Mount Elgon National Park

Mount Elgon National Park located on the Uganda–Kenya border is one of East Africa’s hidden gems for nature lovers and hikers. The park covers about 1,279 km2 on the Ugandan side and is dominated by Mount Elgon (4,321 m), an extinct shield volcano with the largest volcanic base in the world and a massive caldera spanning 60 km in diameter.

The park is renowned for its scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, caves, and rich biodiversity. Unlike other mountain destinations in Uganda, Mount Elgon offers less strenuous treks which are perfect for travelers seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation.

Popular with trekkers, birdwatchers, and cultural enthusiasts, Mount Elgon National Park Uganda is a fantastic off-the-beaten-path safari destination that combines natural beauty with rich Bagisu and Sabiny traditions.

Highlights of Mount Elgon National Park.

• World’s Largest Volcanic Caldera, spectacular summit scenery at Wagagai Peak.
• Sipi Falls, Uganda’s most famous waterfalls just outside the park.
• Birdwatching Haven, over 300 bird species including Jackson’s francolin and black-collared apalis.
• Hiking & Trekking Trails, from short day hikes to multi-day climbs.
• Unique Flora, giant lobelias, groundsels, bamboo belts, and montane forest.
• Caves & Hot Springs, ancient caves like Kapkwai and hot springs in the caldera.
• Cultural Encounters, Bagisu-mbalu (circumcision rituals) and Sabiny community visits.

Things to Do in Mount Elgon National Park.

• GClimb Wagagai Peak (4,321 m) which is the highest point on Mount Elgon.
• Explore Hiking Trails like Sasa, Piswa, and Sipi Trails (3–7 days) for varied trekking experiences.
• Visit Sipi Falls which is a must-see attraction near Kapchorwa, famous for scenic hikes and abseiling.
• Birdwatching Tours ideal for spotting Albertine Rift endemics and highland species.
• Cave Exploration, guided visits to caves with salt licks attracting elephants and antelopes.
• Cultural Tours, visit Bagisu coffee farms and learn traditional practices.

Best Time to Visit Mount Elgon

• June–August & December–March – driest months, best for trekking and photography.
• April–May & September–November – wetter but good for lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

Accommodation near Mount Elgon National Park.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury safari lodge in Uganda or budget safari camps, Mount Elgon National Park has it all:

• Luxury: Sipi River Lodge, Mbale Resort Hotel.
• Midrange: Lacam Lodge, Moses’ Campsite at Sipi.
• Budget: Kapkwai UWA Bandas, Crow’s Nest Camp, guesthouses in Mbale and Kapchorwa.
• For Trekkers: Simple campsites along trekking routes (Sasa, Piswa, Sipi trails).

How to Get to Mount Elgon National Park.

• By Road: From Kampala (~5–6 hours) to Mbale, then 1–2 hours to Kapchorwa or Budadiri trailheads.
• By Air: Domestic flights from Entebbe to Soroti or Mbale airstrips.

Travel Tips.

• Treks are less steep than Rwenzori’s but still require moderate fitness.
• Carry warm clothing, rain gear, and trekking boots.
• Altitude sickness is rare but pace yourself on multi-day hikes.
• Consider adding a visit to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve or Kidepo Valley National Park for a combined adventure.
• Coffee lovers don’t miss Bugisu Arabica coffee tours around Sipi!

Why Visit Mount Elgon National Park?

Mount Elgon is one of the best hiking destinations in Uganda, ideal for travelers who want a mix of scenic trekking, waterfalls, birdwatching, and cultural immersion without the extreme difficulty of higher mountains like Rwenzori. Whether you trek to Wagagai Peak, relax at Sipi Falls, or explore caves and coffee farms, this park promises a diverse and rewarding adventure.