3-Day Mount Elgon Summit Hike:
The Bushiyi Trail Express
For adventurers who want to stand on the “roof” of the mountains in Uganda but are short on time, the 3-Day Bushiyi Trail is the ultimate choice.
As the most direct and steepest route to Wagagai Peak (4,321m), this trek is designed for those with good fitness and a desire for a rewarding challenge. In just three days, you will traverse dramatic landscapes—from lush montane forests to the otherworldly Afro-alpine moorlands—and witness the largest volcanic caldera on Earth.
The Ultimate Summit Goal:
Wagagai Peak
While other trails take 4 to 6 days, the Bushiyi route is optimized for speed without sacrificing the beauty of the national park. You will spend two nights at the scenic Dubi Camp, positioned perfectly for your final push to the summit.
Detailed Trip Itinerary
Pre-Night: Preparation in the Foothills
To ensure you start your trek fresh and energized, we include a pre-night stay at our partner guesthouse near the trailhead. This allows you to rest after your journey and have a final briefing with your mountain team before the ascent begins.
Day 1: Bushiyi Trailhead (1,700m) to Dubi Camp (3,600m)
Your expedition starts in the fertile foothills, trekking through local farmlands before entering the thick montane forest. This is a day of significant elevation gain (+1,900m). As you climb, the forest gives way to the bamboo and heath zones. By evening, you’ll reach Dubi Camp, your base for the summit attempt.
- Distance: 10–12 km
- Duration: 6–8 hours
- Elevation Gain: +1,900m
Day 2: Summit Day! Wagagai Peak (4,321m)
Today is the day you conquer one of the most iconic peaks in Uganda. After an early breakfast, you’ll enter the Afro-alpine zone, home to giant lobelias and groundsels. The trail opens up to reveal the massive Mount Elgon Caldera. Standing on Wagagai Peak, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views across Uganda and Kenya. After celebrating at the top, we descend back to the comfort of Dubi Camp.
- Distance: 12–14 km (Round trip)
- Duration: 7–9 hours
- Highlights: Standing on the summit; views of the world’s largest volcanic caldera.
Day 3: Final Descent to Bushiyi
After breakfast, we begin our descent back through the various vegetation zones. It’s a great opportunity to spot any wildlife you missed on the way up, such as colobus monkeys or the diverse birdlife of the forest. We arrive at the ranger post by mid-afternoon for your transfer back to Sipi or your next destination.
- Distance: 10–12 km
- Duration: 5–7 hours
Tour Details at a Glance
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights (+ Pre-night)
Difficulty: Challenging (Requires good fitness)
Max Altitude: 4,321 meters (Wagagai Peak)
Route Type: Return via the same route
Price: $500 USD per person
Why the Bushiyi Trail is Unique
While most mountains in Uganda require a slow approach to altitude, the Bushiyi Trail is a “vertical staircase” through history. It is the only route that allows you to witness the transition from the Gishu coffee farmlands to the high-altitude Afro-alpine moorland in a single day of trekking.
Trail Ecosystems You Will Encounter
- The Bamboo Zone (2,400m – 3,000m): A dense, misty forest where you might hear the calls of the Black-and-white Colobus.
- The Heather Zone: Filled with ancient trees draped in “Old Man’s Beard” (Usnea lichen).
- The Afro-Alpine Zone: Home to the endemic Giant Groundsels (Dendrosenecio elgonensis) and Lobelia elgonensis, plants that exist nowhere else on Earth.
What’s Included?
- Accommodation: 1 Pre-night stay and 2 nights mountain camping.
- Support Team: Experienced UWA guides, porters, and a private chef.
- Park Fees: All entrance fees, camping fees, and taxes.
- Meals: All high-energy mountain meals and safe drinking water.
- Equipment: Professional tents, mats, and sleeping bags.
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking boots with good grip.
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket.
- Warm fleece or jumper for the cave (it gets chilly at night!).
- A headlamp and extra camera batteries.
Optional Extension: Sipi Falls Relaxation
After the intensity of the summit, many of our guests choose a Day 4 extension in Sipi. This includes a tour of the three Sipi waterfalls, a “Farm-to-Cup” coffee experience, or even abseiling for those who still have some adrenaline left!
Conquer the Summit of Mount Elgon
Ready to take on the challenge? Join the local experts for an unforgettable journey to the top of the oldest volcanic mountains in Uganda.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How difficult is the 3-Day Mount Elgon summit hike? A: This is a challenging trek due to the rapid elevation gain (+1,900m on Day 1). It is best suited for physically fit hikers who have experience with steep ascents.
Q: What is the fastest route to Wagagai Peak? A: The Bushiyi Trail is the shortest and fastest route to the summit of Mount Elgon (Wagagai Peak), taking only 3 days for the round trip.
Q: Do I need a permit for Mount Elgon trekking? A: Yes, all treks are regulated by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Our 3-day package includes all necessary permits, ranger fees, and park entrance taxes.
Q: Is there a risk of altitude sickness on Mt. Elgon? A: Because this route ascends quickly to 4,321m, we provide experienced guides who monitor your pace. We also include a pre-night stay at lower altitude to help with initial acclimatization.