4-Days Waterfalls Circuit Rwenzori Trekking Kilembe Trail
The Rwenzori Waterfalls Circuit trekking safari is a 4 days Rwenzori trekking to Enocks Falls at Sine Camp, Samalira Falls (comprising five waterfalls) near Samalira Camp, Cathy’s Falls, Nyamwamba Falls (52 meters in height), Ajarova Falls, Plozza Falls, Bridal Falls, and numerous further waterfalls and rapids.
The 4 days Rwenzori Waterfalls Circuit trek highlights the lower slopes of the forest. This trek enables hikers to explore the lush Afro-Montane forest zone and its various waterfalls, such as Enock’s and Bridal Falls, while observing a vast array of species of birds and monkeys. The trek is modest, providing cultural insights and breathtaking views of the lowlands, along with lodging in mountain huts and guidance from qualified professionals.
A Detailed 4-Day Rwenzori Waterfalls Circuit Trek
Day One
Begin from Trekkers at an altitude of 1,450 meters and ascend to Sine Hut at 2,596 meters, yielding an elevation gain of 1,146 meters.
We begin our climb along the valley floor between the tall trees of the Afro-Montane Forest Zone. This is a steady incline with several species of birds and the potential to observe blue monkeys traversing the forest. Visitors may occasionally witness groups of 15 to 20 black and white Colobus monkeys traversing the treetops. Occasionally, observations of the L’Hoest monkey, a cultural emblem of the Bukonzo, are protected by the authority of the King or Omusinga, and one may also hear wild chimpanzees nearby. A vast assortment of plant species abounds, encompassing forest trees, bamboo thickets, low shrubs, flowers, mushrooms, and various moss- and lichen-adorned vines dangling from towering trees, creating a striking appearance.
Enock’s Falls are situated within 200 meters of Sine Hut, offering an exceptional opportunity to capture a memorable screensaver.
Sine Camp, located at an altitude of 2,596 meters, features wooden cabins nestled among tall forest trees on a small ridge, enabling guests to see the grandeur of the Afro Montane forest while overlooking a stunning waterfall tumbling over the rocks below. Some clients prefer to sit outdoors, enjoying the warmth of the campfire while engaging in conversation with the guides about the mountains and their communal lifestyle. Sine is situated just below the bamboo zone, and the adjacent region is home to a variety of bird species.
Day 2
After a nutritious breakfast, the climb begins at 8:30 AM, entering the Bamboo-Mimulopsis Zone, noted for its steep incline and numerous towering steps. In the rainy season, the bamboo area becomes exceedingly muddy and slick, causing progress to be hindered.
The ambiance and woodland are remarkable as you climb 551 meters over a space of 2 kilometers to Kalalama Camp at 3,147 meters, located in the Heather-Rapanea Zone. Here, you may relax and savor a cup of tea or coffee accompanied by a snack before proceeding up the valley, navigating the slope past stunning moss-laden waterfalls to a vast bog where the Giant Lobelia and their splendid blossoms may be admired.
After your pleasure of the Lobelia, you will return to Kalalama Camp for lunch. After lunch, you will navigate the ridge, passing the magnificent Giant Heather trees, to arrive at Samalaira Camp at an altitude of 3,170 meters. Throughout your expedition, you will navigate two scenic streams.
Upon arrival at Samalira Camp, you may rest and opt to explore the trek to the base of Samalira Falls, which descend through a small valley embellished with Giant Heather trees, creating a stunning view. Reliable network access on Airtel is provided one hundred meters from the camp, enabling you to check multiple messages or emails.
Day 3
The route from Samalira Camp rises 200 meters in elevation to across a ridge before descending into an extensive valley that leads to Nyamwamba Valley and Cathy’s Falls, which are especially magnificent following substantial rains. A few kilometers downstream, the river plunges into a profound valley. The chain of waterfalls was first discovered in August 2020 by John Hunwick, who, during the initial Covid lockdown, found himself restricted within the National Park and utilized his time to explore new sites and devise new routes.
Nyamwamba Falls, the primary waterfall, has a total height of 52 meters and has a substantial pool at its base appropriate for swimming. Over the next 600 meters, the river swiftly descends over a series of rapids culminating at Ajarova Falls and Plozza Falls.
John named the third set of falls in tribute to his mother, Kathleen Plozza, and the legacy of his great-great-grandfather, Antonio Plozza (1850–1923), who lived on the mountainside of the lower Poschavio valley near Tirano along the Swiss-Italian border and had a fervent enthusiasm for hiking and mountain exploration. Next to Plozza Falls, there is a protected platform for viewing the falls and enjoying a light snack before proceeding. Below Plozza Falls, more waterfalls culminate in Bridal Falls, where water rushes over a wide, flat rock, creating an effect like to a bride’s veil.
At the halfway of these falls, the bamboo zone begins, creating a magnificent atmosphere as the mist from the falls nourishes the moss-covered bamboo, evergreen grasses, and herbs that support the Rwenzori Duiker. Duikers are commonly sighted in this region, which is also home to the Rwenzori leopard, distinguished by its dark pigmentation and endemic to the Rwenzori Mountains.
The forest in this region is magnificent and abundant in species, encompassing various birds, monkeys, duikers, and hyraxes. Upon reaching Forest View Camp, located at an altitude of 2,580 meters, we shall rest for the night.
Day 4
The trail from Forest View Camp descends through lofty trees and across ridges, providing magnificent views of the valley below. At the base of the challenging section, you will find Nyamwamba Camp at an altitude of 1,973 meters, where you will take a break for refreshments before continuing down a gentle slope to the park headquarters and returning to Kilembe.
Conclusion of the 4-Day Rwenzori Waterfalls Circuit Trekking Itinerary