Your climb should be organized from the Mt. Elgon National Park Headquarters in Mbale, Plot 19-21, Masaba Rd., House #84. There are trailheads at Budadiri and at Kapnarkut where park fees and trekking can also be organised
Mbale is 4 hours from Kampala via Tororo.
Kampala – Mbale via Jinja and Tirinyi Rd – 256km 3 hours.
Mbale – Budadiri – 30km 1 hour (road can be muddy and slippery in wet conditions).
Mbale – Sipi Falls – 66km 1 1/2 hours.
Sipi Falls – Kapkwata – 45km 1 1/2 hours
Matutus to Sipi Trading Centre depart from the clock tower taxi park in Mbale. The fare is Ush 4000-. The road has been completely tarred up to The Sipi Falls Trading centre with work continuing up to Kapchorwa. The road is steep in places however a pleasure to drive. This route was prior to the tar was a 6 hour hell journey after any rain.
Budadiri is accessible by public transport. Matatus for Budadiri also depart from the Clock Tower taxi park in mabale. The one way fare is Ushs 2,000-. Those with their own vehicles can be sure of finding safe parking in Budadiri or at Sipi Falls at a price obviously. Use public transport to get to the trail head at Kapkwata. Porters and guides will be found c/o the sub headquarters in Budadiri or Kapnarkut.
Guides and porters in Budadiri can be organised through the Mt. Elgon Guides and Porters Association.
Kapchorwa: (12 kms from Sipi Falls and 40 kms from Mbale). Probably the largest settlement on Mt. Elgon when proceeding to the border at Suam. Kapchorwa has a large market, post office and more to the point is either the beginning or the end of the tarmac. Depending on whether your heading up or down the mountain. There are some panoramic views to take in along this road so time your time.