Climbing Mount Elgon is a popular activity for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Uganda. Here’s a tourist guide to climbing Mount Elgon:
Trails:
- Sasa Trail: This is the most direct and steepest route to the summit of Mount Elgon. The trailhead is located at Budadiri, and the trek usually takes about four days.
- Sipi Trail: This trail is a bit longer than the Sasa Trail, but it is less steep. The trailhead is located in Kapchorwa, and the trek usually takes about five days.
- Piswa Trail: This is the longest and least steep route to the summit of Mount Elgon. The trailhead is located in Kapchorwa, and the trek usually takes about seven days.
Hiking Companies:
- Mount Elgon Hiking: This is a local company based in Mbale that offers guided hikes up Mount Elgon, as well as other adventure activities in the area.
- Karamoja Safaris: This company offers guided hikes up Mount Elgon, as well as other cultural and adventure tours in Uganda.
- Uganda Wildlife Safaris: This company offers guided hikes up Mount Elgon, as well as other wildlife and adventure tours in Uganda.
Duration of the Trek: The duration of the trek depends on the trail you choose and your fitness level. The Sasa Trail usually takes about four days, the Sipi Trail takes about five days, and the Piswa Trail takes about seven days. It’s important to note that you should give yourself some time to acclimate to the altitude before attempting the summit.
Other Things to See:
- The Caldera: The Mount Elgon Caldera is a massive collapsed crater located at the summit of the mountain. It is the largest caldera in the world, and it is a must-see for anyone climbing Mount Elgon.
- Hiking Sipi Falls: Sipi Falls is a series of three waterfalls located near Mount Elgon. You can visit the falls before or after your climb, or you can take a side trip during your trek.
Hiking Sipi Falls: Sipi Falls is located about two hours from Mount Elgon, and it is a popular side trip for hikers. The falls are actually a series of three waterfalls, with the highest waterfall dropping 100 meters. You can hike to the falls from the town of Kapchorwa, and the hike takes about two hours. There are also several lodges and campsites in the area if you want to spend the night.
