They were known as the mountains of the moon in early 150 AD. The ranges lie along the western border of Uganda. It is a true mountain range with several high points or massifs. Africa's third highest point is found on this mountain. This is point Margherita which is 5109m above the ground. The massif is a great site to climbers and walkers. Wildlife is found here including some bird species such as the Turaco. The duiker and the leopard are also found here.
The area receives heavy rainfall therefore making the flora very thick and luxuriant. Good climbing weather is in mid December to the end of June and from mid June to mid August when the rainfall is minimal. The two main summits on the mountain are the Margherita and Speke. The terrain to these summits is difficult and very tough. It must be porter supported. It has a beautiful scenery and exotic vegetation that makes one forget the difficult terrain. An ice axe and crampons must be used especially on Margherrita.
After you are through with the summit, you can visit the Queen Elizabeth National Park and view its rolling plains and lakes. You can take a boat ride on the Kizinga channel with its abundant animal life by the edges of the water. Later you will go to the Bwindi Forest which is very famous for gorilla trekking. Book six months in advance for this trek as it is very popular with tourists. Bwindi reserve has over 350 bird species and over 300 butterfly species and 100 species of mammals.