ELGON

ABOUT ELGON

Mt. Elgon is an extinct volcano that first erupted more than 24 million years ago. With the largest surface area of any extinct volcano in the world (50km by 80 km), Mt. Elgon is the fourth highest mountain in Eastern Africa, with the second-highest peak in Uganda (Wagagi Peak -4321 metres). Mt. Elgon contains the largest intact caldera, a collapsed crater covering over 40 km' at the top of the mountain, surrounded by a series of rugged peaks.

FLORA AND FAUNA

While ascending Mt. Elgon's Enchanting slopes, you will pass through dense montane forest and mixed bamboo belts teeming with bird life. You will then enter the fascinating heath and moorland zones containing several interesting endemic plant species such as giant lobelia and groundsels. Wildlife enthusiasts will be pleased to spot primates such as the Black and White Colobus Monkey, Blue monkey, and hundreds of fascinating bird species, including Golden Winged and Tacazze sunbirds, Ross's and Hartlaubs Turacos, Black and White Casqued and Crowned Hornbills, the endangered Lammergeier and the Jackson's Francolin which is found nowhere else in Uganda. If you are particularly observant you can also see buffalo, duiker, hyena or even the elusive leopard.

TRAILHEADS AND ROUTES

There are two main trailheads (starting points) which lead to the mountain's peaks. Sasa Trail (Budadiri trailhead) is the most easily accessible from Mbale and is the most direct route to the peaks. It passes through the Park's largest area of bamboo forest. However it is also a steep and rugged climb of over 1600m on the first day. For a more gentle climb (660m first day) you may choose to ascend via Piswa trail (Kapkwata trailhead). Along this route you can explore a vast Podocarpus forest, an excellent place for wildlife viewing.
The full trekking circuit to the peaks takes 4-5 days to complete.