverse the ridge, and with local cellular signals, contact your driving guide for transportation from the park to Kasese for an overnight stay or to Entebbe for your departing flight.