BY INNOCENT KIIZA
High in the rugged peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains, at 4,500 meters above sea level, a new chapter in Uganda’s tourism story has begun. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has officially taken over Elena Camp, a state-of-the-art visitor accommodation facility that promises to transform the experience of climbers and adventurers braving the heights of Uganda’s most iconic mountain range.
A Place of Rest in Extreme Conditions
The handover ceremony took place on December 15, 2024, at the heart of the Rwenzori Mountains National Park (RMNP). The event marked the completion of a landmark project funded by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities (MTWA).
Presided over by Ms. Jackline Nyiracyiza Besigye, Commissioner for Museums and Monuments, the facility was handed over to Mr. Stephen Masaba, UWA’s Director of Tourism and Business Development, who represented the Executive Director.
Perched in the thin, cold air with temperatures plunging to 2°C or lower, Elena Camp is more than just a stopover. It is the final rest point for climbers ascending to Margherita Peak, Uganda’s highest point at 5,109 meters.
For decades, adventurers have dreamed of reaching the summit, but the challenges of inadequate infrastructure often stood in their way. Now, with fully furnished accommodations, a dining room, kitchen, storage areas, and a steady water supply, the facility can host 34 tourists and 36 support staff, including guides and porters, in warmth and safety.
A Bold Vision for Adventure Tourism
For Ms. Nyiracyiza, the handover of Elena Camp represents a bold vision realized: positioning Uganda as a world-class adventure tourism destination. Speaking to the gathered officials and stakeholders, she emphasized the significance of the project:
“Elena Camp stands as a testament to our commitment to positioning Uganda as a world-class adventure tourism destination. These infrastructure improvements will not only attract more tourists but also ensure their safety and comfort.”
Beyond comfort, safety remains a key priority. To ensure climbers and guides can navigate the treacherous terrain, MTWA handed over state-of-the-art mountaineering and hiking equipment to UWA. Among the items were dynamic and static ropes, crampons, ice axes, modern rescue stretchers, oxygen bags, and ascenders – essential gear that will make climbing in the Rwenzori Mountains safer than ever before.
Taming the Mountain: The Boardwalks
The rugged beauty of the Rwenzori Mountains comes with its challenges. Over the years, boggy, difficult-to-navigate trails have tested even the most seasoned hikers. Recognizing this, MTWA funded the construction of 12.889 kilometers of boardwalks to tame these paths and make them accessible to all. Sections between Nyabitaba and John Matte Camps, as well as those leading to Bujuku, are already complete, with further extensions underway.
Mr. Stephen Masaba, speaking on behalf of UWA, praised the infrastructure upgrades:
“These boardwalks and infrastructure upgrades demonstrate the government’s dedication to sustainable tourism development in the Rwenzori Mountains. We are ensuring that visitors have an unforgettable yet safe hiking experience.”
A Journey to the Summit
To celebrate the handover, a team of 26 officers from MTWA and UWA undertook a symbolic hike up the Rwenzori Mountains. For many, it was their first time navigating the challenging terrain that has drawn adventurers from around the world. Of the group, 12 officers pushed through to reach Margherita Camp, a feat that reflected the endurance and determination required to conquer the mountains.
The experience underscored the importance of Elena Camp and the new safety equipment in creating a more accessible, rewarding journey for climbers. The Permanent Secretary of MTWA commended UWA and its partners for their commitment to making this possible.
A New Era for the Rwenzori Mountains
For years, the Rwenzori Mountains have been both a source of wonder and a formidable challenge. With the opening of Elena Camp, the introduction of modern safety equipment, and the construction of boardwalks, the mountains are now ready to welcome more adventurers than ever before.
These efforts represent more than infrastructure improvements – they mark a renewed promise to showcase Uganda’s natural beauty to the world. The cold heights of the Rwenzori Mountains, once feared, are now accessible, safe, and inviting, offering climbers an unforgettable journey to the roof of Africa.
As the sun sets over the peaks and Elena Camp fills with the laughter of climbers and guides, it is clear: a new era has begun in the Rwenzori Mountains, and Uganda’s adventure tourism is reaching new heights.
