Off the beaten path, you will find Mount Rwenzori in western Uganda. This region is home to many tourist destinations, including Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is mostly visited during the dry season in August. After a long day of watching the tree-climbing lions, you can extend your adventure to Mount Rwenzori for hiking, nature walks, birding, or village walks on dry ground that is free from mud.
From nearby accommodations, you can enjoy views of the lower slopes of Mount Rwenzori and the upper park, which is often covered in mist. Some accommodations are close by, while others are inside the park, especially huts built for hikers. New huts have been added to allow more climbers to explore the “mountain of the moon” each day. These huts include Nyabitaba Hut, John Matte Hut, Bujuku Hut, Elena Hut, Kitandara Hut, and Guy Yeoman Hut.
Nearby lodges include Ruboni Community Camp, Geology Equator Snow Lodge, Trekkers Hostel Kilembe, Hotel Margarita, and Rwenzori Base Camp. The base camp has 15 self-contained rooms, plus an extension with five large rooms that can host about 40 guests. Facilities include clean bedding, water heaters, stable electricity, private balconies, free parking, Wi-Fi, and more. Another option is Rwenzori Turaco View Campsite, located in Mihunga village, about 22 minutes’ drive from Kasese town.
If you plan to hike this August, remember to follow the hiking rules. Always hike with a ranger guide. Do not ease yourself on the mountain; you should do this before trekking begins. If you cannot wait, ask your guide to dig a hole at least 30 meters deep, then cover it well to protect wildlife. Stay close to your group to avoid getting lost or delaying others. Do not dump garbage; help preserve the environment. Most importantly, make sure you are in good health to avoid problems like altitude sickness.
Take a walk on the wide trails of Mount Rwenzori this August and enjoy the adventure.
