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Mbale is one of the most attractive towns in Uganda, and nearby Mount Elgon, is a major attraction for tourists, especially hikers. Mt. Elgon is a huge extinct volcano straddling the Kenyan border at an altitude of 4321m. Another popular spot is the sipi Falls which lie on the foothills of Mt.Elgon. The small town of Tororo is only a few minutes drive from Malaba post on the huge Uganda safari Tororo Rock that juts out into the skyline. It is a steep volcanic rock that can be climbed in an hour or so, and a clear day offers great views across Lake Victoria. The Ugandan side bears the Mount
Elgon National park and was gazzeted in 1993. The
highest point on Elgon is Wagagai Peak which lies
on the Ugandan side. The vegetation here includes
distinct forest, bamboo, heath and afro-alpine areas-consisting
of moorland with giant lobelias and groundsels. Mammals
living in the park are the blue and de Brazza’s
monkey, black and white colobus, elephant, leopard,
bushpig, duiker and sitatunga. The mountain gorilla safari also supports
a rich variety of birds. Mt.Elgon is a relatively easy mountain to climb since no special skills are required, just general fitness. It is not high enough to be at a great risk o “mountain sickness”(which is altitude related). Hikes can be organized from Mbale National Park Office or Budadiri. There are several hiking routes for serious mountain climbers. The Ssa Trail is a four-day round trip from Budadari to Wagagai Peak. You can also choose the five-day hike from Budadari, which incudes Wagagai and the hot springs. Alternatively you can ascend Elgon via the Piswa route for Kapkwata, which is a less strenuous trail. |
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