The park is named after Mount Elgon, an extinct shield volcano on the border of Uganda and Kenya.
Mount Elgon is the 4th highest mountain in Eastern Africa, reaching 4321 metres.
The park covers an area of 1279 km² and is bisected by the border of Kenya and Uganda. The Ugandan part of the park covers 1110 km² while the Kenyan part covers 169 km².
Experience one of East Africa’s most impressive volcanic landscapes and explore its peaks, caves and waterfalls. Let us include Mount Elgon National Park in your Uganda safari itinerary.
The oldest and largest solitary volcanic mountain in East Africa
Mt. Elgon has the largest volcanic base in the world and it is the oldest and largest solitary volcanic mountain in East Africa. Its vast form, 80km in diameter, rises more than 3,000m above the surrounding plains.
The highest apex is Wagagai, 4,321 m.
The higher slopes are protected by national parks in Uganda and Kenya, creating an extensive trans-boundary conservation area which has been declared a UNESCO Man & Biosphere Reserve.
Over 300 bird species and diverse mountain wildlife
Mount Elgon National Park is home to over 300 species of birds, including the endangered Lammergeyer, also known as the bearded vulture.
Small antelopes, forest monkeys, elephants and buffalos also live on the mountainside.
Waterfalls, caves, gorges and non-technical trekking
The park has magnificent waterfalls, caves, gorges and hot springs and is excellent for hiking. No technical climbing equipment or skills are required, and all major peaks are accessible to hikers.
The full trekking circuit takes 4–5 days to complete and there are also 3 day trails, 3–7km long. The magnificent Sipi Falls are 66km north of Mbale, en route to the Forest Exploration Centre and Kapkwata.
The most popular areas are the four explorable vast caves where frequent night visitors such as elephants and buffaloes come to lick the natural salt found on the cave walls. Kitum Cave, with overhanging crystalline walls, enters 200 m into the side of Mt. Elgon.
Enjoy the view ;-)
Views across the surrounding plains from the slopes of Mount Elgon
Mountain paths often disappear into cool morning mist
A key stop along the Mount Elgon trekking route
Rugged volcanic formations shape the upper slopes
High-altitude landscapes with unique vegetation and crater lakes
Lush montane forest covers the lower elevations of the mountain
Get inspired
Whether you dream of tracking Mountain Gorillas, crossing golden savannahs or meeting Uganda’s vibrant local communities, we help you shape a journey that truly fits you. Tell us what inspires you, and together we’ll craft a personalised itinerary — or choose from our carefully designed tours, created from more than 22 years of experience. Your adventure starts with a conversation. Let’s plan the Uganda you’ve been waiting to discover.
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