5 Days Mount Elgon Trekking in Kenya – Climb Koitobos Peak (4,222m). Looking for an off-the-beaten-path mountain adventure in Kenya? This 5-day Mount Elgon trekking tour with Ahambi Tours takes you to Koitobos Peak (4,222m) — one of Mount Elgon’s highest summits. Unlike the crowded trails of Mount Kenya or Kilimanjaro, Mount Elgon offers a peaceful escape into pristine wilderness, unique caves, and panoramic views that stretch across Kenya and Uganda.
Mount Elgon is an ancient extinct volcano located on the Kenya–Uganda border, known for its lush montane forests, bamboo zones, moorlands, and diverse wildlife — including elephants, buffalo, and colobus monkeys. The trail from Chorlim Gate on the Kenyan side offers a gradual ascent, making it ideal for trekkers with moderate fitness levels seeking a rewarding multi-day trek.
If you’re looking for a quieter, scenic, and less commercialized mountain experience in Kenya, Mount Elgon is the perfect choice.
Best Time to Trek Mount Elgon
The best time to trek Mount Elgon is during Kenya’s dry seasons when the trails are clear and the weather is stable:
- January – March: Clear skies and excellent visibility.
- June – September: Dry and comfortable trekking conditions.
- December: Ideal before the short rains begin.
It’s best to avoid April–May and October–November, which are the long and short rainy seasons. However, for adventurous trekkers, the mountain’s lush greenery during these months offers a truly unique experience.
Detailed 5-Day Mount Elgon Trekking Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi – Kitale
Pick-up from your hotel or residence in Nairobi at 07:00 hrs. Drive for approximately 5–6 hours to Kitale town, the gateway to Mount Elgon.
Overnight in Kitale.
Day 2: Kitale – Chorlim Gate – Mutamaiyo Camp (2,950m, 14km)
After breakfast, drive one hour to Chorlim Gate. Complete park formalities and begin your trek through the forest and moorland zones.
Arrive at Mutamaiyo Camp after 4–5 hours of hiking.
Dinner and overnight at camp.
Day 3: Mutamaiyo Camp – Road End Camp (3,500m)
Trek for about 6–7 hours as you ascend into the alpine zone. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route before arriving at Road End Camp in the late afternoon.
Dinner and overnight at camp.
Day 4: Road End Camp – Koitobos Peak (4,222m) – Mutamaiyo Camp
Start early with breakfast at 05:00 hrs for your summit push. Hike approximately 6km (around 5 hours) to reach Koitobos Peak (4,222m).
Enjoy spectacular 360° views across Kenya and Uganda before descending via Road End Camp back to Mutamaiyo Camp.
Dinner and overnight at camp.
Day 5: Mutamaiyo Camp – Kitale – Nairobi
After breakfast, descend through the forest, visiting Kitum and Makingeny Caves, where elephants dig for salt. Exit at Chorlim Gate and drive to Kitale, then continue to Nairobi — arriving in the evening.
Mount Elgon Trekking Cost (Per Person)
| No. of People | Cost Per Person (USD) |
| 1 | 1,400 |
| 2 | 1,200 |
| 3+ | 1,000 |
What’s Included
- Return transport from Nairobi to Mount Elgon (Kitale/Chorlim Gate)
- Professional trekking guide
- Experienced chef and mountain crew
- Porters for luggage and camping gear
- Camping accommodation (tents and sleeping mats)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Drinking water during the trek
- Park entry and camping fees
- Government taxes and levies
What’s Excluded
- One-night accommodation in Kitale (can be arranged on request)
- Personal trekking gear (available for rental: sleeping bag, backpack, warm clothing, etc.)
- Tips for guide, chef, and porters
Packing List for Mount Elgon Trek
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Warm clothing (fleece, down jacket, gloves, hat)
- Rain jacket and trousers
- Sleeping bag (3–4 season recommended)
- Backpack (65–75L)
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
- Headlamp and extra batteries
- Personal toiletries and medication
Why Trek Mount Elgon with Ahambi Tours
- Among the few tour operators offering Mount Elgon trekking from Kenya
- Professional local guides with experience on both Mount Elgon and Mount Kenya
- Quality camping equipment and reliable logistics
- Excellent safety record and personalized service
- Unique access to a quiet, unspoiled trekking route
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I climb Mount Elgon from Kenya?
Yes. Mount Elgon can be climbed from both Kenya and Uganda. Our 5-day trek follows the Kenyan route via Chorlim Gate, reaching Koitobos Peak (4,222m).
Q2: How difficult is Mount Elgon trekking?
It’s a moderate trek, with 4–7 hours of hiking per day. The altitude is lower than Mount Kenya or Kilimanjaro, making it suitable for most hikers.
Q3: What makes Mount Elgon unique compared to Mount Kenya or Kilimanjaro?
Mount Elgon offers quieter trails, scenic caves, rich wildlife, and cultural encounters — ideal for trekkers seeking solitude and nature away from crowds.
Q4: What wildlife might I see on the mountain?
Expect to spot elephants, buffalo, monkeys, and colorful bird species — especially around the caves and forest zones.
Q5: Is altitude sickness a concern?
At 4,222m, the altitude is lower than Mount Kenya or Kilimanjaro, so the risk is minimal. The gradual ascent also helps with acclimatization.
Q6: Can I combine Mount Elgon with another adventure?
Absolutely! Many trekkers combine Mount Elgon with a Mount Kenya climb or a Kenya wildlife safari for a complete adventure holiday.
Book Your 5 Days Mount Elgon trekking in Kenya Today
Be among the few adventurers to experience Mount Elgon trekking from Kenya. With Ahambi Tours, you’ll enjoy professional guidance, excellent service, and a once-in-a-lifetime mountain experience.
Book Now: Website: www.ahambitours.co.ke Email: info@ahambitours.co.ke WhatsApp: +254 725 727167