UGANDA SAFARI

6-Day Mount Elgon and Wagagai Peak Hike

Climb to Wagagai Peak, Uganda’s highest point on Mount Elgon, on this six-day hiking adventure. The journey combines the River Nile in Jinja, Sipi Falls and a multi-day trek through Mount Elgon National Park. Follow the Kapkwata Trail to the caldera before descending through the Sasa Trail, camping in the mountain wilderness along the way.

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DURATION

6 Days / 5 Nights

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ROUTE

Kampala/Entebbe ➔ Jinja ➔ Sipi Falls ➔ Mount Elgon (Kapkwata Trail ➔ Wagagai Peak ➔ Sasa Trail) (returning to Kampala/Entebbe)

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From roaring waterfalls at Sipi to the rim of a vast volcanic caldera—experience Uganda’s ultimate high-altitude trek

Tour Highlights

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Visit to Jinja and the Source of the Nile

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Guided Sipi Falls hike

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Mountain camping experience

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Kapkwata and Sasa trails

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Mount Elgon caldera and Suam Gorge

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Itinerary

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Day 1: Transfer to Jinja

A Native Expeditions representative will collect you from Kampala, Entebbe or the airport and transfer you to Jinja.

Depending on your arrival time and interests, visit the Source of the Nile, take a boat ride or enjoy another optional activity beside the river.

Overnight: Jinja

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Day 2: Transfer to Sipi Falls

After breakfast, travel through Mbale to Sipi Falls on the foothills of Mount Elgon.

After checking in and having lunch, join a local guide for a hike to the Sipi waterfalls. The trail passes through farmland, village communities and coffee-growing areas.

Return to your lodge for dinner and preparation for the mountain trek.

Overnight: Sipi Falls

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Day 3: Kapkwata Trail to Piswa Camp

Transfer to the Kapkwata trailhead, situated at approximately 2,190 metres above sea level.

Meet your ranger and trekking team before beginning the climb through forest, bamboo and heath vegetation to Piswa Camp at approximately 2,850 metres.

Overnight: Piswa Camp

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Day 4: Piswa Camp to Hunters Cave Camp

Continue towards the rim of Mount Elgon’s vast caldera.

The trail passes through high-altitude moorland containing giant lobelias, groundsels and other distinctive Afro-alpine plants. Depending on conditions and the selected route, visit viewpoints overlooking the caldera, Suam Gorge and nearby hot springs.

Descend to Hunters Cave Camp at approximately 3,850 metres.

Overnight: Hunters Cave Camp

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Day 5: Wagagai Peak and Mude Cave Camp

Begin the summit stage early and climb to Wagagai Peak, the highest point on Mount Elgon at 4,321 metres.

Weather permitting, enjoy views across the caldera and surrounding mountain landscape. Descend past Jackson’s Summit and Jackson’s Pool before continuing to Mude Cave Camp.

Overnight: Mude Cave Camp

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Day 6: Descend through the Sasa Trail

After breakfast, descend through the Sasa Trail towards Budadiri.

Meet your driver at the trailhead and stop for lunch in Mbale before continuing to Kampala or Entebbe. Expect a late-evening arrival.

Travellers with an international departure should arrange an additional night in Entebbe.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Mount Elgon hike?

The trek is moderately difficult to challenging. It does not require technical climbing, but altitude, steep trails, rain, mud and several consecutive hiking days make good fitness essential

Where do travellers sleep on the mountain?

Accommodation during the trek is at basic mountain campsites. Travellers should confirm whether tents, sleeping bags, mattresses and other camping equipment are included.

Are guides and porters required?

The trek should be completed with authorised park guides. Porters can be arranged to carry camping equipment and personal luggage for an additional fee.

Is a hiking permit required?

Yes. Entry and trekking within Mount Elgon National Park require the applicable park permits and ranger arrangements.

When is the best time to hike Mount Elgon?

The mountain can be visited throughout the year, but the drier periods generally offer better trail conditions. Rain and cold weather can occur at any time.