2-Day Mount Elgon Hike:
The Kapkwai-Sipi Forest Adventure
If you are looking for a short but immersive experience in the mountains in Uganda, the 2-day Kapkwai-Sipi trail is the perfect choice.
Unlike the longer summit climbs, this itinerary focuses on the lush biodiversity of Mount Elgon’s lower slopes. It is a favorite for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and those visiting nearby Sipi Falls who want to go deeper into the national park without a week-long commitment.
Highlight: The Tutum Cave Experience
The centerpiece of this trek is the night spent at Tutum Cave. Hidden deep within the montane forest, this massive natural rock shelter features a spectacular waterfall plunging over its entrance—a magical setting for a mountain campfire.
Detailed Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Kapkwai Forest Centre – Tutum Cave Camp
Your adventure begins at the Kapkwai Forest Exploration Centre (2,050m), located near Sipi. After a briefing with your guides and porters, you’ll enter a world of towering trees and ancient ferns.
As you hike, keep your eyes peeled for Black-and-White Colobus monkeys and the rare Blue monkeys swinging through the canopy. The trail is alive with the calls of Turacos and Hornbills. By late afternoon, we reach Tutum Cave Camp. You can relax by the hidden waterfall while our chef prepares a fresh mountain dinner.
- Hike Duration: 5–6 hours
- Landscape: Primary montane forest and bamboo zones.
- Accommodation: Camping at Tutum Cave Camp.
Day 2: Tutum Cave – Return to Kapkwai/Sipi
After breakfast in the fresh mountain air, we begin our descent via a different scenic path. This return route offers expansive viewpoints overlooking the Sipi Valley and the distant Karamoja plains.
The descent is a great time for bird watching and learning about the local medicinal plants used by the Sabiny people. We arrive back at the Forest Centre by mid-afternoon, where your trek concludes, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy a sunset at Sipi Falls.
- Hike Duration: 3–4 hours
- Distance: 11km descent.
Tour Details at a Glance
Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Distance: 22 km (Round trip)
Best For: Weekend travelers, birders, and families
Price: $220 USD per person
Note: This price includes 1 night of accommodation (Bed & Breakfast) the day before your hike to ensure you start fresh and energized!
What’s Included?
- Professional UWA-certified guides and armed rangers.
- Private chef and porters to carry luggage and gear.
- All park entry fees and VAT.
- High-quality camping gear (tents, mats, sleeping bags).
- All meals and safe drinking water during the trek.
- Pre-hike accommodation (1 night).
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.
Ready to Explore Mount Elgon?
Book your spot on the Kapkwai-Sipi trail and experience the hidden side of the most beautiful mountains in Uganda.