Rwenzori trekking: 8 days trekking to Marguerite Peak

The 5,109-metre Margarita Peak on Mt Stanley in the Rwensori Mountains is the third highest mountain in Africa. The real gem of this mountain is climbing it on the Kilembe route: its incredible flora, valleys, and forests make it a magical place. It is a medium-high difficulty route, and in snowy seasons it can be very expensive. Even so, the satisfaction of reaching the summit and seeing the enormous and impressive views of Albert Peak (Congo) and other mountains is enormous.

In the following post we will talk about one of the most famous and favourite options for mountaineers: 8 days trekking to Pico Margarita. To do so, we will take a tour along the points of interest and stops along the way, trying to give tips and technical details of great interest. Let's get to it!

8 days trekking to Margarita Peak at 5,109 metres.

First of all, it's worth noting that the estimated cost of the trek is US$1,200 each for two people, and US$1,100 each for three or more. This is in addition to the UWA (Uganda Wildlife Authority) entrance fee, which is usually about US$35 per day, payable separately in cash. The total price includes food, maps, mountain accommodation and, of course, equipment.

As mentioned above, Margaret Peak is the third highest peak in Africa, and the Kilembe route is full of flora and unique beauty. The necessary equipment, almost all of which is usually provided by the tourist agency, should consist of ropes, harnesses, crampons, carabines, good hiking shoes, warm clothing, sleeping bags and rain gear.

It is important to keep in mind that climbing Pico Margarita is technical and requires knowledge of ropes and other equipment. All the guides are experts in ice climbing, rescue, and many other modalities; and of course, they will be at the disposal of the travellers.

Day 1

The day starts at Trekkers at 1,450m and you sleep at Sine Hut at 2,596m. If you want to continue before stopping, there is also the possibility to continue to Kalalama Camp at 3,134m.

Day 2

After sleeping in the hut we start trekking at 8:30 in the morning and almost immediately proceed to enter the Bamboo-Mimulopsis area. The day ends by sleeping in the Mutinda hut at 3,582m.

Day 3

The route to Bugata Camp is not the easiest, especially in the rainy season. After reaching the Namusangi Valley you will reach the camp at an altitude of 4,100 metres.

Day 4

Day four consists of reaching Hunwick's Camp via the Bamwanjarra Pass. This is one of the most beautiful drives and the hut is situated high up in the valley with views of Mt Stanley, Mt Baker, Weismanns Peak and McConnell's Peak.

Day 5

From Hunwick we drive through the valley to Lake Kitendara. From there it is up the Scott Elliott Pass to Margherita Camp at 4,485m, the most iconic hut of the trip.

Day 6

This is one of the most important days, as it is the day of the ascent of the peak at an altitude of 5,109 metres. After waking up at 2:00 in the morning, we start the trek. This timetable is necessary due to the weather conditions in the area and the snow at the time. After climbing the peak you go directly to Hunwick camp at an altitude of 3,874 metres.

Day 7

At this point in the trek it is a distance of about 11 kilometres to Kiharo Camp, which usually takes 4-7 hours on foot. This trek is full of stunning and unique views of the area's peaks.

Day 8

The distance from Kiharo camp to the park gates is about 12.2 kilometres and another 2.8 kilometres to the Trekkers hostel. The estimated journey time is about 5 to 8 hours, so an early start is recommended. This last segment of the trek is like something out of a fairy tale with its numerous waterfalls, huge boulders and wildlife. You can even end the trip by seeing forest animals such as primates, birds, etc.

A great experience divided into 8 days of adventure and great satisfaction. The trek to Margarita Peak is, without a doubt, one of the most recommended activities for mountain and trekking lovers.