3 Day Mahooma Loop Hike (Short Central Circuit Trail Trek)
A 3-day hike along the Mahoma Loop, part of the Rwenzori Mountains’ central circuit, offers an excellent introduction to the area’s flora and fauna. Hiking the Rwenzori Mountains for 3 days allows you to thoroughly enjoy the breathtaking environment without committing to a longer excursion to the glacier peaks. The Mahoma loop traverses through various environments, including lush montane forests and scenic alpine meadows.
Are you interested in trekking in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park but have a strict budget? Explore the Rwenzori Mountains’ diverse flora and fauna by hiking the Rwenzori Mahoma Trail for 3 days with the assistance of the experienced rangers at Rwenzori Trekking Safaris.
With rocky cliffs, crags, and snow-capped summits as your backdrop, the Rwenzori Mountains offer breathtaking scenery, including towering Magherita glaciers, beautiful valleys with 9 lakes, and bearded lichen hanging from giant heathers. The most rewarding hiking experiences include ascending through various vegetation zones, each of which enhances the trekking experience by introducing new species of plants and animals. There has never been a time when this unique path—one of the most spectacular hikes on Earth—was open to the public. The most rewarding hiking experiences include ascending through various vegetation zones, each of which enhances the trekking experience by introducing new species of plants and animals. There has never been a time when this unique path—one of the most spectacular hikes on Earth—was open to the public.
Trip Highlights of the 3-Day Trek Mahoma Loop.
Day 1: Nyakalengija to Omukakiizi
Day 2: Omukakiizi to Mahoma lake
Day 3: Mahoma Lake To Nyakalengija
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary of the 3-Day Trek Mahoma Loop.
Day 1: Nyakalengija (1560 m)—Omukakiiza (2500 m)
After breakfast, your first destination will be Rwenzori Mountaineering Services’ headquarters, which stands at 1,646 meters. Now it’s time for your guide or tourist officer to brief you. The trail begins by going by the mountain dwellers’ plantations and cottages, then moves on to garden plots and elephant grass before entering the forest. You’ll drive through Mubuku Valley and Kyambogho Ridge, which is a virgin rainforest. As you ascend the densely forested ridge, you’ll observe various primates, including blue monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, and the uncommon L’Hoest’s monkey. You’ll eventually arrive at Omu’kaKizza Rest Camp, which is at an elevation of 2,977 meters. The village of Kasese is 2,160 meters below, and from here you may enjoy beautiful views of the Rwenzori foothills.
Day 2 : Omukakiiza Camp (2500m) – Lake Mahoma Camp (3000m)
On the second day of your journey, you will arrive at Mahoma Lake, located at an elevation of 3,515 meters. On your way to the lake, you will traverse a remarkable forest featuring towering heather complemented by lush layers of moss. Observe the route taken by the mountain elephants as they hydrate at the hot spring and navigate through the bamboo and heather forest. The Rukenga Valley, accessible via the ridge, offers a remarkable display of large lobelia and everlasting flowers (mimulopsiseliotti). The subsequent phase of your journey involves camping at Mahoma Lake. On clear days, Mahoma Lake offers views of Mount Baker, Mount Stanley, and the Portal Peaks.
Day 3: Lake Mahoma Camp (3000m) through Nyabitaba Return to Nyakalengija.
After breakfast, return to the Mubuku Valley, a three-horned chameleon habitat, by walking around the lake and passing by the Nyabitaba Ranger Post and the Mpanga ridge. After you’ve slept at Nyabitaba, head down to the Kasese town, also known as Nyakalengija.
QUESTIONS?
If you need any clarification about this Rwenzori Trek, contact one of our Trekking Experts to start planning your journey today.
A 10% percentage of your safari proceeds goes to supporting the local Bakonjo Communities (orphans, schools & homes)
The Rwenzori Travel Guide.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Getting to Rwenzori
Best Time to Visit the Rwenzori’s
Things to do/Activities in the Rwenzori Mountains
Things to See/Attractions in the Rwenzori Mountains
Rwenzori Trekking Routes
Central Circuit Trail
Kilembe Trail
Bukulungu Trail
Rwenzori Trekking Safaris
Rwenzori Peaks
The Cost of Climbing the Rwenzoris
Accommodations inside&outside the Rwenzori Mountains
Packing List for Hiking the Rwenzori Mountains.