The Ultimate Rwenzori Climate Guide
The Rwenzori Mountains feature an equatorial alpine climate characterized by high humidity, heavy year-round rainfall, and extreme temperature drops relative to altitude. Though located near the equator, elevations exceeding 5,000 meters create permanent ice and glacial zones, though these are rapidly retreating due to climate change.
Temperature Ranges by Zone
- Foothills / Base (Kasese): 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)Montane Forest (1,500–2,500m): 15°C to 20°C day, dropping to 10°C at night.
- Heather & Moorland (2,500–4,000m): 5°C to 15°C day, dropping below 5°C at night
- Alpine & Glacial Peaks (4,000m+): Around freezing or lower, regularly dropping to -5°C (23°F) at night.
Rainfall and Seasons
- Wet Seasons: Heaviest rainfall occurs from March to May and August to December, often exceeding 300mm per month.
- Drier Windows: June to July and January to February experience slightly less persistent rain, making them the preferred months for trekking.
- Daily Patterns: Rain, heavy mist, and cloud cover can occur unpredictably at high elevations regardless of the dry season.