HOW BIG IS MOUNT RWENZORI – Mount Rwenzori is a special upland, different from other mountains in Uganda. It was formed when block rocks rose through the floor of the western rift valley. After this event, many people, including explorers in the early nineteenth century, were attracted to the beauty of the area. Because of its importance, the government gazetted it in 1991. Later, in 1994, it was recognized as a World Heritage Site and in 2008 as a Ramsar Site.
The mountain is very large, covering about 996 km², and stretches 120 km along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kasese, and Fort Portal. Its highest peak, Margarita, is the tallest in Uganda and the third highest in Africa, standing at about 5,109 meters above sea level. Around 70 percent of the mountain rises above 2,500 meters. The park itself is 120 km long and 48 km wide, covering the central and eastern parts of the Rwenzori Mountains, which rise above the dry plains north of the equator.
Many tourists are amazed by the snow-capped peaks that keep their snow all year round, making hiking very attractive. The park is home to glaciers, snowfields, waterfalls, lakes, vegetation, and wildlife. It has both endemic and endangered species, as well as a rich variety of plants and trees spread across five main vegetation zones that change with altitude. Visitors can see over 89 bird species, 15 types of butterflies, and four species of primates.
Hiking in this vast park usually takes about eight days, but it is very rewarding as you get the chance to reach and admire the snow-capped peak. You can also take part in cultural visits within the Bakonzo community. Here, locals share their daily life, including traditional medicine practices where herbalists treat illnesses with local herbs. Visitors also get the chance to interact with community members who share stories of how they live in the Rwenzori region, far from hospitals, schools, and markets.
Another activity to enjoy is bird watching, which requires patience and silence to see the many colorful bird species.
