Rwenzori Mountains National Park,UNESCO/NHK Videos on Heritage

The Rwenzori Mountains National Park covers nearly 100,000 ha in western Uganda and comprises the main part of the Rwenzori mountain chain, which includes Africa’s third highest peak (Mount Margherita: 5,109 m). The region’s glaciers, waterfalls and lakes make it one of Africa’s most beautiful alpine areas. The park has many natural habitats of endangered species and a rich and unusual flora comprising, among other species, the giant heather. Watch video here

 

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

The Rwenzori Mountains National Park provides stunning views of glacier and snow-capped mountains just kilometres from the equator, where it is contiguous with the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Having the third highest mountain in Africa at 5,109 m (after Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya), the Park includes a much larger alpine area than either, covering an area of 99,600 ha of which 70% lies at over 2,500 m in height. The Rwenzori Mountains are the highest and most permanent sources of the River Nile, and constitute a vital water catchment. Their multitude of fast flowing rivers, magnificent waterfalls and stratified vegetation make the property exceptionally scenic and beautiful. The mountains are well-known for their unique alpine flora which includes many species endemic to the Albertine Rift in the higher altitude zones including giant heathers, groundsels and lobelias. The Park also supplies local communities with various wild resources and is an important cultural heritage.

Criterion (vii): The Rwenzoris are the legendary “Mountains of the moon”, a reflection of the mist-shrouded mountains of this rugged massif that tower almost 4,000 m above the Albertine Rift Valley, making them visible from great distances. These mountains offer a unique and pristine landscape of alpine vegetation studded with charismatic giant lobelias, groundsels, and heathers which have been called “Africa’s botanical big game”. The combination of spectacular snow-capped peaks, glaciers, V-shaped valleys, fast flowing rivers with magnificent waterfalls, clear blue lakes and unique flora contributes to the area’s exceptional natural beauty.

Criterion (x):Because of their altitudinal range, and the nearly constant temperatures, humidity and high insolation, the mountains support the richest montane flora in Africa. There is an outstanding range of species, many of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift and bizarre in appearance. The natural vegetation has been classified as belonging to five distinct zones, determined largely by altitude and aspect. The higher altitude zones, covered by heath and Afro-alpine moorland, extend from around 3,500 m to the snow line and represent the rarest vegetation types on the African continent. Significant species include the giant heathers, groundsels, lobelias and other endemics. In terms of fauna, the Rwenzoris have been recognised as an Important Bird Area with 217 bird species recorded to date, a number expected to increase as the park becomes better surveyed. The montane forests are also a home to threatened species such as the African forest elephant, eastern chimpanzee and l’Hoest’s monkey. The endangered Rwenzori black-fronted or red duiker, believed to be a very localized subspecies or possibly a separate species, appears to be restricted to the Park.

Integrity

Challenges facing the Park include community uses of the park (such as collection of bamboo), tourism development, population growth and agricultural practices. While little agricultural encroachment has occurred due to the Park’s clearly marked boundary,   insecurity caused by rebel insurgence in recent years has affected park management and encouraged illegal activities, the reason for which the property was inscribed in the List of World Heritage in Danger from 1999-2004. The growing number of people living around the property is adding pressure on forest resources, although the cultural importance that the local communities attach to the Park as well as the various benefits they derive from ecotourism and regulated plant resource use is designed to manage this. The watershed functions as a result of the intactness of the boundary has enhanced the Park’s capacity to act as the biggest contributor of water in the region for domestic and industrial use. The integrity of the property is further enhanced by its contiguity with the Virunga National Parkin the DRC which provides an opportunity for gene flow and buffer properties.

Protection and management requirements

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA, UWA succeed Uganda National Parks (UNP) which was the management authority at the time of Inscription of the site as a World Heritage Site) in accordance with the provisions of the National laws( The constitution (1995), Uganda Wildlife Act (2000), National Environment Management Act (2000), Forest and Tree planting Act (2003), Local Government Act (1987), The Land Act (1989) and international conventions (Convention of Biological Diversity 1992 (CBD), Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), the RAMSAR convention 1971 and the World Heritage Convention 1972).It was gazetted in 1991 under statutory instrument number 3 in 1992 and the National Park’s Act 1952. The park is considered a model for integration of cultural values into the Protected Area Management framework as an innovative approach to resource management, the first of its kind in Africa.  As a result the local communities have embraced collaborative resource management initiatives. Given its significance as one of the biodiversity hotspots in the Albertine Rift, various local and international NGOs have supported the management and conservation of the property. A General Management Plan guides management operations on-site. Key challenges to address include illegal felling of trees, snow recession due to global warming, human population pressure adjacent to the property and management of waste generated through tourism operations. UWA is addressing the above threats through resource protection, community conservation education, research and ranger-based monitoring, ecotourism and transboundary initiatives with the DRC. The long-term maintenance of the integrity of the property will be achieved through sustainable financing, ecological monitoring, continued collaboration with key stakeholders andregional cooperation.

