u/RwatataSafarisUganda

Far from what many people imagine when they think of Africa, the Rwenzori Mountains rise dramatically along the Uganda–DRC border, with glaciers and snow-covered peaks near the summit.

Known as the Mountains of the Moon, the Rwenzoris offer an incredible journey from dense rainforest and misty highlands to rugged alpine terrain, ice, and snow.

The higher you climb, the more surreal the landscape becomes. One moment you're walking through tropical vegetation, and hours later you're surrounded by cold mountain air, glaciers, and snow.

It’s one of Africa’s most unexpected adventures—and one that deserves far more attention.

Would you hike the Rwenzoris to experience snow in Africa?

Been meaning to share this — chimp trekking in Kibale Forest (Uganda) doesn't get talked about nearly as much as gorilla trekking in Bwindi, but it's honestly just as incredible in a different way.

Kibale has one of the highest primate densities in Africa. You're tracking through the forest with guides, and the chimps are just... loud. Calls echoing through the canopy, families moving fast through the trees, way more chaotic and dynamic than the calmer gorilla encounters. It feels more "wild" in some ways.

A few practical notes if anyone's considering it:

Permits are far cheaper than gorilla permits (~$250 vs $700+ for gorillas)

Best paired with a Bwindi gorilla trek if you're already in western Uganda

Morning treks tend to have better sighting odds since chimps are more active early

Happy to answer questions if anyone's planning a Uganda trip — I work with a ground operator out there (Rwatata Safaris) and can point people in the right direction if useful.