Hiking Mount Elgon is not as difficult as compared to hiking Rwenzori Mountain in western Uganda. However, any climber intending to hike Mount Elgon needs to reasonably be fit, but no specialized skills or requirements are required to reach the peaks. Mount Elgon is not that so high that there’s any serious risk of altitude or related illness risks that regularly afflict many mountain hikers.
A number of hiking routes are available for those hiking Mount Elgon in Mountain Elgon National Park. Traditionally, the most popular route has been a four day round trip from Budadiri to Wagagai, following the Sasa trail in both directions. Other possibilities include a five day round hike from Budadiri taking in Wagagai and the hot springs, and then the six days hike between Budadiri and Kapkwata via Wagagai and the hot springs.
Of recent, while hiking Mount Elgon, it is however preferred to ascend via the Piswa or Sipi routes that start at much higher altitudes than Budadiri.
At some sections hiking Mount Elgon turns so steep and quick. This involves the ‘wall of death’, – named so named because of the frayed local ropes that, in previous years, were the only way to climb it. The 7km (4 hour) mountain bamboo trail to Kapkwai Cave passes through tropical and bamboo forest.
More Attractions and Trails While Hiking Mount Elgon
Along the trail there are many primates, birds and rare trees such as Elgon teak and Elgon olive. The 5km walk to the Chebonet Falls and 3km walk to the Kapkwai caves follow the ridge view trail. There is also a 11km hike to the Tutum cave, with the option of camping overnight besides the cave.
In Wanale, a visit to Khauka Cave takes three to four hours. Alternatively, you can go to the viewpoint through Nabuyoga loop where you can see Jackson’s Summit/pool and Wagagai peak. Short day hikes are available covering the Mudagi cliffs, Sasa River Camp and Drigana lower falls. These are great for bird watching, nature walks and overnight camping.
It is slightly tricky to climb to the top, Wagagai peak, and hence hikers are expected to be fit enough. The mountain has a number of trails which hikers use to hike up to the top. The mountain is also home to the magnificent Sipi falls, gorges, hot springs, caves and different animal species like the elephants, forest monkeys, small antelopes, buffaloes as well as more than 300 bird species. Remember that a complete circuit of hiking/trekking takes around 4 to 5 days.
You may also start from Bumasola mountain hike using the Sasa trail. The first walk is through community gardens with lots of cabbages, passion fruits, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and bananas and it will take you almost one and half hours to the boundary. From the boundary, you will walk some distance and come to the ‘wall of death’, after which you will hike up and down several hills. Here, the climb is over 1,600m before coming up to Sasa River, where you will camp for the night.
Other Activities
In Uganda, most visitors seeking mountain climbing experiences will always compliment their visit with hiking the Rwenzori Mountains. In addition, a safari game drive in the nearby Kidepo Valley National Park is also exciting for many visitors.
After visiting Mount Elgon National Park, you can also extend further west for a wildlife safari in Murchison Falls National Park. Here, you will encounter the Big 5 including the rhinos, African elephants, buffaloes, lions and leopards, making Murchison Falls National Park Uganda’s most spectacular wildlife reserve. You can also opt for the breathtaking gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.