Tour Type: Solo / Group Tour
Style: Midrange Safari – Comfortable mountain huts and lodges with essential amenities, guided trekking, and porter support
Destination: Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Western Uganda
Trekking Uganda’s Hidden Alpine Gem
The Mahoma Loop is one of the most scenic and accessible trekking circuits in the Rwenzori Mountains, offering a condensed yet immersive experience of the park’s diverse ecosystems. From montane forest and bamboo groves to heather zones and alpine lakes, this 6-day trek is ideal for adventurers who want to explore the mystical landscapes of the Rwenzoris without committing to the full Central Circuit. With panoramic views, unique flora, and cultural encounters, the Mahoma Loop is a perfect blend of challenge and beauty.
Key Tour Highlights & Unique Selling Points
- Guided trek through the Mahoma Loop Trail with expert mountain guides
- Traverse montane forest, bamboo zone, and Afro-alpine landscapes
- Visit Lake Mahoma, the highest crater lake in the Rwenzoris
- Spot endemic plant species like giant lobelias and groundsels
- Cultural visit to Ruboni Village and Bakonzo community
- Midrange mountain huts and eco-lodges with group-friendly amenities
- Ideal for solo trekkers, hiking clubs, and nature-focused groups
Major Attractions
| Location | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Rwenzori Mountains NP | Mahoma Loop Trail, alpine vegetation |
| Nyakalengija Trailhead | Trekking base, park HQ |
| Omuka Kizza Rest Camp | Forest views, birding, primates |
| Lake Mahoma | Crater lake, alpine zone, panoramic views |
| Ruboni Village | Cultural storytelling, dance, crafts |
Accessibility Options
- By Road: Kampala → Kasese (~6–7 hours via Fort Portal)
- Nearest Airstrip (Optional): Kasese Airstrip (charter only)
- Transfers: All ground transport provided in safari vans or coasters with bottled water and onboard guide
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala → Kasese & Ruboni Cultural Visit
Activities:
- Scenic transfer to Kasese via Fort Portal with lunch en route
- Afternoon cultural visit to Ruboni Village (Bakonzo dance, storytelling, crafts)
Accommodation: Midrange Option: Sandton Hotel Kasese / Ruboni Community Camp
Amenities: En-suite rooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, restaurant
Day 2: Nyakalengija → Omuka Kizza Rest Camp
Activities:
- Registration and briefing at Rwenzori Park HQ
- Begin trek through montane forest, spot birds and primates
- Arrive at Omuka Kizza Rest Camp (2,977m)
Accommodation: Mountain Camp: Omuka Kizza Rest Camp
Amenities: Shared dormitory, pit latrine, group meals, porter support
Day 3: Omuka Kizza → Lake Mahoma Camp
Activities:
- Trek through bamboo and heather zones
- Arrive at Lake Mahoma (3,515m), Uganda’s highest crater lake
Accommodation: Mountain Camp: Lake Mahoma Camp
Amenities: Lakeside views, shared shelter, basic meals
Day 4: Lake Mahoma → Nyabitaba → Ruboni
Activities:
- Descend through forest trails to Nyabitaba Hut
- Continue to Ruboni trailhead and transfer to lodge
Accommodation: Midrange Option: Ruboni Community Camp / Sandton Hotel Kasese
Amenities: En-suite rooms, hot showers, local meals
Day 5: Optional Nature Walk & Leisure
Activities:
- Morning guided nature walk near Ruboni
- Afternoon leisure or optional visit to a local craft center
Accommodation: Same as Day 4
Day 6: Kasese → Kampala
Activities:
- Scenic transfer back to Kampala with lunch en route
- Optional stop at the equator monument or craft market
What to Carry & Requirements
- Valid ID or passport
- Waterproof hiking boots and gaiters
- Warm clothing (layers, gloves, thermal wear)
- Rain jacket and poncho
- Sleeping bag (rated for cold nights)
- Headlamp, sunscreen, insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle and purification tablets
- Personal medications and snacks
- Moderate fitness level required
- Respectful attire for cultural visits
✅ Inclusions
- Group transport from Kampala to Kasese and return
- 5 nights accommodation (2 lodge + 3 mountain camps)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Rwenzori park entry fees and Mahoma Loop permit
- Professional mountain guide and porters
- Cultural visit to Ruboni Village
- Bottled drinking water during transfers
❌ Exclusions
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory for trekking)
- Tips and personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Optional activities not listed
- Sleeping bag rental (available on request)
Accommodation Overview
| Lodge Name | Location | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Sandton Hotel Kasese | Kasese Town | En-suite rooms, Wi-Fi, restaurant |
| Ruboni Community Camp | Nyakalengija | Eco-lodges, local meals, cultural access |
| Rwenzori Mountain Camps | Trail Circuit | Shared dorms, pit latrines, group meals |
Trek Uganda’s Alpine Wonderland
This midrange group trek offers the perfect blend of mountain adventure, cultural immersion, and scenic wonder, ideal for hiking clubs, student groups, and nature lovers.