Frequently asked questions about Mountain Rwenzori
Frequently asked questions about Mountain Rwenzori. Did you know that Mountain Rwenzori is the highest non-organic and non-volcanic mountain in the whole world? Also known as Mountain of the Moon, Ruwenzori, and Rwenjura. Mountain Rwenzori has the third highest peak in East Africa, Margherita peak stands at approximately 5,109 meters (16,763 feet) above sea level. The lower slopes of mountain Rwenzori are covered in rainforest vegetation while the higher slopes are covered in alpine vegetation. On the top of the mountain, there is permanent snow and ice that covers the mountain. A lot of different questions have been asked recently about Mountain Rwenzori and as you continue reading this article, most of these questions will be answered.
Where is Mountain Rwenzori located?
Mountain Rwenzori is located in the eastern equatorial Africa region in the southwestern part of Uganda along the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rwenzori Mountain National Park.
What is the best time of the year to visit Mountain Rwenzori?
Rwenzori Mountain is always open for visitors or tourists to visit throughout the whole year, but since the slopes of the mountain are very challenging to climb there is a best time to visit. The best time to visit mountain Rwenzori is during the dry season of the year (June-March and December- February). The dry season is best for visiting because, during this time of the year, the hiking routes make hiking the mountain easier than during the wet season. Also, the vegetation cover will be on a lower level than it will be during the wet or rainy season.
How long does hiking mountain Rwenzori take?
Just like I have said before hiking the mountain Rwenzori to the top is not an easy challenge so you cannot expect to climb to the top in just hours. Climbing or hiking mountain Rwenzori takes approximately 7 to 10 days and these days depend on the climber’s experience and the hiking route taken. Speaking about the climber’s experience, you are advised to be healthy and physically fit before you embark on this challenging hiking activity.
What is the most difficult level of hiking mountain Rwenzori?
Hiking to the Margherita peak is the most difficult level hikers encounter when hiking mountain Rwenzori. This stage of the mountain requires a lot of physical and fitness since you will be glacier traveling, and rock scrambling, and you will need to use ropes at some times when hiking.
Are there any requirements for hiking mountain Rwenzori?
Yes! There are different requirements that one needs to be allowed or accepted to climb or hike the Mountain Rwenzori such as,
Age limit
The person interested or going on mountain Rwenzori hiking should or must be above the age of 15 years.
Physical and health fitness
Most times before hiking mountain Rwenzori you are advised to visit your doctor for a general check-up so that he can tell you if you will be able to hike or not. This should be done for health purposes and to get a medical certificate which will be presented before being allowed to hike the mountain. When it comes to physical fitness you should be able to withstand all the challenges you may encounter along the hiking trails.
Other requirements include hiring a certified guide or joining a guided tour which we as BUJO Safaris can help you out with. We can also help you to obtain or book the mountain Rwenzori hiking permit which you are meant to book beforehand to avoid inconveniences.
How much does it cost to hike Mountain Rwenzori?
The cost or price of hiking mountain Rwenzori is determined by many factors and some are group, the level of services needed, the length of the hiking trail, park entrance fee, accommodation, and food. According to these factors, the price or cost of hiking mountain Rwenzori is not specific but tour agents or companies like ours can help you make accountabilities depending on the money you have. You may decide to have a budget, midrange, or luxury Mountain Rwenzori hiking tour, trip, or safari.
What to pack for the Mountain Rwenzori hiking tour?
There are specific items or things that you should consider very much on packing or bringing along when you are going for a mountain Rwenzori hiking activity. Some of the items or things that you should consider packing for a mountain Rwenzori hiking activity include,
Hiking boots
You should not leave packing hiking boots since they will be of great use since the hiking trails may be harsh for normal shoes. The hiking boots will help you move comfortably and with a lot of ease while hiking on the slopes of Mountain Rwenzori.
Walking stick
A walking stick should be packed or you may decide to rent out one when starting with your hiking activities at the park headquarters. The walking stick will help to give you the desired support that you may require when hiking the steep slopes of Mountain Rwenzori.
Energy giving snacks
Since you will be requiring all the energy that you can get to carry on with the hiking activity, you should very much consider packing energy-giving snacks which are also sold in different shops, mini-marts, and supermarkets in Uganda. Snack breaks will be given to you during the hiking activity so that you can regenerate or boost your energy.
Water drinking bottle (refillable)
Just like energy-giving snacks, you should not forget packing a water drinking bottle which will help you carry drinking water for rehydration during the hiking activity. The drinking water bottle should be refillable so that you practice sustainable tourism during your hiking tour.
Long sleeved trousers
You should also consider packing long-sleeved trousers which will help protect your legs from the coldness, insect bites, and cuts from tree branches, to mention but a few.
Long sleeved
Just like long-sleeved trousers, you should also put in consideration to pack long-sleeved shirts since they will help protect your hands in the same way the long-sleeved trousers protect your legs.
Some of the other items that you should not leave out when packing include, a first aid kit, insect repellant, sunscreen, hat or cape, raincoat, or jacket, to mention but a few.