The 2-Day Sasa Trail Trek in Mount Elgon National Park is a special experience. You climb past the base of Dirigana Falls, a waterfall that drops 61 metres, then continue to the top of the falls and follow the Dirigana River before ascending to Mukoola Ridge. From here, you enjoy wide views of the valleys and surrounding communities.
It is best to spend the night before in Mbale town, but you can also stay at a lodge near Sipi Falls. The drive from Mbale to the Uganda Wildlife Authority office in Budadiri is about 52 km and takes around one hour. To start early, be at the UWA office by 8:00 am. Park entrance fees are $35 per day for foreign non-residents, $25 for foreign residents, and UGX 15,000 for East Africans. The trek begins just above Bugiboni Village at the base camp.
Brief Itinerary
- Day 1: From the base camp at 1,720m, hike to Hunwick’s Camp at 2,882m
- Day 2: Descend back to the base camp
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Hike to Hunwick’s Camp at 2,882m
The trek starts through the community and then follows the Dirigana River beneath tall cliffs. You cross a bridge directly below Nabunyifu Falls, which drops 61 metres. This is one of the highlights of the trek. From here, the trail climbs the escarpment and enters the montane forest. A few kilometres ahead, you stop at a quiet spot by the river for lunch. The sound of the flowing water makes it a relaxing break.
After lunch, you continue with a gentle climb up to Mukoola Ridge and reach Hunwick’s Camp at 2,882m. From here, you can see the communities below and even Mbale city in the distance. The camp also has cellular network.
- Overnight stay: Hunwick’s Camp (2,882m)
- Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 2: Descend back to the base camp (1,720m)
After breakfast, you continue through the forest for about one kilometre before branching off and walking down to the Dirigana River. The trail follows the river closely, with small waterfalls and rapids along the way. You then rejoin the route from day one and continue past the falls back down to base camp.
Meal plan: Breakfast and lunch
