Welcome to the Mount Elgon Hike, an adventure through the captivating landscapes of Eastern Uganda and Western Kenya. This five-day journey takes you through the majestic Mount Elgon, an ancient volcanic mountain boasting a diverse range of flora and fauna. As you embark on this trekking circuit, you’ll encounter picturesque waterfalls, hidden caves, and a rich tapestry of ecosystems. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region, all while experiencing the warm hospitality of the local communities. Join us as we explore the contrasts of Uganda’s wild and serene landscapes and make unforgettable memories on this extraordinary expedition.
Day 1 – Arrival in Sipi Falls
Day 2 – Trek to Tutum Cave Camp
Day 3 – Hike to Kajeri Camp
Day 4 – Descend to Mude Cave Camp
Day 5 – Concluding Descent to Budadiri
Uganda is a land of contrast, dappled with wildlife. Serene, undulating hills of tea plantations, lush but ordered, give way to tangled jungle and rainforest with the musical accompaniment of chaotic, cacophonous birdlife. Uganda is alive with these contrasts: silent elephants, disappearing like vapor behind the trees; chimpanzees crashing about the forest canopy; the lugubrious gorilla, chewing thoughtfully in the bamboo thickets. This is my country. Let us show you the Uganda we know and love.
MOUNT ELGON:
Mount Elgon is a massive solitary volcanic mountain on the border of eastern Uganda and western Kenya. Its vast form, eight kilometers in diameter, rises 3,070 meters above the surrounding plains, providing welcome relief in more than one sense of the word. Its mountainous terrain introduces variety to an otherwise monotonous regional landscape. Its cool heights offer respite for humans from the hot plains below, and its higher altitudes provide a refuge for flora and fauna. Mount Elgon has been a regional landmark for a long time. This extinct volcano is one of Uganda’s oldest physical features, first erupting around 20 million years ago. It was once Africa’s highest mountain, towering above Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters. Millennia of erosion have reduced its height to 4,321 meters, relegating it to the 4th highest peak in East Africa (and 7th on the continent). However, its 4,000 square kilometer surface area is still the largest base of any volcanic mountain worldwide.
Where to Go:
Mount Elgon is an extinct volcano with the largest surface area in the world (50 km by 80 km) and a caldera that covers over 40 km at the top of the mountain. The highest peak is Wagagai, at 4,321 meters. It lies at the border with Kenya in Eastern Uganda.
What Activities & Attractions:
There are several trekking trails around Mount Elgon. The full trekking circuit to the peaks takes 4 to 5 days to complete, following Sasa or Sipi Trails. From Kapkway Exploration Centre (UWA quarter), you can take at least three different one-day hikes: Chebanet Falls, Mountain Bamboo Trail, and Ridge View Trail. The one-day trail to see the four Sipi Falls is a popular activity and it starts from the village of Sipi.
Who Can Do It:
Everybody can undertake this trekking, as this is not a difficult mountain to climb. No technical climbing equipment or skills are required. Altitude sickness is not a common problem on this trek.
When to Go:
The best time to visit Mount Elgon is from May, June, July, and September, November, and December, with July being particularly favorable. Visiting Mount Elgon is an exciting trekking experience, for the interesting flora and fauna, the spectacular waterfalls (including Sipi Falls), several caves, and panoramic views. The mountain lies on the border and is shared with Kenya. It is home to the Bagisu and Sabiny people, and the area is well known for the high cultivation of good Arabic coffee, including Bugisu quality. While ascending the peaks, you encounter four different vegetation zones: the montane forest, the bamboo forest, the heath zone, and moorland zone, where you can find some endemic species of plants like giant Lobelia elgonensis, particular groundsels, and everlasting flowers. Currently, there are no huts available in the mountains, but there are nice designated camping sites.
Day 1 – Arrival in Sipi Falls
Drive from Kampala to Sipi Falls and rest or take nature walks. We will pass via Jinja and see the source of the Nile. The drive from Kampala to Sipi is 6 hours away or the whole day, depending on the stops we make along the way.
Day 2 – Trek to Tutum Cave Camp
Drive in the morning, passing via Sipi, you reach Kapkway Exploration Center, UWA headquarters. After arranging the guide and porters, with food and camping gear, you start walking up to Tutum Cave Camp (2,667m) through montane and bamboo forest. Tutum cave is spectacular and hidden within the forest. Dinner and overnight.
Distance of the day: 11 km.
Altitude of the day: 900m.
From Tutum Camp to Kajeri Camp (3,383m)
Day 3 – Hike to Kajeri Camp
After breakfast, proceed with the hike to Kajeri Camp (3,383m) for dinner and overnight.
Distance of the day: 17 km.
Altitude of the day: 900m.
From Kajeri Camp to Mude Camp (3,500m)
Day 4 – Descend to Mude Cave Camp
After breakfast, walk sloping down after Muyembe Camp to Mude Cave Camp (3,500m), where you join the Sasa Trail. Dinner and overnight.
Distance of the day: 25 km.
Altitude of the day: 120 m.
From Mude Camp, descend to Budadiri.
Day 5 – Concluding Descent to Budadiri
The trekking ends by descending to Budadiri, the gate of the national park nearby Mbale.
What is included ?
What is not included ?
Required equipment for the hike:
Rucksack, sleeping bag for low temperature and sleeping mat, one plate, cutlery, mug, knife, trekking shoes, poncho or rain coat, heavy worm jacket, hand gloves, scarf and cup, one jumper, a torch.
Embarking on a Uganda safari offers a unique and unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s natural wonders, combining lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural encounters in the “Pearl of Africa
You have multiple safari experiences to choose from, and we’re excited to offer them to you.