This classic 7-day Central Circuit trek is perfect for strong hikers who want to reach Margherita Peak (5,109 m) — Africa’s third-highest point — in a condensed timeframe. You’ll cross diverse vegetation zones, from lush rainforest to the glacier of Mount Stanley, encounter giant lobelias and heathers, and enjoy panoramic views across Uganda and the Congo. With Uganda Horizon Safaris, you’ll travel comfortably from Entebbe to Kasese by domestic flight, maximizing your time in the mountains.
You land at Entebbe International Airport and are transferred to a comfortable hotel. Enjoy a welcome briefing led by Uganda Horizon Safaris, covering logistics, gear checks, and introduction to your trekking team. Relax and prepare for your high-altitude journey in Uganda.
After breakfast, board the Aerolink Uganda morning flight to Kasese Airstrip (~60 min). You’re driven to Nyakalengija Gate and begin your hike through lush rainforest, crossing streams and spotting forest birds and primates. By afternoon, reach Nyabitaba Hut (2,652 m), where your team settles into camp and meets porters and guides.
You leave Nyabitaba early, hiking upward through bamboo groves and giant heather zones. The trail winds through ridges and valleys with increasing altitude. After crossing alpine terrain and refreshing streams, arrive at John Matte Hut (3,505 m). Here you relax, review the upcoming stages, and enjoy dinner as the mountain sky darkens.
Today’s route ascends over marshy moorland and across giant groundsels. The trail offers panoramic views over Bujuku Valley and alpine lakes. Arrive at Bujuku Hut (3,977 m) mid-afternoon, take time to appreciate high-altitude flora and Bora lake reflections, and rest early in preparation for summit push.
Begin a pre‑dawn departure to scale glacier ridges and snow slopes up to Margherita Peak (5,109 m). Celebrate at the summit before descending to Elena or Kitandara area for lunch, then continue down to Guy Yeoman Hut (3,505 m). Evening is reflective, with summit stories shared over dinner.
Descend through montane forest and bamboo zones back to Nyakalengija Gate. Transfer to Kasese town for a hot meal and relaxation. Overnight in a comfortable Kasese lodge, recounting the trek with fellow hikers under guiding support.
After breakfast, transfer to Kasese Airstrip for your Aerolink Uganda flight back to Entebbe (~60 min). Arrive at Entebbe Airport or hotel location, ending your journey with unforgettable memories.
Transfer to Kasese Airstrip for your return flight to Entebbe. Connect with your international flight or extend your stay in Uganda.
Tipping recommendations at the Rwenzori Mountains:
• Main Guide: $20/day/guide
• Assistant Guide: $15/day/guide
• Cook: $12/day
• Porter: $8/day/porter
Clients/Porters ratio 1:4
Absolutely yes. We will arrange all airport transfers for you from and to the airport so that you don’t have to worry about how to get to your hotel. One of our drivers or guides will come to pick you up and take you back to the airport. This is already included in our offers and services.
Absolutely yes. Our handpicked hotels all offer you to safely store your luggage during your climb. In this way you can leave all gear that you won’t need during your climb at the hotel. That is very convenient if you are planning to go on a safari or to Zanzibar after your hike.
Tanzania Horizon Safaris has worked out a very transparent cancellation policy. In most cases we can offer a voucher if you have to postpone your travel. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Please note that deposits are non-refundable as they have to be used for making reservations for your hotel and transport.
*If a booking is cancelled the client is subject to a cancellation fee as follows:
