Mount Gessi | Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Mount Gessi is situated adjacent to Mount Emin, in the Northern part of Mount Stanley, Speke and Mount Baker. It peak was named after an Italian explorer, Romulo Gessi.
The mountain has twin peaks of Lolanda (15,470 ft.) and Bottego (15,418 ft.), and is separated from Emin by just a narrow valley in the Rwenzori mountains National Park.
At an elevation of 15018ft(4578m), Gessi becomes 1 out of 6 Rwenzori mountains, in the Northern triangle which comprises of Mount Stanley, Baker and Speke. Gessi also ranks 5th among other mountains in Uganda, and is situated along a slim gorge that spreads southwards, as it separates from Mount Emin,
The mountains is also situated on a rocky north-south edge with the upper peak heading south end. Mount Gessi trek is distinguished with huts and sloping tracks from both DR Congo and the Ugandan side.
Trekking to Gessi follows a short trail to its peak from Mutsori in Congo, while majority of the local tribesmen are always present, to work as porters and guides. There are numerous shanties preserved all through the Rwenzori.
History Of The Mountain
Named after Romolo Gessi , an Itallian explorer in the 90’s who was also a soldier and brought a huge impact In the Central African region , Gessi is honoured for his bracely and skills used in the quest of new places . His trip was gighly valued as it helped people and explorers understand Africa ‘s different land better , and naming this peak after him shows how important his work was and the impact it brought for other explorer to even discover . In the 19th Century Romolo Gessi explored Africa and his research , efforts ato map and explore paved a way for other explorer who can in discovering Africa including the Rwenzori mountains .
Like other peaks in the Rwenzori mountain , Mountain Gessi has a diversity of flora and fauna with endemic species like the Rwenzori Turraco that can be seen in the lush forests before nyabitaba camp, other animals can be spotted which include black and white colombus monkeys among the others. The mountain also has countless plant species that can be used as herbal medicines to sure some sickness .
Hiking Mount Gessi of the Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Mount Gessi trekking starts from Mugusu Valley through the forests beneath, to Roccato pass, which proceeds through the thick brush and slabs. Thereafter, it takes you to the ridge between the two peaks. It is also believed that the peak was once covered with glaciers which later melted away.
The ascent trail used by Duke also melted, and is currently a series of terribly mossy steep slabs, which is recommended for Beginners.
RESUMPTION OF HIKING TO MARGHERITA PEAK IN RWENZORI MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is pleased to announce the resumption of hiking activities to Margherita Peak in Rwenzori Mountains National Park. Following a temporary suspension due to safety concerns, UWA has successfully implemented safety enhancements to ensure the well-being of all hikers.
Key among these improvements is the construction of a bridge across the crevasse in the Margherita glacier. This bridge, along with additional climbing ropes installed in collaboration with our partners in the park, will enable safe passage through the challenging sections of the trail. With these safety measures now in place, hiking to Margherita Peak can safely resume. We are confident that these enhancements will provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for all visitors seeking to summit one of Africa’s most iconic peaks.
We continue to encourage visitors to explore not only Margherita Peak but also the other stunning peaks within Rwenzori Mountains National Park, including Mount Speke, Mount Baker, and Cheptegei Peak on the Stanley Range. Each of the routes to these peaks offers a unique adventure, showcasing the breathtaking beauty and diversity of the Rwenzori Mountains.
UWA will maintain close monitoring of the hiking routes to ensure ongoing safety and will provide updates as needed.
We look forward to welcoming adventurers back to the heights of Rwenzori Mountains National Park.
