- Seguku Katale. Kampala
3 Days Mountain Elgon Hiking in Uganda
3 Days Mount Elgon Climbing
Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano, rises in Eastern Uganda within the Mbale district and extends into Kenya. The peak, Wagagai, is the highest point at 4,321 meters above sea level, found exclusively on the Ugandan side. Other notable peaks include Sudeki (4,302 m), lying on both the Ugandan and Kenyan sides, Koitobos (4,222 m) in Kenya, and Mubiyi (4,210 m) and Masaba (4,161 m) in Uganda. Among them, Wagagai is the highest and attracts the most visitors.
The 3-day safari leads you to Eastern Uganda, starting and ending in Kampala. You’ll explore Mount Elgon through mountain climbing and hiking, with additional visits to Sipi Falls and the Source of the Nile for a well-rounded experience in Uganda’s stunning landscapes.
Mount Elgon lies in the Eastern Arm of the Great East African Rift Valley, and it’s widely considered to have the largest mountain base in the world, primarily due to ancient volcanic eruptions. Moreover, Mount Elgon boasts one of the world’s oldest and most intact calderas, making it a remarkable geological feature in East Africa.
Mountain Elgon National Park stands out as one of Uganda’s prime national parks, ideal for Mount Elgon hiking safaris, typically completed in 4 to 5 days. During the trek, you can also explore the three breathtaking Sipi Falls, where the Sipi River cascades from the slopes of Mount Elgon into the Kyoga Basin. In addition, guided forest walks offer a chance to witness unique flora and fauna, wildlife species like elephants, buffaolos, while cultural tours introduce you to the Masaba and Gishu communities, native to the Elgon region.
A trip to Mount Elgon is truly a well-rounded adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and abundant wildlife.
Trip Summary and Highlights
This 3-day Mount Elgon Hiking Tour provides an immersive experience into Uganda’s stunning mountain scenery, mysterious ancient caves, and vibrant cultural heritage. Set on the border between Uganda and Kenya, Mount Elgon stands as one of East Africa’s oldest and largest extinct volcanoes. Through this itinerary, you’ll trek up the scenic slopes of Mount Elgon, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy panoramic views from multiple viewpoints along the journey. Each step offers unique insights into the mountain’s natural beauty and rich biodiversity, creating an unforgettable hiking adventure.
Trip Highlights:
- Hike Mount Elgon’s scenic slopes and explore its rich biodiversity.
- Witness the stunning Sipi Falls and breathtaking mountain views.
- Experience the hospitality and culture of local communities in Mbale.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kampala/Entebbe to Mbale
Your journey begins with a morning pickup from Kampala or Entebbe, where you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Mbale, the gateway to Mount Elgon National Park. The road trip spans approximately 5-6 hours, with a stop for lunch en route. As you approach Mbale, enjoy views of the lush countryside and mountainous landscape that characterize this part of Uganda. Dinner and Overnight Stay at;
Budget: Casa Hotel Mbale/ Mid-range: Mbale Resort Hotel/ Luxury: Mount Elgon Hotel and Spa
MEAL PLAN: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Mount Elgon Hike
After breakfast, you’ll head to Mount Elgon National Park for an early start to the hike. Choose the Sasa Trail, the shortest yet steepest trail, offering a challenging ascent with rewarding views. As you climb, pass through beautiful bamboo forests, ancient caves, and lush moorlands. The hike allows you to experience Mount Elgon’s unique vegetation zones and observe diverse bird species.
In the afternoon, you’ll reach a scenic rest point with breathtaking views over Uganda’s vast landscape, including glimpses of the caldera. Descend in the evening, returning to Mbale for dinner and relaxation after a day of adventure. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.
MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Return to Kampala/Entebbe and Departure
After a relaxed breakfast in Mbale, begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. Enjoy scenic views and a stop for lunch en route, arriving in the late afternoon. This marks the end of your Mount Elgon hiking adventure.
The 3 Days Mount Elgon Hiking Tour starts and ends in Kampala or Entebbe. It can also start from Jinja or Mount Elgon National Park.
It is between 5 – 6 driving hours from Kampala.
MEAL PLAN: Breakfast and Lunch
END OF SAFARI
