Mount Lotuke

Mount Lotuke rises to around 2,750 metres in the Didinga hills of southeastern South Sudan, among the highest points in the country, a forested and terraced massif standing well above the surrounding plains with Didinga villages on its lower slopes. The climb is done from the villages with local guides. Cloud collects on the upper ground, which is what keeps the vegetation there. Only the Imatong range further south carries higher ground in South Sudan.

What you'll find

• The summit - around 2,750 metres, among the country's highest.
• The forested upper slopes - the vegetation the cloud keeps alive.
• The village approach - the climb made from the Didinga settlements.
• The plains below - the dry country the massif rises out of.

When to go

December to March is the dry season and the practical window. The rains from April make the climb impossible. Cloud covers the summit frequently.

Good to know

There is no marked route and guides are essential. Access to the region needs serious arrangement well in advance. There is no infrastructure and no rescue capability.

Nearby

The Didinga hills are around it, and Kapoeta is northeast.