These legendary, mystical, mist-covered mountains on Uganda’s western border with Democratic Republic of Congo are presumed to be the Mountains of the Moon, described in AD 350 by Ptolemy who proclaimed them to be the source of the Nile River
These legendary, mystical, mist-covered mountains on Uganda’s western border with Democratic Republic of Congo are presumed to be the Mountains of the Moon, described in AD 350 by Ptolemy who proclaimed them to be the source of the Nile River...he was ahead of his time, that Ptolemy.
They are the tallest mountain range in Africa and some of the peaks are permanently covered in snow and ice glaciers. Unlike most mountains in this regiont, the Rwenzoris are strangely not volcanic. The lower slopes are covered in thick tropical rainforest which, as you ascend, give way to weird and wonderful afro-alpine moorland. This fragile area now carries the badge of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Not many visitors are intrepid enough to visit this very under-developed park. The treks are arduous and a great deal less accessiable than the more popular Mt Kilimanjaro and Mt Kenya.
The climbing is often wet, always steep and consequently slippery and to add insult to injury, is often shrouded in thick cloud with just an occasional ray of sun penetrating through the cloud. To make the most of the various treks through the forest and up onto the moorland, climbers need at least six days on the mountain and a day each side to get back to civilization. Late December to mid-March, and again mid-June to mid-August are the best times to tackle this trek.
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Catherine's long experience of, and enthusiasm for Africa, makes her a mine of travel information. Add to the mix her vivacious character and inscrutable attention to detail and there are few people you'd rather have plan your holiday.
At Natural High, we've had long experience putting together trips in Africa that really work. Whether it's intimate bushcamps in out of the way places, or a private lodge in one of Africa's top-billing wildlife areas, light mobile camping or remote island escapes, we know there is a lot to choose from. We're absolutely confident that we can recommend the right places for you.