Exploring the Improved Sasa Trail (2026): Mount Elgon Lodging Options.

Introduction to Mount Elgon Lodging Options and Camping

Mount Elgon is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a rich local culture. Its hiking trails wind through dense montane forests, scenic viewpoints, and unique geological features, creating a perfect balance between adventure and a deep connection with nature.

To fully enjoy this experience, quality lodging, well-developed camping and trekking facilities play an important role in enhancing any Mount Elgon hiking adventure. Comfortable accommodation allows hikers to rest, recover, and fully appreciate the journey while exploring the mountain.

Back then before 2023, the Sasa Trail had limited and poorly developed campsites, unmarked and one-way trekking routes, and walking trails that were inadequately maintained. This made the overall hiking experience more challenging and less accessible for many visitors. Today, however, the situation has significantly changed.

Since Elgon Trekking Services took over the management of the Sasa Trail in 2023, major improvements have been made. New campsites (Mount Elgon Lodging Options) have been developed, existing facilities upgraded, walking trails properly maintained, and loop trekking routes introduced. In addition, new Mount Elgon Lodging Options have emerged both inside and outside Mount Elgon National Park, offering hikers greater comfort and flexibility.

In this post Mount Elgon Lodging Options, I share a detailed overview of the Mt Elgon lodging and camping facilities that have been established and improved since 2023, highlighting how these developments have transformed the Sasa Trail into one of Uganda’s most rewarding hiking destinations.

Newly constructed Cabins at Sasa River Camp

Mount Elgon Lodging Options: Focus on the Improved Sasa Trail.

As already said before, this article Mount Elgon Lodging Options highlights sleeping and camping options along the Sasa Trail on Mount Elgon, the route that has benefited most from recent infrastructure and service upgrades. The trail now features newly constructed campsites, refurbished accommodation facilities, and expanded walking routes designed to improve safety, comfort, and overall hiking experiences.

Significant investments have also been made in professional training for guides, cooks, and porters, ensuring high service standards for visitors. Additionally, Siro Peak Residence, a lodge located outside Mount Elgon National Park in Budadiri near the Sasa Trailhead offices, offers convenient accommodation and easy access to the mountain.

Mount Elgon’s appeal lies in its rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and unique volcanic features, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers. Whether you are a beginner seeking gentle, rewarding walks or an experienced trekker looking for a challenging ascent, the Sasa Trail offers diverse and fulfilling experiences.

Currently, the Sasa Trail boasts over 45 kilometers of well-maintained hiking paths winding through Mount Elgon National Park. These trails showcase the park’s major attractions, including endemic wildlife, waterfalls, caves, and panoramic viewpoints that enhance every trek.

Recent developments—such as improved trail signage, new and upgraded camps, regular trail maintenance, and the introduction of loop trekking routes—have positioned the Sasa Trail as one of Uganda’s top hiking destinations.

Camps on the Sasa Trail – Mount Elgon Lodging Options

As already said, Sasa Trail features some of the best-developed and most scenic camps in Mount Elgon National Park. And these recent improvements in trail management and accommodation have significantly enhanced the overall trekking experience. Below are the main camps and lodges found along this popular route.

A new Cabin at Hunwick Camp

• 🏕️ Sasa River Camp 2,880m asl: Mount Elgon Lodging Options

Sasa River Camp is located in dense montane forest at an elevation of 2,880 meters above sea level. It is one of the oldest and most established campsites in Mount Elgon National Park, situated approximately 8 km from the base camp in Bugiboni Village.

Before Elgon Trekking Services took over management of the Sasa Trail in 2023, Sasa River Camp was traditionally the first overnight stop for hikers on their Mount Elgon trek. Due to its close proximity to the trailhead and easy accessibility, the camp has undergone major improvements in both accommodation facilities and the walking trails leading to it.

Today, hikers can choose between newly constructed Cabins or designated camping areas for tents, making it suitable for different trekking styles. Although mainly used as a transit camp for hikers heading toward Wagagai Peak, the area also offers rewarding activities such as montane forest nature walks and visits to the scenic Mwambu Waterfalls, located near the campsite.

Visitors Enjoying the lush hiking trails of Mt Elgon

• 🏕️ Mude Cave Camp 3,472m asl: Mount Elgon Lodging Options

Mude Cave Camp is another historic and highly scenic campsite on the Sasa Trail. Located 6.7 km from Sasa River Camp, it sits at an elevation of 3,472 meters above sea level within the heather zone.

From this camp, hikers enjoy spectacular views of Mubiyi Peak (4,210 m) and the expansive alpine moorlands. Depending on your trekking schedule, spending a night at Mude Cave Camp is a memorable experience. The camp is located approximately 9 km from Wagagai Peak, making it a common final staging point before and after summiting Mount Elgon’s highest peak.

Additional attractions here include a hike to Dirigana Waterfalls, located just a few kilometers from the camp. Recent improvements at Mude Cave Camp include refurbished Cabins, an expanded camping ground, and the construction of new flush toilets, all aimed at enhancing comfort for trekkers.

• 🏕️ Hunwick Camp 2,882m asl: Mount Elgon Lodging Options

Hunwick Camp is one of the first newly established camps opened by Elgon Trekking Services after assuming management of the Sasa Trail in 2023. The camp is located at 2,882 meters above sea level and approximately 7.4 km from the Bugiboni base camp.

