Uganda has announced the resumption of hiking activities to the Margherita Peak, the highest peak of the Rwenzori Mountains following months of suspension due to safety concerns.
The suspension was announced in May by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), a state agency responsible for wildlife conservation, following the formation of a crevasse or deep open crack in the glaciers.
The UWA said in a statement issued Tuesday the safety concerns had been addressed to ensure the well-being of hikers.
“Key among the improvements is the construction of a bridge across the crevasse in the Margherita glaciers. The bridge, along with additional climbing ropes installed in collaboration with our partners in the park, will enable safe passage through the challenging sections of the trail,” the UWA said. “We are confident that these enhancements will provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for all visitors seeking to summit one of Africa’s most iconic peaks.”
Margherita Peak stands at 5,109 meters above sea level. The UWA also encouraged hikers to visit other peaks in the Rwenzori Mountains such as Mount Speke and Mount Baker.
Hiking is one of the tourism activities enjoyed in Uganda, alongside park visits, chimpanzee and gorilla tracking, bird viewing, and kayaking.
According to statistics from the Uganda Tourism Board, the number of tourists visiting the Rwenzori Mountains increased from 2,724 in 2014 to 6,043 in 2019.
