Trekking: Trailheads and Routes
There are three main trailheads or starting points that lead to the mountain's peaks. You may choose to begin your ascent from Budadiri (Sasa trailhead), forest exploration center-Kapkwai (Sipi trailhead) or Kapkwata (Piswa trailhead). Sasa trail is accessible from Mbale and is the most direct route to the peaks though steep with rugged climb of over 1600m on the first day. It passes through the park's largest area of bamboo forest.
Sipi trail offers the spectacular Tutum cave hidden within extensive forest, while Piswa trail is renowned for the towering Podpcarpus forest, an excellent place for wildlife viewing. In contrast, Sipi and Piswa trails start at much higher elevations with a longer more gradual climbs to the peaks.
After visiting the peaks you can either return using the same trails or descend via a different route. Each trail/route has camping stages with a nearby water source, as well as tent pads and latrines. The park is developing a trekker's hut at Mude cave on Sasa trail.
Mount Elgon National Park Uganda also engages in cross boarder tourism with Mount Elgon Park-Kenya, hand over of visitors to either team takes place at the Hot Springs. The full trekking circuit to the peaks takes about 5 days to complete.
All visitors are encouraged to discuss options with an information clerk at the Mbale, Budadiri, Kapwakai or Kapkwata visitor's centers.
Mountain Elgon Camping
Nine basic campsites are located at strategic points along the trekking circuit. Please respect park regulations by camping only at designated campsites. Camping equipment on this Ugandan Safaris must be carried with you.
Mountain Elgon lodge hotels accommodation s
Mountain Elgon accommodation in the park is offered at forest cottages at Kapkwai. Available are four wooden Bandas, they are naturally air-conditioned, have warm and cold showers and fitted with lighting system.
Meals are provided on order according to the chef's delight. A "BAMBOO GROOVE" canteen here stocks all the country's beers and soda brands.
Accommodation facilities are also available at Suam and Kapkwata guesthouses and the Forest Exploration Center (dormitory style rooms) at Kapkwai.
The forest Exploration Center conducts a four-day environment program for school groups, which allow participants to experience a living forest Eco-system while learning the importance of conservation.
Good hotels outside the park exist in Mbale town namely, Mount Elgon Hotel, Mbale Resort Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Country home.