This 4 Days Mountain Elgon Climbing itinerary takes you through lush forests, moorlands, and to the summit of Mount Elgon at 4,321 meters. Starting with a transfer to the park, you’ll hike to Piswa Camp, then ascend to the summit on Day 3, and descend back to the base on Day 4. Accommodation options range from luxury lodges like Sipi River Lodge to budget-friendly camps like Sipi Falls Camp. The trek offers a perfect blend of adventure, stunning landscapes, and relaxation.
4 Days Mountain Elgon Climbing Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Mountain Elgon National Park
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport or Kampala and transfer to Mountain Elgon National Park. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours by road. Upon arrival, check into your chosen accommodation:
- Luxury Option: Sipi River Lodge – A cozy lodge with beautiful views of Sipi Falls, offering a peaceful atmosphere to relax.
- Mid-range Option: Kapkwai Forest Cottages – Comfortable cottages nestled in a tranquil forest setting.
- Budget Option: Sipi Falls Camp – A budget-friendly camp offering tented accommodation with excellent views of the falls.
After settling in, spend the evening relaxing, acclimatizing, and preparing for the climb the following day.
Day 2: Start of the Hike – Sipi Falls to the First Camp
After breakfast, begin your trek from Sipi Falls towards Piswa Camp. The trail takes you through lush montane forest, providing scenic views and the chance to spot various wildlife. This first stretch of the hike is relatively moderate and will cover approximately 12 km.
Upon reaching Piswa Camp, you’ll settle into basic camp accommodation, allowing you to rest and enjoy the tranquility of the mountain environment.
In the evening, enjoy a well-prepared dinner and relax for the night, ready for the more challenging sections of the climb ahead.
Day 3: Piswa Camp to Wagagai Summit (Climbing Day)
After an early breakfast, start your ascent towards the Wagagai Summit (4,321 meters), the highest point on Mount Elgon. The climb offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and an opportunity to see the expansive crater and surrounding peaks. The total distance for this day’s trek is approximately 12-15 km.
After reaching the summit and taking in the spectacular views, begin your descent towards Kaproret Camp or Endebess Gate, depending on the itinerary and group pace.
After a long day of hiking, rest and enjoy dinner at Kaproret Camp, where you’ll have a comfortable place to recover after the climb.
Day 4: Descend and Return to Base
After breakfast, begin your descent back towards the park headquarters. The trek down takes you through a variety of vegetation zones, from moorland to forest, allowing you to experience different aspects of the mountain’s ecosystem. The trek distance for the descent is approximately 12-15 km.
After reaching the base, you can head back to either Sipi River Lodge or Sipi Falls Camp for a relaxing final night in the area. If time permits, take a walk around the stunning Sipi Falls, known for its beautiful three waterfalls.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious meal at your lodge and relax, reflecting on your adventure before preparing for your departure the following day.
End of 4 Days Mountain Elgon Climbing Safari