Mountain Rwenzori also commonly referred to as the “Mountains of the Moon” is situated in western Uganda close to Uganda’s border with Congo. Its snow covered peak is the third highest peak on the African continent, while its lower slopes are; blanketed by a flourishing bamboo, damp montane forest and moorland. Huge tree heathers plus vibrant mosses cover the sides of this mountain while the large lobelias plus the everlasting flowers, forming an amiable vista.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park hosts the highest areas of the 120 km long, 65 km wide Mountain Rwenzori ranges. The national park is habitat t approximately 70 different mammal species and close to 220 bird species among which are 19 Albertine Rift endemics, in addition to a range of rare vegetation cover.
Mountain Rwenzori is an international first-class challenging mountaineering
Uganda tour destination; whose summit – the Margherita Peak which is the highest on the mountain can be conquered in 9 to 12 days by well trained climbers. Non skilled climbers are offered less challenging routes which will as well offer them the opportunity to explore the places close to the peaks.
People who would rather participate in a less challenging activity can enjoy nature walks in the nearby Bakonzo villages offering nature walks to visit a number of homesteads, enjoy traditional cultural performances by the local people and above all get an opportunity to enjoy some of the delicious meals locally prepared by here.
The beautiful Equatorial snow summits
The high Mountain Rwenzori comprises of six different mountains. Although it is located only a couple of miles north of the equator crossing, Mount Stanley is the highest of all standing at a height of 5,109 meters, Baker standing at a height of 4843 meters and then Speke towering at 4890 meters and fascinating about these is the fact that each f these peaks is entirely covered by non-seasonal glaciers. These peaks can be reached by hiking the Central Circuit trail or the Kilembe Trail.
Wildlife in Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Rwenzori Mountains National Park is home to about 70 various mammal species, including six Albertine Rift endemics, 4 of which are endemic to this park only plus three other rare in addition to 3 rare species. Other mammals living within this park are: the Rwenzori otters, chimpanzees, elephants and leopards. Despite the fact that wild animals are not commonly seen inside the dense forests of this park, be on the watch for different primates such as the black and white colobus monkeys, the blue monkeys and the Angola colobus, in addition to small antelopes like bushbucks is not easily seen within the thick forest, always be on the watch for the various primates like the Angola colobus, as well as uncommon reptile species including the 3 horned chameleon plus the black & white colobus in addition to the blue monkeys.
Vegetation in Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Besides it uncommon flora species, this national park is best recognized for its unique vegetation. As you make your way to its peaks, you will move through a stunning progression of varied altitudinal vegetation covers including; the tree heathers, bamboo, montane forest and the afro-alpine. The beautiful afro-alpine zone with its symbolic giant groundsel and lobelia, is one the most rare botanical species only found in the high mountainous areas at altitudes 3800 meters.
Birds in Rwenzori Mountains National Park
The park is host to 217 bird species some of which are Albertine Rift endemics. 17 of these are endemic to Rwenzori National park therefore rendering this park a significant International Birding Area. at an altitude of 1800 meters the forest zone is habitat to a profusion of birds among including the Lagden’s Bush Shrike, Crimsonwings, numerous Barbets, Rwenzori Turaco, Rwenzori Batis, Flycatchers, Slender-billed Starling, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, White-starred Robin, Iladopsis, Montane Sooty Boubou, Long-eared Owl, Blue-headed Sunbird, Apalises, Archers’ Robin-chat, Handsome Francolin, Golden-winged Sunbird, Greenbuls, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, and a profusion Strange Weavers.
