10 Days Rwenzori 4 Peaks Hike Challenge

A Complete Rwenzori 4 Peaks Hike Challenge Itinerary

Trek Day 1. Transfer to the basecamp, briefing and hike to Sine Camp 2,596 metres.

Commence at Trekkers at 1,450 meters and ascend to Sine Hut at 2,596 meters, resulting in an elevation gain of 1,146 meters. Alternatively, those in good physical condition may continue to Kalalama Camp at 3,134 meters, which offers spectacular views and 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 traverse the treetops. Rare sightings of the L’Hoest monkey, integral to Bukonzo cultural icons, are safeguarded by 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 cascading 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 small ridge, allowing you to appreciate the splendour of the Afro Montane forest while observing a magnificent waterfall cascading over the rocks below. Certain clients like sitting outdoors, relishing the warmth of the campfire while conversing with the guides about the mountains and their community 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. Genuinely exquisite. Overnight at Sine Camp, 2,596 meters

Trek Day 2. Hike to Mutinda Camp 3,588 meters.

The trek commences at 8:30 AM, leading directly into the Bamboo-Mimulopsis Zone, characterised by a hard ascent featuring numerous elevated steps. During the rainy season, the bamboo area becomes quite muddy and treacherous, resulting in slow 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 several small knolls along a ridge, descends into the valley, ascends once more, traverses multiple 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 steep 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 for the ascent and one hour for the descent). The vistas are spectacular as you stand on moss-covered rocks at an elevation of 3,925 meters, overlooking the Rwenzori Mountains and extending down to Kasese town and Lake George. Clients ascending to Margherita or any of the principal peaks will find that climbing Mutinda at 3,975 meters serves as a good method for acclimatisation and mitigating the danger of high altitude sickness.

Overnight in Mutinda Camp at an elevation of 3,588 meters.

Trek Day 3. Hike to Bugata Camp 4,062 meters.

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 numerous Giant Lobelias, before ascending a sharp incline to the Namusangi Valley (3,840 meters), where sheer waterfalls abound, offering spectacular views of the Mutinda Peaks when glanced back. The Namusangi Valley is expansive, with numerous elevations as the path ascends consistently to Bugata Camp at 4,100 meters.

Trek Day 4. Hike to Hunwicks Camp 3,974 metres.

Journey to Hunwick’s Camp through Bamwanjarra Pass. Upon departing Bugata Camp, you ascend a ridge, thereafter descend slightly, and then climb to Bamwanjarra Pass at 4,450 meters, where a hut is available in case of inclement weather. On a clear day, the pass offers superb vistas of the three principal peaks. The trail descends into the valley, navigating the periphery of bogs and dense evergreen flora, including moss, gigantic groundsel, and lobelia. This location may be the premier site in the Rwenzori for observing the Malachite Sunbird as it forages on numerous lobelia flowers 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 wide valley, with excellent views of Mt. Stanley, Mt. Baker, Weismann’s Peak, and McConnell’s Prong.

Trek Day 5. Summit Mt Baker 4,842m and sleep at Hunwicks Camp 3,974 meters.

4.3-kilometer ascent Four to six hours up and two to three hours descending. Depart at 6:30 AM to ascend Mt. Baker, which stands at 4,842 meters. The ascent duration from McConnell’s Camp (Camp 4) to the summit is three to four hours, while the descent takes three hours. This is a challenging ascent characterised by steep, rocky terrain, requiring a strong tolerance for heights, particularly in areas such as the crevice leading down to the glacier, which features a significant drop-off. Despite Mt. Baker’s classification as non-technical, it becomes treacherous during the winter season (April-May and September-October) when the ice-covered rocks are exceedingly slippery; therefore, safety ropes will be employed at all times on steep areas. Upon ascending, you descend via a fissure in the rock face to the glacier, followed by a brief 300-meter hike to the summit.

In favourable weather or during a respite from cloud cover, the vistas of the principal peaks of Magherita, Alexandria, Stanley’s Plateau, and the glaciers are magnificent, showcasing the grandeur of these stunning snow-capped mountains. The vista is remarkable. Upon reflecting on this profound experience, we traverse the glacier, ascend the fissure in the rock face, and descend to McConnell’s Camp. Rest at Camp 4.

Trek Day 6. Hike to Margherita Camp 4485 meters.

Ascend to Margherita Camp at 4485 meters, via the valley bottom to the picturesque Lake Kitandara, characterised by its profound waters and lush flora, before ascending through Scoot Elliot Pass to reach Margherita Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Day 7. Summit Margherita peak 5,109metres on Mt Stanley

Awaken at 1:30 AM and consume an early breakfast before to departing for the ascent of Mt. Stanley at 2:00 AM. Ascend to Stanley Plateau, where you traverse the initial glacier before dropping to the base of Margherita Glacier. The lower section of the glacier is steep and technically challenging, necessitating the use of ropes and belays. Upon nearing the summit of the glacier, you will encounter difficult rocky ascents for approximately 60 meters to reach the ridge leading to Margherita Peak at 5,109 meters. Descending the glacier via Irene Lake to Bujuku Valley, traversing an extensive bog to reach the base of Mt. Speke at 4,890 meters, where you will camp in a modest rock shelter.

Trek Day 8. Summit Vittorio Emmanuel at 4,890m on Mt Speke, Sleep at Hunwick’s Camp.

Ascend to Mt. Speke at 4,890 meters, then retrace your steps to traverse the Bujuku Valley and ascend to Scott Elliot Pass before descending to Hunwick’s Camp at 3,974 meters.

Trek Day 9. Summit Weismann’s peak 4,620m on Mt Luigi di Savoia and hike down to Kiharo Camp 3430 meters.

We commence the day at Hunwicks Camp by ascending a ridge towards McConnell’s Prong, where one can have the finest vistas of all three peaks and Scott Elliott’s Pass prior to arriving at Oliver’s.

Crossing at 4,505 meters. The distance from Hunwick’s Camp to the summit of Oliver’s Pass is 3 km. The path subsequently traverses beneath Weismann’s Peak to the junction of the Nyamwamba River. One may choose to ascend Weismann’s Peak, if they had sufficient strength for the descent, and subsequently go to Kiharo Camp at an elevation of 3430 meters. Overnight at Kiharo Camp, located in a profound valley characterised by towering cliffs and lush flora. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Day 10. Descend down to the basecamp

The distance from Kiharo Camp to the park gate is 12.2 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, profound gorges, and trees that may be unparalleled in the Rwenzori Mountains. This section of the path required six years to provide 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. Debriefing and distribution of certificates.

End of the 10 Days Rwenzori 4 Peaks Hike Challenge