Mount Elgon National Park- Kenya

Mount Elgon National Park

About

Mount Elgon National Park is a protected area located in eastern Uganda on the border with Kenya. In 1993, an area of 1,279 square kilometers was established and named after Mount Elgon. An extinct volcano which is the main feature of the park.

Mount Elgon is the fourth-highest mountain in East Africa, with its highest peak, Wagagai, reaching an elevation of 4,321 meters above sea level. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and there are several trails that visitors can use to explore the park.

The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 300 species of birds and several species of primates such as the black and white colobus monkey, the blue monkey, and the baboon. Other animals found in the park include elephants, buffaloes, leopards, hyenas and Snakes

One of the unique features of the park is the series of caves and waterfalls that are found on the slopes of Mount Elgon. These include the Kitum Cave, which is known for its salt-licking elephants, and the Sipi Falls, a series of three waterfalls that are a popular attraction for visitors.

How to get there

  1. By air: The nearest airport to Mount Elgon National Park is Eldoret International Airport, which is approximately 100 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the park.
  2. By road: You can also get to the park by road. There are regular buses that operate between Nairobi and Kitale, which is the nearest town to the park. From Kitale, you can take a taxi or matatu (local minibus) to the park.
  3. By train: Another option is to take the train from Nairobi to Eldoret, and then hire a taxi or take a bus to the park

 Highlights

  • Mount Elgon
  • Kitum cave
  • Endebess Bluff

Attractions

  1. Mount Elgon.
  2. Caves.
  3. Waterfalls.
  4. Forest Walks.
  5. Bird Watching.
  6. Community Visits.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Mount Elgon National Park in Kenya is during the dry season, which runs from June to August and December to February. During this time, the weather is usually dry and sunny, and the trails are less muddy and easier to navigate.