6-Day Mount Elgon Trek:
The Grand Piswa-Bushiyi Traverse
If you are looking for the most immersive Mount Elgon trek available, the 6-day Piswa-Bushiyi traverse is an expedition without equal.
While shorter routes rush to the summit, this 6-day journey allows you to truly “live” on the mountain. You will begin at the remote northern Piswa Trailhead (2,140m), climb through ancient Podocarpus forests, cross the high-altitude alpine moorlands of the north, and summit Wagagai Peak (4,321m) before descending into the lush, culturally rich southern foothills of Bushiyi.
Why Choose the 6-Day Grand Traverse?
- Superior Acclimatization: The gradual ascent from the north significantly reduces the risk of altitude-related fatigue.
- Northern Wilderness: The Piswa side is less traveled, offering a peaceful, “wild” mountain experience with views stretching toward the Karamoja plains and Kenya.
- Geological Immersion: Spend more time exploring the caldera rim and the unique volcanic formations that make this one of the most unique mountains in Uganda.
- The Full Story: By starting in the north and ending in the south, you witness the complete ecological and cultural spectrum of Mount Elgon.
Detailed Trekking Itinerary
Day 1: Kapkwata (Piswa) Trailhead to Piswa Patrol Hut (2,850m)
Your Mount Elgon trek begins at the Kapkwata trailhead. You’ll ascend through a stunning Podocarpus forest—keep an eye out for Black-and-White Colobus monkeys and the vibrant Hartlaub’s Turaco. We overnight at the Piswa Patrol Hut, a quiet clearing in the forest used by park rangers.
- Distance: 11–12 km
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Elevation Gain: +700m
Day 2: Piswa Patrol Hut to Hunters Cave Camp (3,650m)
As we leave the forest, the landscape shifts into the heath and moorland zones. This is the realm of the Giant Lobelia and prehistoric-looking groundsels. From our camp at Hunters Cave, you can look out across the vast plains of Karamoja as the sun sets.
- Distance: 15 km
- Elevation Gain: +800m
Day 3: Hunters Cave to Simu Valley Camp (3,800m)
Today is about alpine beauty. We trek across high ridges and cross crystal-clear mountain streams before descending into the Simu Valley. This camp is a sanctuary for high-altitude birdlife and offers a front-row seat to the mountain’s rugged volcanic architecture.
- Distance: 12–13 km
- Vibe: Remote, silent, and spectacularly scenic.
Day 4: Summit Day – Wagagai Peak (4,321m) to Dubi Camp (3,600m)
The highlight of your trekking in Uganda. We make our push to Wagagai Peak, the highest point on the mountain. Standing on the summit, you are on the edge of the world’s largest volcanic caldera. After the celebration, we begin the descent into the southern side of the mountain to Dubi Camp.
- Distance: 14–15 km
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +521m / -721m
Day 5: Dubi Camp to Shilonko Camp (2,800m)
We leave the high moorlands behind and re-enter the lush southern vegetation. The trail winds through dense bamboo thickets and mossy trees draped in lichen. We spend our final night on the mountain at Shilonko Camp, tucked away in the serene bamboo zone.
- Distance: 7 km
- Terrain: Downward descent through the bamboo forest.
Day 6: Final Descent to Bushiyi (1,700m)
Our final morning takes us through the fertile farmlands of the Bagisu people. You’ll see the famous coffee plantations that thrive in the volcanic soil. At the Bushiyi ranger post, we officially check out. A local Boda Boda (motorcycle) transfer will be waiting to take you to Riverine Resort for a well-deserved shower and rest!
- Distance: 7 km
- Elevation Loss: -1,100m
Tour Details at a Glance
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Difficulty: Challenging (Requires good endurance)
Max Altitude: 4,321 meters (Wagagai Peak)
Route Type: Traverse (Piswa – Bushiyi Traverse)
Total distance: Approx. 80-90 km
Price: $850 USD per person
Local Expert Tip: Because this is a long traverse, we recommend packing extra socks and a high-quality power bank for your camera. There are no charging points in the Simu Valley!
What’s Included?
- Accommodation: 1 Pre-night stay and 5 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.
- extra socks
- Warm fleece or jumper for the cave (it gets chilly at night!).
- A headlamp and extra camera or power bank 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: Is a 6-day Mount Elgon trek better than a 4-day trek? A: For most hikers, yes. The 6-day Piswa-Bushiyi traverse offers much better acclimatization and allows you to see both the north and south faces of the mountain, which you miss on shorter “out-and-back” routes.
Q: What is the highest point on the Mount Elgon trek? A: The highest point is Wagagai Peak, standing at 4,321 meters (14,177 ft). It is located on the rim of the mountain’s massive caldera.
Q: Do I need special equipment for the 6-day traverse? A: You need standard high-altitude trekking gear (boots, waterproofs, thermal layers). We provide all professional camping equipment, including tents, mats, and sleeping bags, as part of your package.