6 Day Rwenzori Trekking to Hunwick’s Camp at 3,974m

A Complete 6 Day Rwenzori Trekking to Hunwick’s Camp Itinerary

Day One:

Commence at Trekkers, situated at 1,450 meters, and ascend to Sine Hut at 2,596 meters, resulting in an elevation gain of 1,146 meters. Alternatively, individuals in good physical condition may opt to continue to Kalalama Camp at 3,134 meters, which not only offers spectacular vistas but also provides additional time at Mutinda Camp, where one can ascend to Mutinda Lookout at 3,975 meters.

We commence by traversing the valley floor amidst the towering trees of the Afro Montane Forest Zone. This is a gradual ascent featuring numerous birds and the possibility of observing blue monkeys darting across the forest. Occasionally, visitors may observe groups of 15 to 20 black and white Colobus monkeys as they navigate the treetops. Rare sightings of the L’Hoest monkey, integral to Bukonzo cultural icons, are safeguarded under the authority of the King or Omusinga, although distant sounds of wild chimpanzees may also be heard. A diverse array of plant species exists, ranging from forest trees to bamboo thickets, low shrubs, flowers, mushrooms, and numerous moss and lichen-covered vines draping from the towering trees, producing a striking aesthetic. Enock’s Falls are located within 200 meters from Sine Hut, providing an excellent opportunity to snap a remarkable screensaver for your recollections.

At Sine Camp, situated at an elevation of 2,596 meters, wooden cottages are positioned amidst towering forest trees along a narrow ridge, allowing guests to appreciate the splendour of the Afro Montane forest while overlooking a magnificent waterfall cascading over the rocks below. Certain clients like to sit outdoors, relishing the warmth of the campfire while conversing with the guides about the mountains and their communal life. Sine is located close beneath the bamboo zone, and the surrounding area hosts a diverse array of bird species. Enock Falls, located 150 meters from the camp, is surrounded by vibrant green foliage and cascading vines. Exceedingly exquisite. Individuals resting at Sine, or those who are physically capable and choose to advance to Kalalama Camp at 3,134 meters, may do so. This option not only offers spectacular vistas but also allows for additional time at Mutinda Camp, where one can ascend to Mutinda Lookout at 3,975 meters.

Day Two

The trek commences at 8:30 AM, leading directly into the Bamboo-Mimulopsis Zone, characterised by a hard ascent with numerous elevated steps. During the rainy season, the bamboo region becomes quite muddy and slippery, resulting in delayed progress. The ambiance and the forest are exquisite as you ascend 551 meters over a distance of 1.8 kilometres to Kalalama Camp at 3,147 meters, situated in the Heather-Rapanea Zone, where you can pause for a brief respite and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee before proceeding to Mutinda Camp. The trail winds over multiple small knolls along a ridge, descends into the valley, ascends once more, traverses several small streams, and approaches moss-covered waterfalls.

You ascend gradually alongside a picturesque moss-covered river that cascades over rocks beneath the Giant Heather trees, whose trunks are adorned with green moss and Usnea lichen draping from the branches. The path winds as you ascend the profound valley, which has a vast array of flora and blossoms. This valley is distinctive, with several Giant Heather plants that cultivate a picturesque ambiance frequently enveloped in mist.

In the afternoon, you may like to ascend to the summit of the Mutinda Lookout (about one to two hours ascending and one hour descending). The vistas are spectacular as you stand on moss-covered rocks at an elevation of 3,925 meters, overlooking the Rwenzori Mountains and the town of Kasese, as well as Lake George. Clients ascending Margherita or any of the principal peaks will find that climbing Mutinda, at 3,975 meters, serves as an effective method for acclimatisation and mitigating the danger of high altitude sickness.

Reside at Mutinda Camp at an elevation of 3,582 meters.

