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Mountain Elgon has been an extinct volcano that
first erupted more than 24 million years ago. With the largest surface
area of any extinct Volcano in the world (50km by 80km), Mount Elgon
is the fourth highest mountain in East Africa, with the second highest
peak in Uganda (Wagagai peak, 4321 m). It contains the largest intact
caldera, a collapsed crater covering over 40kms at the top of the
mountain, sorrounded by a series of rugged peaks. The Bagisu and
the Sabiny are the two ethnic tribes around the mountain. They practice
subsistence farming and conduct circumcision ceremonies every year
to prepare young men/women for challenges of adulthood. The two
communities have made agreements with the park for sustainable harvest
of traditional forest products.
Flora and Fauna
While ascending Mount Elgon's enchanting slopes you will meet four-distinct
forest types: the lush montane forest where you will find the Elgon
peak, mixed bamboo belt, the fascinating heath and spectacular moorland
hyrachs which contain stands of some of the most rare endemic plant
species, like the giant lobelia elgonensis and dotted clusters of
peculiar groundsels which are unique in Africa.
You will also encounter the dense shrubs and brilliant wild everlasting
flowers that will add to your Mount Elgon adventure.
Bird lovers will enjoy about 300 bird species including the endangered
lammergeiers, the rare Jackson’s francolin, guinea fowls,
sunbirds and turacos among others.
A number of primates inhabit the mountain, other animals include
bushbuck, antelope, civet, wildcat and the elusive leopard roam
below. Bush duiker, hyena, jackal, rock hyrax, buffalo and elephant
rove between the forest and the moorland. Many of these animals
visit Mount Elgon’s bat filled caves for their valuable mineral
deposits.
Tourism & Travel information on Activities
Visiting Mountain Elgon National Park presents an exciting setting
for extended hikes, interesting and unique flora and fauna, magnificent
water falls, enormous caves, scenic peaks, gorges and hot springs
which bubble up at 480oc. The best times to visit are during the
drier seasons from June to august and march to December. No technical
climbing equipment or skills are required, as all major peaks are
accessible.
Mount Elgon Trekking: trailheads and Routes
There are three main trailheads or starting points that lead to
the mountain’s peaks. You may choose to begin your ascent
from Budadiri (Sasa trailhead), forest exploration center-Kapkwai
(Sipi trailhead) or Kapkwata (Piswa trailhead). Sasa trail is accessible
from Mbale and is the most direct route to the peaks though steep
with rugged climb of over 1600m on the first day. It passes through
the park’s largest area of bamboo forest.
Sipi trail offers the spectacular Tutum cave hidden within extensive
forest, while Piswa trail is renowned for the towering Podpcarpus
forest, an excellent place for wildlife viewing. In contrast, Sipi
and Piswa trails start at much higher elevations with a longer more
gradual climbs to the peaks.
After visiting the peaks you can either return using the same trails
or descend via a different route. Each trail/route has camping stages
with a nearby water source, as well as tent pads and latrines. The
park is developing a trekker’s hut at Mude cave on Sasa trail.
Mount Elgon National Park Uganda also engages in cross boarder tourism
with Mount Elgon Park-Kenya, hand over of visitors to either team
takes place at the Hot Springs. The full trekking circuit to the
peaks takes about 5 days to complete.
All visitors are encouraged to discuss options with an information
clerk at the Mbale, Budadiri, Kapwakai or Kapkwata visitor’s
centers.
Camping
Nine basic campsites are located at strategic points along the trekking
circuit. Please respect park regulations by camping only at designated
campsites. Camping equipment must be carried with you.
Ranger Guides and Porters
A trained ranger guide is required on all trekking excursions to
show you the way and enrich your journey by interpreting the environment
and ensuring your safety. Local porters make your trip even easier
by carrying up to 18kgs of supplies, in addition to collecting water,
cooking and preparing the camp. Trained ranger guides and local
porters are available at each trailhead.
Day Hikes
Two different day hike areas allow you to explore Mount Elgon’s
diverse mountane forest. The popular forest exploration center trail
loop site can make one enjoy the cool mist at Chebonet falls, Kapkwai
cave, the talking tree and a spectacular viewpoint, which lies just
beyond.
A long “arm” of Mount Elgon bears the Wanale trails
loop site. It has vertical cliffs of ridge and several cascading
waterfalls that make a very scenic drive. Look for petrified wood
in the Khauka caves as you enjoy splendid panoramic view over the
plains of Eastern Uganda.
These two-day hike areas have short walk trails ranging between
3-11kms that offer an excellent opportunity to experience Mt. Elgon’s
unique plants and wildlife in a short time period. Jungle walking
shoes and rain gear are recommended in addition to extra cells for
your torch if you plan to explore the caves. Reservations can be
made through the visitor information center at the park headquarters
in Mbale.
Mountain Elgon Tour.
Accommodation Options for
Mount Elgon National Park.
Mt Elgon NP Lodges
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