This 3-peak Rwenzori trek to Mt. Speke (Vittorio Emanuele Peak), Mt. Stanley (Margherita Peak), & Mt. Baker (Edward Peak) crosses Mubuku River over Kurt Shafer Bridge to John Matte Camp, which presents impressive views of Margherita & Alexandria peaks.
The journey continues through stunning terrains adorned with towering giant lobelia, passing by the serene Lake Bujuku to reach Bujuku Camp, the launch point for the ascent to Mount Speke. This challenging trek leads adventurers to the summit of Vittorio Emanuele Peak at 4520 m. Following this, hikers will descend back to the camp before embarking on the next ascent to Margherita Peak, which stands at 5109 m. After conquering Margherita, the path slopes down to Kitandara Lakes Camp, setting the stage for the final trek up Mount Baker.
The Rwenzori Central Circuit Trail is the longest and most famous hiking trail in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. It takes about 5–9 days to complete and is about 58 kilometers long. Forests in the mountains, bamboo zones, heather woods, and alpine fields are just some of the ecosystems that this long route goes through. You’ll see glacial lakes, rivers, and rare animals along the way to the peak. Margherita Peak is Uganda’s highest peak.
The Central Circuit Route Trail begins at Mihunga Station and ascends through Nyabitaba and the Bujuku Valley before reaching the mountains. You’ll pass Scott Elliot Pass and then reach the Mubuku Valley via Fresh Field Pass. As a result, you’ll get to see the breathtaking Kitandara Lakes.
There are various huts along this route where trekkers can stay. The vast majority of them are comfortable. Although the trails are very rocky and muddy in some spots, they are generally well-kept considering the weather and conditions in the Rwenzori Mountains.
Day 1: Begin at Nyakalengija (1650 m) to Nyabitaba Camp (2650 m).
On this day, your 8-day, 3-peak trek to the Rwenzori Mountains starts off from Nyakalengija, a busy village in Ibanda subcounty in Kasese district. Upon reaching the park gate, the starting point for all park activities on the Central Circuit Trail, you will register and receive a briefing. You will be introduced to the team of guides and porters who will assist you in conquering the three peaks (Magheritah Peak, Vittorio Emanuele Peak, and Edward Peak).
After the briefing and introductions, follow the footsteps of your guide, who will lead you through the towering trees of Nyakalengija. Continue with the ascent through this dense forest, encountering numerous tree species. Walking on steps and crossing minor bridges, continue the ascent until you check in at the hidden camp that is located amidst very tall trees above River Mubuku. You’ll be told what to do when you arrive. This camp is your first home in the Rwenzori Mountains.
Day 2: Trek from Nyabitaba Camp (2650 m) to John Matte Camp (3505 m).
On your second day of the 8-day, 3-peak trek of Mount Rwenzori, it starts with a delicious breakfast, with the sight of the portal peaks that can be viewed while at Nyabitaba camp. After leaving the camp, you will use your walking stick to make your way to John Matte Camp, which will serve as your overnight home. After a short descent, you will cross the confluence of rivers Mubbuku and Bujjuku on the famous Kurt Shaffer bridge. Ascending steeply, you will trek uphill until the bamboo trees beckon you.
Continue walking through the shelter and proceed among the short and tall trees. You will then walk along the shores of River Bujjuku before reaching the mossy forest that is below the camp. John Matte Camp is an intriguing location, with Lake Bujjuku contributing to its uniqueness, as the River Bujjuku is located in front of the camp. The camp also offers stunning views of the sunset on a clear day just above margherita peak.
Day 3: John Matte Camp (3380m) to Bujuku Camp (3962m)
On this day of trekking for 8 days across 3 Rwenzori peaks, it is quite interesting; after crossing the magnificent river Bujjuku, you will be welcomed into an entirely new type of vegetation featuring the giant lobelias in the lower Bigo bog. The hypnotizing boardwalk through the open valley in the Swamp is indescribable as you transition from the forested section to the upper Bigo bog. Eventually, you will walk along the shores of Lake Bujjuku, where the ground is very slippery; however, a boardwalk is available after this section.
After the boardwalk, you will embark on the exciting adventure of navigating the tussocks, where you must carefully calculate your steps to avoid sinking in the bog. Bujjuku Camp is your home for the night; just know you’re sleeping in the center of the Rwenzori Mountains.
Day 4: Bujuku Camp (3900 m) to Mount Speke (Vittorio Emanuele Peak 4520 m)
Wake up very early to prepare with the guidance of the team of guides for the challenging yet rewarding hike to Mount Speak. Ascend to Stuhlmann’s Point, a point named in honor of the first European who accurately described and named the vegetation zones of the Rwenzori Mountains. The trail will take you through the snowline of Mountain Speke up to its highest point, Vitoria Emanuel, at 4420 meters. Capture the breathtaking photos of the rugged peak and then return to Bujjuku camp for dinner and overnight.
