Comparing Kilimanjaro and Rwenzori Mountains for the Hiking Experience

Kilimanjaro and Rwenzori mountains are the top hiking spots in East Africa, drawing adventure lovers from all over. Many hikers find it challenging to choose between these two famous mountains. Here, we’ll guide you through what makes each mountain special and help you decide which one fits your hiking goals best. Besides the hike itself, tourists often consider other activities they can enjoy before or after their climb, which can also influence their decision.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa, with its peak marking the continent’s highest point. It is located in northeastern Tanzania near the Kenya border, about 140 kilometers south of Nairobi. Kilimanjaro offers seven different routes to reach the top, each with its pros and cons. A proper acclimatization period is important for a safer, more enjoyable Kilimanjaro hike.

The popular hiking routes on Kilimanjaro are:

Machame Route: Known for its beautiful scenery.

Umbwe Route: One of the steeper paths.

Marangu Route: The oldest and the only route with permanent huts.

Lemosho Route: Good for scenery and is recommended for acclimatization.

Rongai Route: Considered scenic and easier than most.

Northern Circuit Route: The longest but great for acclimatization.

Shira Route: Quite challenging.

While hiking Kilimanjaro, you’ll pass through five unique climate zones before reaching the top, which range from lush lowland forests to glacial zones. These are:

Lowland Forest: Found at 1850m to 2800m, with rich vegetation.

Shrubs Zone: At around 3000m, with fewer trees.

Arid Rocky Zone: Around 4000m, with dry, rocky terrain.

Glacial Desert: Mostly covered in snow with visible glaciers, though they are gradually melting.

Each climate zone adds variety to the climb, making the experience exciting but also demanding, as you adjust to different weather and altitude conditions.

Mount Rwenzori

Mount Rwenzori, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” is another stunning but challenging hike in Africa. First discovered by explorer Henry Stanley, Rwenzori spans around 120 kilometers in length and 65 kilometers in width. Rwenzori’s main peaks are Mount Stanley (5109m), Mount Speke (4890m), Mount Baker (4843m), Mount Gessi (4715m), Mount Emin (4798m), and Mount Luigi di Savoia (4627m). Hikes on Rwenzori typically last from 7 to 12 days, taking hikers through lush vegetation and rugged terrain up to the summit.

The main trails on Rwenzori include:

Central Circuit Trail: A popular choice for all hikers, going through five vegetation zones and offering beautiful views of valleys and rock formations.

Bukurungu Wilderness Camping Trail: This is a newer, lesser-known route that offers campers great lake views, including Bujuku, Irene, Mughuli, and Bukurungu Lakes. It takes about 8 days to reach Margherita Peak.

Kilembe Trail: Also called the Southern Circuit, this longer route is managed by Rwenzori Trekking Services. It has new huts and takes 7 to 8 days, giving climbers ample time to adjust to the altitude.

Why Hike Both Kilimanjaro and Rwenzori?

Both mountains are snow-capped and offer unique, memorable hiking experiences. While these are considered accessible for beginners, hikers with some experience find the treks even more rewarding. Both hikes provide fantastic views and a sense of adventure unmatched in East Africa.

Packing List for Kilimanjaro and Rwenzori Hikes

Packing wisely for Kilimanjaro and Rwenzori is key for a comfortable trek. Here’s a recommended packing list:

• Garden gloves (for cold protection)
• Warm clothes (sweaters, jackets, socks, scarf)
• First aid kit
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• A camera
• Strong hiking boots
• Waterproof rain jacket and backpack
• Snacks
• Sunhat, sunglasses, and a beanie or warm hat for colder areas
• Scarf

Important Tips for Hiking Kilimanjaro and Rwenzori

Choose the Best Route: Each mountain has multiple routes with different levels of difficulty. Consult your guide to pick a route that best suits your preferences, fitness level, and hiking experience.

Physical and Mental Preparation: Make sure you are physically and mentally ready for these climbs. Strengthen your legs, ankles, and joints to avoid muscle strain or injury.

Altitude Sickness: Higher altitudes mean lower oxygen levels, which can lead to dizziness and fatigue. Altitude sickness is common, but with the right approach (like “climbing high and sleeping low”), hikers can acclimatize better.

Accommodation Options on Kilimanjaro and Rwenzori

Kilimanjaro: Each of the seven routes has camps for overnight stays, except the Marangu route, which has dormitory-style huts. Camps are maintained by staff who set up tents and other necessities ahead of your arrival.

Rwenzori: Options here include various camps and huts like:

• Nyabitaba Hut
• John Matte Hut at 3505m
• Bujuku Hut at 3962m
• Elena Hut at 4023m
• Kitandara Hut at 4023m
• Guy Yeoman Hut at 3505m
• Kalalama Camp at 314m
• Mutinda Camp at 3688m
• Hunwick’s Camp at 3974m
• Margherita Camp at 4485m

These huts and camps provide a safe resting place and allow hikers to adjust to the high-altitude environment gradually.

Best Times for Hiking Kilimanjaro and Rwenzori

While you can hike both mountains year-round, the dry season is the best time to go. In East Africa, this is from June to September and December to February. Here’s a look at each season’s pros and cons:

• June to September: Though June is a transition from the rainy season, July to September is drier and thus more favorable. Expect crowds and higher prices during these months.
• October to November: Short rains begin in October, leading to wet and slippery trails, which can make hiking difficult.
• December to February: This is a dry period, but early December may still see some rain. These months offer good hiking conditions with minimal crowds.
• March to May: Heavy rains make trails slippery and less enjoyable. Fewer hikers choose this season due to challenging conditions.

A unique option is to plan your hike around the full moon, especially on Kilimanjaro. The bright moonlight lights up the glaciers and paths, improving visibility as you approach the peak.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to hike Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Rwenzori, or both, the experience is bound to be unforgettable. Both mountains present natural beauty and rewarding challenges, making them excellent options for hikers looking to explore East Africa’s iconic landscapes with Iconic Africa Safaris. With the right preparation and guide, your hike will be safe, enjoyable, and a lasting adventure.