3 Day Rwenzori Trek to Samalira Falls
A 3-day trek to the Rwenzori Mountains’ Samalira Falls takes hikers through diverse zones, including the Afro-Montane forest, bamboo, and heather zones, with overnight stays at Sine and Samalira camps. The itinerary typically involves a briefing at the Kilembe base on Day 1, hiking to Samalira Camp, and then descending back to the base by Day 3. Key highlights include views of waterfalls like Enock’s Falls, unique alpine flora, and potential wildlife sightings such as blue monkeys. The trek involves a circuit route, typically starting at the base camp near Kilembe, with days progressing from the Afro-Montane forest zone to the bamboo and heather zones, then descending back. It’s a great introduction to the “Mountains of the Moon” for those seeking a shorter experience in Uganda’s unique alpine ecosystem.
A Complete 3 Day Rwenzori Trek to Samalira Falls
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, enjoying spectacular vistas of the surrounding cliffs, the lowlands, Kasese town, and Lake Edward within Queen Elizabeth National Park.
We commence by traversing the valley floor amidst the towering trees of the Afro Montane Forest Zone. The initial six km consist of a gradual ascent, followed by a sharp incline to Sine Camp after crossing a river. The forest is populated with tall trees, numerous birds, and the possibility of observing blue monkeys darting through the underbrush. Enock’s Falls, located barely 200 meters from Sine Hut, provide an excellent opportunity to record a stunning screensaver, featuring vibrant green lichen adorning the numerous life forms suspended from the trees, with the cascade serving as a picturesque backdrop.
At Sine Camp, situated at an elevation of 2,596 meters, wooden huts are positioned between towering forest trees along a short ridge, allowing visitors to appreciate the forest’s grandeur while overlooking an extensive series of rapids and a waterfall cascading over the rocks. Certain clients like sitting outdoors, relishing the warmth of the campfire while conversing with the guides about the mountains and their community life. Sine constitutes the lower boundary of the bamboo zone, which is inhabited by a diverse array of avian species. Enock Falls, located 150 meters from the camp, is surrounded by vibrant green foliage and cascading vines. Genuinely exquisite.
In the afternoon, you may like to stroll to Enocks Falls, where numerous dangling vines are adorned with vibrant green lichen and mosses. You may choose to proceed along the woodland route for around one kilometre to observe further dangling vines and appreciate the exquisite surroundings before returning to Sine Camp for the night.
One may sleep in Sine Camp, or those who are physically capable and choose to continue to Kalalama Camp at 3,134 meters may proceed, in addition to enjoying the spectacular views.
Day Two
We commence our ascent from Sine Camp, across the bamboo trees. The ascent is rather steep yet exceptionally gorgeous and motivating. As one ascends into the higher region of the bamboo zone, there exist small patches of mixed forest trees, many of which produce fruit and berries, thereby attracting a diverse array of avian species.
The calls of the Rwenzori Turaco, characterised by its vivid red wings, can be heard as it navigates through the trees. Additionally, during the drier season, the female Malachite Sunbird descends from the mountains to feed on nectar-rich flowers before returning to higher altitudes to mate and rear its offspring. At approximately 3,000 meters elevation, one encounters the Heather zone, characterised by Giant Heather trees that attain heights of 15 meters and are very spectacular.
Kalalama Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,147 meters, serves as an alternative to Sine Camp, which offers exceptional vistas. At this location, you may pause for a brief repast and have the opportunity to ascend further up the mountain towards Mutinda Peaks for around 2 kilometres, where you may observe the exquisite Giant Lobelia plants and flowers in an expansive peat bog. Subsequently, you will return to Kalalama Camp for lunch before proceeding to Samalira Camp at an elevation of 3,170 meters for the night.
The traverse to Samalira Camp is quite flat, traversing the elevated ridge adorned with Giant Heather trees, creating an extraordinary ambiance, especially in the fog, as one crosses picturesque streams that cascade over the precipice. An exquisite experience, certainly!
At Samalira Camp, the dining hut is situated on the gorge’s edge, offering a view of two of the five waterfalls as you savour your meal or cup of tea. Following a respite, one can traverse a path to the base of the waterfalls and gaze upward to observe the water cascading over the falls amidst the Giant Heather trees. An exceptionally spectacular sight. A brief trek above the camp is possible, however difficult, up a narrow slope adorned with vibrant green moss, offering a view of the camp below.
Day Three
In the morning, you traverse the bamboo forests, enjoying spectacular vistas of the lower hills and valleys, until reaching Forest View Camp for lunch or a light snack, followed by a descent through the Afro-Montane Forest Zone, abundant with avian species and monkeys. Upon reaching the base of the steep drop, you arrive at Nyamwamba Camp, where you may pause before completing the final 6 kilometres to the park gate.
End of the 3 Day Rwenzori Trek to Samalira Falls