Want to go backpacking in Mount Elgon National park? Mount Elgon is found on the border of Uganda and Kenya, and backpackers can access the park from both countries through the different gates.
Backpacking in Mount Elgon is a good way to explore the park, see wildlife such as over 300 bird species and 12 animal species, and hike trails like the Sipi Falls trail, Sasa trail, Sipi trail, and Piswa trail to the peak.
You can also interact with the local Bagisu and Sabiny people to learn about their culture and how they grow coffee on the mountain slopes.
The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to March and June to August when trails are dry and skies are clear. The park can be reached by road in about 4–5 hours from Kampala to Mbale, then by taxi to Budadiri or Kapkwai depending on your entry point.
When preparing for the trip, pack light and warm clothes, long-sleeved shirts, hiking boots, insect repellent, a solar charger, sunglasses, a headlamp, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
Avoid moving very early in the morning or late at night, and note that trekking alone is not allowed. Book your guides and permits early, especially in the peak season.
Accommodation for backpackers is available in guesthouses around Mbale and Kapchorwa before the trek. While on the trails, you can stay at basic campsites. Carry a sleeping bag or tent and a small blanket for the cold nights at higher altitudes.
Always follow park rules. Do not litter—use bins where available or keep your litter in your backpack until you find one. Stick to designated hiking routes.
Cooking for yourself is also possible. You can buy food in nearby towns such as Mbale, with simple options like rice and posho. For this, you may need to carry a stove or prepare food over a campfire.
Backpacking in Mount Elgon can be done even on a budget. It gives you a chance to enjoy wide views, rich cultures, and the wildlife of the mountain.
