How to Book Hiking on Mount Elgon

Mount Elgon is the second-highest mountain in Uganda, the fourth-highest in East Africa, and the eighth-highest on the African continent. Located in eastern Uganda near the Kenyan border, Mount Elgon forms part of Mount Elgon National Park and covers a total area of 494 square kilometers. Although the mountain is shared by Uganda and Kenya, Uganda owns the larger portion.

Scientists believe Mount Elgon is an extinct volcano that last erupted more than 24 million years ago. During this eruption, magma escaped from beneath the surface, causing the volcanic cone to collapse. As a result, the world’s largest caldera was formed, measuring approximately 40 km wide and 60 km long. The lower slopes of the mountain are home to the Bagisu and Sabiny communities, who depend mainly on food crops and cash-crop farming for their livelihoods.

In 1992, the government upgraded Mount Elgon from a forest reserve to a national park due to its rich biodiversity and outstanding tourism potential. This change helped protect rare plant and animal species found in the area. Today, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) manages and conserves Mount Elgon National Park.

Mount Elgon Climbing Experience

Mount Elgon has become an increasingly popular hiking destination in Uganda. Visitors are drawn to its vast caldera, scenic landscapes, and relatively gentle hiking routes. Unlike the Rwenzori Mountains in western Uganda which include the Margherita Peak at 5,109 meters above sea level Mount Elgon offers a less technical climb.

Because Mount Elgon does not require advanced mountaineering skills, even first-time hikers can successfully reach the summit. This accessibility makes it a favorite choice for travelers seeking adventure without extreme difficulty.

How to Reserve a Mount Elgon Hiking Permit

You can obtain hiking permits from Uganda Wildlife Authority offices. Non-East African residents pay USD 50 per person per day, while East African residents pay UGX 50,000 per person per day (valid for 24 hours). Alternatively, hikers can purchase permits at UWA offices located at each trailhead before the hike begins.

Once you pay the required fees, you should prepare appropriate gear. Essential items include waterproof hiking boots, warm clothing for nighttime temperatures, a sleeping bag, camping tent, sunglasses, a cap, and enough drinking water. The park provides walking sticks at the park offices. In addition, hikers may cross into Kenya through designated routes with proper documentation.

How to Travel to Mount Elgon

Hikers can reach Mount Elgon either by air or road. Those choosing to fly may travel from Kampala to Soroti Airfield and then drive to the park. However, most visitors prefer road travel.

By car, the journey from Kampala to Mount Elgon via the eastern route takes approximately four to five hours. Although longer than flying, this drive is more scenic and rewarding. Along the way, travelers can see the Source of the Nile, Mabira Central Forest Reserve, Busitema Forest, lively roadside markets, and expansive tea and sugarcane plantations.

Upon arrival in Mbale City, hikers must collect their permits from the Mount Elgon National Park headquarters located within the city. After registration, park officials assign a guide, provide a safety briefing, and arrange porters if needed. The hike then begins from the designated trailhead.

Additional Activities in Mount Elgon National Park

Nature Walks

Nature walks take place within alpine forests and surrounding areas. Visitors can enjoy dramatic ridges, valleys, cliffs, and unique montane vegetation. The forested slopes are also home to primates such as vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys.

Camping

The Uganda Wildlife Authority has established several campsites along the hiking routes. Although camping near the caldera is discouraged, designated camps provide safe resting points. Visitors must bring their own camping gear, including tents and sleeping bags. However, tents and sleeping bags are available for rent at the Mbale City park office.

Bird Watching

Mount Elgon National Park ranks among Uganda’s top bird-watching destinations. The park hosts rare species such as the Lammergeyer and Jackson’s Francolin. Other notable birds include the African goshawk, black-shouldered kite, and African blue flycatcher.

Game Drives

Not all areas of Mount Elgon National Park are mountainous. The park also features open savanna plains where visitors can enjoy wildlife drives. Commonly sighted animals include antelopes, duikers, elephants, hyenas, and leopards. Smaller primates such as blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, and colobus monkeys are also frequently seen.

Cave Exploration

The park contains several ancient caves that attract adventurous visitors. Popular caves include Kitum, Chepnyali, and Mackingeny. These caves are believed to have sheltered early humans millions of years ago. Today, elephants, antelopes, bats, and other animals visit the caves to seek shelter or lick mineral salts from the cave walls.