8-Day Rwenzori Central Circuit Expedition (Midrange Safari)
Tour Type: Group Tour Only
Style: Midrange Safari – Comfortable mountain huts and lodges with essential amenities, guided trekking, and group support
Destination: Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Western Uganda
Trek the Mountains of the Moon
The Rwenzori Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are Africa’s highest non-volcanic range and home to snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, and rare Afro-alpine vegetation. The Central Circuit Trail is the most iconic route, offering a challenging yet rewarding multi-day trek through diverse ecosystems, from montane forest to moorland and glacier zones. This 8-day group expedition is ideal for trekkers seeking a guided, well-paced adventure with cultural encounters and breathtaking scenery.
Key Tour Highlights & Unique Selling Points
- Multi-day guided trek through the Rwenzori Central Circuit
- Summit attempt of Mount Speke or Mount Baker (optional)
- Traverse glacial valleys, bogs, waterfalls, and alpine meadows
- Cultural visit to Ruboni Village and Bakonzo community
- Midrange mountain huts with group meals and porter support
- Ideal for hiking clubs, student groups, and adventure seekers
Major Attractions
| Location | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Rwenzori Mountains NP | Central Circuit Trail, alpine landscapes |
| Nyabitaba Hut | Montane forest, birdlife, river views |
| John Matte Hut | Bigo Bog, giant lobelias, waterfalls |
| Bujuku Valley | Glacial lakes, alpine meadows |
| 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: Group 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 → Nyabitaba Hut (2,650m)
Activities:
- Registration and briefing at Rwenzori Park HQ
- Begin trek through montane forest to Nyabitaba Hut
Accommodation: Mountain Hut: Nyabitaba Hut
Amenities: Shared dormitory, pit latrine, group meals, porter support
Day 3: Nyabitaba → John Matte Hut (3,420m)
Activities:
- Trek through bamboo zone, cross rivers and ridges
- Arrive at John Matte Hut near Bigo Bog
Accommodation: Mountain Hut: John Matte Hut
Amenities: Shared dormitory, basic meals, alpine views
Day 4: John Matte → Bujuku Hut (3,960m)
Activities:
- Cross Bigo Bog using boardwalks
- Trek through alpine meadows to Bujuku Valley
Accommodation: Mountain Hut: Bujuku Hut
Amenities: Shared dormitory, glacial lake views, group dining
Day 5: Bujuku → Elena Hut (4,540m) or Mount Speke Summit (Optional)
Activities:
- Trek to Elena Hut for acclimatization or summit attempt
- Optional climb to Mount Speke (4,890m) with guide
Accommodation: Mountain Hut: Elena Hut or return to Bujuku
Amenities: Basic shelter, alpine zone, group meals
Day 6: Descend to Kitandara Hut (4,023m)
Activities:
- Trek through Scott Elliot Pass
- Arrive at Kitandara Lakes and overnight at Kitandara Hut
Accommodation: Mountain Hut: Kitandara Hut
Amenities: Lakeside views, shared dormitory, group meals
Day 7: Kitandara → Guy Yeoman Hut (3,260m)
Activities:
- Descend through alpine forest and bogs
- Arrive at Guy Yeoman Hut near Mubuku River
Accommodation: Mountain Hut: Guy Yeoman Hut
Amenities: Forest views, basic shelter, group meals
Day 8: Guy Yeoman → Nyakalengija → Kampala
Activities:
- Final descent to Nyakalengija trailhead
- Transfer back to Kampala with lunch en route
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 to high fitness level required
- Group spirit and respect for altitude safety
✅ Inclusions
- Group transport from Kampala to Kasese and return
- 7 nights accommodation (1 lodge + 6 mountain huts)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Rwenzori park entry fees and Central Circuit 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 summit climbs 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 Huts | Trail Circuit | Shared dorms, pit latrines, group meals |
Conquer the Mountains of the Moon
This midrange group expedition offers the perfect blend of alpine trekking, cultural immersion, and scenic wonder, ideal for hiking clubs, student groups, and adventure seekers.