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Uganda Horizon Safaris – Your Safety is Our Top Priority in the Mountains of the Moon
Climbing the Rwenzori Mountains, with their dramatic peaks, glacier valleys, and unique alpine landscapes, is one of Africa’s most thrilling trekking adventures. Reaching Margherita Peak at 5,109 meters is a challenge that rewards you with views few will ever witness. But as with any high-altitude climb, safety is paramount.
At Uganda Horizon Safaris, we take mountain rescue and emergency preparedness very seriously. While the Rwenzoris are a safe destination for experienced trekkers with professional guidance, unpredictable weather, high-altitude challenges, or accidents can occasionally create the need for mountain rescue operations. Being informed and well-prepared is the best way to ensure a safe and successful climb.
The Rwenzoris are remote, with trails passing through steep valleys, dense forests, and high-altitude glaciers. In the event of illness, injury, or severe altitude sickness (AMS), descent can take time without the right systems in place. That’s why Uganda Horizon Safaris has trained guides, clear rescue protocols, and strong partnerships with helicopter rescue providers.
Rescue operations may involve:
On-foot evacuation to the nearest hut or trailhead.
Stretcher carries for non-mobile patients.
Helicopter airlifts in serious emergencies.
Before attempting a Rwenzori climb, it is mandatory that all trekkers have comprehensive travel insurance covering:
High-altitude trekking (above 5,000 meters).
Emergency medical treatment.
Helicopter evacuation in Uganda.
Repatriation to your home country.
We recommend checking the policy wording carefully to ensure the Rwenzori climb is included. Some insurance companies require you to declare high-altitude trekking as an extra activity.
Popular insurance providers for mountain climbing include:
World Nomads
Global Rescue
Allianz Travel Insurance
IMG Travel Insurance
Our team can guide you on choosing a provider, but it is the responsibility of each climber to have proof of adequate cover before the climb begins.
Helicopter evacuation is the fastest and safest way to transport a climber in critical condition to a medical facility. In Uganda, helicopter rescues from the Rwenzoris are provided by specialized operators such as:
Great Lakes Safaris Aviation Partners
Uganda People’s Defence Forces Air Wing (in rare government-assisted cases)
A helicopter rescue typically involves:
Guide Communication – Your guide radios our base team with your location and medical condition.
Coordination with Helicopter Providers – We request immediate dispatch from the nearest helicopter base (often Entebbe or Kasese).
On-Site Preparation – Guides prepare a landing zone where possible, or an extraction point near the patient.
Evacuation to Hospital – Usually to Kampala or Entebbe for treatment.
Important: Helicopter rescues are expensive, often costing between $5,000 and $10,000 USD, which is why adequate insurance is essential. Without insurance, payment is required before dispatch.
We prioritize prevention first, so you are less likely to need a rescue:
Altitude Acclimatization – Gradual ascent schedules to reduce AMS risk.
Guide Training – All guides are trained in mountain first aid, AMS recognition, and evacuation procedures.
First Aid Equipment – Carried on every climb, including oxygen and communication devices.
Emergency Communication – Satellite phones and radios for remote contact.
If a situation arises, our guides act immediately, ensuring quick stabilization and the safest evacuation option.
Train before your climb – Cardiovascular fitness reduces exhaustion-related accidents.
Acclimatize properly – Follow your guide’s pace and rest days.
Listen to your body – Report headaches, nausea, or dizziness early.
Follow safety instructions – Especially in glacier and rope-assisted sections.
Stay hydrated and nourished – Dehydration increases altitude sickness risk.
Summit Margherita Peak with professional, safety-trained guides.
Experience five vegetation zones in one trek – from rainforest to glacier.
Overnight in mountain huts with warm meals and secure shelter.
Learn about local Bakonzo culture while supporting community livelihoods.
After a challenging climb, you can relax or continue exploring Uganda with us:
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest.
Wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel.
Climbing the Rwenzori Mountains is a challenging, rewarding, and life-changing experience. With Uganda Horizon Safaris, you have the reassurance that safety is built into every step of your journey. From insurance guidance to trained rescue-ready guides and access to helicopter evacuation, we ensure you are protected in the unlikely event of an emergency.
Your job is to focus on the climb, the views, and the incredible sense of achievement — knowing that if the unexpected happens, you’re in the best hands possible.
Contact us today to plan your Rwenzori expedition with Uganda’s trusted mountain experts, and climb with confidence knowing that safety comes first.
