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Cost of Hiking Mount Rwenzori in Uganda
The price/cost of hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains is determined by the length of your journey and how many people you are traveling with. In general, the Rwenzoris provide outstanding value for money – the range is spectacular, and the routes are diverse, demanding, and unique in Central Africa.
Hiking through Uganda’s mystical Rwenzori Mountains National Park is a genuinely amazing and unique experience, with the wonder of towering glaciers, the beauty of the valley of nine lakes, and bearded lichen hanging from huge heathers against a backdrop of rocky cliffs, crags, and snow-capped summits. A hike to the Rwenzori mountains in Uganda can always be combined with other activities like a gorilla trekking safari to Bwindi Impenetrable national park, Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park, a game drive safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park or Murchison Falls National Park among others.
The diverse flora and wildlife of numerous biospheres as you rise through distinct plant zones give the perfect hiking experience. This unusual and breathtaking walk has never been offered before, completely unspoiled and unquestionably one of the most gorgeous hikes in the world.
The Rwenzori Mountains are a World Heritage Site that allows visitors to see nature at its finest. The plant life ranges from dense tropical rainforest to bamboo forests, montane cloud forests, and alpine vegetation, with breathtaking vistas. Snow and glaciers over 4,500 meters provide a new dimension to the breathtaking vistas across this pristine mountain range.
At Laba Africa expeditions, we provide hiking and climbing choices ranging from one day to twelve days to fit your adventure style and timetable. The Rwenzori Mountains are a genuine mountain range with several rises and descents, making it a difficult climb, but the view and magnificent vegetation are breathtaking. The moss-covered rocks, dense foliage, steep peaks, and cliffs rising above the moss-covered valleys and flowing streams create an awe-striking mood that varies through numerous biospheres as you climb, making the “Rwenzori Mountains” a genuinely unique experience.
Cost of Hiking Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda
The price/cost of hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains is determined by the length of your journey and how many people you are traveling with. In general, the Rwenzoris provide outstanding value for money – the range is spectacular, and the routes are diverse, demanding, and unique in Central Africa. The Rwenzoris are a fraction of the price of popular treks like Kilimanjaro, but no less impressive in our opinion. If two individuals travel together, the cost of a trip ranges from USD 555 per person for a three-day trek to USD 2,000 per person for a 10-day Rwenzori climbing safari in Uganda. When you have a party of three or more, the price per person drops slightly to about $525 per person for a 3 days trek and USD 1,987 per person for a 10 days trek.
On this 12-day alpine journey, you will see the Rwenzori Mountains’ four main peaks: Margherita Peak (5109m), Mt Speke (4890m), Mt Baker (4844m), and Weismann’s Peak (4620m). The 10-day walk is extremely tough, and you must be in good shape to finish it. The breathtaking views from Margherita Peak are worth the effort of the hike 100 times more. The 12-day journey costs about $2,280 per person when two people travel together in the low season. Peak season expenses might rise by 20% owing to increased demand. During the low season, the walk is quite affordable, costing roughly USD 190 per person per day. This figure will cover the majority of your expenses including;
- Pickup and Drop off from Entebbe or Kampala
- Accommodation in hotels and mountain cabins/ shelters.
- Full board meals during your trek on the Rwenzori Mountains.
- All Park Entry Fees.
- Mountain guides and porters.
- Safari Vehicle and Fuel.
- Summit Technical equipment.
However, the price quoted excludes a few expenses such as;
- International Flight Tickets.
- Visa fees
- Optional Activities
- Alcoholic drinks
- Any items of personal nature like toilet paper, souvenirs, etc.
- Tipping
- Travel/Medical Insurance
On a 4-day Rwenzori hiking trip in Uganda, you might choose to trek to the Mutinda lookout at 3,975m. This breathtaking overlook provides panoramic views of the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. You will feel as though you have reached the edge of the earth as you gaze across the craggy alpine terrain. The last rock scramble to the top of Margherita Peak is without a doubt the trip’s climax. As you reach the peak of Mount Stanley, Africa’s third tallest mountain, you will feel an incredible feeling of accomplishment.
A 5-day introduction Rwenzori hiking trip ideal for novice mountaineers or anybody looking to get a taste of the Rwenzoris in a short amount of time. Many travelers combine the journey with visits to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southern Uganda. The journey begins and finishes in Entebbe; however, it is simple to combine it with a larger itinerary throughout Uganda.
