6 Days Mount Elgon Trek – Bushiyi to Piswa Trail

A Remote, Scenic, and Deeply Rewarding Journey Across Mount Elgon

The 6 Days Bushiyi–Piswa Trail is one of the most scenic and immersive trekking routes on Mount Elgon. This exceptional hike takes you from the lush Bugisu lowlands of Bududa, across the vast caldera of one of the world’s largest extinct volcanoes, and out through the Sebei region at Piswa Gate—a true cross-mountain expedition.

Starting in one of Uganda’s most remote and culturally rich regions, this trek combines dramatic landscapes, changing vegetation zones, abundant birdlife, caves, rivers, and sweeping summit views that stretch across Uganda and into Kenya. It is a journey that rewards both body and soul.

With gentle gradients, gradual altitude gain, and carefully spaced camps, this route is suitable for fit beginners and experienced trekkers alike, offering comfort without compromising adventure.

Why Choose the Bushiyi–Piswa Route?

• Cross the world’s largest mountain caldera
• Summit Wagagai Peak (4,321 m) – Mount Elgon’s highest point
• Experience two cultures: Bugisu (entry) and Sebei (exit)
• Enjoy remote trails with fewer hikers
• Stunning views of Jackson Peak, Mubiyi, Koitobos, Sudek, and the Suam Gorge
• Fully guided trek with UWA-registered local experts

This is not just a hike—it is a complete Mount Elgon crossing, offering variety, depth, and a true sense of accomplishment.

6-Day Bushiyi–Piswa Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Mbale or Bududa – Pre-Trek Briefing

You will be picked up from your hotel in Mbale or continue to Riverline Resort in Bududa, near the trailhead.
In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner followed by a detailed trek briefing, equipment check, and preparation for the journey ahead.

Overnight: Riverline Resort, Bududa

Day 2: Bushiyi Gate → Dubi River Rest Camp (3,563 m)

After an early breakfast, you will transfer by boda-boda to the Bushiyi trailhead, where you meet your guides, porters, and cook. After signing in with the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the trek begins.

The trail winds through lush forest and bamboo zones, alive with birdsong and flowing streams.
A lunch stop at Shiloko Cave offers a memorable break before the ascent continues to Dubi River Rest Camp.

As the longest hiking day, the evening is reserved for rest, hot drinks, and—weather permitting—a spectacular mountain sunset.

Distance: ~11 km
Terrain: Gentle with some steep sections
Overnight: Tent camping at Dubi River Rest Camp

Day 3: Dubi River → Wagagai Summit (4,321 m) → Mwongogo Cave Camp (3,810 m)

This is the summit day and one of the most rewarding moments of the trek.

Vegetation thins as the landscape opens to reveal sweeping views of the entire Mount Elgon massif. With steady pacing, hydration, and energy snacks, you’ll reach Wagagai Peak, the highest point of Mount Elgon.

After celebrating the summit, you descend via Jackson Pool to Mwongogo Cave Camp for a well-earned rest.

Terrain: Gradual ascent with steeper summit sections
Overnight: Tent camping at Mwongogo Cave

Day 4: Mwongogo Cave → Hunters Cave Camp (3,870 m)

Today’s trek takes you across the vast caldera, offering wide-open panoramas and dramatic geological formations. Highlights include views of Mubiyi Peaks, volcanic rock towers, and the scenic Simu River Valley.

On clear days, you can see deep into Kenya, making this one of the most visually impressive days of the trek.

Distance: ~11 km
Duration: 5–7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Overnight: Hunters Cave Camp

Day 5: Hunters Cave → Piswa Gate → Sipi

Your final day on the mountain begins with sunrise and a gentle descent through forest and open moorland. The trail leads down to Piswa Gate, passing through local communities along the way.

After signing out of the park and bidding farewell to your mountain team, you’ll be transferred to Sipi Village, where you can refresh, relax, and enjoy the evening at the foothills of Mount Elgon.

Duration: 5–7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Overnight: Hotel in Sipi

Day 6: Departure or Next Adventure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to your next destination or continue with another adventure such as Sipi Falls hiking, abseiling, or a coffee tour.

This marks the end of an unforgettable 6-day Mount Elgon trekking experience.

Ready to Cross Mount Elgon from Bushiyi to Piswa?

This 6-day trek is not just about reaching the summit—it’s about experiencing Mount Elgon in its most remote, authentic, and rewarding form.
Tell us your preferred dates, group size, and hiking experience, and we’ll help you plan a safe, well-paced, and unforgettable journey across the mountain.

→ Use the form below to request availability or a custom trekking plan.