Hiking and climbing Mount Elgon in Uganda is now the most exciting experience that you shouldn’t miss. This 5 days hiking Mount Elgon takes you upto Wagagai Peak, the highest peak of Mount Elgon National Park at 4,321 metres above sea level. Hike up to the rim of the caldera through the beautiful columns of the most rare and endemic plant species like the giant lobelia elgonensis.
In addition, don’t miss the beautiful slopes of Mount Elgon on which you can’t go without finding the wild everlasting flowers, and also visit the hot springs and Suam Gorge.
On your hiking safari to Mount Elgon National Park, you may also get the opportunity to explore and have a feel of Jinja town, East Africa’s adventure capital, with a boat ride to the mighty River Nile, to discover the source of the Nile.
Hiking Mount Elgon Itinerary:
Day 1: Kampala – Jinja
After early breakfast we will leave the capital city and head towards Jinja, the source of the mighty river Nile. On our way, we will have a stopover at Mabira Forest, where hikers enjoy a walk through this beautiful forest, with different primates, birds and butterflies.
There are many options this day, including a visit to the Source of the Nile in Jinja, where after, we will drive for Mbale in eastern part of Uganda. We will pass through Mbale town, a charming town at the foot of Mount Elgon. This area is full of rich heritage and fascinating culture. With some beautiful view points on our way as we reach Sipi Village, nestled between the mountain and the Sipi waterfalls.
You will enjoy a hike to the lovely Sipi Falls, passing typical African Bandas, banana plantations and maize fields while you climb to the different waterfalls.
Dinner and overnight stay at Mbale Resort Hotel. Meal Plan: Lunch and dinner
Day 2: Mount Elgon Hike: Piswa Camp
After a hearty breakfast, we will transfer you to Kapkwata at 2,190 meters, from where you will start your hike, following the Kapkwata Trail. It is a scenic route running through the bamboo, heath and moorland, arriving at the Piswa Camp at 2,850 meters.
Dinner and camping at Piswa Hut Campsite. Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Day 3: Hunters Cave Camp
Hike up to the rim of the caldera through beautiful columns of the most rare and endemic plant species like the giant Lobelia Elgonensis. A visit to the slopes of Mount Elgon can’t go without finding the wild everlasting flowers.
Visit the hot springs and Suam Gorge before descending to the Hunters Cave Camp at 3,850 meters.
Dinner and camping at Hunters Cave Camp. Meal Plan: FB
Day 4: Mude Cave Camp
Morning breakfast, and then ascend to the top of the caldera then to the Wagagai Peak at 4,321 meters. Descend thereafter through the Jackson summit (4,200 meter) and the Jackson pool to arrive at Mude Cave Camp at 3,500 meters.
Dinner and camping at Mude Cave Camp. Meal Plan Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Day 5: Mount Elgon – Kampala
Early morning, descend through the Sasa trail to Budadiri and then travel back to Mbale town. After having lunch in this calm place we will continue to Kampala where you can relax and reflect on your climbing experience at the second highest summit in Uganda. Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch.
Hiking Mount Elgon Inclusions and Exclusions:
Includes
- Accommodation and meals during the hike
- Accommodation in Mountain huts and camps/Hotels
- Transfers with 4wd vehicle
- Park Entrance fees
- Professional Guide fees
- Porters 25kg per person
- Professional cook
- Park Entrance fees
- Rescue fees in case of emergency
Excludes
- Flight fares
- Personal insurance
- Equipment for the hike
- Extra Luggage (extra 25kg per person)
Note: Climbers must be prepared to walk for up to 4 hours every day via steep cliff and muddy paths. Climbers must bring along their own climbing gear or hire it at the base camp. Our porters carry 8kg maximum of personal climbing gear, so any extra shall be paid for
What to bring
Sleeping bag, rucksack, sleeping mat, good hiking boots, waterproof trousers, raincoat, heavy worm jacket, hand gloves, scarf and cup, jumper, torch, Light changeable clothing, sweaters, insect repellants, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, binoculars, and cameras etc.
After visiting Mount Elgon National Park, you can extend your journey with an amazing wildlife game drive in the nearby Kidepo Valley National Park or extend further west for a wildlife safari to Murchison Falls National Park. Further South western Uganda, you can encounter the Big 5 including the rhinos, African elephants, buffaloes, lions and leopards, in Queen Elizabeth National Park or opt for the breathtaking gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.