Christian Stangl

Mawenzi

5149m

For a long time I thought that Rwenzori with the “Punta Margherita” or “Point Stanley” is the 3rd highest peak of Africa. My travel plans for Uganda were already in their final stage when Mawenzi (main summit is called: Point Hans Meyer 5.149m) suddenly came into the picture. It was doubtful whether Mawenzi was a side summit of Kilimanscharo or not. I consulted with the Kili Expert Rudi Stangl, who summitted Kili 73(!) times. He confirmed that the saddle between Kilimanscharo and Mawenzi is lower than 4.300m hence there is an altitude difference of more than 849 m. This is more than between the 8.000m+ peaks Lhotse and Mt. Everest. The altitude difference from Lhotse to the south col is 610m and both mountains count as independent 8.000er.

Highest peaks of africa - click here

The ascent to Mawenzi's highest point, the Hans Meyer peak, leads through crumbly rocks in the beginning. You better are an experienced climber here. Further up, the "Oehler" couloir, you encounter a high risk of falling rocks. It is advisable to climb up quickly and be off the mountain by 10am. The summit is very pointy, terrific views in all directions.

UPDATE_December 27th 2012

Successful ascent of Mt.Rwenzori (Point Magherita)