Overview
Into the Mountains of the Moon
This 10-day Rwenzori Mountains trek follows the classic central circuit through the fabled ‘Mountains of the Moon’ — glacial valleys, bogs, mountain huts and the Scott-Elliot Pass beneath Mount Stanley — and finishes with a wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Day by Day
Your 10-day Rwenzori trekking itinerary
Kampala to Kasese
Depart Kampala and drive through Masaka and Mbarara, with a lunch stop en route, continuing to Kasese, home to the fabled ‘Mountains of the Moon’. Relax and overnight at the agreed hotel.
Nyakalengija to Nyabitaba Hut
Report to the Rwenzori Mountaineering Services offices to hire equipment and meet your guides and porters, then begin hiking from the park headquarters (1,646m) to Nyabitaba Hut — about 10 km over 4–5 hours, ascending through homesteads, bamboo, tall elephant grass and dense forest.
Nyabitaba to John Matte Hut
A 5–6 hour stage crossing the Kurt Shafer Bridge below the confluence of the Bujuku and Mubuku rivers, then climbing and descending muddy, slippery, rocky paths to reach John Matte Hut.
John Matte to Bujuku Hut
A 6 km, 5–6 hour trail wading through fords and crossing rivers, skirting the lower and upper Bigo bogs to reach Bujuku Hut, with fine views of the surrounding peaks.
Bujuku to Kitandara Hut (4,023m)
A 4 km stage ascending to groundsel vegetation (4,372m) and the Scott-Elliot Pass — the main col between Mount Stanley and Mount Baker — before descending to Kitandara Hut (4,023m) for the night.
Kitandara to Guy Yeoman Hut
Take in views towards the Democratic Republic of Congo from Lake Kitandara, then a steep climb over boulders and through thick mud to the Fresh Field Pass, with clear views of Mount Stanley, followed by a steep, rocky, muddy descent to Guy Yeoman Hut.
Guy Yeoman Hut to Nyabitaba
Descend along the Mubuku valley, negotiating rock and mud through bamboo and forest, retracing your route towards Nyabitaba Hut for the night.
Nyabitaba to Nyakalengija & transfer to Queen Elizabeth
Leave Nyabitaba early, retracing the roughly 10 km trail (2–3 hours) down through the Mubuku River and fields to the RMS offices to hand back rented equipment, then drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an evening game drive.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
A morning game drive rewards you with lions, elephants, buffalo and varied antelope, followed after lunch by a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel for close views of hippos, crocodiles and abundant birds.
Return to Kampala
After breakfast, drive at leisure to Kampala, with a drop-off at your accommodation or the airport.
What to expect
What’s included & excluded
Included
- Return transport from the agreed start point
- Professional mountain guide, rangers, cook & porters
- National park entry, camping & rescue fees
- Camping / hut accommodation & all meals on the mountain
- Hire of group camping equipment
- Drinking water on the trek
Not included
- International flights, visa & insurance
- Personal hiking gear & sleeping bag (hire available)
- Tips for the mountain crew
- Personal items, snacks & drinks
- Anything not listed under “Included”
Why book with us
Why travellers choose Nairobi Tour Promoters
Mountain experts
Experienced with Mt Elgon & Rwenzori treks, with strong local guides and porters.
Safe, supported climbs
Guides, rangers, cooks and porters focused on your safety and a successful summit.
All-inclusive pricing
Park fees, camping, meals and crew included — no hidden costs.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
How high do we climb on the Rwenzori trek?
This 10-day central-circuit trek takes you up to the Scott-Elliot Pass (4,372m) between Mount Stanley and Mount Baker. Margherita Peak on Mount Stanley (5,109m) is a technical glacier climb offered as a separate extension.
How hard is the Rwenzori Mountains trek?
It is a demanding, muddy, high-altitude trek over many days, best suited to fit, adventurous hikers. A full crew of guides and porters from Rwenzori Mountaineering Services supports the climb.
Does the trip include a wildlife safari?
Yes. After the trek you visit Queen Elizabeth National Park for a game drive and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, famous for hippos, crocodiles and birdlife.