Are you good at hiking and you need to get the best of challenging mountaineering adventure? Uganda is that one magical country that offers more than just thrilling primate adventures. A visit to this pristine landlocked country takes you through breathtaking mountaineering or mountain climbing/hiking adventures. There are many mountains including several stunning volcanoes which all get you the best of mountaineering adventure in Africa. Regardless of your physical fitness, mountaineering adventures in Uganda have you covered. For excellent mountain hiking experiences in Uganda, below are some of the incredible places to explore.
Mount Rwenzori
Also popular as Mountains of the Moon, Mount Rwenzori is Uganda’s highest mountain peak and features as the 3rd highest in the world. It is located in Kasese district just at a border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). For visitors who are interested in breathtaking hiking adventure it is that one place not to miss out on your bucket list. To have a complete hike through this mountain, you need about 8 days in order for you to get to Margarita which is its highest peak that stands at elevation of about 5109 meters. At the summit of this mountain, you will spot out its permanent snow that usually melts and flows to the lowland areas like River Nyamwamba and Mubuku. There are a number of mountain ranges that make up the massive Rwenzori chain of mountains. At its base, you will find Mount Rwenzori National Park which is filled by tropical rainforests and refuge to vast wildlife species. Visitors take on different trails depending on their level of physical fitness. The longest trail takes you through central circuit and this means; you need 8 days to have a complete hike. The shortest is Kilembe trail and for those who need the easier trails-Mahoma loop should be a must to hike through.
Mount Elgon
If you have plans to pay a visit to Eastern Uganda and you are interested in hiking or mountaineering, Mount Elgon should be a must to include on your bucket list. Mount Elgon lies at a border between Uganda and Kenya. It stands at elevation of about 4321 meters and its peak features as the 8th highest in Africa and 4th in East Africa. A hike through this mountain takes you to its magical Wagagai peak. It also boasts of its broad base which is about 5o by 80 kilometers. While here, you can also explore the hidden treasures within its national park. The notable wildlife species in Mount Elgon National Park include forest monkeys, buffaloes, elephants, antelopes, birds and many others.
Virunga Volcanoes
There are 3 remarkable conical extinct volcanic mountains all set within Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These make up part of the Virunga Mountain Massifs. They include Mount Muhabura which is the highest Virunga Mountain and stands at 4127 meters approximately five hours’ hike. Sabyinyo Volcano which is shared by Uganda, Rwanda and DRC but best hiked on Uganda side. Sabyinyo stands at elevation of 3645 meters. The other is Gahinga volcano where Mgahinga National Park derived its name. Gahinga stands at altitude of about 3474 meters.
Other significant places for you to embark on hiking include the Sipi waterfalls at the foothills of Mount Elgon. This takes you to the 3 magical waterfalls that make up this natural wonder.
What to pack for mountaineering
To make your mountaineering adventure complete, you need to pack appropriately. In your packing list, you need to consider items like good hiking/mountaineering boots which are water proof, safe sleeping bags, warm jackets, mountaineering helmet, mountaineering rope, sweaters, snacks, bottled water and many others.