Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda

3-Day John Matte Camp Trek

Enjoy a shorter, highly rewarding expedition perfect for acclimatization, offering your first breathtaking views of the snow-capped Margherita Peak.

Duration
Duration3 Days
Altitude
Max Altitude3,414m
Difficulty
DifficultyModerate Trek

Expedition Overview

The 3-Day John Matte Camp Trek is the perfect introduction to the Rwenzori Mountains for those with limited time or who are seeking an acclimatization hike before taking on larger peaks.

Starting at the Nyakalengija basecamp, this trek takes you through lush tropical rainforests teeming with exotic birds and primates, across the Mubuku River, and up through the dense bamboo zone. Arriving at John Matte Hut (3,414m), you will be rewarded with your first clear, spectacular views of the snow-capped Mount Stanley and Margherita Peak.

Elevation Profile

1,646m
Basecamp
2,651m
Nyabitaba
3,414m
John Matte
2,651m
Nyabitaba
1,646m
Basecamp

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Nyakalengija to Nyabitaba Hut

Start Altitude1,646m
End Altitude2,651m
Elevation Gain+1,005m
Trek Distance10 km
Duration5-6 hrs
AccommodationNyabitaba Hut
MealsLunch, Dinner

Begin your ascent from the basecamp through thick equatorial rainforest, listening for Rwenzori Turacos and Blue Monkeys. The steady climb ends at Nyabitaba Hut.

Day 2

Nyabitaba to John Matte Hut

Start Altitude2,651m
End Altitude3,414m
Elevation Gain+763m
Trek Distance9 km
Duration6-7 hrs
AccommodationJohn Matte Hut
MealsB, L, D

Cross the Kurt Shafer Bridge over the Mubuku River. Navigate steep, rocky sections through the bamboo forest to reach John Matte Hut, where you will catch your first clear glimpse of the snow-capped peaks of Mount Stanley.

Day 3

John Matte to Basecamp Departure

Start Altitude3,414m
End Altitude1,646m
Elevation Gain-1,768m
Trek Distance19 km
Duration7-9 hrs
AccommodationNone
MealsBreakfast, Lunch

A long, scenic descent combining two days into one. Retrace your steps back through the bamboo forest, pass Nyabitaba Hut for lunch, and continue down through the lush rainforest to the basecamp gate.

Equipment & Gear

Mountaineering requires proper equipment. Please review the essential gear list below.

Clothing & Footwear

  • Waterproof outer shell (Gore-Tex)
  • Heavy down jacket for summit night
  • Sturdy, crampon-compatible boots
  • Thick thermal wool socks (3-4 pairs)
  • Moisture-wicking base layers

Technical Gear

  • 4-Season sleeping bag (-10°C)
  • Comfortable Daypack (30-40L)
  • Waterproof gaiters (Crucial for Bigo Bogs)
  • LED Headlamp with extra batteries
  • UV Protection Sunglasses
Swipe to explore gear
Missing gear? Don't worry. You can rent high-quality technical climbing gear (crampons, ice axes, harnesses) and warm sleeping bags directly from our basecamp for a flat $100 rate. Just select "Rent Full Gear" in the booking form.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What is Included

  • UWA Park Entrance & Hiking Permits
  • Professional Local Mountain Guides
  • Mountain Hut Accommodations
  • Standard Porter Support (15kg)
  • All Hot Meals on the Mountain

Not Included

  • International Flights & Visas
  • Personal Trekking Gear (Available to rent)
  • Guide & Porter Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance

The Hantravel Difference

Feature Rwenzori Hantravel Standard Operators
Guides UMGA Certified Bakonzo General Trekking Guides
Safety Gear Pulse Oximeters & Oxygen Basic First Aid Only
Meals High-Calorie Hot Meals Standard Camp Food
Equipment Premium Rentals Available Bring Your Own
Starting From
$750

A detailed invoice will be securely emailed to you instantly.

Starting From $750
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