Climbing Margherita Peak
Climbing Margherita Peak is a challenging, technical, and rewarding mountaineering experience to Africa’s third-highest peak (5,109m) in the Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda, requiring specific gear like crampons and an ice axe, and typically taking 7 to 10 days to complete. Hikers must be accompanied by experienced guides, have a high level of fitness, and will face steep ascents, glacier crossings, and potential crevasses, especially on the final summit push via the Elena Hut.
Margherita Peak on Mt. Stanley, at 5,109 meters, is the highest elevation in Uganda and the third-highest in Africa, following Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya. This 10-day expedition comprises 8 days on the mountain, culminating in the ascent of Margherita Peak on day 6. The journey is arduous, although you go gradually over the mountains, allowing ample time for acclimatisation.
Climbing Margherita Peak Highlights
This Climbing Margherita Peak itinerary can function as an independent expedition or in conjunction with other locales in Uganda. The itinerary outlined below commences and concludes in Entebbe; however, we can facilitate transfers to and from the highlands regardless of your point of origin.
The route can be tailored to accommodate your fitness levels, time limitations, budget, and broader travel arrangements. For additional information and other routes, consult our comprehensive guide to the Rwenzori Mountains.
A Complete Climbing Margherita Peak Itinerary
Day 1: The adventure begins!
The expedition commences at Trekkers Hostel in Kilembe, situated at an elevation of 1450 meters. You will receive your trek briefing from the guides and commence the journey to Sine Camp (2596 meters), achieving an elevation gain of 1146 meters.
Overnight: Sine Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Rwenzori Mountains
Ascend to Mutinda Camp at an elevation of 3,588 meters, resulting in a vertical gain of 992 meters. In the afternoon in Mutinda, one can ascend Mutinda Lookout, which stands at 3,975 meters. The vistas from the observation point are remarkable.
Overnight: Mutinda Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Rwenzori Mountains
Ascend to Bugata camp at an altitude of 4,062 meters, achieving a height gain of 412 meters. Traverse a valley characterised by distinctive plant species, streams, and waterfalls. The ascent becomes increasingly arduous as we gain elevation, characterised by steep hills, muddy and marshy areas, and elevated steps leading to the campsite. The rewards are substantial; the vistas from the campsite are extraordinary.
Overnight: Bugata Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Rwenzori Mountains
Ascend to Hunwick’s camp (3974 meters) via Bamwanjara Pass at 4450 meters. The vistas of the principal summits are exceptional on this trek.
Overnight: Hunwick’s Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Rwenzori Mountains
Trek to Margherita Camp at 4,485 meters, traversing down and over the valley floor to Lake Kitandara.
Overnight: Margherita Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Rwenzori Mountains
Awoke early today around 2:00 AM. Commence with an early breakfast before to embarking on the ascent of Margherita Peak, which stands at 5,109 meters. Upon summiting, return to Hunwick’s camp at an elevation of 3,974 meters for the night. This day of hiking is the longest and most arduous, however it is also the most gratifying.
Overnight: Hunwick’s Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Rwenzori Mountains
Descend to Kiharo camp at an elevation of 3,430 meters via Oliver’s Pass. Overnight at Kiharo camp, located in a profound valley characterised by towering rocks and lush flora.
Overnight: Kiharo Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Kasese
Navigate downwards past the moss-laden boulders alongside rivers and picturesque woodlands to return to the base camp in Kilembe. Conduct a debrief and transfer to Trekkers Hostel for an overnight stay, or proceed to Kasese for overnight accommodation, or connect with planes back to Kampala/Entebbe.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
End of the Climbing Margherita Peak Via Kilembe Trail
