A trip into the Rwenzoris is an exhilarating and rewarding experience but one, which must be well planned.  The key to an enjoyable visit is to “be prepared!” The central circuit hike takes six nights/seven days and reaches an altitude of 14,000ft (4,267m) above sea level.  The conditions on the mountain are a challenge to even an experienced hiker.  This mountain is re-known for its un-engineered, steep, and slippery trails and frequent rain.  Rainfall and cold temperatures, bogs, mud, steep terrain, and high altitude make it a challenging trip.
 
Nevertheless, it is exciting! You need to try it! Since during much of the year mud, rain, mist, and wind occur daily, adequate clothing (and a mental attitude!) for these conditions. The periods of July – August and December – February are relatively dry and for inexperienced hikers, the best seasons for trek.  During any season, rain gear, a good sleeping bag, a warm hat, gloves, heavy socks, gumboots, gaiters, and a walking stick for balance (and to probe the mud) are recommended.  A basic first aid kit is a necessity.
 
Porters will be carrying your heavy equipment and food, leaving a small pack with rain gear, warm clothes (on higher sections), a camera, a water bottle, snacks, and lunch. 

Health and Safety on the Trail

The high altitude and cold wet conditions of the Rwenzori Mountains can adversely affect inexperienced visitors.  The following are ailments, which may occur:
Hypothermia, Dehydration, Altitude sicknesses, AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema), and HACE (High altitude Cerebral Edema).

Good Behaviour at the Huts and on the Trail is Appreciated

1. Accept the Park’s limit of 16 persons per hut per night.  Delaying your first departure a day may mean less congestion at huts and a much more pleasant trip.
2. Don’t litter the park with non-burnable or biodegradable items like tins, plastic, and silver foil.  Personally collect these things and make sure you or your porters take them out of the park.
3. Please use the latrines for all body wastes.
4. Respect others in the huts by sharing space, and stoves, talking quietly (no radios).  Crowded huts can be much more pleasant if basic courtesy and politeness are expressed.
5. Observe the prohibition of wood fire.  Making fires using local wood is prohibited in the park.  Use your own paraffin stove or gas or charcoal provided.  Please be considerate to your porters by bringing the minimum equipment.  Extra personal gear means heavier loads or extra porters, which is bad for the porter but also the environment.
6. Minimize damage on trails by following your guide closely and making new paths.  Each time a hiker makes a new route the paths get wider, and more vegetation turns to mud.
7. Ask your guides on how to conduct yourself.