Detailed Itinerary
8Days/7Nights
Brief Description
Elgon is an extinct Volcanic Mountain with 4,321m high, which in prehistoric times stood taller than Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) does today. The mountain straddles the Kenya border, and it has its loftiest peak, Wagagai, which lies within Uganda and is best ascended from the Uganda side. Elgon is an important watershed, and its slopes support a rich variety of altitudinal vegetation zones ranging from montane forest to high open moorland studded with the other-worldly giant lobelia and groundsel plants.
Spectacular scenery is the main attraction for hikers on this oft-neglected and relatively undemanding mountain, but there is also a variety of forest monkeys and small antelope, along with elephant and buffalo. A checklist topping 300 birds includes many species not recorded elsewhere in Uganda. Other attractions include ancient cave paintings close to the trailhead at Budadiri, and spectacular caves and hot springs within the crater.
Day 1: Arrive in Uganda
On your arrival you will be met and welcomed by our tour representative who will transfer you to your Hotel in Kampala. Or if you arrive in the morning, our guide will take you on a city tour for a thrilling introduction to the capital city of Uganda, the acknowledged city of the seven beautiful hills. You will Visit some interesting and historical sites, including the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, Kasubi Tombs, the Uganda Museum and of course the African Craft Village. You will have to change your money to Ugandan currency to help you in purchasing souvenirs.
Dinner and overnight at Hotel
Day 2: Kampala - Jinja
After breakfast, we will leave Kampala and head to Jinja one of the historical cities of Uganda. The origin of the Mighty Nile. Go for a half day rafting on the white Nile at Bujagali falls, Visit the source of the Nile. Lunch in Jinja.
Dinner and overnight at Kingfisher Resort (Classic) or Hotel Triangle (Budget).
Day 3: Jinja - Mbale
Depart from Jinja towards the Eastern Part of Uganda. We will pass through Iganga, Busembatya, and then Mbale a charming town at the Foot hills of Mt Elgon. This area is composed of rich legacy and intriguing ethnicity. With some striking outlook points on our route, we will reach Sipi Village, lying between waterfalls and mountains. After lunch, we will enjoy a hike to the lovely Sipi Falls. We will pass via typical African bandas, banana plantations and maize fields while we hike to the different waterfalls.
Dinner and overnight at Lacam Lodge.
Day 4: Start the Hike
After an obsessive breakfast, we will move to Kapkwata peak at 2190 meters, from where we will start our hike, following the Kapkwata Trail. It is a scenic route running through the bamboo, heath and moor land, arriving at the Piswa Camp at 2850 meters.
Stop for dinner and camping at Piswa Hut Campsite.
Day 5: Hike
After our morning breakfast, climb up to the edge of the caldera through the stunning columns of the most unique and prevalent plant species like the giant Lobelia Elgonensis. And certainly a vacation to the slopes of Mount Elgon can’t go without discovery of 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: Hike
In the morning we take breakfast and climb up to the top of the Caldera to Wagagai Peak at 4321 m. 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: Back to Kampala
Early morning, move down through the Sasa trail to Budadiri and then we will drive back to Mbale town. After having lunch in this calm place we will continue to Kampala where you can relax and reflect your climb of the second highest peak in Uganda.
Dinner and overnight at Hotel Africana (Classic) or Namirembe Guest House(Budget)
Day 8: Kampala -Entebbe
Depending on the time of departure you will 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 a last meeting with the beautiful flora and fauna of the country. Afterwards we will transfer you to the airport for your flight back home.
