The Remarkable 8‑Day Rwenzori Margherita Glacier Trek Summit And Alpine Views

8‑Day Rwenzori Margherita Glacier Trek

Embark on an unforgettable eight‑day journey into the heart of Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains, culminating in an ascent of Margherita Peak—Africa’s third-highest summit at 5,109 m. Beginning at the verdant valley floor near Kilembe, you’ll traverse a series of ecological zones: from the towering Afro‑Montane forests alive with chimpanzee nests and vibrant birdlife, into the dense bamboo thickets, up through giant heather groves dotted with lobelia, and finally onto the steep, ice‑laden slopes of the famed Stanley Glacier. Along the way, expect to witness cascading waterfalls, spectacular viewpoints over Albert Peak and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the rare Rwenzori duiker grazing in mist‑cloaked clearings.

This expedition is fully supported by our expert, ice‑climbing–trained guides and experienced porters. We provide all technical gear—ropes, harnesses, carabiners—and can arrange crampon rental on request. You’ll sleep in comfortable mountain huts at progressive camps (Sine, Kalalama, Mutinda, Bugata, Hunwick’s, Margherita, Oliver’s, Kiharo, and Forest View), enjoy hearty meals each day, and learn essential rope skills en route. While no prior technical climbing experience is strictly required, a willingness to learn basic knot‑tying, crampon fitting, and ice‑axe techniques will greatly enhance your safety and enjoyment as you navigate steep mixed terrain up to 60 % gradient.

Day 1: Trekkers Hostel (1,450 m) → Sine Camp (2,596 m) or Kalalama Camp (3,134 m)

Your Rwenzori adventure begins at Trekkers Hostel (1,450 m), nestled in Kyanjiki just 12 km from Kasese. After an early morning briefing and gear check, you’ll follow a well‑marked trail through rural farmland into the Afro‑Montane forest. The first 6 km is a gentle climb beneath colossal hardwoods and beneath a canopy alive with birdcalls—from brightly plumed turacos to the occasional rustle of black-and-white colobus troops. Keep an eye out for L’Hoest’s monkeys, once revered by the Bukonzo kingdom, and perhaps the distant hoots of chimpanzees advocating their territory high in the trees.

At roughly 1,727 m, you’ll pass the UWA ranger post and officially enter the national park. Here the forest floor is carpeted with moss and dotted with fungi, ferns, and lichens clinging to vines overhead. A river crossing signals the beginning of a steeper ascent toward Sine Camp (2,596 m)—a total elevation gain of 1,146 m. Just 200 m below camp, Enock’s Falls tumbles through a curtain of green foliage, offering a perfect photo opportunity. Sine Camp’s wooden huts are perched on a narrow ridge surrounded by bamboo thicket at the edge of the bamboo zone. Enjoy a late‑afternoon stroll down to the falls or a longer loop through ancient vines before returning to camp for dinner by the fire.

For stronger trekkers seeking extra altitude, continue onward to Kalalama Camp (3,134 m). This extension adds rewarding panoramic views of Kasese town, the lowlands, and distant Lake Edward—plus extra time at Mutinda Camp for acclimatization and optional ascent to the Mutinda Lookout at 3,975 m.

Day 2: Sine/Kamalama Camp → Samalira Camp (3,170 m)

Following a nourishing breakfast, you’ll set off by 8:30 am into the Bamboo‑Mimulopsis Zone, characterized by towering bamboo stalks and steep stone steps. Underfoot, wet-season mud can slow your pace, but the ethereal forest atmosphere—with dripping moss and hidden waterfalls—quickly captivates. In roughly 2 km and 551 m of elevation, you’ll reach Kalalama Camp (3,147 m) in the Heather‑Rapanea Zone. Here, giant heathers stretch skyward, their trunks draped in old‑man’s‑beard lichen, and the air thrums with the call of the Malachite Sunbird feeding on high‑altitude blooms.

After a mid-morning tea and snack, the trail undulates across a ridge, skirting spectacular moss‑clad cascades and crossing crystal streams. You’ll encounter vast peat bogs punctuated by towering lobelia rosettes—a surreal high‑alpine garden. Return briefly to Kalalama for a hearty lunch before continuing along a mostly level ridge through dense heather woods toward Samalira Camp (3,170 m). This section traverses several gentle stream crossings and misty glades, all while offering sweeping vistas of distant peaks.

Samalira’s dining hut perches above a deep gorge, providing views of two cascading waterfalls that thunder below. In the afternoon, explore a short trail to the base of Samalira Falls, where narrow valleys and giant heather create a truly cinematic scene. Alternatively, climb a mossy spur above camp for sunset views before gathering around the communal table for dinner and stories under the stars.

