Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), in collaboration with key stakeholders, proudly announced the launch of the Rwenzori Tourism Destination Management Plan (TDMP) at a high-profile event held in the Rwenzori region.
The initiative, unveiled on Friday, August 22nd, 2025 in Kampala, Uganda marks a significant milestone in positioning the Rwenzori Mountains near Kasese as a competitive, sustainable, and inclusive tourism destination.
The launch of the Rwenzori Tourism Destination Management Plan event, attended by local leaders, tourism experts, and community representatives, showcased a series of images depicting collaborative discussions and planning sessions.
The Rwenzori Tourism Destination Management Plan aims to harness the region’s natural and cultural resources, enhance visitor experiences, and ensure that local communities reap tangible benefits from tourism growth.
“This plan provides a structured framework to protect our heritage while fostering economic opportunities,” said a Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) spokesperson during the launch.
Why the Rwenzori Mountains Are Beautiful for Hiking Adventures The Rwenzori Mountains, often referred to as the “Mountains of the Moon,” are renowned for their equatorial snow-capped peaks, including Margherita Peak at 5,109 meters, Africa’s third-highest summit.
Ranked among the world’s top 15 hikes by the National Geographic Society in 2011, the Rwenzori region’s rugged terrain, glaciers, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems, featuring rare species like the Rwenzori turaco, offer an unparalleled hiking experience.
Supported by World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) conservation efforts since the 1990s, improved infrastructure like visitor gates and bridges enhances accessibility while preserving this natural wonder.
A 2019 study noted that 70% of local livelihoods depend on the park’s ecosystem services, underscoring its ecological and economic significance.
What Are Other Mountains in Uganda to Consider on a Hiking Trip?
Beyond the Rwenzoris, Uganda offers a variety of hiking destinations.
Mount Elgon, on the Uganda-Kenya border, is the oldest and largest solitary volcanic mountain in East Africa, providing scenic trails with fewer crowds.
The Virunga Mountains in Mgahinga National Park, including Mount Sabinyo, offer a challenging 10-14 hour trek with views of peaks like Mikeno and Karisimbi.
The Morungole ridges provide a cultural hike to visit the Ik community, known for traditional beekeeping, adding a unique dimension to the adventure.
The Rwenzori Tourism Destination Management Plan emphasizes responsible tourism, balancing visitor enjoyment with environmental and community benefits.
The Rwenzori Tourism Academy, using online learning, trains locals in sustainable practices, contributing to the region’s UNESCO World Heritage status.
With the Uganda Tourism Association projecting a 25% increase in local employment within five years, mirroring East African trends, the plan addresses past park-community conflicts.
Hikers are encouraged to support local guides, minimize waste, and respect wildlife habitats.
Cultural Experiences in the Rwenzori, Bundibugyo, and Fort Portal Region
The Rwenzori region is a cultural treasure trove. In Fort Portal, known as Uganda’s “tourism city,” visitors can explore the Karambi Royal Tombs and the Tooro Kingdom Palace, home to Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV since 1995.
The Nyakasura Caves, or Amabere Ga Nyinamwiru, offer a mystical 7 km hike from town.
In Bundibugyo, the Semuliki Valley introduces the Batwa pygmy culture, while the Ik community’s beekeeping traditions on Morungole ridges near Kidepo Valley National Park provide a rich experience.
These sites blend history, spirituality, and community life against the Rwenzori backdrop.
Adding to the region’s appeal, the Rwenzori Tourism Destination Management Plan launch coincides with plans for the Tuskerlite Rwenzori Marathon, 2025.
The Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon 2025 is taking place on August 23rd, 2025, in Kasese, Uganda.
The marathon is a world-class, World Athletics certified race that attracts both local and international runners, offering a scenic adventure through Uganda’s stunning landscapes.
The event is more than just a race; it also celebrates fitness and adventure, supports local communities and businesses, and promotes eco-friendly tourism.
This event will showcase the mountains’ scenic trails while promoting fitness and tourism, with proceeds supporting local conservation and community projects.
The Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon attracts global runners and adventurers.
How many nations are participating in 2025 Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon?
The 2025 Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon, held in Kasese, Uganda, on August 23, attracted participants from at least 35 countries, showcasing its growing global appeal.
Specific nations confirmed to be represented in the 2025 Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon include:
Kenya: The most well-represented country, with a significant number of runners, reflecting its strong running culture and proximity to Uganda.
South Africa: 13 runners, including notable endurance athlete Sipho Marima, who is also a content creator promoting the event.
United Kingdom: 14 runners, including British endurance athlete Nick Butter, participating in his 1,068th marathon
United States: 13 runners, accompanied by filming crews to capture Uganda’s tourism sites.
United Arab Emirates: 3 runners, with some acting as brand ambassadors for Asics, Nike, and Adidas, promoting the marathon in the Middle East.
Namibia: 1 runner confirmed.
Denmark: Recently joined the list, contributing to the 35-country tally. Austria, Belgium, Cameroon: Mentioned as part of the diverse participant pool.
India, Lithuania, Japan: Noted as “rare participants,” highlighting the event’s expanding reach to less commonly represented nations.
Other countries: Previous editions and promotional materials of the Tuskerlite Rwenzori Marathon indicate participation from nations such as Canada, France, Guatemala, Italy, Latvia, Lebanon, Nigeria, Qatar, Rwanda, Singapore, Spain, Tanzania, Ukraine, Yemen, and Zimbabwe, though specific numbers for 2025 are not fully detailed.
Organizers of the annual Rwenzori Marathon aim to attract runners from up to 50 countries, with nearly 6,000 participants expected overall.
The event’s World Athletics certification and promotion through influencers and airline magazines have boosted its international profile, drawing elite athletes, amateurs, and wellness tourists.
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