East Africa has varying mountains for those interested in the hiking adventure. From Africa’s tallest mountain to harder to climb mountains like the Rwenzoris of Uganda, an adventure seeker will have a real treat on his hiking expedition in East Africa. The Mountains in East Africa have varying vegetation zones that are a habitat for wildlife. This is a great opportunity to see animals in the wild.
Climbing Mountain Kilimanjaro
We have Mount Kilimanjaro which is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain on earth. Crowned with an everlasting snow-cap. This majestic mountain is found inside the Kilimanjaro National Park of Tanzania, at 005.00 degrees south, 036 degrees east.
Climbing Mount Kenya
Mount Kenya is also a massif consisting of a multitude of imposing spires, cliffs, complex ridges and peaks. These are weathered remnants of a large extinct volcano that was active several million years ago. Mount Kenya straddles the equator but is sufficiently high to receive significant snowfall and to be circled with several glaciers. Temperatures vary considerably with height and with time of day. At 3000m, Frosts can be encountered at night while day temperatures range from 5 to 15°C. Night time temperatures on the summit are well below freezing so snow can be encountered at any time of year.
Virunga Volcanoes Hiking
Mountain Hiking in Rwanda is on the rise for tourists who go for mountain Gorilla trekking activities in the country. Rwanda has six of the eight Virunga Volcanoes that are shared with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Hiking in the Virungas is an adventure that is rewarding even before reaching the summits of the volcanic mountains. The most popular climbs are Bisoke Hiking (takes one day), Karisimbi Hike (2 Days Hike), Hike to Ngezi Crater. Other hikes in the Virungas are the Nyiragongo Volcano Hike(3 Days) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. For information about hiking the Virunga check out the Virunga Guide
Rwenzori Mountain Hiking
Hiking in the mystic Ruwenzori Mountains National Park in Uganda exposes you to the wonders of the high glaciers, the beauty of the valley of nine lakes, the bearded lichen hanging from giant heathers with a backdrop of rocky cliffs, crags and snow capped peaks. The mountain has many climbs and descents which makes it a tough climb however the scenery and beautiful vegetation are incredible to see.
Mount Elgon Hiking
Mount Elgon is a hiking destination in East Africa having a huge volcano and a largest caldera in Africa. Elgons’ name derives from its Maasai name of “Ol Doinyo Ilgoon” which translates to “Breast Mountain” and was also known as “Masaba”. The mountain can be climbed from both Uganda and Kenya. There are various trails that have been developed – taking 4-8 days.
There are several waterfalls on the slopes not forgetting the hot springs. Mount Elgon consists of five major peaks including: Wagagai (4,321 meters); Uganda. Sudek (4,302 meters); Kenya/Uganda border Koitobos (4,222 meters); Kenya,Mubiyi (4,211 meters); Uganda
Masaba (4,161 meters); Uganda.