Trekking Margherita Peak via the Central Circuit Trail in the Rwenzori Mountains
Margherita Peak (5,109m) is the highest point in Uganda and the third-highest in Africa, located on Mount Stanley in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park (often called the "Mountains of the Moon"). The *Central Circuit Trail* is the classic and most popular route to the summit, starting from Nyakalengija (near Kasese). It's the oldest trail, following the historic 1906 expedition route by the Duke of Abruzzi, and passes through diverse vegetation zones: montane forest, bamboo, heather, giant lobelias, and alpine moorland before reaching glacial terrain.
This trek is challenging due to mud, bogs, steep rocky sections, and high altitude. It involves technical elements on the summit day (crampons, ice axe, ropes for glaciers). The standard full loop to Margherita and back is *7 days/6 nights on the mountain*, often extended to 8-9 days total including transfers.
Typical 7-Day Itinerary (Central Circuit to Margherita Peak)
- *Day 1*: Nyakalengija (1,615m) → Nyabitaba Hut (2,651m)
5-7 hours through farmland, rainforest, and along the Mubuku River. Spot monkeys and birds.
- *Day 2*: Nyabitaba → John Matte Hut (3,505m)
6-8 hours crossing bogs (famous giant lobelias), Kurt Shafer Bridge, and heather zones.
- *Day 3*: John Matte → Bujuku Hut (3,962m)
4-6 hours through Upper Bigo Bog, with views of Mount Stanley and Lake Bujuku.
- *Day 4*: Bujuku → Elena Hut (4,541m)
3-5 hours, steep ascent over rocky terrain to the base camp for the summit.
- *Day 5 (Summit Day) *: Elena → Margherita Peak (5,109m) → Kitandara Hut (4,027m)
Early start (2-3am), 5-7 hours up via Stanley Plateau and Margherita Glacier (technical section). Descend to Elena for lunch, then to scenic Kitandara Lakes.
- *Day 6*: Kitandara → Guy Yeoman Hut (3,450m)
5-7 hours via Freshfield Pass, with views into DRC Congo.
- *Day 7*: Guy Yeoman → Nyabitaba → Nyakalengija
7-9 hours descent through bamboo and forest.
Shorter (5-6 days) or longer (8-9 days) versions exist for better acclimatization or side peaks.
Scenery Along the Trail
The Central Circuit offers stunning variety: lush forests, misty bogs, alpine lakes, and dramatic glaciers.
Preparation and Tips
- *Fitness*: Very demanding—expect 6-10 hours/day, mud, altitude sickness risk.
- *Gear*: Waterproof everything (it's often wet/misty). Rent crampons, ice axe, harness in Kasese. Porters carry heavy loads (highly recommended).
- *Best Time*: Dry seasons—June-September or December-February (less rain, clearer views).
- *Operators*: Book through Uganda Wildlife Authority partners like discovery Slayers Uganda and 6 Summits African Expeditions. Costs ~$1,365-1,500 USD including guides, porters, food, huts.
- *Permits*: Required; arranged via operators.
This is one of Africa's most rewarding treks—unique equatorial glaciers, bizarre flora, and a true adventure. If you're planning a trip, start with good physical training!