Day 1: Bushiyi Gate to Shiloko Camp (2,700masl)
Upon your arrival at the trailhead via convenient Boda Bodas, you will be warmly greeted by our experienced team of ranger guides, dedicated porters, and our enthusiastic chef at the Bushiyi information center. Your expedition will commence with introductions and a comprehensive briefing, outlining the detailed flow of your 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 camp. 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.
- 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 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 gentler 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.
- Wake up Time: 6:00 am
- Breakfast: 6:30 am
- Distance: 6km
- Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours
Day 3: Dubi River Camp - Wagagai Peak and Descend to Mowagogo 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 day 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 Mowagogo Cave Camp.
- Wake up: 6:00 am
- Breakfast: 6:30 am
- Departure: 7:00 am
- Duration: Approximately 5-7 hours for the round trip (14km total).
- 3rd Camp: Simu Cave Camp (3,800 meters above sea level)
Day 4: Mawogogo Cave Camp to Kajeri Camp (12km, 3,383 meters above sea level)
After waking up and enjoying breakfast, we will organize our backpacks and embark on a walk to Kajeri Camp. This 12km trek is anticipated to take approximately 5-6 hours, allowing you to immerse yourselves in the surrounding natural beauty at a comfortable pace. While an option exists to continue to Tutum Cave Camp (2,667 meters above sea level, 23km, estimated 8-9 hours), we typically prioritize a more relaxed pace and will make a joint decision based on the group's physical condition and available time.
- Distance: 12km
- Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours
- 4th Camp: Kajeri Camp (3,383 meters above sea level)
Day 5: Kajeri Camp to Tutum Cave Camp (12km, 2,667 meters above sea level)
Our walk from Kajeri Camp to Tutum Cave Camp covers a distance of 12km and features minor and manageable steep sections that are not technically challenging. While not an exceptionally long day of trekking, the route offers truly epic views. Tutum Cave Camp is nestled within the montane forest, providing a comfortable environment with normal temperatures, minimal wind, and the delightful chorus of numerous bird species.
- Distance: 12km
- Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours
- 5th Camp: Tutum Cave Camp (2,667 meters above sea level)
Day 6: Tutum Cave Camp to Kapkwai Sipi Gate (11km)
Our exit point from Mount Elgon National Park will be the Kapkwai Sipi gate. Following the sign-out procedures, Boda Bodas will be readily available to transport you 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.
• Distance: 11km
• Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
