The Rwenzoris, Uganda
The Rwenzoris Mountains stretch 90 miles in length and are situated on the western border of Uganda, between Lake George and Lake Albert. They form the western border of the part of the Great East African Rift Valley that passes through Uganda. The Rwenzoris mountain range is known as ‘The Mountains of the Moon’ and has a legendary beauty. In total the range has six peaks, capped with ice and snow and has three glaciers. The highest peak, Margherita, is the third highest peak in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and Mount Kenya in Kenya. The abundant flora and bird life within the vicinity of the region is very unique. The best times to visit are from June to August, and December to February.
Due to the vastness of this mountainous region the flora found here is very special. A variety of large mammals are to be known to inhabit the lower slopes, but the Rwenzoris are more well-known for their grand scenery and wide ranging vegetation. The trails lead through rainforest rattling with monkeys and birds, then through tall bamboo forest, before emerging on the high-altitude moorland zone, a landscape of bizarre giant lobelias, towered over by black rock and white snow, looking for all the world like the set of a science fiction film. The mountains themselves are a true hidden gem in a country that has so much variety to offer.