Mount Elgon National Park
Mount Elgon National Park: Mbale Town is only a few kilometers from Mount Elgon National Park, which is situated in eastern Uganda. The park encompasses the extinct Volcanic Mountain and has a total land size of 1145 square kilometers. Mount Elgon, the park’s biggest attraction, is the source of the park’s name. With a height of 4321 meters, Mount Elgon is the second-highest mountain in Uganda, after Mount Rwenzori. Mt. Elgon is a volcanic mountain that was created by vulcanicity, as opposed to Rwenzori Mountain, which is a block mountain. Kenya and Uganda both share this dormant volcanic mountain. One of Uganda’s best national parks for hiking is this one.
Kenya and Uganda are the two nations that oversee Mount Elgon National Park. Since each nation did it at its own pace, the park was gazetted in two distinct years. In 1968, Kenya became the first country to proclaim the area as a national park. Uganda followed suit in 1992. With its biggest area spanning 1,110 square kilometers, the park is primarily located in Uganda. At just 169 square kilometers, Kenya owns the smallest portion of the park. Along the Eastern road, the park is 235 kilometers from Kampala, the capital. Driving through the city of adventure, “Jinja,” where you will be crossing the top of the Nile River, takes four to five hours. The road from Kampala City to Kapchorwa is well-maintained and paved.
One of Uganda‘s oldest geographical features is Mount Elgon. It is estimated that the mountain erupted more than 24 million years ago. At 5,895 meters, the peak was higher than the present-day Mount Kilimanjaro, making it one of Africa’s highest mountains. Decades ago, Mt. Elgon’s height was reduced to 4,321 meters due to significant soil erosion. After Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mount Kenya in Kenya, and Mount Rwenzori in Uganda, the mountain is currently the fourth-highest peak in East Africa. On the African continent, it is ranked as the eighth highest peak.
The two East African nations share four of Mount Elgon’s high peaks. Wagagai mountain, which is 4321 meters high and situated on the Ugandan side, is the highest mountain. Jackson’s Summit (4165 meters), Kiongo Peak (4303 meters), and Mubiyi (4210 meters) are some of the other peaks on Mount Elgon. Many indigenous tribes call the peak Mt. Masaba, and it is surrounded by them. The renowned ancestors who lived near the mountain for a long time—the Bagishu, also known as the Bamasaba—were the inspiration behind this name. According to their belief, the god who resides in the mountain cave is called Bamasamba. The Bagishu, who control the mountain’s surroundings, and the Sabiny, who live on the opposite side, are the two main local tribes that surround the mountain.
At more than 4,000 square kilometers, Mount Elgon boasts the largest volcanic base in the world, not just in Uganda. In addition to being the oldest volcanic mountain in East Africa, it is also the largest volcanic base. It rises more than 3000 meters above sea level and has a diameter of 80 kilometers. The mountain serves as the Bagishu people’s primary source of income and as a water catchment region for the River Sipi, which creates the breathtaking Sipi Falls. To obtain Malewa, one of their favorite sources, the residents trek up the mountain.
Mount Elgon National Park’s attractions
During their visit to this remote national park, visitors enjoy a number of attractions at Mount Elgon. If you like hiking but are now unable to do so due to health or physical limitations, a less strenuous mountain or activity is unquestionably the best option for you. Highlights of the park’s attractions are listed below:
Birds: Mt. Elgon’s diverse flora cover has produced rich, fertile ground for a variety of bird species’ habitats. More than 299 bird species can be found at Mount Elgon National Park, including 12 endemic species that are unique to Uganda. Jackson’s Francolin, Hunter’s Cisticola, Black-collared apalis, Red-throated wryneck, Weyn’s weaver, Moustached green tinker bird, Alpine Chat, Moorland Francolin, and Marsh Widowbird are among the endemic birds. The Tacazze sunbird, Eastern bronze-naped pigeon, Black-shouldered kite, Lammergeier vultures, White-starred forest robin, Hartlaub’s turaco, and Tacazze sunbird are just a few of the other common bird species.
Mount Elgon National Park’s flora: The park is home to a variety of plants that are arranged in accordance with the significant altitude changes as height increases. From Montana to the open moorland vegetation, which is peppered with rare plant species like Lobelia, the mountain’s slopes host a great diversity of more altitudinal vegetation. The shrubs’ abundance of lovely blossoms draws more tourists to Mount Elgon National Park for sightseeing.
Mount Elgon: Named for the volcanic mountain located in the park’s center, Mount Elgon is the main draw of Mount Elgon National Park. In actuality, Mt. Elgon covers ¾ of the park. It is the eighth highest peak in Africa and the fourth highest in East Africa. Kenya and Uganda share four of its main high points. Access to the mountain can be obtained through Uganda, where entry permits are obtained from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, or through Kenya, where park entry permits are obtained from Kenya Wildlife Services. Depending on the hiker’s level of fitness, the peak can be climbed in three to five days.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Mount Elgon National Park is the Sipi Falls. The breathtaking Tutum cave, tucked away in the center of the vast forest. At the cave’s brink, the River Sipi meets the volcanic rock to make the falls. Your safari isn’t complete if you visit Mount Elgon National Park without making it.
Mammals and Wildlife: Waterbucks, duiker, spotted hyenas, oribi, monkeys, squirrels, and many other creatures may be found in Mount Elgon National Park. There is more wildlife in the park because of its forested backdrop. While the mountain is the primary draw, visitors can also see these creatures while engaging in other park activities.
Bagishu cultures: One of Uganda’s distinctive cultures is that of the Bagishu, also known as the Bamasamba. The tribe heads to the closest Mbale town after leaving the park. Throughout the region, they hold their yearly circumcision ceremony. The “Mbalu” dance is more distinctive, spiritual, and cultural. The victims will be doused with dust, dirt, ash, and other substances as they go from one location to another, and they use this dance to escort the young people who are scheduled to be circumcised.
Mount Elgon activities
Hiking to Mount Elgon: In Mount Elgon National Park, hiking is the most popular tourist activity. Four main hiking trails are available. These include the Sasa, Sipi, Piswa, and Suam trails; the duration varies depending on the trail. While other routes lead to Sipi Waterfalls, the trekking route leads to the summit of Wagagai. Depending on the terrain and the visitor’s level of fitness, the hike to Mount Elgon takes four to seven days. Compared to other African mountains, the trek is easier and gentler.
Birding: With over 299 bird species identified, Mount Elgon National Park is one of the best places for birdwatchers. The Moorland Francolin, Marsh Widowbird, Alpine Chat, Wyn’s weaver, Moustached Green Tinker Bird, Jackson’s Francolin, Hunter’s Cisticola, Black-collared apalis, Red-throated wryneck, and other birds are among the twelve indigenous bird species. The Tacazze sunbird, Eastern bronze-naped pigeon, Black-shouldered kite, Lammergeier vultures, White-starred forest robin, Hartlaub’s turaco, and Tacazze sunbird are just a few of the other common bird species.
Mt. Elgon National Park is a peaceful, remote location that is ideal for those who wish to clear their heads.