Hiking Mount Elgon Via The Bushiyi Trail
Bushiyi Trail Overview
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the Bushiyi Trail on Mount Elgon — from what to expect on the hiking route and available tour packages, to how to get there, the essential gear tips, accommodation options, the best times to visit, and we’ll also show you exactly how to book a guided tour on the Bushiyi Trail to make your adventure hassle-free. Ready to explore one of Mount Elgon’s most enchanting trails? Let’s dive in.
About Bushiyi Trail
Bushiyi Trail is one of the routes used for hiking on Mount Elgon in Uganda. it is located on the southern side of Mount Elgon National Park, in Bushiyi Subcounty, Bududa District, Uganda. Much like the famous Sasa Trail, Bushiyi trail is one of the shortest and easiest routes to reach Wagagai Peak (4,321 meters above sea level), Mount Elgon’s highest point. The trek begins at the Bushiyi Ranger Post in Bududa, situated at an elevation of about 1,800 meters above sea level.
Distance and Duration
The Bushiyi Trail covers approximately 40 kilometres to and from and usually takes 3 to 4 days to complete, depending on pace and fitness levels. This makes it a great choice for hikers who want to enjoy the mount elgon tours without committing to a longer expedition.
Accommodation and Camping Along the Trail
For overnight stays, there are sleeping shelters set up at designated campsites by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), providing a rustic but comfortable resting experience. But for more flexibility and enjoyable camping, hikers are required to have their own tents for extra comfort and to fully enjoy this outdoor adventure.
Scenic Views and Hiking Experience
One of the highlights of hiking on the Bushiyi Trail is the opportunity to enjoy clear panoramic views of Mount Elgon’s southern slopes. From this side of the mountain, you get a chance to see spectacular clear views across the border into Kenya, including views of Sudek Peak, Mount Elgon’s second-highest summit.
Management and Uniqueness on the Trail
As the newest trail on Mount Elgon, The trail offers a fresh and immersive trekking experience. Hikers can expect to encounter thriving flora and fauna, as well as untouched natural landscapes that make the trail feel both wild and authentic. Unlike the Sasa Trail, which is privately managed, and the Trail is overseen directly by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), ensuring regulated conservation practices and well-maintained facilities.
Where to sleep before and after the hike along the Bushiy Trail.
The Trail is located about 53 kilometers from Mbale Town, which is the nearest major town and the most common base for visitors. The trail is accessible by road, and travellers have the option to either stay overnight in Mbale and travel to the trailhead early in the morning, or book accommodation in guesthouses closer to the trail for more convenience. The closest and the most favourite guesthouse to this Trail is Riverline Guest House in Bududa, located just 7 km from the Bushiyi Ranger Post.
How to Get to the Bushiyi Trail
By Private Car
From Mbale Town, take Tororo Road, then turn left onto Lwakhakha Road and drive towards Bubulo Town Council. From Bubulo, leave the tarmac road and turn left onto Bududa Road, continuing until you reach Bunamubi Trading Center. At Bunamubi, take a right turn and drive directly to the Bushiyi Trailhead.
By Public Transport
For budget travellers, public taxis (matatus) operate daily between Mbale and Bunamubi Trading Center. From Bunamubi, you can hire a boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) to take you straight to the trailhead. While this option is cheaper, it is often less reliable, as public taxis tend to delay or make frequent stops along the way, which could interfere with your planned hiking schedule.
Recommended Option to get to there
For convenience and timely arrival at the trailhead, it is highly recommended to hire a private car in Mbale. This option allows you to travel comfortably, avoid unnecessary delays, and start your Mount Elgon hike on time.
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Reasons to Choose the Bushiyi Trail for Hiking Mount Elgon
The Bushiyi trail is easily accessible
Hiking on the Trail take less time and it is less challenging
The Terrain and Views on Trail are breathtaking
The trail is the most Cost-Effective Option for hiking on Mount Elgon
Tours on the Bushiyi Trail
The Bushiyi Trail is one of the most exciting routes into Mount Elgon National Park, offering hikers a chance to explore diverse landscapes, rich vegetation zones, and breathtaking views. The main activity on this trail is hiking, and it is well-suited for adventure enthusiasts looking to reach Mount Elgon’s highest peak or explore multiple trail experiences.
There are Three main tour packages available on theTrail, each designed to suit different interests and time frames:
3 Days Hike to Wagagai Summit
This is a challenging yet engaging 3-day adventure that tests your endurance with marathon walks on the rugged trails of Mount Elgon but very rewarding in the end.
​​4 Days Bushiyi Trail Backtrack Hike
This tour option allows you to hike deep into the park and retrace your steps along the same scenic route. It’s ideal for travelers who want to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Mount Elgon without rushing.​
​4 Days Bushiyi – Sipi Trail Experience
This package is a unique trek on two trails on Mount Elgon. It begins from one trail and ends on the other one.
How to book a tour on Bushiyi Trail
The Bushiyi Trail starts at the Bushiyi Ranger Post in Bududa District. At the moment, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has no established booking offices at this trailhead.
Therefore, if you are booking Mount Elgon Hiking on the Bushiyi Trail, you’ll need to make your reservations and payments at the UWA offices in Mbale Town before traveling to Bushiyi Trail head, where you will meet your hiking support team to begin the trek.
However, if you book through a tour operator, this process becomes much easier. Tour operators are already familiar with the Mount Elgon Hiking booking procedures and will handle the logistics on your behalf, allowing you to focus on enjoying your Bushiyi trail hiking tour.​
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