Mount Elgon National Park

Ancient volcano with the world's largest caldera

4,321

Meters Peak

1,279

Square Kilometers

300

Bird Species

8

Km Caldera

The Ancient Giant

Mount Elgon is an ancient extinct volcano that straddles the Uganda-Kenya border. At 4,321 meters, it's Uganda's second-highest peak and features the world's largest intact caldera, measuring 8 kilometers in diameter.

Location

Eastern Uganda, bordering Kenya

Climate

Alpine with temperatures 5-25°C

Best Time

December-March and June-September

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Mountain Wildlife & Unique Flora

Mount Elgon supports diverse ecosystems from montane forest to alpine moorland. The park is home to unique wildlife adapted to high altitudes and features stunning wildflowers and ancient trees.

Mammals

  • Forest Elephants
  • Buffaloes
  • Bushbucks
  • Duikers
  • Colobus Monkeys
  • Blue Monkeys
  • Leopards
  • Hyenas

Birds

  • 300 Bird Species
  • Moorland Francolin
  • Jackson's Francolin
  • Mackinder's Eagle Owl
  • Alpine Chat
  • Mountain Buzzard
  • Endemic Species

Flora

  • Giant Lobelias
  • Groundsels
  • Heather
  • Wildflowers
  • Ancient Trees
  • Bamboo Forests

Adventure Activities

Summit Trek

Climb to Wagagai Peak (4,321m) via the Sasa Trail. Experience all vegetation zones from forest to alpine moorland.

4-5 Days Challenging Peak Summit

Caldera Exploration

Explore the world's largest intact caldera (8km diameter) with its unique ecosystem and stunning views.

Unique Experience Geological Scenic

Forest Walks

Guided walks through montane forest to discover wildlife, waterfalls, and ancient trees.

1-3 Hours Easy Wildlife

Bird Watching

Spot 300 bird species including rare mountain endemics and migratory birds in diverse habitats.

300 Species Endemics Expert Guides

Photography

Capture stunning landscapes, unique flora, and wildlife in this photographer's paradise.

Landscapes Flora Wildlife

Cultural Visits

Visit local communities to learn about traditional cultures and mountain heritage.

Cultural Community Educational

Where to Stay

Mount Elgon Hotel

Comfortable hotel in Mbale with mountain views and excellent amenities.

Mbale Resort Hotel

Well-appointed resort with beautiful gardens and mountain vistas.

Elgon View Lodge

Luxury lodge with stunning mountain views and world-class service.

Kapchorwa Tourist Hotel

Comfortable mid-range hotel with good value and mountain access.

Elgon Guesthouse

Cozy guesthouse with personalized service and beautiful views.

Mountain View Lodge

Family-friendly lodge with spacious rooms and garden setting.

Budadiri Campsite

Basic camping facilities at the mountain base with community support.

Mountain Huts

Simple mountain huts along trekking routes for overnight stays.

Community Homestay

Authentic local experience staying with mountain communities.

Getting There

By Road

From Kampala via Jinja and Mbale (230km, 4-5 hours). Well-maintained roads lead to the park entrance at Budadiri.

4-5 hours from Kampala Good roads

Public Transport

Regular buses from Kampala to Mbale. From Mbale, arrange local transport to Budadiri (about 1 hour).

Budget option Local experience

By Air

Charter flights can be arranged to nearby airstrips, though road access is more convenient.

Charter flights Expensive option