Equipment/packing list for hiking Rwenzori mountains

Equipment/packing list for hiking Rwenzori mountains: Often called the mountains of the moon, Rwenzori Mountain is found in the western Uganda inside Rwenzori Mountains national park.  Rwenzori Mountain is found on the borders of Uganda and DR Congo near Virunga national park where it measures 120 kilometers long and 65 kilometers wide. The snow-capped mountain Rwenzori has the highest point in Uganda on Mount Stanley at a peak named Margherita.

The highest point on Mount Rwenzori is at 5109 meters above sea level and for any hiker to get there they need the right equipment. The right equipment needed for Rwenzori hiking includes what to wear, camping, and hiking equipment among others. Today we are going to talk about the different equipment a hiker needs while on a hiking safari to Rwenzori Mountain.

Equipment/packing list for hiking Rwenzori mountains

As you plan to hike Mount Rwenzori, remember to include the following items on your packing list.

Long-sleeved clothes that are not cotton

Mountain Rwenzori can receive rainfall at any time of the year so hikers need to come with clothes that dry so fast. Non-cotton clothes dry faster even after raining meaning that hikers don’t have chance clothes in case it rains. Long-sleeved clothes are the best for hiking because they make a hiker comfortable even in areas where it’s very cold.

Hikers are advised to bring many clothes because each can be used for only a single day. Jeans are the best for hiking and they are good if not too tight. The shorts are only used at low altitudes because there is still warmth and body sweats a lot but as you climb to the summit the coldness needs long pants.

A rain jacket

While hiking Mountain Rwenzori you need a rain jacket with a hood. This will help to keep you dry in times of rainfall while you hike Mountain Rwenzori. Raining in mountain Rwenzori can happen at any time of the day even in the dry season. Hikers can travel with more than one rain jacket because hiking is done for 9 to 12 days and one jacket might not be enough.

Waterproof hiking shoes

Waterproof hiking shoes are a must while hiking mount Rwenzori. This is because hikers pass through different terrains some of which have stones and rocks. The shoes need to be waterproof because hikers expect some rainfall at any time of the day and some of the areas tend to be muddy. With good waterproof hiking shoes, hikers are able to go through difficult terrain and rock areas.

Socks

Hiking Rwenzori mountains you will need socks that can absorb a lot of moisture. Hikers are advised to carry stocks that are enough for the number of days that they will take hiking the mountain. During night hours, hikers still need stocks to keep their feet warm.

Sandals

While hiking Mountain Rwenzori hikers are asked to come with waterproof hiking shoes and these are used during the day to hike. In the evening hours, hikers use scandals to move around the accommodation facility, visit the latrines, and even when showering because sleeping.

Backpack

While going for hiking on mountain Rwenzori, you need a backpack to help you carry a few items which are needed during the day. These items can include a phone, batteries, and toiletries among others. Other items can be carried in a bag which is carried by porters. Hikers are asked to bring bags that are waterproof because it can rain at any time of the year.

Torch

The accommodation facilities on the slopes of Mountain Rwe#nzori have no power and a hiker bringing torch will be of help. The torch can be used to light during the night hours in your cabin or around the areas while having a simple night walk.

First aid kit

While going for Rwenzori hiking, you need a first aid kit. A first aid kit is necessary because anything can happen especially in rocky areas. There are possibilities of sliding and harming yourself, especially in the rainy season. The first kit should include bandages, painkillers, iodine, and other high altitude medication.

A camera and extra batteries

While hiking Mountain Rwenzori, one needs a camera to capture images of the different attractions found there. There are different peaks on Mount Rwenzori, unique vegetation cover, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and beautiful landscapes. A hiker needs a good camera and extra batteries in case the power runs out.

Energy giving snacks

As you start hiking, you will be given hiking snacks but you can also bring along your own snacks which you can eat in case you don’t like what the service provider is offering. You can still take their snacks and yours at the same time and this will mean that you have enough to eat when hungry.

A pair of binoculars

While hiking Mountain Rwenzori you need a pair of binoculars which are used to see objects clearly. The binoculars also help to see distant objects clearly which naked eyes cannot see.  Among the things you can see using binoculars on Mountain Rwenzori include wildlife, rocks, peaks, vegetation, and areas around the mountains.