5-Day Mount Elgon Sipi-Piswa Traverse:
The Wilderness Expedition
For those seeking solitude and raw natural beauty in the mountains in Uganda, the 5-Day Sipi-Piswa Trail is the ultimate wilderness route.
This traverse starts at the lush Kapkwai Forest Centre and finishes at the remote Piswa (Kapkwata) gate. It is specifically designed for trekkers who want to avoid the more crowded paths and immerse themselves in the quietest corners of Mount Elgon National Park. From ancient caves to the towering Wagagai Peak (4,321m), this is a true backcountry adventure.
Expedition Highlights
- The Remote Exit: Descend via the Piswa trail, famous for its sweeping views of the Karamoja plains.
- Flora & Fauna: High likelihood of seeing Black-and-white Colobus monkeys, Blue monkeys, and the endemic Giant Lobelia.
- Dual Cave Experience: This is the only route that features overnight stays at both the historic Tutum Cave and the culturally significant Hunters Cave.
Detailed Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Kapkwai (2,050m) to Tutum Cave Camp (2,670m)
After a hearty breakfast, your trek begins at the Forest Exploration Centre. We dive straight into the montane rainforest, a dense canopy alive with the calls of Great Blue Turacos. The path leads to Tutum Cave, a massive natural rock shelter where you’ll spend your first night under the stars.
- Distance: 11 km
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Elevation Gain: +620m
Day 2: Tutum Cave to Kajeri Camp (3,383m)
Today we climb through the mystical bamboo zone and into the high-altitude heath. The scenery opens up to reveal ridges covered in Everlasting Flowers and giant groundsels. As the air thins and cools, we settle into Kajeri Camp, offering some of the best sunset views on the mountain.
- Distance: 14 km
- Time: 6–7 hours
Day 3: Kajeri to Simu Valley Camp (3,800m)
A day of high-altitude “plateau hopping.” We trek through the moorland, crossing alpine streams and rocky outcrops. Simu Valley is widely considered the most beautiful campsite on Mt. Elgon, nestled in a valley of giant lobelias with views of the volcanic ridges ahead.
- Distance: 14 km
- Landscape: Open Afro-alpine moorland.
Day 4: Summit Day – Wagagai Peak (4,321m) to Hunters Cave (3,850m)
This is the big one. An early start takes us to the rim of the Mount Elgon Caldera. We push to the summit of Wagagai Peak, standing at 4,321m above sea level. After celebrating the summit, we traverse the high ridges to Hunters Cave, a site used for generations by the mountain’s inhabitants.
- Distance: 23 km (A long, rewarding day)
- Highlight: Reaching the highest point of the world’s largest volcanic base.
Day 5: Hunters Cave to Kapkwata Exit (2,140m)
Our final descent is a long but gentle path through the heath and bamboo zones. As we emerge from the forest, we are greeted by the sight of the Karamoja plains and local community farmlands. The trek concludes at the Kapkwata gate, where your transport will be waiting.
- Distance: 25–27 km
- Elevation Loss: –1,510m
Tour Details at a Glance
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Difficulty: Strenuous (High endurance required)
Max Altitude: 4,321 meters (Wagagai Peak)
Route Type: Traverse (Start Sipi / End Piswa)
Total distance: Approx. 85 km
Price: $750 USD per person
What’s Included?
- Accommodation: 1 Pre-night stay and 4 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 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: Which Mount Elgon route is the quietest? A: The Piswa (Kapkwata) trail is known as the quietest and most remote route. By combining it with a Sipi start, you get a beautiful wilderness traverse that avoids the busiest sections of the park.
Q: What is the distance of the 5-Day Sipi-Piswa hike? A: This trek covers approximately 85 km over 5 days, making it a high-endurance route suitable for active hikers.
Q: Can I complete the Sipi-Piswa trek in 4 days? A: Yes, for extremely fit hikers, we can combine stages to complete this route in 4 days, though 5 days is recommended to fully enjoy the scenery and acclimatize properly.