OVERVIEW

Mount Elgon, an ancient extinct volcano on Uganda’s eastern border with Kenya, offers one of East Africa’s most rewarding mountain treks. The Mount Elgon Summit Trek leads adventurers to Wagagai Peak (4,321m), Uganda’s second-highest point, through scenic trails filled with waterfalls, caves, montane forests, and giant groundsels. Unlike other alpine climbs, this trek requires no technical equipment, making it perfect for trekkers seeking altitude without extreme conditions.

DETAILED itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Briefing – Mbale / Budadiri or Sipi Arrive in Mbale town and proceed to either Budadiri (Sasa route) or Sipi (Sipi route) trailhead. Meet your Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger guide for orientation, registration, and gear check. Spend the evening exploring the local community or visiting Sipi Falls.
Accommodation: Sipi River Lodge / Rose’s Last Chance Guesthouse
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Trailhead to Sasa River Camp (2,900m) Sasa Route: Begin with a steep climb from Budadiri through farmlands and the “Wall of Death” — a series of ladders ascending to the park boundary. Pass through bamboo forests and reach Sasa River Camp.
Sipi Route: Start from Kapkwai Forest Exploration Centre and hike through montane forest to Tutum Cave Camp, known for its large lava tube caves.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Bamboo forest, local villages, scenic ridges
Accommodation: Mountain Hut / Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Day 3: Sasa River Camp to Mude Cave Camp (3,500m) Trek through montane and afro-alpine vegetation, with stunning views of the caldera rim and surrounding valleys. The trail levels out as you reach Mude Cave Camp, a perfect acclimatization stop before the summit push.
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Highlights: Afro-alpine vegetation, unique flora, birdlife
Accommodation: Mude Cave Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Day 4: Summit Wagagai Peak (4,321m) – Return to Mude Camp Start early for the summit trek across open moorland and rocky slopes to Wagagai Peak, overlooking the world’s largest volcanic caldera. Enjoy panoramic views of the Karamojong plains, Lake Turkana region, and the Kenyan highlands. Descend to Mude Camp for overnight rest.
Trekking Time: 7–9 hours
Highlights: Summit of Wagagai, vast caldera views, alpine scenery
Accommodation: Mude Cave Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Descend to Budadiri or Sipi – Return to Mbale Descend through lush montane forest to the trailhead. Celebrate your successful ascent with your guide and crew before transferring back to Mbale. Optional visit to Sipi Falls for a refreshing post-climb swim.
Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Optional Add-Ons
Sipi Falls Experience: Add an extra night to explore all three waterfalls and enjoy coffee tours with local farmers.
Kapkwai Forest Trail: Ideal for birdwatching and nature photography before or after your trek.

 BEST TIME TO GO

All Year Round

 INCLUDED

Professional guide(s)
Accommodation (type and quality)
Meals (if applicable)
Park fees / entry permits
Equipment (if any)
Transport (if provided)

 ADDTIONAL NOTES

What to Bring
Warm clothing and rain gear
Trekking boots and walking poles
Sleeping bag and personal first aid kit
Refillable water bottles and snacks
Best Time to Trek The best periods are June–August and December–February, offering clear skies and stable weather conditions. Hike through misty forests, stand on the edge of an ancient crater, and conquer Wagagai Peak — Mount Elgon’s crown jewel.
Plan your Mount Elgon Summit Trek today for a 4–5 day journey into Uganda’s highland wilderness.