Explore Mount Elgon
Explore Mount Elgon: Mount Elgon, one of East Africa’s oldest physical features, boasts the largest volcanic base spanning 4,000km and stands tall at 4,321m above sea level.
Erosion has gradually reduced Mount Elgon’s height from over 5,800m, once Africa’s highest peak, to its current status. However, it still ranks as Uganda’s second-highest peak and the fourth-highest in East Africa.
The Bagisu tribe from Uganda and the Sabiny tribe from Kenya inhabit Mount Elgon’s Western and Eastern sides, respectively.
Travellers favor Mount Elgon for hiking due to its ample attractions, less challenging tracks, and moderate elevation compared to steeper peaks like Mount Rwenzori. The milder climate also adds to the enjoyment.
The dry seasons of June to August and December to March offer the best hiking conditions, providing clear, sunny weather to appreciate the surrounding fauna and flora.
For more information about Mount Elgon as a tourist attraction, visit our page on Mount Elgon National Park.
Now, let’s explore the top 5 experiences Mount Elgon offers:
Hiking
Hiking Mount Elgon offers a captivating experience, bonding you with the mountain and its natural surroundings. Numerous hiking trails cater to various sightseeing preferences:
The Sasa trail, the most accessible route, showcases a vast bamboo forest leading to Wagagai Peak. The Piswa trail from Pakwach, though longer, offers rich Podocarpus forests teeming with bird and wildlife species. The Sipi trail, starting near Sipi Falls, passes through Tatum Cave and offers views of surrounding forests and waterfalls. All trails require 5 to 8 days for the round trip to Wagagai Peak. Porters are available to assist with heavy bags.
Wildlife
Mount Elgon National Park, located at the mountain’s base near Mbale town, hosts a variety of wildlife, including buffalos, elephants, blue monkeys, waterbucks, hyenas, leopards, vervets, and baboons. Hiking through the mountain allows for wildlife sightings.
Bird Watching
With over 300 bird species, including rare highland biome species like Moorland Francolins and Alpine Chat, Mount Elgon offers a haven for bird watchers.
Mountain Biking
Opened in 2012, Mount Elgon’s mountain biking trails offer thrilling experiences through rocky and rugged terrains, providing close encounters with nature amid altitude and vegetation changes.
Camping
Camping atop Mount Elgon’s volcanic caldera presents an extraordinary experience, with volcanic features like hot springs and geysers. Porters can carry camping gear for a fee, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.
In Conclusion
These are the top 5 experiences to enjoy on Mount Elgon, with additional activities including visiting coffee plantations, exploring villages for folktales and history, and engaging with community projects. Whether as a standalone trip or part of a larger itinerary connecting to other destinations like Kidepo, Pian Upe, Murchison, or Jinja, Mount Elgon promises a remarkable adventure. We look forward to assisting you in creating and enjoying this exceptional experience.
