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Rwenzori Mountains

Africa's legendary "Mountains of the Moon" with glaciers

About Rwenzori Mountains

The Rwenzori range features Africa's third highest peak (Margherita at 5,109m) and is the continent's only glacial mountains near the equator. Unlike volcanic Kilimanjaro and Kenya, the Rwenzoris are ancient block mountains with unique vegetation zones.

The mountains receive over 3m of annual rainfall, creating a fairy-tale landscape of giant lobelias, heathers and groundsels. Trekking routes pass through five distinct vegetation zones from tropical forest to alpine meadows.

Glaciers
Trekking
Unique Flora
Margherita Peak

Mountain Highlights

Central Circuit Trek

7-9 day trek through all vegetation zones to Margherita Peak with glacier crossings.

Giant Flora

See giant lobelias (up to 8m tall) and groundsels in the alpine zone.

Waterfalls

Numerous waterfalls cascade down the mountain slopes.

Top Activities

Mountain Trekking

Central Circuit Trek

7-9 day trek to Margherita Peak (5,109m).

Duration: 7-9 days Difficulty: Challenging
Day Hikes

Day Hikes

Explore lower slopes and waterfalls.

Duration: 4-6 hours Difficulty: Moderate
Community Visits

Community Visits

Meet the Bakonzo people at mountain foothills.

Duration: 2-3 hours Cultural Experience

Mountain Features

Unique Flora

Giant Lobelias

Tower up to 8m in alpine zones.

Giant Groundsels

Ancient-looking plants at high altitudes.

Geological Features

Glaciers

Africa's only equatorial glaciers.

Waterfalls

Numerous cascades throughout the range.

Gorilla Trekking Information

What to Expect

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense forest terrain in search of habituated gorilla families. Treks can last from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the location of the gorillas.

Duration

Actual time with gorillas is strictly limited to 1 hour to minimize disturbance.

Group Size

Maximum 8 visitors per gorilla group per day with guides and trackers.

Best Time

June-August and December-February during drier conditions.

Requirements & Preparation

  • Minimum age of 15 years for gorilla trekking
  • Gorilla permit required ($700 per person)
  • Good physical condition recommended
  • Vaccinations including yellow fever required
  • Packing list: waterproof clothing, hiking boots, gloves, etc.

Featured Bwindi Tours

3-Day Gorilla Trekking

3-Day Gorilla Trekking

Short but immersive gorilla experience with one full day dedicated to trekking.

From $1,800 3 Days
7-Day Gorilla & Wildlife Safari

7-Day Gorilla & Wildlife Safari

Combine gorilla trekking with Queen Elizabeth National Park wildlife viewing.

From $3,200 7 Days
5-Day Primates Tour

5-Day Primates Tour

Gorillas in Bwindi plus chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest.

From $2,500 5 Days

Where to Stay

Buhoma Lodge

Buhoma Lodge

Luxury

Located at the entrance to Bwindi with stunning forest views and excellent service.

From $400/night Buhoma Sector
Mahogany Springs Lodge

Mahogany Springs

Luxury

Upscale lodge with spacious cottages and a riverside setting near the park.

From $350/night Buhoma Sector
Silverback Lodge

Silverback Lodge

Mid-range

Comfortable accommodation with excellent views and proximity to trekking.

From $250/night Ruhija Sector

Getting to Bwindi

By Road

The journey from Kampala to Bwindi takes approximately 8-10 hours depending on your sector:

  • Kampala to Buhoma: ~540km (9-10 hours)
  • Kampala to Ruhija: ~470km (8-9 hours)
  • Kampala to Rushaga/Nkuringo: ~510km (9-10 hours)

We recommend breaking up the journey with overnight stops in Mbarara or Kabale.

By Air

Charter flights are available from Entebbe or Kajjansi to airstrips near Bwindi:

  • Kihihi Airstrip (for Buhoma sector) - 1.5 hour flight
  • Kisoro Airstrip (for Ruhija/Rushaga/Nkuringo) - 1 hour flight

Pro Tip:

Flying saves time but requires booking well in advance during peak seasons (June-August, December-February).

Frequently Asked Questions

Trusted Travel Partners

Explore our trusted tour operators, lodges, and transport services dedicated to safe and memorable travel experiences.

Uganda Tours
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Gorilla Trek
Wildlife Uganda
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East Africa Travel
East Africa Travel
East Africa Travel
Adventure Uganda
Uganda Tours
Safari Experts
Gorilla Trek
Wildlife Uganda
East Africa Travel
East Africa Travel
East Africa Travel
East Africa Travel
Adventure Uganda

Ready for Your Gorilla Adventure?

Contact our Uganda experts to start planning your unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.