Mount Elgon National Park

Mount Elgon National Park, straddling the Uganda-Kenya border, boasts the largest volcanic base in the world, covering approximately 4,000 square kilometers. This ancient solitary volcanic mountain, with its diameter of 80 kilometers, rises more than 3,000 meters above the surrounding plains, offering a cool escape from the hot lowlands and providing a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. The park’s unique landscape includes the massive caldera, one of the largest intact calderas globally, which encompasses approximately 40 square kilometers.

Size of Mount Elgon: 1,121km²

This extinct volcano is one of Uganda’s oldest physical features, first erupting around 24 million years ago. Mount Elgon was once Africa’s highest mountain, far exceeding Kilimanjaro’s current 5,895m. Millennia of erosion have reduced its height to 4,321m, relegating it to the 4th highest peak in East Africa and 8th on the continent.

Mount Elgon is home to two main tribes, the Bagisu (Bamasaba) and the Sabiny. The Ndorobos forced to dwell deep within the forest of Benet. The Bagisu, also known as the Bamasaba, consider Mount Elgon to be the embodiment of their founding father Masaba and refer to the mountain by this name.

Trekking Mount Elgon National Park offers some of East Africa’s most memorable climbing experiences, and boasts a milder climate, lower elevation and much more reasonable prices than climbs in the neighboring Kenya and Tanzania. Mount Elgon has five major peaks and the highest, Wagagai (4321m), is on the Ugandan side. It’s the second tallest mountain in Uganda, the fourth in East Africa and eighth in Africa.

The lower slopes of Mount Elgon are covered in tropical montane forest with extensive stands of bamboo. Above 3,000m the forest fades into heath and then afro-alpine moorland, which blankets the caldera and a collapsed crater covering some 40sqkm. The moorland is studded with rare plant species, so you’ll often see duikers bounding through the long grass and endangered lammergeier vultures overhead. In September, it’s decorated with wildflowers. You’ll probably see a few primates and lots of birds, including the rare Jackson’s francolin, alpine chat and white-starred forest robi.

Geographical and Geological Features

Mount Elgon itself is about 80 kilometers in diameter and rises more than 3,000 meters above the surrounding plains. It was formed over 24 million years ago through volcanic activity and erosion processes, which have shaped its current landscape. The mountain’s peak, Wagagai, stands at 4,321 meters above sea level on the Ugandan side, making it the second-highest peak in Uganda and one of the tallest in East Africa.

The park is characterized by its unique caldera, which is one of the largest intact calderas globally, covering approximately 40 square kilometers. This caldera, formed by the collapse of land following volcanic activity, is a notable feature of Mount Elgon’s geography and provides a habitat for diverse plant and animal species.

Flora and Fauna

Mount Elgon National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, hosting a variety of ecosystems ranging from lush montane forests to afro-alpine moorlands. The lower slopes are covered in tropical montane forests, which transition into bamboo and heath zones as altitude increases. Above 3,000 meters, the landscape opens up to afro-alpine moorland characterized by unique flora adapted to high-altitude conditions.

The park is home to over 300 bird species, including the endangered Lammergeyer vulture, as well as forest monkeys, elephants, buffalo, and small antelopes. The diverse habitats within the park provide sanctuary for these species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers alike.

Cultural Significance

Mount Elgon is not only a natural wonder but also holds cultural significance for the local communities. The Bagisu and Sabiny peoples, who live in the region, have cultural traditions and beliefs associated with the mountain. For the Bagisu, Mount Elgon is considered the embodiment of their founding father, Masaba, and holds ceremonial importance, particularly during circumcision rituals and other cultural ceremonies.

Exciting Tourist Activities in Mount Elgon National Park

Hiking and Trekking

Mount Elgon National Park offers exceptional hiking and trekking experiences suitable for adventurers of various skill levels. The trails lead through diverse ecosystems, from tropical montane forests on the lower slopes to afro-alpine moorlands higher up. The park features several peaks, with Wagagai Peak (4,321m) being the highest on the Ugandan side. Climbing Mount Elgon does not culminate in a final summit push but instead explores the vast caldera, providing hikers with stunning vistas and unique geological formations.

Bird Watching

With over 300 bird species, including the endangered Lammergeyer vulture, Mount Elgon is a paradise for bird watchers. The diverse habitats within the park, such as Kapkwai Forest and the afro-alpine moorlands, offer excellent birding opportunities. Bird enthusiasts can spot species like the Jackson’s francolin, alpine chat, and various sunbirds, making it a rewarding destination for avian enthusiasts throughout the year.

Cave Exploration

Mount Elgon National Park is renowned for its lava tube caves, which are unique geological features and wildlife habitats. Visitors can explore caves such as Kitum, Ngwarisha, Makingeny, and Chepnyalil, where elephants are known to visit to lick salt deposits. These caves also harbor populations of bats, adding to the adventure of cave exploration. It is advisable to carry a torch for better exploration of these fascinating underground networks.

Game Drives and Wildlife Viewing

While not as common as in other national parks, Mount Elgon does offer game drives in 4×4 vehicles, providing opportunities to spot wildlife such as forest monkeys, elephants, and buffalo along designated trails. Endebess Bluff and the Elephant Platform offer excellent viewpoints for observing the park’s dramatic landscape and its inhabitants.

Nature Walks and Forest Exploration

The Forest Exploration Centre near Sipi Falls serves as a gateway to several day trails ranging from 3 to 11 kilometers in length. These trails wind through tropical montane forests and heathland, offering glimpses of wildlife such as black and white colobus monkeys and a variety of birds. The trails also lead to notable attractions like Cheptui Falls and Tutum Cave, providing visitors with immersive nature experiences.

Horse Riding

For a unique perspective on Mount Elgon’s wilderness, visitors can embark on horse riding adventures within the park. Riding on horseback allows for a closer interaction with the environment and its wildlife, offering a peaceful and memorable way to explore the park’s diverse landscapes.

Camping and Overnight Stay

Mount Elgon National Park provides opportunities for camping in pristine African wilderness settings. The park features three public camping sites—Rongai, Nyati, and Chorlim—where visitors can spend the night surrounded by nature. Camping in Mount Elgon offers a chance to experience the sights and sounds of the park after dark, including nocturnal wildlife and starlit skies.