Margherita Peak
Expedition
The Rwenzori is not a hiking trail;
it is an environment.
Unlike Kilimanjaro, which is largely a walking high-altitude struggle, Mount Stanley requires you to navigate mud, vertical bogs, and technical glacier crossings.
At Rwenzori Hantravel Safaris, we operate directly from Kasese. We don’t outsource your safety. This 7-day itinerary is designed for fit trekkers who want to summit Margherita Peak efficiently while allowing just enough time for acclimatization at Bujuku.
Weather Reality
Expect rain or mist daily. The “wet” season is mud; the “dry” season is just less mud. Prepare mentally for the humidity.
Expedition Overview
The Ascent Profile
The Ascent Begins
Briefing at Mihunga Gate. Trek through local farmland and enter the park gate. Follow the Mubuku River through humid forests. Watch for the Rwenzori Turaco.
Into the Bamboo
Cross the Kurt Shafer Bridge (Mubuku/Bujuku confluence). Steep ascent through slippery bamboo zone into the giant heather trees covered in lichen. First visual of Mt. Stanley.
The Bigo Bog
A notorious section. Cross the Lower Bigo Bog on boardwalks (balance required). Landscape shifts to alien giant lobelias.
Strategy: Acclimatize well at Bujuku. Air is thin.
Base Camp Push
Leave vegetation behind. Scramble over wet, mossy rock and scree to Elena Hut. It is cold, rocky, and functional. Prep ropes and crampons immediately.
The Summit Push
Start: 02:00 AM. Move by headlamp. Rope up for Stanley Plateau. Cross three glaciers. Technical push to summit.
Descent: Direct drop to Kitandara Lakes. Knee-jarring but arguably the most beautiful point in the range.
The Ridge Line
Steep climb to Freshfield Pass (4,282m) with views into DRC. Steep, muddy descent into Mubuku Valley to Guy Yeoman camp.
The Exit
Drop back through bamboo and forest zones. Air gets thicker. Arrival at base for debrief and certificate collection.
Essential Packing
- Gumboots: Essential for bog sections (Day 2 & 3).
- Dry Bags: Waterproof liners for all porter bags.
- Gloves: Two pairs (Thermal + Waterproof Shell).
Book with Locals
We are based in Kasese. We know the current conditions on the mountain better than anyone. Secure your permit and guides today.
Chat with an Expedition Guide