Species

The species listed below represent a small sample of iconic and/or IUCN Red Listed animals and plants found in the property. Clicking on the number in brackets next to the species will reveal other World Heritage Properties in which a species has been identified. These species are identified in an effort to better communicate the biological diversity contained within World Heritage properties inscribed under criteria ix and/or x.

• Alchemilla stuhlmanii
• Alchemilla subnivalis
• Amietia ruwenzorica
• Atheris vividis
• Bradypterus alfredi / Bamboo Warbler, Bamboo Scrub-warbler
• Carex runssoroensis
• Cephalophus nigrifrons ssp. rubidus / Ruwenzori Red Duiker
• Cephalophus silvicultor / Yellow-backed Duiker (2)
• Cercopithecus l’hoesti / L’hoest’s Monkey
• Cercopithecus mitis ssp. stuhlmanni / Stuhlmann’s Blue Monkey, Elgon Blue Monkey, Stuhlmann’s Blue Monkey, Stuhlmann’s Monkey
• More Species

• Chamaeleo adolfi-friederici
• Chamaeleo ituriensis
• Colobus angolensis ssp. ruwenzorii / Adolf Friedrichs’s Angola Colobus, Adolf Friedrich’s Angola Colobus, Rwenzori Black-and-white Colobus
• Cryptospiza shelleyi / Shelley’s Crimson-wing (2)
• Dendrohyrax arboreus / Southern Tree Hyrax, Eastern Tree Dassie, Eastern Tree Hyrax, Southern Tree Dassie (2)
• Dendrosenecio adnivalis
• Dendrosenecio johnstonii
• Erica johnstonii
• Erica kingaensis
• Erica philippia
• Erica trimera
• Festuca abyssinica
• Ficalhoa laurifolia
• Hagenia abyssinica
• Helichchrysum guilelmii
• Helichchrysum stuhlmanii
• Heliosciurus ruwenzorii / Ruwenzori Sun Squirrel
• Hylochoerus meinertzhageni / Forest Hog, Giant Forest Hog, Western Forest Hog (3)
• Hypericum bequaertii
• Hypericum keniense
• Hypericum lanceolatum
• Lobelia bequaertii
• Lobelia gibberoa
• Lobelia lanuriensis
• Lobelia wollastonii
• Loxodonta africana / African Elephant (7)
• Micropotamogale ruwenzorii / Rwenzori Otter Shrew, Ruwenzori Otter Shrew
• Mimulopsis elliotii
• Nectarinia johnstoni / Red-tufted Sunbird, Scarlet-tufted Malachite Sunbird, Scarlet-tufted Sunbird
• Nectarinia regia / Regal Sunbird
• Nectarinia reichenowi / Golden-winged Sunbird
• Nectarinia stuhlmanni
• Ocotea usambarensis
• Otomys typus / Typical Vlei Rat
• Pan troglodytes / Common Chimpanzee (4)
• Panthera pardus / Leopard (15)
• Podocarpus latifolia
• Prunus africana / Red Stinkwood (2)
• Rapanea rhododendroides
• Rhinolophus ruwenzorii / Ruwenzori Horseshoe Bat
• Ruwenzorisorex suncoides / Ruwenzori Shrew
• Ruwenzorornis johnstoni / Ruwenzori Turaco
• Schefflera polysciadia
• Senecio erici-rosenii
• Sinarundinaria alpina
• Symphonia globulifera (2)
• Syncerus caffer / African Buffalo (3)
• Thrasops jacksoni
• Usnea longissima

Source UNESCO/NHK Videos on Heritage

RWENZORI MOUNTAINS

Mount Rwenzori is a mountain range in Uganda located on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo also known as “Mountains of the moon”. With a summit height at 5,109 meters ((16,761 ft), Mount Rwenzori is the second highest mountain in East Africa. The mountain range is well known worldwide for its tremendous hiking experience, scenery, sunsets, permanent snow capes, views of the clouds from above and biological species biodiversity. Over 70 mammals including 4 species of diurnal primate, 15 species of butterfly and 217 bird species including 19 Albertine Rift endemics, as well as some of the world’s rarest vegetation have been identified at Mount Rwenzori and its surrounding.

