With an elevation of about 4,321 meters above sea level, Mountain Elgon is the 8th highest mountain in Africa. It is located in Mbale district on the border with Kenya in the eastern region of Uganda. Since the mountain is located in both countries of Uganda and Kenya, it is protected from both sides. The Kenya Wildlife Services on the side of Kenya takes charge of this nature art piece. Mountain Elgon is under the Mountain Elgon National Park here in Uganda hence it is in the protection and conservation of the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Mountain Elgon is an extinct volcanic mountain that last erupted over a million years ago. Mountain Elgon stretches for over 1,121 meters in size. It has a large volcanic base of 4,000 square kilometers considered the largest in the world. Mountain Elgon has a large volcanic caldera that stretches for over 40 square kilometers. This caldera is one of the largest in the world.
Mountain Elgon is a natural haven for several flora and fauna species. These species range from mammals and primates to birds and amphibians. These species live in the scattered ecosystems on the mountain. The highest peak on the mountain Elgon is Wagagai Peak standing at 4,321 meters above sea level. This peak was one the highest in the land standing but due to several years of extreme erosion, the peak has dropped in ranks to 4th in East Africa and 8th on the continent.
The mountain peaks on Mountain Elgon range in height, Wagagai being the highest with 4,321 meters. Wagagai is the highest elevation on this mountain and is located on the Ugandan side. Sudek and Koitobos peaks on the side of Kenya with elevations of 4,302 and 4,222 meters respectively come next. Mubiyi Peak at 4,211 meters and Masaba Peak at 4,161 meters all in Uganda come last. Unlike other high mountains on the African continent that are snowcapped at the top summits, Mountain Elgon has no snow.
Climbing Mountain Elgon
The mountain Elgon was first climbed in the colonial days by Frederick Jackson after the mountain had become popular. This was immediately after it was published in an article by the British geographer Henry Stanley. Stanley was impressed by its beauty when he saw it as he arrived in Uganda from Lake Victoria. However, the mountain was already popular with the natives who resided on its slopes and with the Arab traders since it was located close to the trading routes to Kenya.
Mountain Elgon can be hiked or climbed from either side of Uganda or Kenya. On the Uganda side, Mountain Elgon requires a hiking permit that is acquired from the Uganda Wildlife Authority through a registered company. After buying the permit hikers arrive at the Mountain Elgon National Park offices. An experienced hiking guide leads you up the trails to start your hike after a short briefing and choosing porters if needed. Climbing mountain Elgon is easier compared to climbing other high snow-capped mountains in the region. This is because, on top of battling fatigue, you add the cold freezing conditions. However, in the case of Mountain Elgon, your physique determines your hiking experience and how long it takes. Climbing to the top summit of Wagagai can take 4-8 days. Although Wagagai is an interesting part of the climb, the highlight is the large 40 square kilometer caldera.
Activities on Mountain Elgon
As mentioned earlier, Mountain Elgon harbors a wide range of flora and fauna species. These species in addition to community and culture among the following attract tourists from all over the world.
Bird watching
Mountain Elgon harbors over 300 bird species that live in the different ecosystems on this mountain. Some of the birds on Mountain Elgon include the Lammergeyer, black-shouldered kite, Jackson’s francolin, and Tacazze sunbird among others. The Lammergeyer is an endangered bird species that is located in few places in the world.
Community tours
The slopes of Mount Elgon are occupied by two tribes the Bagisu and Sabiny people. The Bagisu people are the BaMasaba people. They are called BaMasaba because of their founding father Masaba. He inhabited the Elgon mountain and the Bagisu people refer to the mountain as a representation of their culture. Visitors can interact with these people by visiting their communities and learning the ways of life. Visitors can also support their work by buying their produced products.
Rock climbing and Abseiling
Rock climbing is another activity on Mountain Elgon that is highly anticipated by visitors. Rock climbing takes place on the Sipi Falls side as you enjoy the sights around the mountain. While at the top, cables with suspend the visitor down as they abseil while sighting beautiful scenes from the waterfalls to the coffee plantations of the locals.
Coffee plantation tours
The local tribes around the mountain are cultivators who mainly engage in coffee production. The slopes of Mountain Elgon are rich in fertile volcanic soils. These soils support the growth and production of Arabic coffee. Visitors can also tour the coffee processing plants and get a chance to taste their processed coffee.
In conclusion, Mountain Elgon offers untamed and uncharted landscapes just at your disposal ready to be explored. The beautiful scenes of the flora and fauna species make it a must-visit for many visitors who would wish to explore them.
