7 Days - Central Circuit and Peak Margherita
Step into the heart of Rwenzori, tracing the steps of legends on the Central Circuit and summiting the tallest mountain in the Rwenzori range: Peak Margerhita. With each day, unravel tales of ancient expeditions, witness nature's wonders, and challenge yourself on terrains that have tested many before. Join us on this timeless adventure, where every step echoes with history and every sight is a testament to nature's grandeur.
Day 1: Beginning at Nyakalengija and Ascending to Nyabitaba Camp
Kick-start your legendary Central Circuit journey at Nyakalengija. An early arrival sets the stage for a day filled with excitement, meeting guides, porters, and gearing up. The trail unveils local farmlands leading to the park's heart, where the dense forest beckons alongside the Mubuku River. As you ascend the prominent ridge towards Nyabitaba hut, the melodies of chimpanzees harmonize with the visuals of black and white colobus and blue monkeys. A 6-7 hour trek rewards with the vibrant display of the Rwenzori turraco.
Day 2: Journeying from Nyabitaba to the John Mate Camp
Descend from Nyabitaba through a canopy of green to the iconic Kurt Shafer Bridge. As bamboo forests give way to moss-covered rock terrains, the majestic silhouettes of Mount Stanley and Mount Speke emerge. The trail ushers you through zones rich with giant heather, lobelia, and groundsel, culminating at John Mate Hut for a well-earned dinner and rest. This leg encapsulates 7-8 hours of awe-inspiring trekking.
Day 3: From the Heights of John Mate to Bujuku CAMP's Sanctuary
Embark from John Mate Hut, descending to the embrace of the Bujuku River. Navigate the mystical Lower Bigo Bog, hopping from tussock to tussock. The mesmerizing Bujuku Lake unfurls, guarded by Mt. Baker and Mt. Stanley. Your day concludes at the strategically placed Bujuku Hut, a haven for acclimatization, after 4-5 hours of exploration.
Day 4: Bujuku's Mystique to Elena Camp's High Altitude
As you depart Bujuku, the trail challenges with more bogs and steep inclines, leading you through the enchanting Groundsel Gully. Turn right, aiming for the dizzying heights of Elena Hut and Mount Stanley. The left leads to the awe-striking Scott-Elliot Pass and Kitandara Lakes. Choose your adventure, but those scaling peaks will find solace at Elena Hut after 5-6 hours of trekking.
Day 5: Conquering Peak Margherita and Descending to Kitandra Camp
Begin pre-dawn, targeting the pinnacle of Mount Stanley - Peak Margherita. This challenging 4-5 hour ascent promises unparalleled vistas, glaciers, and rocky terrains. After soaking in the triumph, a 2-3 hour descent brings you back to Elena Hut. Post-lunch, the descent continues through Scott-Elliot pass, and you're treated to views of Bujuku Lake and Mount Speke. A final descent past Kitandara Lakes ensures dinner and overnight rest at Kitandara camp, totaling 3-4 hours.
Day 6: Kitandara's Serenity to the Legacy of Guy Yeoman
Rise from Kitandara, ascending to Freshfield Pass with panoramic views stretching to the Congo and Mount Stanley. Descend through alpine mossy terrains to the historic Bujongolo, the base of the Duke of Abruzzi's 1906 expedition. A 6-7 hour journey concludes with an overnight at Guy Yeoman camp.
Day 7: The Final Descent: Guy Yeoman to Nyakalengija's Embrace
Embark on the concluding chapter, descending from Guy Yeoman through the cliffs of Kichuchu. As the trail winds, crossing the Mubuku River and leading through bamboo forests, it guides trekkers back to Nyabitaba, completing the fabled Central Circuit. A final 7-8 hour descent ensures you reach Nyakalengija by evening, marking the end of a legendary journey.