Mountain Elgon boasts the largest caldera in the world. It last erupted 24 million years ago. Once Africa’s highest mountain, surpassing Kilimanjaro’s current 5,895 meters, millennia of erosion have reduced its height to 4,321 meters, making it the 4th highest peak in East Africa and the 8th on the continent.

Mountain Elgon is home to two tribes, the Bagishu and Sabiny. The Bagishu, also known as the Bamasaba, consider Mt. Elgon the embodiment of their founding father, Masaba.

Mount Elgon has the largest volcanic base, covering 4,000 square kilometers. Situated on the Uganda-Kenya border, it is the oldest and largest solitary volcanic mountain in East Africa. Its vast form, 80 kilometers in diameter, rises over 3,000 meters above the surrounding plains. The mountain’s cool heights offer respite from the hot plains below, with the higher altitudes providing a refuge for flora and fauna.

Mountain Elgon protects over 300 bird species, including the lammergeyer. National parks in Uganda and Kenya protect the higher slopes. The top of Mt. Elgon is not the final ascent to the 4,321-meter Wagagai Peak, but rather the descent into the vast 40-square-kilometer caldera.

Things to do in Mountain Elgon National Park

Mountain Biking

From Sipi to Kapchorwa, this activity enables cyclists to view the Karamoja plains, hills, coffee plantations, and more.

Cultural Encounters

Visit the Sabiny or Bamasaba (Bagishu) people to interact at the local farms and homesteads on the slopes of Mountain Elgon.

Rock Climbing

There are about seven rocks to climb, but the popular one is Nagudi Rock along Mbale-Budadiri, just outside Mount Elgon National Park. These rocks range from 15 to 30 meters, allowing tourists to choose which rocks to climb.

Bird Watching

Over 300 bird species are found in Mount Elgon National Park. The park harbors 43 of the 144 species of the Guinea-Congo Forests biome and 56 of the 88 species of the Afro-tropical Highland biome that occur in Uganda.

Mountain Hiking or Mountaineering

While on a Uganda safari, mountain climbing is one of the most enjoyable activities. Mountain Elgon National Park offers different hiking trails, with the highest point being Wagagai at 4,321 meters above sea level. There are three well-defined hiking trails:

Sasa Trail

The shortest trail, takes about four days to complete a circuit of climbing and descending. The Sasa Trail offers views of the Sasa River, waterfalls, primates, mammals, birds, and more. It is the busiest and most used trail by tourists.

Sipi River Trail

The second longest trail, enabling visitors to reach Wagagai Peak. This is one of the most challenging trails and requires a high level of fitness. It starts from River Sipi and completes at Wagagai Peak, taking five days for ascending and descending.

Piswa Trail

Most likely used by stronger and more experienced hikers who want to reach the summit of Mountain Elgon. The hike starts from Kapwata and takes seven days for ascending and descending.