Mount Elgon National Park
Mount Elgon National Park, a transboundary park shared by Uganda and Kenya, boasts the world's largest volcanic base, diverse wildlife, stunning caldera views, ancient caves, and challenging hiking trails on the slopes of the extinct volcano.
Overview
Mount Elgon National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders located on the Kenyan-Ugandan border.
The park is named after the Mountain, Elgon, an extinct shield volcano that dates back more than 24 million years.
With the largest surface area of any extinct volcano in the world, Mount Elgon boasts a peak of 4,321m - the eighth-highest in Africa. The park covers 1,279km² in total, with the Ugandan section covering 1,110km² and the Kenyan section covering a smaller area of 169km².
The beauty of Mount Elgon National Park is not limited to its geological features, as it is also home to two tribes – the Sabiny and the Bagisu. The Sabiny speak Sebei, a Nilotic language, while the Bagisu speak Lugisu, a dialect of the Lumasaba language.
For the Bagisu tribe, Mount Elgon is more than just a mountain. It is considered the manifestation of their founding father, Masaba, and is thus referred to by this name. Both tribes rely on subsistence farming for their livelihoods, which adds to the area's cultural richness.
Mount Elgon Safari Packages
Sipi Falls Hike in Mount Elgon National Park
AvailableALL YEAR
Duration4 DAYS
From$687
Jinja Source of The Nile Tour
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration4 DAYS
- From$1,195
Best of Uganda's Top Attractions
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration10 DAYS
- From$3,350
Hiking Trails in The Park
The Sasa Trail
The most challenging yet shortest trail to reach the peak of Wagagai, Mount Elgon's 4,321m peak, takes four days to complete in a round trip. Starting from the town of Budadiri in the Eastern Region of Uganda, at an altitude of 1,250m, the trail begins with a steep ascent of 1,650m on the first day. Upon entering the forest, the trail leads to the Mudangi Cliffs, which require climbing ladders to conquer. Following that, the trail takes you on a 2.5-hour walk through a scenic bamboo forest. The second day of the trip features a more gentle walk, and on the third day, you will finally reach the peak of Wagagai.
The Piswa Trail
If you are looking for a less strenuous and longer alternative to the Sasa Trail, you could consider taking a different route. This alternative trail spans across seven days and covers about 49 kilometers. It commences from Kapkwata village, situated on the mountain's northern side at a height of 2,190m. The trail is renowned for its incredible sights of Uganda's Karamoja Plains, Kenya's Kapeguria, and Nandi Hills.
The Sipi Trail
Covering a distance of 56km, the longest trail takes 4-6 days to finish. Starting from Kapkwai Forest Exploration Centre, the trail is located just a few kilometers away from Sipi Falls. One of its main attractions is the part that passes through Tatum Cave, renowned for its prehistoric cave art.
Day Hikes
The Forest Exploration Centre has recently launched three new shorter trails, ranging from 3 to 7 kilometers in length. These trails are ideal for hikers who are less experienced or travelers who have a limited amount of time but still want to experience the stunning scenery and wildlife of Mount Elgon.
Bird Watching in Mount Elgon
If you're a bird enthusiast, you'll be pleased to know that Mount Elgon National Park is home to over 300 bird species, earning it the recognition of being an Important Bird Area (IBA). Keep an eye out for rare species such as the endangered lammergeier, as well as the African blue fly-catcher, the African goshawk, and the cinnamon-chested bee-eater.
Accommodation - Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Mount Elgon National Park adventure in Uganda, with options ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious lodges offering panoramic vistas.
Sipi River Lodge
A serene and secluded retreat nestled in the foothills of Mount Elgon. It offers comfortable and tastefully decorated cottages, each with its own private veranda overlooking the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Mount Elgon Hotel and Spa
A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Mbale town. It boasts of spacious and elegantly designed rooms, modern amenities, and a range of facilities like a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center.
Kapkwai Cottages
A charming eco-lodge situated at the edge of Mount Elgon National Park. It offers cozy and rustic cottages with breathtaking views of the park and its wildlife. The lodge also features a restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine.
