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Elgon is a 4,321m high extinct volcano which in
prehistoric times stood taller than Kilimanjaro
does today. Although the mountain straddles the
Kenya border, its loftiest peak, Wagagai, lies
within Uganda and is best ascended from the
Uganda side.
Elgon is an important watershed, and its slopes
support a rich variety of altitudinal vegetation
zones ranging from montane forest to high open
moorland studded with the other-worldly giant
lobelia and groundsel plants.
Spectacular scenery is the main attraction for
hikers on this oft-neglected and relatively
undemanding mountain, but there is also a
variety of forest monkeys and small antelope,
along with elephant and buffalo. A checklist
topping 300 birds includes many species not
recorded elsewhere in Uganda.
Other attractions include ancient cave paintings
close to the trailhead at Budadiri, and
spectacular caves and hot springs within the
crater.
SIZE:
1,145 sq km
WHAT TO DO:
From Budadiri or within the Mount
Elgon Forest Exploration Centre; hikes of four days or longer traverse the
peaks.
Well worth visiting is the lovely Sipi Falls.
WHEN TO VISIT:
The lower slopes are fine throughout the
year. The drier months (June to August, December
to March) are best for hiking. |
