Elgon is a 4,321m high extinct volcano which in prehistoric times stood taller than Kilimanjaro does today. Although the mountain straddles the Kenya border, its loftiest peak, Wagagai, lies within Uganda and is best ascended from the Uganda side.
Elgon is an important watershed, and its slopes support a rich variety of altitudinal vegetation zones ranging from montane forest to high open moorland studded with the other-worldly giant lobelia and groundsel plants.
Spectacular scenery is the main attraction for hikers on this oft-neglected and relatively undemanding mountain, but there is also a variety of forest monkeys and small antelope, along with elephant and buffalo. A checklist topping 300 birds includes many species not recorded elsewhere in Uganda.
Other attractions include ancient cave paintings close to the trailhead at Budadiri, and spectacular caves and hot springs within the crater.
The Bagisu and the Sabinyo who practice circumcision every even year are the inhabitants of the area. June to August and December to March are the best times to visit the park since this is the dry period.
The park contains varied peculiar attractions of montane forests, bamboo, giant Lobelia, brilliant species of flowers, birds, bushbuck, antelope, wild cat, rock hyrax, hyena, caves, craters, gorges, the magnificent Sipi falls and many more.
TRIP ITINERARY
DAY ONE: Our driver/Guide picks you from your Hotel/residence ready for a drive to the Eastern part of Uganda . On your way to Jinja you will see Mabira forest, River Nile, Lake Victoria , tea and sugar plantations around Lugazi and Kakira. Take Tiriny upgraded highway to reach Mbale town in one hour’s time from Iganga. Lunch break enroute. After lunch, explore the magnificent Sipi falls and adjoining areas. Dinner and overnight at Mbale Resort (classic), Volcano (classic), Sipi falls rest camp (budget), Kapwai cottages (budget).
DAY TWO: After breakfast with packed lunch and snacks, this day is dedicated to one day hike where the park guide(s)/Porter(s) are ready to take you up to the mountain using any of the selected three main trekking trails. Budadiri Forest exploration centre – Kapkwai and Kapwata are all places you start to choose to ascend the spectacular mountain. Dinner and overnight at Mbale Resort (classic), Volcano (classic), Sipi falls rest camp (budget), Kapwai cottages (budget).
DAY THREE: Begin the day with breakfast ready to drive back to Kampala. This is the time you will explore Jinja town and its major attractions like the source of River Nile, Bujagali falls, Itanda falls, Jinja Sailing club, Masese fishing village etc. Return to Kampala where you will be dropped to the point of pickup.