The most beautiful natural sites to discover Mount Elgon National Park

Despite its extraordinary hiking opportunities, Mount Elgon remains relatively uncrowded, even though the number of climbs is steadily increasing. It is a good alternative to the Rwenzori massif or Mount Kilimanjaro. The ascent is not very technical and remains quite affordable. If it is possible (which is generally the case), you should know that while it is easier and cheaper, it can be as rewarding as the ascent of the above-mentioned mountains. Treks can be done all year round, even if the dry season is more favourable (June-August and December-February). Excursions last from two to six days with a daily walking time of between three and eleven hours; they require good physical condition but no special skills or specific equipment. Please note, however, that problems of acclimatization to altitude may occur on the last portion of the ascent. Finally, be aware that the nights are icy on the heights of Mount Elgon, so bring something to keep you warm (fleece, gloves, sleeping bag...). Depending on the itinerary you choose (Sasa Trail, Sipi Trail, Piswa Trail, or even, for the more discerning sportsmen, the new Bushiyi Trail), you will find on your way, punctuated with magnificent views, caves, gorges and waterfalls. Expeditions are organized at the UWA office in Mbale at the rate of US$ 75 per day, including the entrance to the park (US$ 35) and the services of a guide, plus a camping fee (Ush 20,000) and possibly the assistance of a porter (Ush 40,000 per day; maximum load carried: eighteen kilograms) and a cook (Ush 30,000 per day), or US$ 80-100 per person per day, not including the purchase of food. If you plan to attack the Wagagai by the Bushiyi Trail, which starts in the village of the same name (18 km east of Mbale, as the crow flies...), you will have to pay, for the whole trek (usually two days), 150 US$ (not including camping fees and, potentially, those of the porter and/or the cook). There are many options: the possibility to combine two trails (for example the Sasa and Piswa trails in order to make a Budadiri-Kapkwata crossing and not a round trip on the same trail), to do a cross-border trek (developed by UWA and the Kenya Wildlife Service), to discover the picturesque gorge that is part of the Suam Trail (departure from the locality of Suam), etc.

If the 1,650 m of positive elevation gain on the first day of the Sasa Trail and the 5 to 6 days of walking required to complete the Piswa and Sipi trails do not tell you anything worthwhile, the nature walks organised by UWA could get your favour. For example, from Budadiri, you can walk to the Mudange Cliffs, which gush out of the forest where primates and birds abound, or to Drigana Falls. In Kapkwai, walks of 3 to 11 km allow you to discover bamboos, caves, waterfalls and remarkable trees without (too) tiring!