4 Days Rwenzori Trek to Mutinda Lookout at 3,975 metres

A Complete 4 Days Rwenzori Trek to Mutinda Lookout Itinerary

Day One

Commence at Trekkers at an elevation of 1,450 meters and ascend to Sine Hut at 2,596 meters, resulting in an altitude gain of 1,146 meters.

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 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 suspended from towering trees, producing a remarkable 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 situated right 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 flora and cascading vines. Exceedingly exquisite. Individuals resting at Sine, or those in good physical condition wishing to advance to Kalama Camp at 3,134 meters, may proceed. 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

Following a substantial breakfast, hiking commences at 8:30 AM as you enter the Bamboo-Mimulopsis Zone, characterised by several switchbacks in the trail to facilitate the ascent. The ambiance and the forest are exquisite as you ascend 551 meters over a distance of 2 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 is very straightforward, traversing the hillside before descending into the valley and ascending once more, while intersecting several minor streams and approaching moss-laden waterfalls.

You ascend gradually alongside a picturesque creek that cascades over moss-laden 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 flanked by high rocks, where you may discover a vast array of flora, including Giant Lobelia. This valley is distinctive, with several Giant Heather plants that cultivate a picturesque ambiance frequently enveloped in mist.

Mutinda Camp, located adjacent to a small river and waterfall, provides an opportunity for cleansing, rejuvenation, and relaxation. In the afternoon, you may like to ascend to the summit of the Mutinda Lookout (one to two hours ascent and one hour descent). The vistas are spectacular as you stand on moss-covered rocks at an elevation of 3,975 meters, overlooking the Rwenzori Mountains and the town of Kasese, as well as Lake George. Clients ascending Margherita or other principal peaks will find that climbing Mutinda to 3,975 meters serves as an effective method for acclimatisation, hence decreasing the danger of altitude sickness at greater elevations.

Day Three

We commence the day by ascending a rugged riverbed, traversing an extensive expanse of wetlands with intermittent boardwalks, before scaling to the summit of a towering waterfall. We subsequently make a right turn and ascend slightly before descending through Hunwick’s Pass, a newly established trail that traverses two prominent summits known as Twin Peaks. In addition to the possibility of observing a Hyrax or Red Diker with keen eyesight, one can also witness various species of hawks and eagles nesting on the cliff faces above.

At the base, you traverse a swamp abundant with lobelia plants, followed by a passage through towering heather trees and numerous large, moss-covered boulders leading to Kiharo Camp. Approximately 200 meters from the camp lies Kiharo Falls, a prominent cascade falling over moss-covered rocks, meriting a visit.

Day Four

The descent through the Nyamwamba Valley from Kiharo Camp is predominantly downhill and exceptionally picturesque, offering breathtaking vistas. The moss-laden rocks by the river, tumbling waterfalls, profound valleys, and woodlands are arguably the finest in the Rwenzori Mountains. This segment 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.

A few kilometres from Kiharo Camp, the trail diverges to the right to follow the river. In the open areas, one might observe a Duiker discreetly foraging in small clearings while traversing the riverbank. A few km downstream, the trail descends a steep portion of the river, featuring numerous switchbacks to facilitate walking. In this area, we have created tiny detours from the main trail, allowing you to experience the waterfalls up close and even take a swim to rejuvenate. The initial waterfall is Cathy’s Falls, which is particularly spectacular after heavy rainfall. Next is Nyamwamba Falls, boasting a total height of 52 meters and a deep pool at its base suitable for swimming. For the subsequent 600 meters, the river descends rapidly through a series of rapids leading to Ajarova Falls and Plozza Falls.

The series of waterfalls was initially discovered in August 2020 by John Hunwick, who, during the first Covid lockdown, found himself confined in the National Park and utilised his time to explore new locations and conceptualise route ideas. John designated the third waterfall in honour of his mother, Kathleen Plozza, as well as the spirit of his great-great-grandfather, Antonio Plozza (1850–1923), who resided on the mountainside of the lower Poschavio valley along the Swiss-Italian border near Tirano and had a passion for traversing and exploring the mountains. Below Plozza Falls, further waterfalls culminate in Bridal Falls, where water cascades over a broad, flat rock, producing an effect reminiscent of a bride’s veil.

At the midpoint of these falls, the bamboo zone commences, generating a remarkable ambiance as the mist from the falls nourishes the moss-laden bamboo, evergreen grasses, and herbs that sustain the Rwenzori Duiker. This area frequently hosts Duiker and is inhabited by the Rwenzori leopard, characterised by its dark colouration and exclusive to the Rwenzori Mountains.

The forest in this area is spectacular and teeming with wildlife, including numerous birds, primates, duikers, and hyraxes. Upon arriving to Forest View Camp, situated at an elevation of 2,580 meters, we pause for a deserved lunch and refreshment while surveying the dense forest and the valley underneath, including Kilwembe township. An exceptional experience and a remarkable conclusion to the adventure.

End of the 4 Days Rwenzori Trek to Mutinda Lookout Itinerary