On a 3-day Rwenzori hiking trip in Uganda. You’ll climb to Kalalama camp via the bamboo and heather-Rapanea Zone, following the route as it meanders over numerous tiny knolls along a ridge top before descending the valley side. You’ll cross many tiny streams and go up close to moss-covered waterfalls with rare plant species found above 3000 meters.
What to Pack when hiking the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda?
When planning your hiking trip to the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda, here are some of the essential items that you should pack;
- Sleeping Bag
The nights in Rwenzori are quite cold, so any investment in a good sleeping bag is worthwhile. Given the altitude, we recommend a sleeping bag with a minimum temperature rating of -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit). The mummy shape is the greatest form and shape to utilize since it fits the curves of the human body and so offers superior insulation.
- Large Duffle Bag
This enormous duffle bag is intended to transport your belongings, such as clothing, sleeping bags, and other goods. Because this is often carried on the head of a porter, it is advised that you maintain it as light as possible and not exceed 20 Kg. Your duffle bag should be waterproof, with a robust zipper, and both a hand and a shoulder strap for carrying convenience.
- Backpack
You will be carrying your day pack while you climb the Rwenzori. You will be carrying important, personal, and breakable items in your day bag, such as cameras, phones, laptops, and so on.
It is critical to select a lightweight backpack since any extra weight is significant on lengthy journeys. Your bag should include a rain cover, a side mesh pocket for your water bottle, and compression straps to lessen the weight on your back.
- Long-sleeved T-shirts
T-shirts take up almost no room and are easily dryable. This is why it is ideal to have several T-shirts to wear throughout the hike.
As you climb higher, more fitted t-shirts will become a better alternative for insulation in the chilly mountain climate. Cotton T-shirts may be used at lower altitudes, but cotton is a problematic material further up since it absorbs water and does not dry quickly. Polyester T-shirts are recommended.
- Ski Jacket
If you plan to climb Mount Baker or Stanley, you should have a ski jacket for the snow and ice. A good ski jacket should be water resistant but also breathable, as you will sweat when climbing.
- Trekking pants
Bring one or two pairs of trekking pants to wear as you ascend the mountain. If you prefer to wear shorts, you may bring some zip-off hiking pants that can be readily converted into shorts. While you are free to wear your jeans, we recommend that you do not. This is because jeans absorb a lot of water and take a long time to dry, which might be inconvenient if it rains while you’re hiking.
- Trekking poles
The hikes up and down the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda are lengthy and exhausting, and they may be hard on your main joints and ligaments. Trekking poles will come in handy and assist you at every turn with daily hikes lasting more than 5 hours.
- Several pairs of socks to keep you warm
To climb Mount Rwenzori, you must also have plenty of socks. With daily walks averaging 6 hours, a change of socks will be appreciated on each consecutive day. Warm yet breathable socks are advised. Another reason you might need additional socks is for the really cold evenings as you approach the peaks. The number of pairs required varies from person to person, but having enough pairs on hand is usually a good idea.
- A poncho
A poncho provides the finest weather protection for you and your day pack. It works so well because it is lightweight, waterproof, and can be rolled up into a little compact without needing to dry. A poncho provides no insulation and should not be considered part of the layers used to keep you warm throughout the trip.
- Hiking Boots
When climbing Rwenzori is done on foot, it is advisable to invest in the greatest pair of climbing shoes/boots because that is how you will get up there. You should wear shoes that are both strong and comfy for you. Any tiny uncertainties regarding a pair of shoes may ruin your entire voyage, especially if the shoes are either too tight or too loose.
- Ankle Gaiters
Hiking the Rwenzori means wading through mud and traversing rivers and streams. As a result, you’ll need a solid set of ankle gaiters to keep the muck and water out of your shoes.
- Gloves
Insulated or mitten gloves, as well as thermal inner gloves. Gloves will protect your hands and fingers from the bitter cold of the mountains. It is recommended that you bring two pairs of gloves. An outer pair of mittens or gloves that are both sturdy and waterproof enough to withstand the weather. You should also have a thermal inner pair of gloves to keep your hands warm.
