Day 1: Kapkwai (Sipi Gate) to Kajeri Camp (3383masl, +1683mASL, 22.5km)
Your adventure begins with an early and energizing breakfast. Following this, we will embark on a scenic Boda Boda (motorcycle taxi) ride or a private car transfer for 12km to the Kapkwai trailhead, near Sipi Gate. Upon arrival, our dedicated team of experienced porters, knowledgeable ranger guides, and our cheerful chef will be awaiting you, ready to guide you on this remarkable journey. Today's trek takes you through a captivating montane forest, offering opportunities to spot various primate species and unique forest birds. We will pause for a hot lunch at the strategically located Tutum Cave Camp before continuing our trek for approximately 11km to Kajeri Camp, where you will spend your first night nestled in the mountain's embrace.
- Breakfast: 6:30am
- Departure: 7:00 am
- Distance: 12km Boda Boda ride or Private Car Drive + 10.5km walk
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Kajeri Camp to Mwongogo Camp (3800masl, +417mASL, 12km)
Awake to the breathtaking beauty of a mountain sunrise and enjoy a delicious breakfast. After packing up our camp, we will set off towards Mwongogo Camp, situated 12km and higher in elevation than Kajeri. The terrain today presents a combination of both steep and gentle inclines, interspersed with occasional uphill sections. Your efforts will be rewarded with increasingly stunning vistas as we ascend into the heather zone, characterized by expansive grasslands, unique high-altitude flora, and truly panoramic views. Mwongogo Cave Camp offers a spectacular 180-degree vantage point overlooking the Simu Valley, providing an ideal setting to enjoy a memorable sunset.
- Breakfast: 6:30 am
- Departure: 7:00 am
- Distance: 12km walk
- Difficulty: Steep & Moderate
Day 3: Mwongogo Camp to Wagagai Peak (4321masl, +521mASL, 11km)
Today marks an exhilarating highlight of your expedition is the ascent to Wagagai Peak, the majestic summit of Mount Elgon! Following an early breakfast, we will pack essential snacks, ample drinking water, and energy bars to sustain us during our climb in the higher altitude. The trek to Wagagai Peak from Mwongogo Camp is approximately 5-6km, and the duration will vary depending on individual fitness levels. Our approach emphasizes enjoying the journey, encouraging you to walk at a comfortable and sustainable pace. Upon reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. We will then begin our descent, taking a scenic loop that detours past Jackson Peak, the tranquil Jackson Pool, the vast caldera base, and the picturesque crater lakes before returning to Mwongogo Camp for our second night at this location.
- Breakfast: 6:30 am
- Departure: 7:00 am
- Distance: 11km walk
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Handover at the Uganda-Kenya Border Point (12km)
Today is a truly unique and exciting day as you experience the thrill of crossing into neighboring Kenya via a less-traveled mountain trail. Mount Elgon offers this extraordinary opportunity to visit its Kenyan counterpart. After an early and energizing breakfast, our dedicated team will assist you in packing up the camp and preparing for the 12km trek to the designated border handover point. Upon arrival, you will be met by the Kenya Wildlife service team, whose expert guidance will lead you through the Kenyan side of your adventure. They will escort you to the Suam international border, where your passport will be stamped, and your Kenyan visa (if required) will be processed. From this point, you will be in the capable hands of the KWS team, ready to explore the wonders of Kenya at your own pace and choosing. The services of our Ugandan team will conclude upon your successful handover to the Kenyan authorities.
- Breakfast: 6:30 am
- Departure: 7:00 am
- Distance: 12km walk
- Difficulty: Gentle Landscape
- Total Hiking Distance: 57.5km
