MOUNTAIN
ELGON NATIONAL PARK
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 Uganda Safaris.
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
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.
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.
FloraCamping
Nine basic campsites are located at strategic points along the
trekking circuit. Please respect park regulations by camping only
at designated campsites. Camping equipment on this Ugandan Safaris
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.
