Kapchorwa is one of Uganda’s best-kept secrets. In December 2022, the Minister of Tourism, along with a team of 300 people, came to #ExploreElgon. Their visit, however, only lasted three days. Far too short to move beyond Sipi Falls and truly immerse themselves in all that this stunning region has to offer. That’s why I’m sharing with you seven must-try, off-the-beaten-path experiences
in the heart of Uganda’s Land of Champions.
Ready for a real adventure? Let’s dive right in!
1. Live Like a local runner
Kapchorwa is known as the Land of Champions for a reason—it’s home to some of the world’s greatest athletes. With our partner, Run Kapchorwa, you can experience this running culture firsthand. Join in for a morning session and run the same trails as Kapchorwa’s elite and upcoming athletes. Worried about the pace? Don’t be! Our local guide will adjust to your level. Plus, you’ll get a taste of the runners’ favorite meals, fueling you like a true champion. Whether you stay for a day or longer, you’ll live and breathe the life of a local runner!
Local runners out on the Kapchorwa Champions' Trail. Photo credit: Collins Cheshewa (October 2022)
2. Cook traditional kapchowa Meals
Do you love cooking? Are you curious about traditional African cuisine? Join our Kapchorwa Mamas and learn how to prepare a true warrior meal. From the staple dish karo to local greens and sour milk, you’ll dive into the heart of Kapchorwa’s culinary traditions. It’s an interactive and hands-on experience that connects you with the flavors of the Sabiny people.
American visitors learning how to grind millet with one of the Kapchorwa Mamas (August 2022)
3. Interact with the indigenous Mosopisiek tribe
Eastern Uganda is home to the indigenous Mosopisiek people, also known as the Benet, and a sub tribe to the aforementioned Sabiny. In 1993, they were evicted from the Mount Elgon forest and moorlands, now part of Mount Elgon National Park. Despite this, the Mosopisiek have preserved much of their unique culture and healthy lifestyle. On the Mosopisiek Trail, led by native guide David, you’ll explore their way of life in a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure. Discover the hidden gems of this tribe, and walk in the footsteps of a people rarely visited by the outside world.
The author of this blog hiking the Mosopisiek Trail in the Benet Highlands, close to Mukuuso cave. Photo credit: Juma Chebet (June 2022)
4. Sing SEBEI warrior songs in a natural cave
Step back in time with the Sebei Cultural Storytellers, a youth group from Kapchorwa dedicated to reviving the ancient Sebei culture. Through storytelling, drama, and dance, they bring history to life in a fun way. Book the Cave Experience and spend 1.5 hours immersed in performances that transport you back 300 years. The nearby cave, acting as a time machine, sets the perfect stage for this highly engaging and educational experience!
French visitor with 'warrior' Timothy during a Cave Experience in April 2021
5. Hike the higher belts of Kapchorwa and Kween
The higher you climb, the purer the way of life becomes. On the Kapchorwa-Benet Trail, experienced hikers will be rewarded with fertile soils, stunning nature, and incredible views of Mount Elgon’s highlands. This is village life at its best, with untouched landscapes and breathtaking panoramas. It’s a challenging yet rewarding hike, perfect for those looking to truly explore rural Uganda.
Donkeys and Mosopisiek women in the Benet highlands of Kween District. Photo courtesy of Juma Chebet (June 2022)
6. Explore Elgon’s Arabica coffee
Elgon’s Arabica coffee is world-renowned, and you can learn the entire process, from seed to cup, on the Sipi Coffee Tour. Led by one of our experienced local coffee experts, this tour is a practical and fun way to dive into Uganda’s coffee culture. Taste the difference in every sip as you explore the art of coffee-making in one of Uganda’s greenest and most fertile regions.
Visitors from the UK planting coffee seeds during the Sipi Coffee Tour. Photo courtesy of Juma Chebet (January 2021)
7. Bike through KAPCHORWA’s villages and plantations
Looking for a different kind of adventure? Rent a bike from Bike Kapchorwa and ride through Kapchorwa’s villages and plantations. Along the way, you’ll meet friendly locals, explore Sebei culture, and stop at waterfalls for a refreshing break. We can provide maps or a guide to help you navigate the trails, ensuring you don’t miss any of the hidden gems along the way. It’s an active and exciting way to experience the beauty of Kapchorwa!
Ugandan tour operator mountain biking on the trails of Kapchorwa (May 2022)
I hope this blog has inspired you to dive deep into all that Mount Elgon has to offer. There’s so much more beyond the ordinary tourist spots waiting to be discovered.
Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
This blog is written by Daan Oxener, a Dutch social entrepreneur who is based in Kapchorwa since 2016. Daan manages Home of Friends Guesthouse, together with his wife Eliza. He is passionate about documenting Mount Elgon’s beautiful nature and remarkable culture. Daan is also engaged in Community & youth empowerment through adventure tourism.