Thanks to its proximity to the trailhead, Hunwick Camp is easily accessible and ideal for multi-day treks. The camp offers panoramic views of Mount Elgon’s slopes, surrounding community lowlands, Wanale Ridge, and Mbale City.

While staying at Hunwick Camp, hikers can explore the surrounding montane forest, visit Mwambu Waterfalls, and enjoy modern camping facilities. Accommodation options include tent camping and newly constructed, cozy Cabins, providing comfort in a scenic mountain setting.

New Cabins at Masaba Camp

• 🏕️ Masaba Camp 3,745m asl: Mount Elgon Lodging Options

Masaba Camp is located approximately 7.2 km from Hunwick Camp, along the Mukoola Ridge, at an elevation of 3,745 meters above sea level. Like Mude Cave Camp, Masaba Camp serves as a key staging point before and after summiting Wagagai Peak, as it lies only 8 km from Mount Elgon’s highest point Wagagai.

The camp is named after Masaba Peak (4,152 m), which stands about 2 km from the campsite. From Masaba Camp, hikers enjoy breathtaking views of the heather zone, alpine moorlands, and the Kenyan side of Mount Elgon.

As a newly developed camp, Masaba Camp offers modern camping facilities, including tent sites and comfortable Bandas. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to summit Masaba Peak (4,152 m), explore Masaba Table (4,024 m), and visit the scenic Masaba / Jackson Pool, located just below the peaks.

A refurbished Cabin at Sasa River Camp

• Siro Peak Residence – Budadiri one of Mount Elgon Lodging Options

Siro Peak Residence is a newly established and standout guest house located in Budadiri Town, just a short distance from the Mount Elgon Sasa Trail trailhead. This well-positioned lodge has quickly gained attention for its unique blend of comfort, sustainability, and personalized hospitality, making it an ideal choice for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure travelers exploring Mount Elgon National Park.

As one of the Mount Elgon Lodging Options, it is designed with a strong focus on eco-friendly tourism and guest satisfaction, Siro Peak Residence offers cozy, secure, and well-maintained Mount Elgon Lodging Options that allow visitors to relax and reconnect with nature. Its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings create the perfect retreat for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation while minimizing their environmental impact. The lodge’s emphasis on immersive experiences, comfort, and safety makes it a top lodging option near Mount Elgon.

The New Siro Peak Guest house a Cozy lodge nestled at the base of Mt Elgon in Budadiri

Dining Experience at Siro Peak Residence – Mount Elgon Lodging Options

A good dining experience is an important part of any Mount Elgon trip, and Siro Peak Residence delivers fresh, satisfying meals for all guests. The lodge focuses on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while also considering the different tastes and dietary needs of visitors.

Meals are inspired by the traditional food culture of the Mount Elgon region, giving guests a chance to enjoy authentic local flavors alongside well-prepared international dishes.

Siro Peak Residence caters to a variety of dietary requirements by offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring every guest can enjoy their meals comfortably during their stay.

The lodge follows a farm-to-table dining concept, where fresh produce from nearby farms is prepared into healthy and nourishing meals. This not only improves food quality but also supports local farmers and the surrounding community, adding extra value to your stay near Mount Elgon.

Visitors standing on a new wooden bridge

Community Engagement and Cultural Experiences Around Mount Elgon

Staying and hiking near Mount Elgon National Park gives visitors a great chance to connect with local communities. Siro Peak Residence in Budadiri as a Mount Elgon Lodging Options supports meaningful cultural immersion experiences that allow guests to learn about local life around Mount Elgon.

The guest house can arrange a range of community-based tours and cultural activities, including traditional dance performances, local cooking experiences, guided village walks, coffee tours, nature walks, hikes to viewpoints and caves, as well as short and full-day excursions.

Guests may visit nearby villages to take part in hands-on cooking, tour local homesteads, learn about traditional livelihoods, and explore lively local markets. These authentic experiences offer deeper insight into the culture and heritage of the Mount Elgon region while building genuine connections between visitors and local residents.

Community engagement adds great value to any Mount Elgon hiking trip, creating lasting memories and a stronger appreciation of the people, culture, and landscapes that make this region special.

Traditional local meal prepared with fresh ingredients at Siro Peak Residence

Conclusion: Mount Elgon Lodging Options on the Sasa Trail

Mount Elgon, especially along the Sasa Trail, offers an unforgettable hiking experience. Recent improvements, including new campsites and better lodging options, have greatly enhanced the comfort and convenience of hiking in this part of Mount Elgon National Park. These facilities are thoughtfully designed to blend with the natural environment, giving hikers a peaceful place to rest after long days on the trail.

From rewarding Mount Elgon hiking adventures and meaningful cultural interactions with local communities to enjoying fresh meals made from locally sourced ingredients, the Sasa Trail provides a complete and enriching travel experience.

As you plan your next Mount Elgon hiking trip, consider the Sasa Trail for its accessibility, improved accommodation, and scenic beauty. Your journey will be filled with lasting memories, cultural discovery, and moments of relaxation in one of Uganda’s most beautiful mountain landscapes.

Happy hiking on Mount Elgon with the new Mount Elgon Lodging Options! 🏔️

Cozy Bedroom at Siro Peak Residence - Budadiri

Mount Elgon National Park Entry Gate Sasa Trail

About the Author

 The author is a local guide based in Budadiri at the Sasa Trailhead. If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments.

Mount Elgon Lodging Options!