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5-Day Mount Elgon Hike (Bushiyi-Sipi Trail)

Tour Details

To the Caldera and Beyond: 5-Day Mount Elgon Hike via Sasa Trail

If you're craving a mountain experience without the extreme altitude of Kilimanjaro or Rwenzori, Uganda’s Mount Elgon delivers the perfect adventure. This 5-day hike via the Sasa Trail takes you through tropical forests, bamboo groves, and high alpine moorlands to reach Wagagai Peak (4,321m)—the summit of one of the world’s largest extinct volcanoes.

📸 [Insert image of hikers trekking through forest or bamboo trail with gear]


Starting in Budadiri, this trail is the most direct route to the summit but also the steepest, offering a physically challenging and deeply rewarding trek. Along the way, you’ll encounter giant lobelias, breathtaking caldera views, and wildlife like colobus monkeys, duikers, and highland birds. Nights are spent at wilderness campsites, giving you a true off-grid experience under starry skies.

📸 [Insert photo of tented camp with misty mountain backdrop]


This trek is for active travelers who enjoy long days on foot, campfire meals, and the thrill of conquering a peak without the crowds. You'll be guided by a knowledgeable local team—porters, rangers, and cooks—ensuring safety, comfort, and cultural insight every step of the way.

📸 [Insert summit photo or panoramic shot from caldera rim looking down]


If you're looking to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself, and witness one of Uganda's best-kept secrets—this is it.

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Tour Itinerary

  • Day 1 – Transfer to Budadiri & Community Encounter

    Depart Kampala or Jinja early and head east toward Mbale, continuing on to Budadiri, the gateway town for the Sasa Trail. After lunch and a briefing with your local guides, enjoy a short community walk or rest at your lodge before prepping for the trek. Overnight in Budadiri.


  • Day 2 – Budadiri to Sasa River Camp (2,900m)

    Begin your trek with a steep ascent through local farmlands and the national park boundary. The hike winds through tropical montane forest full of monkeys, birds, and towering trees. This is the most strenuous section of the trail, with over 1,500 meters of elevation gain. You'll camp at Sasa River, your first overnight stop inside the park.


  • Day 3 – Sasa River to Mude Cave Camp (3,500m)

    Today’s hike is gentler but still challenging as you ascend through bamboo and giant heather zones toward the Mude Cave Camp, nestled in a beautiful alpine setting. The air grows thinner, the vegetation shifts, and the views open up dramatically. Rest and acclimatize at camp.


  • Day 4 – Summit Wagagai Peak (4,321m) & Return to Mude

    Start early for the final push to Wagagai Peak, the summit of Mount Elgon. The trail crosses open moorland and skirts the edge of Elgon’s massive caldera—one of the largest in the world. After taking in the views and snapping summit photos, return to Mude Camp for a well-earned rest and celebration.


  • Day 5 – Descend to Budadiri & Return to Kampala or Jinja

    Descend back to Budadiri via the same trail, passing through bamboo and forest zones. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Kampala, Jinja, or Mbale, arriving in the evening with sore legs, a full heart, and epic mountain memories.

Additional Information

What to bring
  • Well-worn hiking boots with ankle support

  • Warm layers (fleece, thermal base layers, down jacket)

  • Waterproof jacket and rain cover for backpack

  • Sleeping bag (rated for cold weather)

  • Daypack and large backpack (porters carry the large pack)

  • Headlamp with extra batteries

  • Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent

  • Water bottle or hydration pack

  • Trekking poles (recommended)

  • Personal snacks and energy bars

Included

Not Included

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