Margherita Peak, Mountain summit in Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda and Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Margherita Peak stands at 5,109 meters (16,763 feet) and is Africa's third-highest mountain. It sits in the Rwenzori Mountains on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, surrounded by forests, wetlands, and glacial areas.
The first successful ascent took place in 1906 when the Duke of Abruzzi and Italian mountaineers reached the summit. This expedition established the mountain as a significant climbing objective and opened the way for future mountaineers.
The summit is named after Queen Margherita of Italy and serves as a natural border marker between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Climbers who reach the top find monuments and plaques left by previous expeditions.
Climbing to the summit takes six to eight days of trekking through changing climates and terrain, from forests to glacial zones. A local guide is required for the journey and the final stages involve steep rocky sections.
The summit holds one of Africa's last remaining glaciers, which scientists monitor closely for changes. This glacier has visibly shrunk over recent decades, offering visitors a striking reminder of changing climate patterns.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
