Embark on a thrilling 5-day hiking adventure on Mount Elgon, Uganda’s extinct volcanic giant that straddles the border with Kenya. This adventure is perfect for hikers seeking less-crowded trails, stunning scenery, waterfalls, caves, unique vegetation zones, and rich cultural encounters. Your journey includes exploring Sipi Falls, ascending through tropical forests, and summiting Wagagai Peak (4,321m)—Uganda’s second-highest peak.
Your journey begins with an early morning pick-up from Kampala and a scenic drive to Sipi Falls, located in Kapchorwa on the northeastern slopes of Mount Elgon. The journey takes around 5–6 hours and leads you through picturesque landscapes, including the eastern Uganda plains and views of Mount Elgon looming ahead.
Upon arrival in Sipi, check in at a lodge such as Sipi River Lodge, Rafiki Lodge Sipi, or Lacam Lodge. In the afternoon, embark on a short guided walk to explore Sipi’s three stunning waterfalls, each offering breathtaking views and photography opportunities. The area is home to the Sabiny people, and you’ll get a chance to interact with locals and learn about their traditions.
Return to the lodge for a relaxing evening, dinner, and preparation for the next day’s hike.
After an early breakfast, meet your hiking guide and porters, then transfer to Kapkwai Forest Exploration Centre, the starting point for the Sipi Trail. This route is less steep and offers gradual acclimatization as you ascend.
The trail leads through tropical montane forest, where you may spot monkeys, forest birds, and colorful butterflies. You’ll pass through Chebonet Falls and the Tutum Cave, a natural rock shelter surrounded by forest. The trek takes approximately 6–7 hours.
Camp overnight near Tutum Cave Camp (2,666m) and enjoy dinner under the stars, immersed in the sounds of the wild.
Wake up to the crisp mountain air and continue your hike through bamboo forest and heathland vegetation. The trail becomes more open with sweeping views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You’ll notice a shift in scenery as you reach the moorland zone, characterized by giant lobelias and groundsel.
Today’s hike is moderate and takes about 6 hours. Arrive at Kajeri Camp (3,383m) in the late afternoon, nestled in the moorlands. Relax, enjoy the serene landscape, and prepare for your summit attempt the following day.
This is the highlight of the trek. Start early and push toward the summit of Wagagai Peak (4,321m), the highest point on the Ugandan side of Mount Elgon. The trail ascends steadily with stunning views of the Jackson’s Pool and Jackson’s Peak, and the expansive caldera, one of the world’s largest.
After reaching the summit and taking in the panoramic vistas, descend through the giant heather and lobelia zone to Mude Cave Camp (3,500m) for the night. This section of the hike takes approximately 8–9 hours.
Enjoy a well-earned rest, warm meal, and stories around the campfire.
On your final day, enjoy breakfast at camp and begin the descent via the Sasa Trail, a steeper but more direct route that leads to Budadiri town. Along the way, pass through Bamboo Forests, the Wall of Death (a rocky section), and farmlands with views of the lowland plains.
The descent takes around 5–6 hours. At Budadiri, your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Kampala. You’ll arrive in the evening, tired but fulfilled, having conquered one of Uganda’s most scenic and rewarding treks.
Ground transport to/from Mount Elgon
Park entry fees and camping fees
Professional mountain guide, porters, and cook
Tents and camping gear
Meals during the hike
Accommodation on Day 1 at Sipi Falls
Bottled water and snacks
All hiking permits and summit access
