The Ruwenzori – Mountains of the Moon
Uganda's Spectacular Snow-Tipped, Remote Mountain Sanctuary
Jun 19, 2009
The Ruwenzori mountain range is situated between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo in Africa. The range is about 120 km (75 miles) long and 65 km (40 miles) wide. It consists of six peaks separated by deep gorges: Mount Stanley at 5,109m (over 16 000 feet), Mount Speke (4,890m), Mount Baker (4,843m), Mount Emin (4,798m), Mount Gessi (4,715m) and Mount Luigi di Savoia (4,627m).
Hiking Through the Ruwenzori Mountains – What to See
While trekking through this eco-region in Africa, there is abundant and unusual vegetation to be seen. In the low elevations of the Virungas, forests of bamboo provide cover for mountain gorillas. Moving up the mountain slopes, there are giant heather plants covered in lichens and mosses.
Near to the snow line there are grassland full of giant Senecio and Lobelia plants, as well as abundant swamps. The landscape of bizarre giant Lobelias, towered over by black rock and white snow, can make one feel like one is on the set of a science fiction movie!
The unusual moorlands are quite rare in the world - found only in East and Central Africa, New Guinea, and the Northern Andes.
Giant Plant Life in the Ruwenzori Mountains
The Lobelia plant elsewhere in the world is lucky to reach a peak of less than a meter (1 foot). In the Ruwenzori area, however, the Lobelia can reach 6 meters (approximately 20 feet) in size. The mountain slopes are also covered by thick vegetation, including moss covered heath trees which can reach 12 meters (forty feet) in height. All sorts of flowers add beautiful dabs of color to the region.
Travel to Uganda and the Mountains of the Moon
After finding a flight to Entebbe International Airport, a stay can easily be arranged in Uganda's capital city which is 30km away from the airport. Kampala is a convenient staging post for a trip to the Ruwenzoris where supplies can be purchased.
There are several travel companies operating in Uganda through which bookings, transportation and accommodation can be arranged. Facilities on the mountain are limited so bookings should be made in advance. Best hiking conditions are during the dry season from December to February or from June to August. During the wet season hiking is wet and cold, and certain places are impassable.
Tips for Hiking and Climbing the Ruwenzoris
- One needs to be fit and healthy bearing in mind that there are high altitudes and steep areas which means strenuous climbing in parts of the mountains.
- Bring a small medical kit containing emergency medical supplies and energy foods with on hikes.
- Weather is unpredictable – be sure to take warm clothes and waterproof clothing and wear correct hiking boots.
- The area is isolated – do not take unnecessary risks and communicate with the rangers and guides on the trek, who are experts in their field.
- Do research beforehand on the plant life and wildlife in the area for a more enriching experience.
- Eco-tourism means being a responsible visitor – never leave litter behind and respect the environment, people and wildlife of Africa.
More Articles on Mountains in Africa that may Interest the Reader:
Table Mountain National Park in South Africa- An article which looks at activities, mountain hikes and the Cape Coastline
The Dragon Mountain Range- World Heritage Site in South Africa
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