6 Days Rwenzori Mountains Trek to Margherita Peak—Through the Central Circuit.
Discover the adventurous 6-day Rwenzori trek, ideal for hikers of all ability levels seeking to summit Mount Stanley. The alpine region in Mount Rwenzori’s glacier sections is accessible by the Central Circuit Trail, which winds through green forests. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure through the Rwenzori Mountains, which are home to indigenous plant and animal species as well as a diverse range of vegetation. Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views when they reach Margherita Peak, the final destination. The program is emotionally and physically demanding, with many days of trekking; therefore, hikers should start early.
Set out on an exciting 6-day trekking adventure to reach Margherita Peak (5,109m), the highest point on Mount Stanley in Uganda’s renowned Rwenzori Mountains. This expedition is designed for hikers of all skill levels and offers a physically demanding and incredibly rewarding journey through one of Africa’s most unique ecosystems. Rare plant species, pristine mountain streams, and breathtaking panoramic views, rarely seen by others, await you along the Central Circuit. The 6 Day Rwenzori trek demands early starts, endurance, and determination, especially as you approach the glacier-covered summit of Margherita Peak, but the sense of accomplishment at the top—as well as the unspoiled beauty of the Rwenzori Mountains—makes it unforgettable
✅ Trek Highlights:
Margherita Peak Summit (5,109m)
Unique alpine flora like giant lobelias and groundsels
Glaciers, valleys, and crater lakes
Experienced guides and porters
Off-the-beaten-path adventure in Uganda
Detailed Itinerary: 6 Days Rwenzori Mountains Trek to Margherita Peak—Through the Central Circuit.
Day 1: Nyakalengija (1600m) to John Matte Hut (3420m)
The 6-day journey to Margherita Peak in the Rwenzori Mountains begins at the park entrance offices in Nyakalengija. Gather all of your hiking gear and prepare for a detailed briefing at this time. You will also have the opportunity to meet the rangers and guides. Set out on your tour with experienced guides who are familiar with the mountain flora and fauna. When you enter the montane zone, you will be met by towering green canopy trees and the musical chirping of birds as you begin your journey.
At this point, you may also spot the black & white colobus monkeys. After a difficult rise, the trail leads to Nyabitaba. Nyabitaba, the first camp on the central circuit hike over the Rwenzori Mountains, is a modest shelter nestled among thick woods. Enjoy a substantial meal and unwind here before continuing on to the next stage of your journey. On the Kurt Scharffer bridge, where the Mubuku and Bujjuku rivers meet, there is a difficult hill to climb. After this ascent, you’ll arrive at the bamboo zone, a unique area where the native flora has changed due to the presence of tall bamboo trees and other species. To reach the muddy coastline of River Bujjuku, you must work your way through the rocks.
Once you get to the shore, you can easily check in at John Matte Camp, which is located just next to the river. John Matte is an excellent place to spend the night and have dinner.
Day 2: John Matte Hut (3380m) to Bujuku Hut (3962m)
A route that descends from John Matte Hut and crosses the Bujuku River leads to the Lower Bigo Bog, which is home to spectacular lobelias. A lovely boardwalk winds over the vast valley, leading you through this enchanting landscape. After traversing a steep, wooded slope, you will reach the Upper Bigo Bog. The trail runs through the Bujjuku Valley and leads to Lake Bujuku, where you can see the Bujjuku Triangle hidden within Mount Rwenzori, as well as Mount Baker and Stanley to the south and west. Individuals wishing to climb Mount Speke may use Bujuku Hut as a starting point after four to five hours of walking. You will spend the night surrounded by spectacular natural splendor.
Day 3: Bujuku Hut (3977m) to Elena Hut (4430m)
Beginning at Bujuku Hut, you will face a muddy section before embarking on a steep ascent through a forest of towering groundsels leading to Groundsel Gully. The trail then branches off, guiding you to Elena Hut. As you proceed, you will traverse Scott Elliot Pass, the highest point of the central circuit at 4,372 meters. This pass is renowned for its distinctive vegetation, featuring the scattered everlasting flowers. Here, you can enjoy the sweeping vistas of the Bujuku Valley, Mount Baker, Mount Luigi di Savoia, and Mount Stanley. The trail leading to Elena Hut is steep and rugged, turning treacherous when it is wet or icy. Upon reaching Elena Hut, you will enjoy dinner and take some time to rest, gearing up for the ascent to Margherita Peak the following day.
Day 4: Elena Hut (4541m) to Margherita Peak (5109m) to Kitandara Hut (4027m)
Climbers begin their climb to the top of Margherita Peak in the calm of the early morning hours, gathering at Elena Hut at three a.m. to begin their ascent of Mount Stanley. Simply follow the trail to the Stanley Glacier’s base. The ascent to the peak might take anywhere from five to seven hours, depending on your speed and the weather. This tough hike takes you across wide vistas, slippery rocks, and glaciers. On your way to the summit, you will pass across the Stanley Plateau. The last trek to Margherita Peak, Rwenzoris’ highest point, is difficult but rewarding. After a spectacular journey up Scott-Elliot Pass, you’ll start your descent past the Kitandara Lakes, Bujuku Lake, and Mount Speke. After passing the Kitandara Twin Lakes, the path descends to Kitandara Hut, where you can eat lunch and supper and spend the night. The trail goes into a steep zone devoid of flora and marked by rocky outcroppings.
Day 5: Kitandara Hut (4027m) to Guy Yeoman Hut (3450m) via Fresh Field Pass (4282m)
Leaving Kitandara Hut, the trail climbs steeply and treacherously up the headwall, beginning at the base of Mount Baker, and continues up its southern face to Fresh Field Pass at 4,282 meters. From the pass, follow a long, high alpine mossy trail to the start of your steep and rocky descent. It passes the rock shelter at Bujongolo, which served as the base camp for the Duke of Abruzzi’s historic 1906 expedition, and after six or seven hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Guy Yeoman Hut, where you will spend the night.
Day 6: Guy Yeoman Hut to Nyabitaba Hut to Nyakalengija
On your final day, the trail descends the cliffs of Kichuchu, offering a challenging yet fulfilling walk. Beyond Kichuchu, you’ll navigate the muddy path twice over the Mubuku River, hopping from one tussock to another; missing one means a soak in the bog. After passing the bridge, you will enter a bamboo grove. The trail then ascends to Nyabitaba Hut, marking the end of the central circuit. From Nyabitaba, you’ll proceed beyond Mihunga Gate, concluding your trek at Nyakalengija. This 6-day journey to Rwenzori Mountain’s Margherita Peak promises a unique experience filled with breathtaking vistas across the vast, rugged terrains of the Rwenzori Mountains.