Mount Elgon National Park is among the least visited Uganda Safari destinations. The park is located in Eastern Uganda along the Uganda and Kenyan border.
Mount Elgon is an extinct volcano believed to have last erupted over 20 million years ago. It was once Africa’s highest mountain but the eruption and millennia of erosion reduced the mountain’s height. Its highest peak, Wagagai stands at 4,321 meters, the fourth highest in East Africa and 8th highest on the African Continent.
Mount Elgon has the World’s largest Volcanic base covering 4,000 square kilometers. It is also the oldest and largest solitary volcanic mountain in the East African region. Mount Elgon National Park covers a land area of 1,121 square kilometers. It was gazetted to protect the ecosystem and rare wildlife species present.
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Discovery Journeys ToMount Elgon National Park
Wildlife in Mount Elgon National Park
Mount Elgon National Park has several wildlife species including forest elephants, Rudd’s African mole-rat, and bushbacks. It is also home to over 300 bird species including endemics. Notable birds in the park include the Lammergeyer, Hartlaub’s turaco, Jackson’s spurfowl, and the African Goshawk.
Blue and black and white colobus monkeys are often seen on mountain hiking expeditions.
The park was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve because of its diversity and unique ecosystem extending from the Earth’s surface above into the atmosphere.
Activities in Mount Elgon National Park
Mountain Hiking
Hiking is the main Discovery Journeys adventure done in Mount Elgon National Park. The aim is to hike to Peak Wagagai, the Mountain’s highest point. This adventurous hike takes 4 to 5 days depending on one’s fitness.
It goes through the different mountain zones starting from the Montane forest area. It gets exciting as you hike through the Caldera with giant lobelia and unique mountain vegetation.
The Mount Elgon hike is among the most adventurous hikes and is highly recommended for those seeking exclusive adventures.
Sipi Falls Hike
Sipi Falls are a series of waterfalls along the Wanale ridge just outside the Mount Elgon National Park. The waters flow from the mountains forming impressive waterfalls of about 100 meters.
Sipi Falls is visited on excursions in Kapchorwa and offers amazing hiking experiences.
Birding
The Mountain offers exclusive birding experiences. It is renowned for its rare bird species that are endemic to the region. There are well-developed trails in the park that bring you in close contact with nature.
Nature walks
The mountain can also be explored on guided nature walks. These are ideal for birding journeys and botanical studies.
Where to Stay
Sipi Heritage Lodge
Sipi Heritage Lodge is an exclusive safari lodge in Kapchorwa District. It is strategically located near Sipi Falls. It has spacious and self-contained cottages with a view of the falls and the surrounding ecosystem.
You can engage in different activities at the lodge including hiking and the coffee experience.
Kapkwai Forest Cottages
Kapkwai Forest Cottages are located in the Mount Elgon National Park area. They are budget and self-catering facilities suitable for adventure lovers.
Sipi Valley Resort, Mount Elgon Guest House, & Rafiki Lodge are other options you can opt for.
Getting there
The park can be accessed by road transport. It takes a 5 to 6-hour drive from Kampala to the park area. This is a scenic drive through Jinja city, home to the Source of Nile River.
Best time to Visit
Mount Elgon is best visited during the dry season. Hiking and nature walks are easy because of the minimal rainfall disturbances. It is also the perfect time for star gazing as the sky clears.