Ilbra Yacoob
In 2023 while attending a travel conference in Uganda, I met John Hunwick, the founder of Rwenzori Trekking Services, the best tour operator for world-class hiking and mountaineering. I was so intrigued by his story and passion for preserving these unique mountain ranges while empowering the local communities. Having one of the most diverse ecosystems worldwide and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Rwenzori Mountain Range are a sight to see.
Without a second thought, I decided on a last-minute & rare opportunity to hike these very mountains a few days later.
Rwenzori in the local language of the Bakonzo people translates to “Rain Maker” or “Rain Mountains”. More widely known as the “Mountains of the Moon” as they become visible in the moonlight when the clouds have dissipated by nightfall.
Formed 3 million years ago, the Rwenzori are the tallest non-volcanic mountains on the continent of Africa. They were formed in the Western Rift Valley floor by tectonic activity, where massive rocks thrust upwards. The Rwenzori are also the 3rd tallest mountain in Africa, after Mount Kilimanjaro (#1), and Mount Kenya (#2).
The Rwenzori range has 6 peaks:
- 1) Mount Stanley
- 2) Mount Speke
- 3) Mount Baker
- 4) Mount Emin
- 5) Mount Gessi
- 6) Mount Luigi di Savoia
Of its 6 peaks, the tallest is “Margherita Peak” located on Mount Stanley at a whopping 5,109 meter Above Sea Level (ASL), or 16,762 feet ASL. Here Glaciers and Snow-capped peaks take center stage!
To reach its highest peak, one should anticipate a journey of 8-10 days.I certainly was not prepared for the long haul and opted for 3 days and 2 nights up in the mountains. Just enough time to witness its glory and majestic beauty.
Our journey began from the Trekkers Hostel in Kilembe where we set off for a 3-day trek on the Kilembe trail, managed by Rwenzori Trekking Services.
I was assigned one guide, Dan Muhindo, a lovely young lady porter by the name of Jessica, and 2 young gentlemen porters. Little did I know how important a role they each would play in my journey ahead. Dan and Jessica were with me every step of the way, while the 2 young men carrying our sleeping bags and cooking tools, were always ahead to set up camp and prep our meals. My journey would have been impossible without their expertise, guidance and knowledge.
With each elevation gain, we came across different vegetation zones such as the Bamboo Forest, Moorlands, and the Mossy Heather Tree.
I was enamored by the beautiful landscape that surrounded me, almost in disbelief at what my eyes were witnessing. The sounds of endemic birds, creeks & waterfalls, and the wind’s gentle whispers through the forest became the soundtrack of my journey.
As we reached the Moorlands, a profound silence surrounded us, and I felt as though time stopped. A wooden boardwalk led us deeper into the foggy Moorlands, giving way to Giant Lobelias and Groundsels all around us. Was I in a fairy tale? How lucky was I to experience nature’s wonders like this?! Being awestruck and stunned was now becoming a norm. Beauty all around me every step of the way!
On our first night we rested up in the wooden cabins of Sine Camp at 2,596-meters ASL. This cabin is perfectly situated along the tropical rainforest. When morning came the next day, a symphony of birds filled the air tempting me to explore the nearby wonders. The sound of water drew me to the nearby waterfalls where I could not help but to wash my face in its fresh and crisp waters.
Our second night’s rest was at 3,170-meters ASL in Salamira Camp. The dining room which is perched on the side of the canyon has the most beautiful views of waterfalls.
What goes up, must come down. And so, our 3rd day began with us descending back down to the park gate. With each step I took, I recounted my blessings and gratitude for having experienced one of the most beautiful, rich and diverse ecosystems in the world.
The Rwenzori may not be for the faint of heart. These mountains will challenge your stamina, your patience, your determination and your resilience to navigate its rugged yet beautiful terrain. But one thing is for sure, you will come back a changed person. For you will realize what you are capable of accomplishing through your physical, spiritual and mental self.
To The Mountain of the Moons may you reach one day!