Day 1: Bushiyi Gate to Shiloko Camp (2,700 meters above sea level)
Upon your arrival at the designated trailhead via Boda Bodas, you will be warmly welcomed by our experienced team of ranger guides, dedicated porters, and our enthusiastic chef at the Bushiyi information center. Your family mountain adventure will commence with introductions and a comprehensive briefing, outlining the detailed flow of your Uganda trekking itinerary, the captivating encounters anticipated along the trail, designated resting points, the location for your refreshing lunch break, and the setting for your first night's wilderness camping. Following the briefing, you will embark on your immersive journey, trekking beneath the verdant canopy of the Elgon Montane Forest, serenaded by the melodious sounds and calls of diverse bird species, playful squirrels, and curious monkeys, all while enjoying breathtaking scenic viewpoints on this Eastern Uganda hiking expedition.
- 1st Camp: Shiloko Camp (2,700 meters above sea level) for the night.
- Distance: 6km
- Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours, depending on the group's pace.
Day 2: Shiloko Camp to Dubi River Camp (3,600 meters above sea level)
Begin your day with an early and nourishing breakfast, preparing you for the day's trek. After packing your backpacks, you will commence your journey towards the second camp. This segment of the Mount Elgon trail features a sharp ascent, which will be approached at a measured and steady pace to navigate the ridge effectively. It is advisable to have snacks readily accessible in your daypack, as our suggested lunch stop will be a little further along the route. Upon reaching the summit of the ridge, you will be rewarded with a truly magnificent vista, as the landscape transitions into a more gentle incline leading towards the camp. Dubi River Camp will serve as our overnight accommodation for either one or two nights, a decision that will be finalized based on the group's progress and preferences during this family-friendly adventure.
- Wake up Time: 6:00 am
- Breakfast: 6:30 am
- Distance: 6km
- Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours
Day 3: Dubi River Camp - Wagagai Peak and Descend to Simu Cave Camp (14km loop)
Following a hearty morning breakfast, we will prepare for our ascent to conquer the majestic Wagagai Peak. Essential items for this mountain summit experience include ample drinking water and energy-boosting snacks such as chocolate bars and fruits. Given the conditions in the Alpine Zone, characterized by strong winds and reduced oxygen levels, it is recommended to wear your windbreaker jackets. Upon successfully reaching the summit, you will begin your descent, traversing the breathtaking Caldera rim, passing by the serene Crater lakes, exploring the Caldera base, and taking in the views of the Kenyan Peaks. Our route will then lead us via the Jackson seasonal pool, followed by a short trek to the proposed Simu Cave Camp on this guided mountain tour.
- Wake up: 6:00 am
- Breakfast: 6:30 am
- Departure: 7:00 am
- Duration: Approximately 5-7 hours for the round trip, potentially 6 hours depending on the group's pace (14km total).
- 3rd Camp: Simu Cave Camp (3,800 meters above sea level)
Day 4: Simu Cave Camp to Kajeri/Tutum Cave Camp
After waking up and enjoying breakfast, we will organize our backpacks and embark on a trek to our next campsite. The options include Kajeri Camp (3,383 meters above sea level, 12km) or, for a more extended trek after lunch, Tutum Cave Camp (2,667 meters above sea level, approximately 35km, potentially taking an estimated 8-9 hours of walking). To ensure the best nature adventure experience for everyone, we maintain flexibility, and a joint decision regarding the day's destination will be made after assessing the group's physical condition and available time on this outdoor adventure Uganda.
Day 5: Park Exit
Our departure point from Mount Elgon National Park will be the Kapkwai Sipi gate. Upon completing the sign-out procedures, Boda Bodas will be awaiting our arrival to transport us to Sipi Village. Here, you will have the opportunity to make a personal decision regarding an overnight stay or continuing onward to your next destination.
- Simu Cave Camp to Kajeri Camp to Tutum Camp: 24km
- Kajeri Camp to Tutum Camp to Kapkwai gate: 12km + 23km (depending on the chosen route)
