Mount Speke

Mount Speke is a high peak in the Rwenzori Mountains on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, located on the DRC side in North Kivu. It reaches roughly 4,890 metres and is one of the principal summits of the Rwenzori massif.

High-altitude alpine and glacial terrain characterise the upper slopes, with Afro-alpine vegetation zones below the rocky summit areas. Routes in the Rwenzori range offer glacier and snow travel at the highest elevations and long multi-day approaches through montane forest and moorland.

The peak was named for the British explorer John Hanning Speke. Over the 20th and 21st centuries the Rwenzori glaciers and permanent snowfields have retreated, altering the appearance and conditions on the highest summits.

It sits within the Rwenzori Mountains along the Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo border, on the DRC side in North Kivu province, forming part of the highland massif inland from the African Great Lakes region.

• Elevation: Rises to about 4,890 metres and is one of the highest peaks in the Rwenzori Mountains.
• Name and setting: Named for British explorer John Hanning Speke; part of the Rwenzori massif that lies along the Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo border.

• Mount Speke is a high, remote peak in the Rwenzori massif that requires a multi‑day, technical expedition and formal park/permits - only attempt with an experienced alpine guide and organised porter support.
• Plan climbs for the main dry periods (roughly June-September and December-February) when routes are least wet and glacier/vegetation conditions are more stable.
• Because access is remote and can involve cross‑border logistics and changing security conditions, check current border/park regulations and the security situation well in advance and book an operator who handles permits, rangers and porters.