Mount Elgon National Park – A Haven for Adventure and Nature Lovers
Mount Elgon National Park is one of Uganda’s most stunning and least-explored natural treasures. Straddling the Uganda-Kenya border, the park is home to Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano with one of the largest calderas in the world. Covering 1,279 square kilometers, the park offers a diverse landscape of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, caves, and breathtaking peaks, making it a perfect destination for hikers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers.
Unique Attractions & Scenery
Mount Elgon is Uganda’s oldest extinct volcano, estimated to have erupted over 24 million years ago. It has five major peaks, with Wagagai Peak (4,321m) being the highest on the Ugandan side. The park is also famous for its:
- Caldera – One of the world’s largest, measuring about 40 kilometers in diameter.
- Sipi Falls – A series of stunning waterfalls near the park, perfect for relaxation and photography.
- Caves – Including the famous Kapkwai and Tutum caves, used by elephants as salt licks.
- Hot Springs – Found within the caldera, offering a unique natural experience.
Wildlife and Birdlife
Despite being primarily known for its scenery, Mount Elgon National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, duikers, bushbucks, and black-and-white colobus monkeys. The park also boasts over 300 bird species, including the Jackson’s Francolin, Tacazze Sunbird, and Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture), making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Activities in Mount Elgon National Park
- Mountain Hiking & Trekking – Various trails lead to Wagagai Peak, offering breathtaking views.
- Nature Walks & Birdwatching – Explore the forested slopes and spot rare bird species.
- Exploring Caves & Hot Springs – Discover the park’s hidden natural wonders.
- Sipi Falls Excursions – A must-visit attraction for scenic beauty and adventure activities like abseiling and coffee tours.
- Cultural Encounters – Interact with the Bagisu and Sabiny people, famous for their traditional circumcision ceremonies (Imbalu) and coffee-growing traditions.
Book your Mount Elgon adventure today and explore one of Uganda’s hidden gems!
Best Time to Visit
Mount Elgon National Park can be visited year-round, but the best hiking conditions are during the dry seasons (June–August and December–March) when trails are less slippery.
Why Visit Mount Elgon with Kyooma Gorilla Safaris?
At Kyooma Gorilla Safaris, we offer expert-guided tours to Mount Elgon National Park, ensuring an unforgettable experience of adventure, wildlife, and culture. Whether you’re looking for an exhilarating mountain trek, a relaxing nature escape, or an immersive cultural visit, we tailor every safari to your needs.