The Epic 5-Day Mount Speke Itinerary: Your Trekking Guide To Rwenzori Mountains
5-Day Mount Speke Trek
Professional Overview
Embark on the Epic 5-Day Mount Speke Trek—a thrilling ascent of the third-highest peak in Uganda, famed for its remote glaciers, hanging valleys, and breathtaking panoramas of the Rwenzori Massif. Over five carefully paced days, you’ll traverse lush montane forest, cross the dramatic Mubuku River gorge, and summit at 4,890 m, all under the guidance of our experienced, locally based mountain crew. This itinerary balances ambitious elevation gain with ample acclimatization, ensuring both safety and maximum enjoyment of the park’s unique Afro-alpine ecosystems.
Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or an intrepid trekker seeking your first 4,000 m+ peak, our all-inclusive package covers permits, park fees, professional guides, porters, camping gear, and delicious high-energy meals. Small group sizes guarantee personalized attention, while our commitment to sustainable tourism supports local communities and conservation efforts. Ready to answer the call of Africa’s “Mountains of the Moon”?
Day 1: Arrival & Trek to Nyabitaba Camp
Distance: ~9 km | Time: 5–6 hours | Elevation: 1,800 m → 2,150 m
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Morning: Arrive at the Rwenzori National Park gate (Nyakalengija). Meet your guide team, complete registration and safety briefing.
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Late Morning: Begin trek through dense montane forest, spotting Rwenzori turacos and blue monkeys along the Mubuku River banks.
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Afternoon: Reach Nyabitaba Camp. Set up tents, enjoy a hot lunch, then a short acclimatization hike to nearby waterfalls.
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Evening: Dinner around campfire, gear check, and early rest.
Day 2: Nyabitaba to John Matte Hut
Distance: ~12 km | Time: 7–8 hours | Elevation:** 2,150 m → 3,100 m**
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Early Start: Hearty breakfast before crossing the Mubuku Gorge via the famous bamboo-and-log bridge.
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Midday: Steep ascent through heather and giant lobelia zone; stop for packed lunch overlooking the gorge.
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Afternoon: Arrive John Matte Hut—your base for summit attempt. Acclimatization walk to nearby sightlines (3,200 m).
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Evening: Dinner, summit briefing, and rest.
Day 3: Summit Mount Speke & Descend to Elena Hut
Distance: ~8 km up / ~10 km down | Time: 10–12 hours total
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Pre-Dawn: Light snack at 2 AM, depart John Matte for summit push via the “Speke Corridor.”
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Summit: Reach 4,890 m around sunrise—enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Stanley, Mt. Baker, and the Virunga peaks. Photo ops & celebration.
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Descent: Return past John Matte; continue to Elena Hut (3,500 m) for overnight.
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Evening: Late lunch, summit stories, and well-earned rest.
Day 4: Elena Hut to Bujuku Camp
Distance: ~6 km | Time: 5–6 hours | Elevation:** 3,500 m → 3,950 m**
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Morning: Breakfast, then pack camp. Ascend through the giant heather valley above Elena.
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Midday: Cross the Mossy Forest and reach Bujuku Lagoon—lunch beside the alpine lake.
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Afternoon: Short exploration of the tarn shore and glacier rims; optional ice-rim photos.
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Evening: Dinner at Bujuku Hut, stargazing over the Rwenzori range.
Day 5: Bujuku to Kitandara Hut & Exit
Distance: ~15 km | Time: 7–8 hours | Elevation:** 3,950 m → 1,800 m**
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Early Morning: Final alpine breakfast, then descend through heath and forest zones.
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Midday: Lunch at Nyabitaba Camp; pack up and award certificates.
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Afternoon: Hike out to the park gate. Transfer back to the base lodge or onward departure.
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Evening: Celebrate with local beer and share trek highlights.
Booking & Next Steps
Don’t miss your chance to conquer Mount Speke with expert support and seamless logistics. Book Your 5-Day Mount Speke Trek Today and secure your spot—spaces are limited to ensure an intimate, low-impact experience.
For custom extensions, airport transfers, or luxury lodge upgrades, contact our team and let us tailor the perfect Rwenzori adventure for you.