Day Three

The path to Bugata Camp is marshy, especially during the rainy season; but, with some dexterity, one can traverse from tussock to tussock to facilitate movement. Initially, traverse the Mutinda Valley, characterised by tussock grass and everlasting flowers, mixed with several Giant Lobelias, before ascending a difficult segment to the Namusangi Valley (3,840 meters), where sheer waterfalls abound, offering spectacular views of the Mutinda Peaks when viewed from behind. The Namusangi Valley is expansive, with numerous elevations as the path ascends consistently to Bugata Camp at 4,100 meters.

Day Four

Journey to Hunwick’s Camp through Bamwanjarra Pass. Upon departing Bugata Camp, you cross a ridge, then descend somewhat before climbing to Bamwanjarra Pass at 4,450 meters, where an emergency hut is available in case of inclement weather. On a clear day, the pass offers exceptional views of the three prominent snow-capped peaks. The walk traverses the valley, skirting bogs and dense evergreen flora, including deep mosses, enormous groundsel, and lobelia, creating an environment reminiscent of a prehistoric habitat.

This location is arguably the premier site in the Rwenzori for observing the Malachite Sunbird as it forages on numerous lobelia blooms and serves as a recognised breeding ground. Further down, there are steep sections followed by a consistent ascent over a ridge to Hunwick’s Camp, located atop a deep valley, with excellent views of Mt. Stanley, Mt. Baker, Weismann’s Peak, and McConnell’s Prong.

Day Five

The distance to Kiharo Camp is 11 kilometres, with a walking duration of 4 to 9 hours contingent upon one’s fitness levels.

We commence the day at Hunwick’s Camp by ascending a ridge towards McConnell’s Prong, which offers the finest vistas of all three summits and Scott Elliott’s Pass, before arriving at Oliver’s Pass at an elevation of 4,505 metres. The distance from Hunwick’s Camp to the summit of Olivers Pass is 3 km. The trail subsequently traverses beneath Weismann’s Peak to the junction of the Nyamwamba River, which descends through Kilembe and Kasese to Lake George in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Climbing Weismanns Peak, which stands at 4,620 meters from Olivers Pass, is permissible and requires approximately 40 minutes for a round trip ascent. On a clear day, one can observe magnificent vistas of Margherita, Mt Stanley, Mt Speke, and Mt Baker.

Upon traversing the confluence, the trail descends into the valley towards Kiharo Camp, located in a profound gorge characterised by towering cliffs and lush foliage. As you descend the valley, after each bog, you will traverse a ridge of stones and soil that appears incongruous, yet was deposited by slowly advancing glaciers that ultimately ceased their movement, melted, and left a mound of boulders and debris at the terminus of their former presence.

Day Six

The distance from Kiharo Camp to the park gate is 16 km, followed by a further 2.8 km to Trekkers Hostel. Individuals requiring connections to flights back to Kampala or proceeding to other engagements must depart from Kiharo early, as the journey necessitates 5 to 8 hours of walking.

The descent through the Nyamwamba Valley is predominantly downhill and remarkably picturesque, featuring exquisite vistas, moss-laden rocks adjacent to the river, flowing waterfalls, and profound gorges and woods that are arguably the finest in the Rwenzori Mountains. This section of the path required six years to identify a navigable route suitable for travellers. In 1937, the explorer and geologist McConnell attempted to navigate this valley but was unsuccessful and had to retreat in search of an alternative route up the mountain; nonetheless, you can now enjoy this remarkably magnificent valley.

A few km beyond Kiharo Camp, the trail diverges to the right, following the river. In the open areas, one may observe a Duiker discreetly foraging in small clearings while traversing the riverbank. This location likely harbours the highest population of Rwenzori Red Duikers within the National Park. A few km downstream, the river grows steeper, with numerous breathtaking waterfalls. Following the waterfalls, we ascend a steep slope and descend into the deep trees, offering breathtaking vistas of the valley beneath. We halt at Forest View Camp for lunch prior to returning to Base Camp. An exceptional experience and conclusion to an extraordinary adventure.

End of the 6 Day Rwenzori Trekking to Hunwick’s Camp