Mt Elgon National Park Complete Guide

Mt. Elgon National Park is a stunning and serene national park located in the eastern part of Uganda, covering an area of 1,279 square kilometers. The park is situated along the border of Uganda and Kenya, and it is named after Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano that stands at an elevation of 4,321 meters above sea level. The park offers a range of activities and attractions that are sure to mesmerize any nature and adventure lover.

To get to Mt. Elgon National Park, you can travel by road or air. If you are traveling by road, the park is located about 235 kilometers from Kampala, and the journey takes approximately 4-5 hours. You can hire a car or take a taxi from Kampala to the park. Alternatively, you can travel by air from Entebbe International Airport to Soroti Airport, which is about 50 kilometers from the park. From Soroti, you can take a taxi or hire a car to take you to the park.

Activities to do in Mt Elgon

There are plenty of activities to do in Mt. Elgon National Park. One of the most popular activities is hiking to the peak of Mount Elgon. The hike takes about 4-5 days, depending on your fitness level, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you will encounter a range of flora and fauna, including bamboo forests, giant heather trees, and a variety of wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, baboons, and monkeys. The hike also takes you to the famous Sipi Falls, a series of three waterfalls that cascade down the mountain.

In addition to hiking, Mt. Elgon National Park offers a range of other activities, including guided nature walks, bird watching, and cultural visits to local communities. The park is home to over 300 bird species, including the African crowned eagle, the African black duck, and the red-chested cuckoo. You can also spot rare species like the black and white colobus monkey, the blue monkey, and the red-tailed monkey.

The best time to visit Mt. Elgon National Park

The best time to visit Mt. Elgon National Park is during the dry season, which runs from December to February and June to August. During this time, the weather is mild, and the hiking trails are dry and easily accessible. It is also a great time to spot wildlife, as they tend to gather around the water sources.

When packing for your trip to Mt. Elgon National Park, it’s important to bring comfortable hiking boots, warm clothing for the evenings, a raincoat or umbrella, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning views. You should also bring plenty of water and snacks for the hikes.

Wondering what is mt Elgon national park entry fee? The entry fee for Mt. Elgon National Park is $35 for foreign non-residents, $20 for foreign residents, and UGX 5,000 for East African citizens. There are several accommodation options available, ranging from budget-friendly campsites to luxurious lodges. Some of the popular lodges include the Mount Elgon Hotel and Spa, the Sipi River Lodge, and the Kapkwai Forest Cottages. These lodges offer a range of amenities, including comfortable beds, hot showers, and delicious meals.

Mt. Elgon National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of nature and adventure in Uganda. With its stunning landscape, diverse wildlife, and range of activities, it’s no wonder that it’s becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination in Uganda. So pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and head to Mt. Elgon National Park for an unforgettable experience.

Mt Elgon National Park FAQ

How much does it cost to go to Mount Elgon National Park?

The entry fee for Mt. Elgon National Park is $35 for foreign non-residents, $20 for foreign residents, and UGX 5,000 for East African citizens. These fees are subject to change, so it’s always best to check with the park authorities or tour operators for the latest updates on the entry fees. Additionally, if you plan to engage in activities such as hiking or guided nature walks, there may be additional fees. Accommodation costs vary depending on the type of lodging you choose, with options ranging from budget-friendly campsites to luxurious lodges.

What animals are in Mount Elgon National Park?

Mount Elgon National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, baboons, monkeys, and a range of bird species. You can also spot rare species like the black and white colobus monkey, the blue monkey, and the red-tailed monkey. The park is home to over 300 bird species, including the African crowned eagle, the African black duck, and the red-chested cuckoo. Additionally, the park is home to several small mammals such as rodents, hares, and bats. The park is also known for its butterfly species, with over 400 species recorded.

How long does it take to climb Mt Elgon?

The time it takes to climb Mount Elgon in Mt. Elgon National Park depends on the route you choose, your fitness level, and the number of days you plan to spend on the mountain. Climbing the mountain typically takes 4-5 days, with some routes taking longer. The most popular routes are the Sasa and Sipi trails, which take 4-5 days to complete. These trails take you through stunning landscapes, including bamboo forests, giant heather trees, and moorland. The hike also takes you to the famous Sipi Falls, a series of three waterfalls that cascade down the mountain. It’s important to note that climbing Mount Elgon is a challenging activity that requires good physical fitness and proper preparation, including acclimatization to the altitude.

How do you get to mountain Elgon National Park?

Getting to Mount Elgon National Park is relatively easy. The park is located in the eastern part of Uganda, along the border of Uganda and Kenya. There are two main ways to get to the park: by road or by air.

By Road: If you plan to travel by road, the park is located about 235 kilometers from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours by road, depending on traffic conditions. You can hire a car or take a taxi from Kampala to the park. Alternatively, you can take a public bus from Kampala to Mbale town, which is located near the park. From Mbale, you can take a taxi or hire a car to take you to the park.

By Air: If you prefer to travel by air, there are daily flights from Entebbe International Airport to Soroti Airport, which is about 50 kilometers from the park. From Soroti, you can take a taxi or hire a car to take you to the park.

Once you arrive at the park, there are several entry points, including the Kapkwata, Kapchorwa, and Budadiri gates. These gates are located on different sides of the park and offer different hiking trails and attractions. It’s important to note that some of the gates may be closed during certain times of the year, so it’s always best to check with the park authorities or tour operators for up-to-date information on the park’s accessibility.

Is Mt Elgon National Park Safari Worthy it?

Absolutely! Mt. Elgon National Park is a great safari destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, baboons, monkeys, and a range of bird species. You can also spot rare species like the black and white colobus monkey, the blue monkey, and the red-tailed monkey. The park is also known for its stunning landscapes, including the famous Sipi Falls, a series of three waterfalls that cascade down the mountain.

One of the most popular activities in Mt. Elgon National Park is hiking to the peak of Mount Elgon. The hike takes about 4-5 days, depending on your fitness level, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you will encounter a range of flora and fauna, including bamboo forests, giant heather trees, and a variety of wildlife. The hike also takes you to the famous Sipi Falls, a series of three waterfalls that cascade down the mountain.

In addition to hiking, the park offers a range of other activities, including guided nature walks, bird watching, and cultural visits to local communities. The park is also home to over 300 bird species, including the African crowned eagle, the African black duck, and the red-chested cuckoo.

Overall, Mt. Elgon National Park is a great safari destination that offers a range of activities and attractions for nature enthusiasts. So if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path safari experience, then Mt. Elgon National Park is definitely worth a visit.

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