Cheptegei Peak Rwenzori | Uganda’s Mountains of the Moon

Discover Cheptegei Peak (4,969 m) in Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains. This trip is a trek through glaciers, Afro-alpine zones & history to honor Joshua Cheptegei’s legacy. Joining the already remarkable collection of peaks in the Rwenzori Mountains comes the Cheptegei Peak, which stands at 4,969 meters. Joshua Cheptegei exemplifies the ideals of greatness and inspiration, and this peak bears his name in his honor. From verdant montane forests to the icy nival zone, climbing Cheptegei Peak takes you on a breathtaking journey through various flora zones.

At every turn of the trail, the ecological importance and breathtaking scenery of the Rwenzori Mountains become more apparent. Climbers of Cheptegei Peak face a formidable physical obstacle as well as a chance to honor the memory of one of Uganda’s most revered athletes. With each new ascent, Cheptegei Peak becomes an even more beloved landmark, encouraging explorers of all ages to set lofty personal goals for themselves.

Cheptegei Peak Rwenzori

Cheptegei Peak, Rwenzori Mountains

Cheptegei Peak: An Overview

In 2021, officials designated Cheptegei Peak in honor of Ugandan long-distance runner Joshua Cheptegei, following his world record-breaking performance in the 10,000-meter race in 2020. Standing at an impressive elevation of 4,969 meters (16,307 feet) above sea level, Cheptegei Peak is a significant addition to the Mount Stanley range. The peak’s naming serves as a symbol of national pride and inspiration for Uganda and the African continent, celebrating Cheptegei’s extraordinary achievements in athletics.

Climbing Cheptegei Peak on Mount Stanley offers a journey through several distinct vegetation zones, each with its unique flora and fauna. These zones reflect the altitude gradient and the varying climatic conditions of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Why Choose the Cheptegei Peak?

New Rwenzori Peak: A newly accessible viewpoint on Mount Stanley, offering panoramic views without intense technical climbing.

Unique Trekking Route: The Kilembe Trail is less crowded, clean, and rich in flora, fauna, and cultural stories.

Expert-Led: Guided by an experienced Rwenzori Trekking Safaris team, with porters and cooks to support your journey.

Ideal for Acclimatization: The gradual gain in altitude helps minimize altitude sickness while still offering a challenge.

Eco-Friendly Adventure: Stay in sustainably built camps and follow Leave No Trace principles in one of Africa’s most delicate ecosystems.

4 Days Rwenzori Trek to Mutinda Lookout via Kilembe Trail

8 Days Rwenzori Trekking to Cheptegei Peak

Embark on an 8-day Rwenzori trek to Cheptegei Peak (4,907 m) via the scenic Kilembe Trail. Experience Uganda’s most pristine alpine landscapes with expert guides.

Details of the Trek

Discover Mount Emin: A 7-Day Rwenzori Trekking

7-Day Mount Emin Hiking Itinerary

Explore Mount Emin on this remarkable 7-day Mount Emin hiking itinerary that offers a unique adventure in the Rwenzori Mountains. The journey is a combination of challenges and rewards.

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4 Days Rwenzori Trek to Mutinda Lookout via Kilembe Trail

4-Day Rwenzori Trek to Mutinda Lookout

Experience a 4-day Rwenzori Mountains trekking tour to Mutinda Lookout (3,975 m) via the scenic Kilembe Trail. Stunning views, rare plants, and Afro-montane beauty await.

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13 Days Rwenzori 6 Peaks Expedition—Ultimate Trekking Adventure Across the Rwenzori Majestic Mountains

Conquer Six Peaks in the Rwenzori Mountains.

Embark on the ultimate 13-day trekking adventure through Uganda’s mystical Rwenzori Mountains, summiting six iconic peaks. Mount Gessi, Mount Emin, Mount Speke, Cheptegei Peak (Stanley), Mount Baker, and Weismann Peak

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Why Climb Cheptegei Peak?

Climbing Cheptegei Peak (4,900 m) on the Rwenzori Mountains is one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in East Africa. The Cheptegei Peak, named after Uganda’s Olympic gold champion Joshua Cheptegei, is a recent addition to Mount Stanley, part of the Rwenzori range, and offers an excellent opportunity for adventure, challenge, and national pride. Please consider these reasons for including it on your list of must-dos.

One way to experience excitement, culture, and nature all at the same time is to climb Cheptegei Peak. This climb is ideal for people who want to experience the wild beauty of the Rwenzori Mountains while also taking on an exciting and attainable challenge.

Mountaineering Adventure: A less-crowded alternative to Margherita, offering a fresh mountaineering challenge.
Cultural Pride: A tribute to Joshua Cheptegei’s record-breaking feet.
Biodiversity: A rare walk through equatorial snow, Afro-alpine ecosystems, and endemic wildlife.
Photography: Panoramic glacier views, dramatic valleys, and legendary sunrise moments.

Best Time to Climb Cheptegei Peak in the Rwenzori Mountains.

The dry seasons, which last from December to February and June to August, have better weather for hiking the Rwenzoris, more stable trails, and less danger when crossing the Rwenzori Mountains. The Rwenzori Mountains are known for having unpredictable weather, so climbers should be ready for any situation.

Mountaineers who want to be safe and calm and have wonderful photo opportunities should plan their hikes during these months. Adventurers who prefer a more natural setting can still enjoy the rainy season, but they must be prepared for muck and mist.

