The Bushiyi Trail in Mount Elgon National Park offers a stunning adventure through diverse landscapes, bamboo forests, moorlands, and rocky summits. While experienced hikers can complete it in 3 days, most visitors are recommended to plan for 4–5 days to fully enjoy the journey and acclimatize properly.
Your adventure begins with a road transfer from Kampala, Uganda’s capital, to the eastern town of Mbale. This drive takes approximately 5–6 hours, covering a distance of about 225 km. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the lush countryside, sugarcane plantations, and bustling roadside markets. Upon arrival in Mbale, you will check in at your lodge or hotel and have time to rest, prepare your gear, and meet with your guide for a briefing about the trek ahead.
After breakfast, you will drive from Mbale to the Bushiyi trailhead, where you’ll officially start your trek. The trail leads through small villages, farmlands, and into the lower montane forest. The hike from Bushinyo to Shilokho Camp offers beautiful scenery, with chances to spot local wildlife and birdlife. Expect a moderate ascent as you gradually enter the bamboo zone. You will spend the night at Shilokho Camp, which offers a rustic but rewarding camping experience surrounded by nature.
On Day 3, you’ll continue your ascent from Shilokho Camp to Dubi Camp. This part of the trail takes you deeper into the montane forest and heath zones, with the air becoming cooler as you gain elevation. The trek may take around 6–8 hours, depending on your pace and weather conditions. Along the way, you’ll encounter dramatic landscapes, giant groundsels, and possibly some unique high-altitude plant species. Upon reaching Dubi Camp, you’ll set up camp and rest in preparation for the summit attempt the next day.
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You’ll wake up early for the final push to Wagagai Peak, Mount Elgon’s highest point at 4,321 meters above sea level. The hike from Dubi Camp to the summit takes about 4–5 hours, passing through moorland and rocky sections. Once at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the crater, the surrounding peaks, and on a clear day, even parts of Kenya. After celebrating at the peak, you will descend back to Dubi Camp for a well-earned rest.
After breakfast, you’ll begin your descent from Dubi Camp back to the Bushiyi exit gate. The downhill trek offers another chance to appreciate the unique landscape and biodiversity. Once you reach the trailhead, you will meet your driver for the return transfer to Kampala or your next destination. This marks the end of your unforgettable Mount Elgon adventure.
