The Rwenzori Central Circuit trail

The central circuit which starts from Mihunga gate at 1651m is owned and managed by the Rwenzori Mountaineering services.  This is the most convenient, easy and shortest route to Margheritah peak, although the path between the John matte and Bujuku camps are always boggy. The central circuit trail route can lead you through Mount baker, Mount Stanley , Mount Speke and sometimes the Weismann peak of the Rwenzori mountains National Park.

The central Circuit is the shortest and most popular old traditional hiking route used by most Rwenzori mountaineers. The route/trail is owned and managed by Rwenzori mountaineering services that is community based and approaches the Rwenzori mountains from the east.

This magnificent trail navigates through the 5 different  vegetation zones, which offers spectacular views of Mount Baker, Mount stanley, Mount Speke and Weisman Peak, as it crosses both the lower and the upper bigo bogs,  which are firmly supported by board walks for easy trekking  through the area.

The central circuit trail begins from the Mihunga trail head, to Bujuku via Nyabitaba and John Matte.  From the Bujuku, the trail then leads to other peaks, over to the scott Elliot Pass, then to Kitandara lakes. It then proceeds over the fresh field pass to Bujuku Valley.

The trail is slightly rough, along which are five evenly distributed huts, that are used as overnight spots used for resting for all mountaineers climbing the mountains. The huts are tolerant to all weather conditions, including Nyabitaba hut, John Matte, Bujuku hut, Elena Hut, Kitandara hut and Guy yeoman.

However, the trail follows the thick forests and bushes which is a natural home to different mammals and bird species such as hyrax, forest elephants, Forest Elephants, L’Hoest monkeys, Black and White colobus monkeys, three horned chameleons, while the birds include Rwenzori Turaco, handsome francolin, barred long tail cuckoo, strange weaver among others.

Lastly the recommended safaris along this trail include 7 days central circuits, 6 days weismann trek, , 5 days Rwenzori trek among and more depending on the strength  and preference of each mountaineer, since the trail passes through all the 5 vegetation zones.

SUSPENSION OF HIKING TO MARGHERITA PEAK IN RWENZORI MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

As Of May 14, 2024 – Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) announced a temporary suspension of hiking activities to Margherita Peak in Rwenzori Mountains National Park. This decision came as a precautionary measure after a comprehensive assessment conducted by the team in response to reports of a crevasse formation in the Margherita glacier.
To make hiking safer, options of installing a permanent ladder at a strategic position on the right side of the Margherita glacier is still, being explored. This alternative route will provide a safer passage for hikers to Margherita Peak

In the interim, we encourage visitors to explore other picturesque peaks within Rwenzori Mountains National Park. Notable alternatives include Mount Speke, Mount Baker, and Cheptegei Peak on the Stanley Range. These routes offer breathtaking views and unique experiences amidst the stunning landscape of the park.
Uganda wildlife Authority prioritizes the safety and well-being of  all clients, and are committed to ensuring that all clients safely enjoy their visit to Rwenzori Mountains National Park, as they continue monitoring the situation closely and provide updates on the status of hiking activities to Margherita Peak as developments unfold.