 

Giant lobelias and everlasting flowers at the slopes of Mt Rwenzori.

 

As you take the Rwenzori hike, the history and mythology of the area will fill your mind. A mountain range that covers 996km2 formed after a massive uplift in the earth’s crust. The range stretching some 120 km north/south and 48 km east/west with 6 snows capped mountains-Margherita Peak as the highest. It is believed the formation was about three million years ago in the late Pliocene, as a result of an uplifted block of crystalline rocks including: gneiss, amphibolites granite, and quartzite.

The first sightings of Rwenzori was by  the expedition of European explorer Henry Morton Stanley in 1889 and  William Grant Stairs who climbed to 3,254 meters (10,676 ft) though the  first ascent to the summit was made by the Duke of the Abruzzi in 1906. There are 2 primary routes that can be taken to the summit – The Central Circuit Trail from the trailhead at Mihunga, the route ascends the Bujuku Valley via Nyabitaba for acclimatization before reaching the peaks- which is an easier climb and the one most frequently used and the Kilembe Trail that ascends the southern slopes of the Rwenzori from a trailhead at Kilembe near the town of Kasese.

Rwenzori mountain ranges lie within Rwenzori mountains National Park gazetted in 1991-a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is one of the few places on earth that encompasses every ecological life zone including; Savanna about 3,000 and 5,500 feet (914 – 1,676 m.), the Rainforest above the Grasslands from 5,500 to 7,500 feet (1,676 – 2,286 m.) with giant ferns, wild banana trees and lianas, Bamboo reaching up to around 9,500 feet (2,895 m.), Heath zone above the bamboo that extends up to around 12,000 feet (3,657 m.), the Alpine zone, above 12,000 feet (3,657 m.) with the tree groundsel and giant lobelia and above 14,500 feet is wrapped in permanent snow and storm-swept glaciers.

The region’s waterfalls, lakes and glaciers make it one of Africa’s most beautiful alpine areas. A popular tourist destination for mountain climbers- a real hiker’s heaven in Africa and photographers thanks to its otherworldly shape! Hikers get to admire the wonderful landscapes that add up to the explorations. The main peak of the mountain can be climbed easily by a person with basic mountaineering skills, although altitude and unpredictable weather make for a challenging and adventurous trip. It is perfect for people who wish to gain snow experience.

People from around the world are captivated by Rwenzori Mountain height – some 5,109 meters above sea level – and the adventurous, driven, mountain climbers who take it on embody the physical and mental extremes that test human capabilities.

The ancient Precambrian rocks which were extruded from the surrounding plains during the formation of the western rift valley is another worldly wonder in the magnificent homelands of the Bakonjo and Baamba-Bantu speaking people who have lived on the mountain for many generations, and whose culture is adapted to the steep slopes and climate of Rwenzori.

If you’re among the people in this world who actually seek out extreme thrills, then climbing Mount Rwenzori has to be high on your list – if not at the top. There is, of course, the danger associated with navigating the East Africa’s second tallest mountain, and doing quite a bit of it with very little oxygen.

Doing that kind of activity will undoubtedly lead to the kind of bragging rights you can use at any point in your life to one-up just about anyone you encounter. That is unless they’ve also climbed Rwenzori, and then you’d have to go to No. 2 on your list, so just be prepared. But if you’d rather listen to a couple of climbers who have been to Rwenzori – and even done a little climbing there – then you’re in luck.

What to Do and See in Rwenzori Mountains

Apart from usual known adventure Rwenzori climbing, there are a lot more to see in Mount Rwenzori. Travelers can do a trip for wildlife nature walks conducted in the park, high altitude flora described as Africa’s botanic Big Game, natural waterfalls to see like Ngitte, Rwajimba and Semuliki, birds, monkeys, Hot springs, numerous caves and lakes- Rwenzori Mountains are worthy a place to visit as it is one of the few unspoilt Mountains of the world because of its rugged nature yet this wilderness character is an attraction for many climbers and Mountaineers.

