5-Day Mount Elgon Wagagai Peak Trek (Midrange Safari)
Tour Type: Group Tour Only
Style: Midrange Safari – Comfortable mountain camps and lodges with essential amenities, guided trekking, and porter support
Destination: Mount Elgon National Park, Eastern Uganda
Trekking Uganda’s Ancient Volcano
Mount Elgon, an extinct shield volcano straddling the Uganda–Kenya border, boasts the largest volcanic base in the world and the second-highest peak in Uganda, Wagagai (4,321m). The 5-day Wagagai Peak Trek offers a moderately challenging ascent through montane forest, bamboo groves, and Afro-alpine moorland, culminating in panoramic views from the summit. This expedition is ideal for hiking clubs, student groups, and nature enthusiasts seeking a rewarding trek with cultural and ecological depth.
Tour Highlights & Unique Selling Points
- Guided multi-day trek to Wagagai Peak (4,321m)
- Traverse diverse ecosystems: montane forest, bamboo zone, moorland, and crater rim
- Spot endemic plant species like giant lobelias and groundsels
- Visit Sipi Falls and enjoy escarpment views before the trek
- Midrange lodges and mountain camps with group-friendly amenities
- Ideal for groups seeking altitude challenge, scenic beauty, and cultural immersion
Major Attractions
| Location | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Mount Elgon NP | Wagagai Peak, caldera rim, alpine vegetation |
| Sipi Falls | Waterfall hikes, escarpment views |
| Forest Zone | Birding, primates, lush canopy trails |
| Moorland Zone | Giant lobelias, crater lakes, panoramic views |
Accessibility Options
- By Road: Kampala → Mbale → Sipi (~5–6 hours)
- Nearest Airstrip (Optional): Soroti Airstrip (charter only)
- Transfers: Group transport provided in safari vans or coasters with bottled water and onboard guide
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala → Sipi Falls & Escarpment Walk
Activities:
- Scenic transfer to Sipi via Jinja and Mbale with lunch en route
- Afternoon escarpment walk with panoramic views over the Karamoja plains
Accommodation: Midrange Option: Rafiki Lodge Sipi / Sipi River Lodge
Amenities: En-suite rooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, gardens, campfire area
Day 2: Sipi → Budadiri Trailhead → Mudangi Camp
Activities:
- Transfer to Budadiri and register at Mount Elgon Park HQ
- Begin trek through montane forest to Mudangi Camp (2,850m)
Accommodation: Mountain Camp: Mudangi Camp
Amenities: Shared shelter, pit latrine, group meals, porter support
Day 3: Mudangi → Kajeri Camp
Activities:
- Trek through bamboo zone and heather forest
- Arrive at Kajeri Camp (3,500m) with views of the caldera rim
Accommodation: Mountain Camp: Kajeri Camp
Amenities: Basic shelter, alpine views, group dining
Day 4: Kajeri → Wagagai Summit → Kajeri
Activities:
- Early morning summit attempt to Wagagai Peak (4,321m)
- Return to Kajeri Camp for overnight rest
Accommodation: Same as Day 3
Day 5: Kajeri → Budadiri → Kampala
Activities:
- Descend through forest trails to Budadiri trailhead
- Transfer back to Kampala with lunch en route
What to Carry & Requirements
- Valid ID or passport
- Waterproof hiking boots and gaiters
- Warm clothing (layers, gloves, thermal wear)
- Rain jacket and poncho
- Sleeping bag (rated for cold nights)
- Headlamp, sunscreen, insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle and purification tablets
- Personal medications and snacks
- Moderate fitness level required
- Respectful attire for cultural visits
✅ Inclusions
- Group transport from Kampala to Sipi and return
- 4 nights accommodation (1 lodge + 3 mountain camps)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Mount Elgon park entry fees and Wagagai trekking permit
- Professional mountain guide and porters
- Bottled drinking water during transfers
- Cultural walk in Sipi
❌ Exclusions
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory for trekking)
- Tips and personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Optional activities not listed
- Sleeping bag rental (available on request)
Accommodation Overview
| Lodge Name | Location | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Rafiki Lodge Sipi | Sipi Falls | En-suite rooms, gardens, campfire area |
| Mudangi Camp | Forest Zone | Shared shelter, pit latrine, group meals |
| Kajeri Camp | Moorland Zone | Basic shelter, alpine views, group dining |
Ready to Summit Uganda’s Eastern Giant?
This midrange group trek offers the perfect blend of mountain challenge, scenic wonder, and cultural connection, ideal for hiking clubs, student groups, and adventure seekers.