Rwenzori Mountains Falls National Park

A variety of large mammals inhabits the lower slopes, but the Rwenzoris are notable more for their majestic scenery and varied vegetation. The trails lead through rainforest rattling with monkeys and birds, then tall bamboo forest, before emerging on the high-altitude moorland zone, a landscape of bizarre giant lobelias, towered over by black rock and white snow, looking for all the world like the set of a science fiction film.

SIZE:
998 sq km

LOCATION:
On the Congo border close to Kasese.

GETTING THERE:
The Nyakalengija trailhead lies off the Fort Portal road, 22km from Kasese. Transport can be arranged in Kasese.

WHAT TO DO:
The seven days/ six nights loop is a tough but rewarding hike taking in all vegetation zones bar the glacial peaks.
Shorter hikes can be arranged.
The high peaks should be attempted only by experienced mountaineers.

WHEN TO VISIT:
Any time, but the dry seasons are December-February and June-August.

WHERE TO STAY:
Hostel and campsite at the trailhead, basic hiking huts along the loop trail. Nearby Kasese has a midrange hotel, several budget lodgings, and a campsite.