The Mountains of the Moon

Hiking · 18 November 2024

By Holly Budge

Writer Holly Budge describes an eight-day attempt on Margherita Peak (5,109 m) on Mount Stanley, the highest point in Uganda and the third highest in Africa. The Rwenzori Mountains sit on the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and straddle the equator for about 100 km.

The route

• Day one climbs steeply through forest, with temperatures reaching 30°C and biting ants to watch for.
• Camps on the way include Sine (2,596 m), Mutinda (3,588 m), Bugata (4,062 m), Hunwick’s and Margherita Camp (4,485 m).
• The summit push leaves Margherita Camp at 2 am and crosses glaciers with crampons. The team reached the top at 7:30 am, in thick fog.

What to expect

The scenery is strange and beautiful: giant lobelias and oversized plants against snow-capped peaks. Weather turns fast, with cloud becoming rain and rock turning icy. Mild altitude symptoms began around Bugata Camp, and the descent took far longer than planned because of rain and slippery rock. The mountains are geologically young, less than 10 million years old, formed by uplift along the nearby Rift Valley.

Treks like this need experienced guides, porters and good acclimatisation. We can plan the route and the days around it.

Summary prepared by Lake George Safaris from material published by Explore Uganda on 18 November 2024 (by holly budge). Details are summarised in our own words; figures and facts belong to the original publisher.