- Cleaning Essentials
Remember to bring your toothbrush and toothpaste, as well as soap and deodorant. A lengthy packing list like this might cause one to overlook important personal items. If you forget any of these, you may have to wait until the finish of the climb to receive replacements. All of these goods may be carried from home (since they are tiny and light) or purchased before beginning the climb.
- Travel Towel
A medium-sized trekking towel to dry your face and hands after a rainstorm. A microfiber towel is suggested due to its ability to dry quickly.
- Toilet Tissue and Lip Balm
When you ascend Mount Rwenzori, the cold may quickly dry you and create chapped lips. Lip balm will assist to hydrate and alleviate chapped or dry lips.
Though toilet paper is provided at the start of the trek, having extra is never a bad thing. It is preferable to have extra than to run out when out in the snow. A single roll should suffice, but don’t be afraid to experiment.
- Insect Repellant and Sunscreen
While you may have previously completed your malaria preparations and are not in danger of contracting the disease, we nonetheless recommend that you carry bug repellent containing high percentages of DEET. This is because mosquito bites are unpleasant and can be painful for certain individuals. Other insects exist, and this insect repellent will keep them at bay. As you rise higher and the temperatures decrease, the insects grow less and fewer, but the low ranges are extremely insect-rich.
You will need to protect your skin from the sun’s UV radiation when hiking during the day. Because the active climb will cause you to sweat, it is advised that you bring sweat-resistant sunscreen.
- Malaria Tablets and any other medication that you may need
Malaria is the most frequent and deadly illness in the tropics, therefore all means of avoiding it should be investigated. You may require antimalarial medication to avoid becoming ill when hiking to the summit of Mount Rwenzori. You should talk with your doctor about this and follow his or her expert advice.
Apart from normal medicines, you should keep some on hand for nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which are all symptoms of your body adjusting to rapidly shifting altitude levels. You should also bring some pain relievers with you to help with the exhaustion that comes with hiking all day for so many days.
- Blister Plasters
Trekking for so many hours each day will almost certainly result in blisters, which should be properly treated with the appropriate plasters – and bandaged if necessary. When you plaster the blisters, ensure sure the area around the blister is completely dry. Masking tape, or any tape for that matter, should not be used since it is not breathable and can aggravate the blister.
- Water Bottles
Because of the intensity of the activity, you will become dehydrated quickly as you ascend the Rwenzori, and you will need to drink water. Apart from relieving your thirst, you will need to drink 2 to 3 liters of water every day to avoid altitude sickness. You might bring two 1-liter bottles because they will fit comfortably into your daypack.
- Headlamp
There is no power on Mount Rwenzori, so you’ll need a flashlight or headlamp to see at night. While a hand torch may be carried, a headlamp is preferable since it allows you to keep your hand free. This is especially critical for climbs to the peaks that begin at 2 a.m. in the middle of the night. To choose a headlamp, consider the light/brightness quality, which should be at least 70 meters, the battery life, and the weight. A decent headlight should have a nice balance of these three properties.
- Ice Axe
This is for ascending Mount Stanley and Baker, where a snow track leads to the peaks. An ice axe is the ideal snow/ice trekking gear for both ascending and descending. Ice axes can be rented before the hike, but experienced mountain climbers bring their own because they are used to them.
- Crampons
Crampons on your climbing shoes will increase your traction – and hence your stability – in the snow. Crampons are essential while climbing Mount Stanley or Mount Baker in Rwenzori.
- Scarf
Another essential item to bring is a neck warmer or scarf for your neck. A neck warmer will come in handy with the cold weather and high-altitude breeze. You might bring a scarf instead because it can double as a neck warmer. If you can think of additional ways to use a scarf, it may be the better choice.
- Reuseable plastic bag for dirty laundry
There is so much water on the mountain that you should be able to wash some of your soiled clothes. The problem is that you’re exhausted and would rather save everything for when you get back down. Using a resealable plastic bag, you can keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean clothes. All power to you if you can wash from up the mountain despite your exhaustion!
In summary: Climbing Mount Rwenzori in Uganda is one of the most difficult undertakings anybody can embark on. Because the Rwenzori is a mountain range, reaching the summit requires several literal up-and-down paths. This is not the situation with conventional mountains, where the only way to the peak is to climb. All of this implies that the Rwenzoris are more difficult to climb, even though the highest peak is ranked third in Africa. It takes courage to embark on such a trip, and it is critical that you pack all of the necessary items.
