The Rwenzori Central Circuit trail

The central circuit which starts from Mihunga gate at 1651m is owned and managed by the Rwenzori Mountaineering services.  This is the most convenient, easy and shortest route to Margheritah peak, although the path between the John matte and Bujuku camps are always boggy. The central circuit trail route can lead you through Mount baker, Mount Stanley , Mount Speke and sometimes the Weismann peak of the Rwenzori mountains National Park.

The central Circuit is the shortest and most popular old traditional hiking route used by most Rwenzori mountaineers. The route/trail is owned and managed by Rwenzori mountaineering services that is community based and approaches the Rwenzori mountains from the east.

This magnificent trail navigates through the 5 different  vegetation zones, which offers spectacular views of Mount Baker, Mount stanley, Mount Speke and Weisman Peak, as it crosses both the lower and the upper bigo bogs,  which are firmly supported by board walks for easy trekking  through the area.

The central circuit trail begins from the Mihunga trail head, to Bujuku via Nyabitaba and John Matte.  From the Bujuku, the trail then leads to other peaks, over to the scott Elliot Pass, then to Kitandara lakes. It then proceeds over the fresh field pass to Bujuku Valley.

The trail is slightly rough, along which are five evenly distributed huts, that are used as overnight spots used for resting for all mountaineers climbing the mountains. The huts are tolerant to all weather conditions, including Nyabitaba hut, John Matte, Bujuku hut, Elena Hut, Kitandara hut and Guy yeoman.

However, the trail follows the thick forests and bushes which is a natural home to different mammals and bird species such as hyrax, forest elephants, Forest Elephants, L’Hoest monkeys, Black and White colobus monkeys, three horned chameleons, while the birds include Rwenzori Turaco, handsome francolin, barred long tail cuckoo, strange weaver among others.

Lastly the recommended safaris along this trail include 7 days central circuits, 6 days weismann trek, , 5 days Rwenzori trek among and more depending on the strength  and preference of each mountaineer, since the trail passes through all the 5 vegetation zones.

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.

Top Rwenzori Trekking Tours along Central Circuit Route