The Central
Circuit
“Before trekkers came for the ice peaks, they came for this trail.”
Five Zones.
One Legendary Loop.
The Central Circuit is widely regarded as one of the toughest and most spectacular non-technical treks in Africa. At Rwenzori Hantravel Safaris, we guide you through five distinct vegetation zones—from tropical rainforest to the surreal alpine zone of the “Mountains of the Moon.”
This itinerary creates a full circuit of Mount Baker and Mount Stanley, crossing high-altitude passes that offer eye-level views of the glaciers without requiring you to set foot on them.
The Serious Hiker
Fit and experienced with rough trails, but prefers to avoid ropes, harnesses, and glacier crevasses.
The Photographer
Maximizes time at the Kitandara Lakes and offers the best panoramic views of the entire range.
The Purist
For those who want to complete the historic loop originally mapped by the early 20th-century explorers.
The Rainforest Ascent
Nyakalengija (1,615m) → Nyabitaba Hut (2,651m)
Humid and rich with life. Trek through the montane forest alongside the Mubuku River. Keep an eye out for Blue Monkeys and the endemic Rwenzori Turaco.
The Bamboo Ladder
Nyabitaba → John Matte Hut (3,505m)
A demanding climb. The trail is steep and often slick with mud. As altitude is gained, bamboo gives way to the giant heather zone draped in lichen.
The Bigo Bog
John Matte → Bujuku Hut (3,962m)
A corridor of giants. Massive Groundsels and Lobelias tower over the trail as you traverse the boardwalks of the Bigo Bog. We skirt the dark waters of Lake Bujuku.
The High Pass
Bujuku → Scott Elliott Pass (4,372m) → Kitandara
Day 04: The Highlight. Instead of climbing the peaks, we climb between them. The views from Scott Elliott Pass are unmatched. Descent into the Kitandara Valley to camp at the twin lakes—the most beautiful campsite in the range.
Freshfield Pass
Kitandara → Guy Yeoman Hut (3,505m)
A steep climb up the headwall. The terrain changes dramatically as we descend into the Mubuku Valley, passing historic caves used by the Duke of Abruzzi.
The Long Descent
Day 6: Guy Yeoman → Nyabitaba
Pass through Kichuchu cliffs and re-enter the bamboo. Air warms up. A final night on the mountain to break up the knee-jarring drop.
Day 7: Victory Lap
A gentle morning descent through the forest. Arrival at base station for debrief, certificates, and a celebratory meal in Kasese.
Trip Logistics
Included
- Professional Guides
- Park Fees & Huts
- Meals by Chef
- Rescue Insurance
Not Included
- Personal Gear
- Tips
- Flights/Visas
Why Hantravel?
We don’t just sell permits; we manage logistics. We ensure your porters are treated well and your food is sufficient for the high energy burn of the Central Circuit.
Book The Central Circuit