They said that the bus from the capital to Mbale goes 3 hours, but it took me more then 4 hours to get there. I have been warned that there could be road blocks on the route, but fortunately not today. For 12000 UGX I got a front seat in “Elgon Flyer” bus. Soon the seat next to me was taken by the black lady – the teacher from Mbale. Nice person except that she had very wide bottom, so I had a little comfort… And of course I was the only mzungu on the bus.
There were many police checks on the route, but they are formal only. I crossed Nile River again in Jinja. Three hours later a big mountain appeared on the horizon – that was Mt Elgon.
Provincial town of Mbale lies at the bottom of this big mountain. It was too late to continue the trip to Sipi, so I decided to spend the night in Travellers Inn (room with bath 25000 UGX) and to go onward next morning.
It is hot, hot, hot… I like Mbale -it is very colorful, vibrant – especially the bazar. Big mango or avocado fruit cost 500 UGX. Loaf of bread – 1500, an egg – 300. That will be enough for my dinner!