 

What to Wear and Bring

For Rwenzori Mountains light day hike, you won’t have to procure any unique gear or frightening equipment. But a few minutes of preparation means you’ll go home with a smile on your face instead of blisters on your feet!

Wear layered outfits for Rwenzori mountaineering excitement; it may seem chilly now, but once you begin hiking, you’ll warm up quickly. Hiking boots are great, but for a light hike a sneaker with a heavy tread will be just fine. Wear a hat; it will shade your face from the sun, protecting you from sunburn and making it easier to see.

Have water during Rwenzori hike; studies prove that by drinking water, you increase your stamina for physical activities. Put the water in a small backpack along with a couple of granola bars, a bagel or a bag of trail mix for a quick burst of energy. If it’s an all-day hike, pack a sandwich for lunch. Pack sun block; you don’t want sunburn as your souvenir!

Read and find out more with Ministry of Tourism, Uganda

 

Press Release – ITB Exhibition In Berlin, Germany

 

 

KAMPALA, UGANDA – At least 18 Ugandan tour and travel companies will be exhibiting at the ITB Berlin Germany 2016, exhibition from 9 – 13 March in Messe Berlin, Germany.

Uganda is showcasing The Pearl of Africa under the theme Gorillas and So Much More. Other attractions being marketed to the international audience are adventure tourism, mountaineering, over 1,050 bird species, alpine afromontane zones to the Albertine rift valley, fresh water angling starting at the source of the Nile, Ugandan culture and our tradition hospitality.

Speaking on the importance of the expo to the tourism sector, the Uganda Tourism Board CEO Stephen Asiimwe has encouraged tour operators to take advantage of one of the largest expos in the world to get new business.

“Uganda is seen as a vast, unique untapped natural haven waiting to be experienced. ITB gives you great opportunity to tap into the great opportunities that will bring in dividends,” said Asiimwe, while meeting operators at the UTB offices in Kampala, Uganda recently. The meeting was done to harmonise plans and update the travel companies on what to expect at the expo.

Uganda will be exhibiting under the theme “Gorillas and so much more” as the ITB Berlin expo marks 50 years. With over 50% of the world’s mountain gorillas, Uganda is a prime destination for those interested in primates. Uganda is also home to over 50% of Africa and 11% of the world’s bird species; the source of the world’s longest river — the Nile; Africa’s highest mountain range — Mt. Rwenzori; the world’s largest tropical water body, Lake Victoria, fantastic weather, food, rich culture, heritage and  very warm, hospitable and friendly people.

In addition to promoting Destination Uganda, there will be joint activities with other East African countries to promote the region. On the 11^th March, Uganda will hold the Tripartite Cultural Fete at the expo in Messes Berlin, from 7pm, to 9:00pm.

Uganda will be exhibiting in Hall 21.a Booth 119, next Kenya, Rwanda and Cote d ‘Ivoire.

The range of activities on the stand will include:

• EAC cocktail at the stand where we launch the Single Visa (between Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya).
• Tripartite Cultural Festival on 10^th March 2016.
• Media interviews at the stand on 10^th March 2016.
• Ugandan cultural dancers will be performing.

Uganda is proudly hosting.

• One-week Uganda Martyrs festivities in June.
• Raid on Entebbe 40-year commemoration.
• “Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo” in September 2016.
• The First Uganda Birding Expo in November.
• The Big Birding Day in November.

Uganda exhibitors will include:

1. Kagera Safaris
2. Go Uganda Safaris
3. Advanced Adventures
4. Gorillas and Wildlife Safaris
5. Lake Kitandara Tours and travel
6. Platinum Tours
7. Around Africa
8. BIC Tours
9. Speke Uganda Holidays
10. Churchill Safaris & Travel
11. Across Africa Holidays  Ltd
12. Matoke Tours
13. Crystal Travel Services
14. Asyanut Safaris
15. Let’s Go Travel
16. Pinnacle Safaris
17. Marasa Africa/ Mweya Safari Lodge
18. UTB 2004 LTD
19. Alpha Adventures

Partners include:

1. Ministry of Tourism Wildlife & Antiquities.
2. Uganda Tourism Board.
3. Uganda Wildlife Authority.
4. Civil Aviation Authority.
5. Uganda Embassy in Berlin.

Sponsors

1. Brussels Airlines,
2. Turkish Airlines
3. Qatar Airlines

For more details, contact:

– See more here

source: UGANDA TOURISM BOARD