Day 3: Samalira Camp → Forest View Camp (2,580 m) via Nyamwamba and Cathy’s Falls

Rise to alpine dawn and prepare for a mixed ascent‑descent day. Initially, the trail climbs 200 m over a narrow ridge, offering fleeting panoramas of Margherita and Stanley Glaciers. Then the path plunges into a long, broad valley leading to Nyamwamba Falls—a 52 m drop into an inviting plunge pool. Feel free to swim here in warmer months before continuing downstream over rapids that tumble through Ajarova and Plozza Falls, the latter named in honor of early explorer John Hunwick’s family heritage. A sheltered viewing platform makes this a prime spot for lunch and rest.

Below Plozza, the trail threads through a transitional bamboo zone alive with mist-fed ferns. Here, keep watch for the shy Rwenzori duiker grazing along the riverbank, and the occasional glimpse of a dark‑coated Rwenzori leopard high above in the bamboo. As the valley narrows, cascading waterfalls mix with limestone‑laced rocks before you arrive at Forest View Camp (2,580 m). Perched on a ridge with postcard vistas back up the valley, it’s an idyllic setting to unwind—reflect on the waterfalls seen, the wildlife glimpsed, and the growing anticipation of the peak push ahead.

Day 4: Forest View Camp → Nyamwamba Camp (1,973 m) → Trekkers Hostel

After breakfast, descend through dense Afro‑Montane forest along ridges that reveal sweeping valley panoramas. The trail’s steeper stretches give way to gentler slopes before you reach Nyamwamba Camp (1,973 m)—a shaded rest point for snacks and hydration. From here, follow a well‑graded path for 6 km down to the park gate, re‑entering farmland before arriving back at Trekkers Hostel. Celebrate your wilderness immersion with a late lunch or cold drink, then prepare for the technical portion of the expedition: the Margherita Peak ascent.

Day 5: Trekkers Hostel → Bugata Camp (4,100 m) via Sine & Mutinda Valleys

Today transitions from trekking to mountaineering. From Trekkers Hostel, return briefly to Sine Hut before tackling the tussock‑strewn Mutinda Valley. Crossing shifting peat bogs and herds of grazing giant lobelia, you’ll climb steeply to the Namusangi Valley (3,840 m), passing hanging waterfalls and dramatic rock walls. After navigating ups-and-downs through this high alpine pass, the trail climbs steadily to Bugata Camp (4,100 m). Set among snowmelt streams, Bugata marks your first night above 4,000 m—an important acclimatization milestone. Practice basic rope skills here, fit your crampons, and rest early in preparation for the technical slopes ahead.

Day 6: Bugata Camp → Hunwick’s Camp (3,874 m) via Bamwanjarra Pass (4,450 m)

Depart Bugata Camp at dawn, ascending a rocky ramp to Bamwanjarra Pass (4,450 m). Here, a sturdy hut offers shelter should weather deteriorate, and clear days reward you with panoramic views of the Rwenzori’s three highest peaks. On the descent, traverse boggy moorland alive with groundsel and lobelia, and a breeding ground for Malachite Sunbirds. Negotiating steep, vegetated slopes and mossy ridges, you’ll arrive at Hunwick’s Camp (3,874 m)—perfectly situated atop a deep valley with sweeping views of Mt Stanley, Mt Baker, Weismann’s Peak, and McConnell’s Prong. Spend the afternoon refining ice‑axe and belay techniques under your guide’s supervision.

Day 7: Hunwick’s Camp → Margherita Camp (4,485 m) → Return to Hunwick’s

An early start sees you cross alpine meadows and moraines toward Lake Kitendara, its still waters reflecting snowy ridges. From the lake, climb Scott‑Elliott’s Pass and follow a rocky ramp to Margherita Camp (4,485 m)—the historic site of the Duke of Abruzzi’s 1906 base. After lunch, you have the option to practice crampon and rope work on nearby ridges. Rest early; at 2 am on summit day you’ll push for the 5,109 m summit. Safety turnaround is strictly enforced at 10 am. If skies clear, revel in the 360° panorama—Albert Peak, the DRC lowlands, and the jagged Rwenzori skyline—before descending back to Hunwick’s Camp for your final night among the peaks.

Day 8: Hunwick’s Camp → Oliver’s Pass (4,505 m) → Kiharo Camp (2,280 m) → Park Gate

On your last day in the high Rwenzori, climb toward Oliver’s Pass (4,505 m) via McConnell’s Prong, with optional side trips to Weismann’s Peak for an extra fee. The trail then descends through moraine fields and across the Nyamwamba River confluence, feeding Kilembe’s lowlands below. After a steep zigzag descent through glacial debris and ancient moraines, you’ll arrive at Kiharo Camp, nestled in a lush valley. The final 16 km follows the scenic Nyamwamba Valley—arguably the most beautiful stretch of forest in the range—before you emerge at the park gate and walk the last 2.8 km back to Trekkers Hostel. Celebrate your epic journey with a well‑earned meal, certificates, and tales shared among new friends.