The Mount Elgon National Park of Uganda was gazetted as a national park in 1994.
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.
SIZE:
1,145 sq km
LOCATION:
Near Mbale on the east border with Kenya.
(Uganda map)
GETTING THERE:
Mbale lies 3-4 hours from Kampala along a good tar road.
The trailhead at Budadiri, 20km from Mbale, is accessible by public transport.
WHAT TO DO:
Day walks 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.
WHERE TO STAY:
Up-market lodge at Sipi Falls. Midrange hotels in Mbale. Budget lodging at Sipi Falls, Mbale and Budadiri. Within the park, camping only.