4 Day Rwenzori Trek on Waterfalls Circuit Itinerary

A Complete 4 Day Rwenzori Trek on Waterfalls Circuit

Day One

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

We commence our ascent along the valley floor between 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, a cultural totem of the Bukonzo, are safeguarded by the authority of the King or Omusinga, and one may also hear wild chimpanzees in the vicinity. A diverse array of plant species exists, ranging from forest trees and bamboo thickets to 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 record a memorable screensaver.

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 gazing down at 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. Exceedingly exquisite. Sleep at Sine, or those who are physically capable may advance to Kalama Camp at 3,134 meters, which, in addition to the spectacular views, affords additional time at Mutinda Camp, where one may ascend to Mutinda Lookout at 3,975 meters.

Day Two

Following a substantial breakfast, the hike commences at 8:30 AM, leading into the Bamboo-Mimulopsis Zone, characterised by a steep ascent with numerous elevated steps. During the wet season, the bamboo zone becomes quite muddy and slippery, resulting in delayed progress.

The atmosphere and 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. Here, you can rest and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee along with a snack before continuing up the valley, traversing the hillside past spectacular moss-covered waterfalls to a large bog where the Giant Lobelia and their magnificent flowers can be observed.

Following your enjoyment of the Lobelia, you will return to Kalalama Camp for lunch. Post-lunch, you will traverse the ridge, passing through the stunning Giant Heather trees, to reach Samalaira Camp at an elevation of 3,170 meters. During your journey, you will traverse two picturesque streams.

Upon arriving to Samalira Camp, you may take a respite and choose to traverse the trail leading to the base of Samalira Falls, which cascade down a narrow valley adorned with Giant Heather trees, resulting in a spectacular vista. One hundred meters from the camp, reliable network access is available on Airtel, allowing you to catch up on several messages or emails.

Day Three

The path from Samalira Camp ascends 200 meters in elevation to across a ridge before descending down a lengthy valley leading to Nyamwamba Valley and Cathy’s Falls, which are particularly spectacular after heavy rainfall. A few kilometres downstream, the river descends into a deep valley. 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 new pathways.

The initial waterfall is Nyamwamba Falls, which has a total height of 52 meters and features a large pool at its base suitable for swimming. For the subsequent 600 meters, the river descends rapidly through a succession of rapids leading to Ajarova Falls and Plozza Falls.

John designated the third set of falls in honour of his mother, Kathleen Plozza, and 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 hiking and exploring the mountains. Adjacent to Plozza Falls, there exists a sheltered platform that allows for observation of the falls and the opportunity to enjoy a little snack before continuing on. 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. Duikers are frequently observed in this area, which is also 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 at Forest View Camp, situated at an elevation of 2,580 meters above sea level, we will relax for the night.

Day Four

The path from Forest View Camp descends through towering trees and around ridges, offering spectacular vistas of the valley beneath. At the base of the tougher segment, you will encounter Nyamwamba Camp at an elevation of 1,973 meters, where you will pause for refreshments before proceeding down a gradual incline to the park headquarters and returning to Kilembe.

End of the 4 Day Rwenzori Trek on Waterfalls Circuit Itinerary