Cost of trekking the Rwenzori Mountains – Full price breakdown and then best value tips.
Trekking the beautiful Rwenzori Mountains referred to as the “Mountains of the Moon” is an incredible, world-class way to experience nature and adventure, and can be a great alternative to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. However, due to the unique requirements of the Rwenzori Mountains and park regulations regarding safety, there are actually several separate costs associated with this trip.
Therefore, in order to effectively budget for your trek, it is very important to understand how to break down the total cost into its constituent parts, as the overall cost of your trek will be greater than just the park entrance fee.
The overall price of your trek will depend on the length of your chosen route, the level of service that you would like to use, as well as whether you are primarily interested in reaching the highest point on the mountain, Margherita Peak.
Mandatory Costs: Park Fees and Staff.
The largest and most unavoidable part of the cost for your trek is the required services and fees that will be charged by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the trekking operators for services and fees to preserve the park and ensure that trekkers are safe during treks.
Park Fees and Conservation Costs: There is a daily park entrance fee set by the UWA that every climber must pay for the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. This entrance fee is significant in that it goes directly to the conservation of the areas and the diverse ecosystems contained within them.
Fees for Guides and Porters: Hiring a licensed guide and porter is a compulsory requirement for trekking in the Rwenzori Mountains. Due to the treacherous terrain and fluctuating weather conditions, it is impossible to trek safely without the assistance of professionally trained local personnel. The cost of a guide and porters consist of both their wages and food and lodging while en route. A successful summit attempt usually requires an entire team, including a head guide and assistant guides, as well as a number of porters (to transport food, tents, and personal gear); the number of porters needed varies directly with the trip distance.
Sleeping Accommodations (Hut Fees): Hut fees for the established huts located on the two primary trails (Central Circuit and Kilembe) are included in the package price. The huts provide safe but basic shelter from the harsh weather in the mountain region.
For an average trek to the summit of Margherita Peak lasting from 7 to 9 days, the basic services for all individuals generally account for the majority of the package price, which usually varies from $1,500 to $3,500 U.S. dollars per person, dependent upon the size of the group and selected tour operator like Nyumbu Beyond Journeys.
Additional and Variable Expenses: There are many additional costs associated with the trek beyond the above mandatory fees; knowing these variables allows you to make modifications to your trip based upon your individual budget.
Adventure Gear Hire: Adventure gear is central part of a hiking experience when aiming to summit Margherita Peak, and this includes gear for crossing glaciers, so that you will have a crampon, ice pick, safety harness and helmet when heading to your destination. You can rent gear from either your tour operator, or a local outfitter. The cost of renting can be a separate line item from your tour cost.
Personal Gear: Your tour operator will provide group gear, including tents and cooking equipment; however, each hiker should provide their own personal gear, including a high quality, durable four-season sleeping bag, thermal clothing layers and special footwear. Purchasing these items can contribute to a high upfront cost.
Transportation and Logistics: The expense associated with getting to the park’s main office (headquarters) in Kasese or Ibanda. When you purchase a higher-end tour package, this typically includes private transportation and/or domestic flights from either Entebbe or Kampala. These options will add to the overall cost of your
Tour Guide/Porter Tips: It is customary and expected to provide gratuities to your guides and porters for their hard work during your trek. A good daily tip budget should be included when planning your trekking holiday.
How to get the best value out of your Rwenzori Trek.
Because of its inherent logistics, the Rwenzori is a very expensive destination to get to. However, there are many ways to manage those expenses without compromising safety:
Travel with a Group: For those who travel with a larger group (usually 4-8 people who are already pre-organized) the cost per person is reduced significantly due to being able to share fixed costs like guides and vehicle transfers. The size of the group will also typically allow for sharing equipment as well.
Rent Gear Locally: For those who are not experienced mountaineers, the cost of renting the technical summit gear, along with the possibility of renting rubber boots and sleeping bags, through your operator is going to be much less than purchasing new equipment.
Tracking a Shorter Route: If tracking Margherita Peak you can choose to take a shorter 4-5 day trek through lower, equally unique moorland zones, which will significantly lower your daily park and staffing fees.
By knowing essential gear, travelling with a group, and carefully choosing the time of your itinerary, you will have the opportunity to see the amazing scenery of the Mountains of the Moon while limiting your financial commitment to this incredible African adventure with Nyumbu Beyond Journeys.
