8 Days Mount Elgon Hike
8 Days Mount Elgon Hike Go off the beaten track and experience the undiscovered East! Climb Mount Elgon, reach the Wagagai peak, and overlook the Karamojong plains.
Highlights – 8 Days Mount Elgon Hike
- Day 1: Arrival
- Day 2: Kampala – Jinja
- Day 3: Jinja – Mount Elgon
- Day 4: Piswa Camp
- Day 5: Hunters Cave Camp
- Day 6: Mude Cave Camp
- Day 7: Mount Elgon – Kampala
- Day 8: Departure
Detailed Itinerary – 8 Days Mount Elgon Hike
Day 1: Arrival
You will be welcomed by a representative of Great Lakes Safaris who will transfer you to your hotel in Kampala. Depending on the time of arrival, our guide will take you on a city tour for an exciting introduction with the capital. Visit some interesting and historical sites, including the Kasubi Tombs, Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, the Uganda Museum and of course the African Craft Village. We also advise you to have your money changed today. Dinner and overnight at Cassia Lodge.
Day 2: Kampala – Jinja
After early breakfast we will leave the capital city and head towards Jinja, the origin of the mighty river Nile. On our way we will have a stop at Mabira Forest. Hikers will 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, the Bujagali Falls, floating down on the challening rapids and relaxing on the shores of the Nile. Dinner and overnight at The Haven.
Day 3: Jinja – Mount Elgon
We depart Jinja and drive to the unknown eastern part of Uganda. We will pass through Mbale, a charming town at the foot of the Mount Elgon. This area is full of rich heritage and fascinating culture. With some beautiful view points on our way we will reach Sipi Village, nestled between mountains and waterfalls. After lunch at the accommodation, you will enjoy a hike to the lovely Sipi Falls. Pass typical African bandas, banana plantations and maize fields while you climb to the different waterfalls. Dinner and overnight at Lacam Lodge.
Day 4: Piswa Camp
After a hearty breakfast, we will transfer you to Kapkwata at 2190 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 2850 meters. Dinner and camping at Piswa Hut Campsite.
Day 5: 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. And of course 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 3850 meters. Dinner and camping at Hunters Cave Camp.
Day 6: Mude Cave Camp
Morning breakfast, then ascend to the top of the caldera to the Wagagai Peak at 4321 meters. Descend thereafter through the Jackson summit (4200 meter) and the Jackson pool to arrive at Mude Cave Camp at 3500 meters. Dinner and camping at Mude Cave Camp.
Day 7: 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 you climb of the second highest summit in Uganda. Dinner and overnight at Cassia Lodge.
Day 8: Departure
Enriched with an experience of a lifetime and unforgettable memories you will say goodbye to the Pearl of Africa. Depending on the time of departure you might have some time to spend in Kampala and shop for a souvenir. Or leave early for Entebbe and visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre for the last meeting with the beautiful flora and fauna of the country. Afterward, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight back home. We are looking forward to seeing you again!
End of the 8 Days Mount Elgon Hike
