Samalira Village is a special place that hosts the Samalira Gate, which gives access to the northern side of the Rwenzori Mountains. It also neighbors the Kilembe mines, offering visitors both an educational and adventurous safari experience.
When you arrive in the village, the local people will welcome you warmly. They share their culture through dancing, singing, and drumming, which gives you an appreciation of their traditions. Visitors can also taste local meals, and if you have enough time, you may learn how these dishes are prepared.
The “Mountains of the Moon” shelter more than seventy mammals and 217 bird species, making this area rich in wildlife. The weather is often cold, so it is advised to carry a sweater. Streams in the area are formed by melting glaciers during the dry season, and this water also supports nearby rivers. Primate species are common here, living in the trees and feeding on fruits. During times of food shortage, they come down to eat leaves, flowers, insects, and stems.
Activities around Samalira Village include hiking, which requires strength and preparation. Tourists are advised to carry energy-giving snacks and drinks. Nature walks are also popular for those who want to see the Rwenzori Mountains from a lower point before heading to Samalira Falls, which is home to wildlife and aquatic life.
Samalira Village also serves as a resting point for hikers on their way to the falls. Here, guides explain what to do, especially if rain finds you along the way. Resting places are available at Samalira Camp, which stands at an altitude of 3,142 meters. From here, visitors can enjoy views of Lake George, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Kasese town.