The Best Months to Climb Cheptegei Peak

December–February: Warmest and driest period, offering the clearest skies and excellent summit views.
June–August: The weather is cooler but still relatively dry, with fewer rain showers and more stable trekking conditions.

These two windows are widely considered the ideal seasons for Rwenzori trekking, including Cheptegei Peak. Trails are less muddy, glaciers are more accessible, and the scenery is at its most breathtaking.

The Rainier Months (March–May & September–November)

Trails become slippery and muddy, making the climb more difficult.
Clouds and fog often obscure summit views.
However, these months bring out lush vegetation and vibrant landscapes, offering unique photographic opportunities for nature lovers.

If you’re adventurous and don’t mind tougher conditions, trekking in the rainy season offers solitude and dramatic scenery, but it requires greater stamina and preparation.

Altitude & Climate Considerations

Even in the drier months, expect:

Cold temperatures near the summit (below freezing at night).
Unpredictable weather: Sudden showers or mist are common at high altitudes.
Snow around the peak, which is part of what makes Cheptegei Peak so unique in the heart of the tropics.

Other Rwenzori Trekking Itineraries.

Rwenzori Trekking Safaris: Expert Mountaineering Guide to the "Mountains of the Moon"

7 Days Rwenzori Hiking Through the Central Circuit

This 7-day trek takes you deep into the mystical Rwenzori Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Central Circuit route offers a blend of scenic beauty, challenging terrain, and cultural immersion. It’s perfect for adventurers seeking high-altitude hiking, alpine landscapes, and the unique flora and fauna of the Rwenzoris.

Details of the Trek

9 -day Rwenzori Trek. Hiking 3 Rwenzori Peaks

9-day Rwenzori Trek. Hiking 3 Rwenzori Peaks

The 9-day Rwenzori trek that covers three peaks is an absolute gem for serious hikers! This route usually includes Mount Stanley (Margherita Peak, 5,109 m), Mount Speke (Victoria Emanuelle, 4,890 m), and Mount Baker (Edward Peak, 4,843 m) via the Central Circuit, making it the most adventurous and complete Rwenzori experience.

Details of the Trek

13 Days Rwenzori 6 Peaks Expedition—Ultimate Trekking Adventure Across the Rwenzori Majestic Mountains

13-day Rwenzori Expedition. Hike the 6 Rwenzori Peaks

A 13-day Rwenzori trek, which includes hiking 6 peaks, is the ultimate high-altitude trek for elite hikers and mountaineers. The 6 peaks include Mount Stanley, Speke, Baker, Luigi di Savoia, Emin, and Gessi, which together form the full crown of the Rwenzoris. From the lush forest of the montane forest zone to the glacial peaks.

Details of the Trek

6 Days Rwenzori Trek Weismann Peak

6 Days Weismann Peak Hike

Set out on an exciting 6-day trekking adventure to reach Margherita Peak (5,109 m), 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

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8 Days Rwenzori Trekking Kilembe Trail

8 Days Rwenzori Trekking on the Kilembe Trail

Our partnership with Rwenzori Trekking Services enables you to climb in an 8-day trekking hike, providing a unique opportunity to hike the Moon Mountains along a well-developed trail. This 8-day Rwenzori trekking excursion begins and ends either in Kasese or Kampala. Just picture the mountain excitement and enjoyment you’ll experience after hiking the Rwenzori Mountains.

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4 Days Rwenzori Trek to Mutinda Lookout via Kilembe Trail

4 Days Rwenzori Trek Mutinda Loop

Rwenzori Trekking Safaris offers the 4-day trekking safari to Mutinda Lookout via the Kilembe Trail, allowing you to experience the Rwenzori Mountains like never before. The Mutinda Lookout, located at around 4000 meters, offers stunning views in all directions, eerie Afro-alpine vegetation, and the alluring option to “climb high and sleep low” on the way to Mt. Stanley/Margherita (5109 meters).

Details of the Trek

8 Days Rwenzori Trekking to Cheptegei Peak via Kilembe Trail

8 Days Rwenzori Trekking to Cheptegei Peak via Kilembe Trail

The Kilembe Trail is a popular hiking trail in the Rwenzori Mountains. It takes 8 days to get to Cheptegei Peak, which is 4907 meters high. Sine Camp, Mutinda Camp, and Margherita Camp are some of the common places to camp on this hike. Cheptegei Peak is the final goal. Before returning to base camp, the descent follows a different route that may pass through the Nyamwamba Valley.

Details of the Trek

2-Day Rwenzori Trek to Sine Camp | Short Uganda Mountain Hiking Tour

2-Day Rwenzori Trek to Sine Camp

You can easily hike 9.5 kilometers both ways, and the views of the three-horned chameleons, blue monkeys, and strange birds are well worth it. From the forest up to Sine Camp, you’ll be led by our expert guides, whether this is your first mountain trek or you’re getting ready for a longer Rwenzori trek.

Details of the Trek

ANY QUESTIONS?

If you need any clarification about a 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 Trekking Tours 2025/26

What to Pack:

Warm sleeping bag (0–10°C rating)
Rain gear (jacket & pants)
Sturdy hiking boots
Thermal layers
Refillable water bottle
Trekking poles
Headlamp
Snacks & energy bars
Camera, power bank