Mount Elgon National Park, The Hidden Treasure of Uganda
Mount Elgon National Park
For millennia, a colossal entity has loomed above the border between Kenya and Uganda. The Bagisu community holds Mount Elgon in utmost reverence, considering it as the tangible embodiment of their esteemed progenitor, Masaba. Embark on a journey to ascend this age-old titan and behold the breathtaking panorama of East Africa from its unparalleled summit, situated at an awe-inspiring altitude of 4,321m.
Introduction to Mount Elgon National Park
Located on the border between Kenya and Uganda, Mount Elgon National Park derives its name from Mount Elgon, a shield volcano that became dormant over 24 million years ago.
With its vast surface area, Mount Elgon holds the distinction of being the largest extinct volcano globally, and its summit reaches an impressive height of 4,321 meters, making it the eighth-highest peak in Africa.
The park encompasses a total surface area of 1,279 square kilometers, with the Ugandan section covering 1,110 square kilometers and the smaller Kenyan section spanning 169 square kilometers.
When to Visit Mount Elgon National Park
It is advisable to plan your visit to Mount Elgon during the dry seasons of June to August and November to March for better hiking conditions. If you choose to visit in November or December, you will have the opportunity to witness the beautiful wildflowers in full bloom.
On the other hand, the trails of Mount Elgon can be more challenging due to slippery conditions during the wetter months. Regardless of when you decide to visit, you will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views.
Getting to Mount Elgon National Park
From Kampala
The distance between Kampala and Mount Elgon National Park is approximately 235km. Initially, the route takes you along a well-paved road from Kampala to Mbale, a city located in the Eastern Region of Uganda. From there, the road ascends towards Kapchorwa, situated on the north-western side of Mount Elgon.
Subsequently, the second part of the journey involves traversing dirt roads that branch off from the Mbale-Kapchorwa road, leading you to the different trailheads within the park.
Wildlife
Mount Elgon National Park boasts a diverse range of wildlife, with elephants, buffalo, and various small antelope species residing on its lower slopes.
The thick montane forest within the park is home to primates like the black-and-white colobus monkey and the blue monkey.
Additionally, Mount Elgon National Park is a habitat for more than 300 bird species, including the Tacazze sunbird and the lammergeier.
Local Culture
Mount Elgon National Park accommodates two tribes, namely the Sabiny and the Bagisu. The Sabiny communicate in Sebei, a Nilotic language, while the Bagisu converse in Lugisu, a dialect of the Lumasaba language.
According to the Bagisu, Mount Elgon represents their esteemed ancestor, Masaba, and they refer to the mountain by his name. Both tribes engage in subsistence farming as their primary means of livelihood.
Things to do at Mount Elgon National Park
Hiking
Mount Elgon’s trekking paths are a primary draw for visitors. In contrast to other ascents in East Africa, Mount Elgon’s paths are open year-round and do not necessitate specialized climbing gear.
Hiking Trails
The Sasa Trail:
This four-day round trip is the most challenging but shortest trail. It is the original route to Wagagai, the peak of Mount Elgon at 4,321m. Starting in the town of Budadiri in the Eastern Region of Uganda at an altitude of 1,250m, the first day involves a difficult ascent of 1,650m. The trail then takes you through the forest, leading to the Mudangi Cliffs which require climbing using ladders. After that, there is a 2.5-hour walk through the picturesque bamboo forest. On Day 2, the walk becomes gentler, and you will reach Wagagai on Day 3.
The Piswa Trail:
As an alternative to the Sasa Trail, the Piswa Trail is less strenuous but longer. It covers approximately 49km over 7 days. The trail starts at the village of Kapkwata on the north side of the mountain, situated at an altitude of 2,190m. One of the highlights of this trail is the breathtaking views it offers of Uganda’s Karamoja Plains and Kenya’s Kapeguria and Nandi Hills.
The Sipi Trail:
The longest trail, spanning 56km, takes around 4-6 days to complete. It begins at the Kapkwai Forest Exploration Centre, which is only a few kilometers away from Sipi Falls. One of the notable features of this trail is the section that passes through Tatum Cave, known for its ancient cave paintings.
Day Hikes:
For those who prefer shorter hikes, the Forest Exploration Centre has opened three trails ranging from 3-7km in length. These trails are ideal for less experienced hikers and travelers who want to experience the beautiful scenery and wildlife of Mount Elgon within a shorter timeframe.
Mountain Biking
In 2012, the Uganda Wildlife Authority inaugurated mountain biking routes. Bicycles are available for hire at Sipi River Lodge. A trail lasting 1 ½ hours leads from Sipi Trading Centre, situated at an elevation of 1,775m, to Chema Hill in Kapchorwa.
Bird Watching
Mount Elgon National Park is home to more than 300 bird species and has been designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA).
Visitors with an interest in birds should keep an eye out for unique species such as the endangered lammergeier.
Additionally, keep a lookout for the African blue flycatcher, the African goshawk, and the cinnamon-chested bee-eater.
Where to Stay at Mount Elgon National Park
Sipi River Lodge
Our preferred high-end lodging is located at the base of Mount Elgon. This resort boasts stunning vistas of Mount Elgon National Park. For travelers in search of a private retreat, Sipi features 4 Waterfall Cottages: Aniet, Kapsurur, Chepkui, and Toben.
Each cottage provides an exclusive outlook of Kapsurur Falls, along with a private bathroom and a personal veranda. Sipi also presents 3 Riverside Bandas, namely Piswa, Sasa, and Suam.
The bandas combine luxury with local architectural customs. Their circular walls and traditionally crafted thatched roofs enable the bandas to harmoniously blend in with their picturesque surroundings.
Mount Elgon Hotel and Spa
Situated on the outskirts of Mbale, this moderate-priced lodging transformed a former colonial structure during the 1950s. Mount Elgon Hotel presents three distinct categories of lodging options: Junior Rooms, Superior Rooms, and Executive Suites. Notably, the Executive Suites have accommodated numerous esteemed individuals, such as politicians and members of royal families.
Following an exhausting day of trekking, guests have the liberty to rejuvenate themselves in the spa, the mini-gym, or the restaurant. Moreover, they have the opportunity to indulge in a personalized drinking experience by reserving a session for cocktails and wine tasting.
Kapkwai Cottages
Located at the gateway of Mount Elgon National Park, this affordable lodging was initially constructed to serve as a hub for students exploring the lush forest.
The lodging offers practical yet cozy accommodations, with guests having the option of selecting from 4 cottages or 4 fixed tents.
Visitors can replenish themselves with food and beverages from the on-site canteen, making it convenient after a day filled with adventures.
Positioned at the entrance of Mount Elgon National Park, this economical lodging was originally established to cater to students who were visiting the dense forest.
The lodging provides functional yet cozy accommodations, with travelers having the choice of 4 cottages or 4 fixed tents.
Guests can recharge with food and drinks from the on-site canteen, making it convenient after a day of activities.
5-Day Kahuzi Biega Congo Gorilla Trekking & Chimp Safari in Rwanda
$ 2500
per personConclusion
Mount Elgon is less frequently visited than the parks in the west of the country, but those who do visit are never disappointed. Get in touch with us and we can design a tailor-made itinerary.
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