General
The volcanic Mount Elgon is with its 4.321 m the fifth-highest mountain in East Africa and is situated at the Uganda-Kenya border. It is a volcano that came to a still stand 10 million years ago and was higher than the Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya once. The boundaries of the National Park are the 1147 km² of the mountain-complex. Afro-mountainous vegetation is characteristic for the biggest part of this area and leads through huge moor- and tree land and bamboo forest. Botanists and friends of nature will get exited at the view of giant groundsels and lobelias and giant heather. Even the choice of animals that can be found is amazing and compiles amongst others buffalos, bushbuck, leopards, hyenas, different monkeys and baboons.

Many travelers detect an exciting alternative to other possible hiking tours in East Africa in visiting Mount Elgon. It has all the advantages they have such as mild climate and low banks. Depending on the choice of trail, even beginners can easily hike without special equipment or technical experience. For the advanced routes however, professional preparation, good health condition and alpinist knowledge are required. To reach the peak of Mount Elgon only needs three days but staying longer enables a more complete exploration of what the area offers.

There are three main routes available: Sasa Trail, Sipi Trail and Piswa Trail.

Program (ascent via Sasa Trail and descent via Piswa Trail)

Day 1: From Budadiri to the Sasa River Camp
The 5-day-trip starts off in Budadiri and passing by banana plantations, the Sasa River Camp that is to be found in 2.900 m and can be reached within 6 hours is the day’s aim.

Day 2: From the Sasa River Camp to the Jackson's Pool Camp
On the second day the way leads through thick bamboo forest via the Sasa Patrol Hut to the Mude Cave Camp for lunch. There is the option of climbing the Jackson's-Summit (4.165 m) and the night will be spent in the Jackson's Pool Camp.

Day 3: From the Jackson's Pool Camp to Wagagai Peak and to the Hunter's Cave Camp
Early morning the ascent to Wagagai Peak (4.321 m) will start. On the way to the Hunter's Cave Camp where the night is supposed to be spent, a pleasant detour to the hot springs can be made.

Day 4+5: Descent
The Piswa Patrol Hut (2.850 m) will be the first stop of the descent before Kapkwata will be reached.

The best times for touring Mount Elgon are the dry seasons from December to March and June to September.

Please contact us for more information and further inquiries:
office@equatorialwildsafaris.com.

Yours- EWS Team