Mount Elgon is nothing short of a hiker’s paradise. The green beauty of its landscapes is unparalleled, the people are incredibly welcoming, and the trails—well, they’re just waiting to be explored. Over the past few years, we’ve been hard at work mapping new, off-the-beaten-path routes, and carefully selecting and training local guides who bring a deep knowledge of their community, history, and culture to every adventure. Now, I’m thrilled to introduce you to our top five spectacular hikes on the slopes of Mount Elgon that will take your Uganda adventure to the next level!
1. Mosopisiek Trail (2-3 days)
Step into a timeless world on the Mosopisiek Trail, a multi-day hike filled with hidden gems, from breathtaking waterfalls to mysterious caves. Beyond the natural beauty, it’s the Mosopisiek people and their rich culture that leave the most lasting impression. The Mosopisiek are a minority tribe that has managed to preserve much of their traditional way of life. Up until the 1990s, they lived deep within Mount Elgon’s dense rainforest (now part of Mount Elgon National Park).
This hike offers a rare chance to experience both the landscape and the culture of a tribe that quietly shaped Uganda’s Olympic success. Did you know that all of Uganda’s Olympic champions from the last decade have Mosopisiek roots? Find out more on page 14 of our Adventure Tourism Magazine and learn about this unique hike on our Mosopisiek Trail page.
2. Kapchorwa Nature Walk (1-4 hours)
Sometimes, the best adventures are right on your doorstep! The Kapchorwa Nature Walk begins just outside the gates of our Guesthouse, offering you the chance to explore natural caves, village trails, and fields of banana and coffee plantations. This hike is perfect if you’re looking to immerse yourself in local nature and culture without venturing too far.
Common feedback from Kapchorwa Nature Walk oarticipants is: ‘‘Less touristy, equally beautiful and more tranquil than the Sipi Falls hike!’’ Our guides Romy and Shadrack are passionate about showcasing the beauty of Kapchorwa, and they’ll tailor the walk to suit your fitness level and preferences. It’s a gentle yet immersive experience, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of the people living on the slopes of Mount Elgon.
Explore more details on our Kapchorwa Nature Walk page and pick your perfect route.
MAP WITH TOURISTIC HIGHLIGHTS & HIKES
All hikes in one overview? Download our touristic map:
3. Kapchorwa-Benet Trail (7-8 hours)
Back in March 2020, just before the world slowed down due to the pandemic, a group of local and international hikers set out to explore and map the stunning Kapchorwa-Benet Trail. Led by one of our native guides, David or Cephus, this 19-kilometer hike is for the more experienced adventurers out there.
The trail takes you through small villages, over rugged rocky terrain, and past vast, organized farmlands. As you ascend, the population thins out, and the landscapes open up, offering expansive views of the surrounding mountains. This hike truly takes you into the heart of rural Uganda, where farming is more than just a livelihood—it’s a way of life.
NB: At the end of the trail, a boda boda ride will take you back to the Guesthouse. It’s an adventurous way to unwind after a long day of exploration!
Native guide Cephus at the start of the Kapchorwa-Benet Trail. Photo credit: Explore Travel Oasis
4. Kapkwai nature walk (3-5 hours)
The Kapkwai Nature Walk offers an immersive experience through the dense tropical forests of Mount Elgon National Park. Starting and end point is Kapkwai Forest Exploration Centre, managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The walk offers insights into the unique flora of the region, with towering trees and exotic plant species. You may also encounter monkeys, birds, and vibrant butterflies along the way. Optional are visits to Kapkwai cave and the higher Chebonet waterfall. A peaceful experience, ideal for nature lovers!
Eliza and Daan, managers of Home of Friends, at Chebonet waterfall, during the Kapkwai Nature Walk (August 2024)
5. CHEBONET WATERFALL HIKE (4-6 hours)
Just a few kilometers from the popular Sipi Falls, the Chebonet waterfall hike invites you to explore a quieter side of nature. This lesser-known trail offers a perfect mix of beautiful views and a bit of a workout (it includes some ladders and rocky descends), making it ideal for those who love a good hike. You'll find yourself surrounded by stunning landscapes and the calming sounds of the waterfall, making it a great escape for anyone looking to connect with the outdoors.
The write of this blog standing in front of Chebonet waterfall (September 2024). Photo credit: Juma Chebet
6. Sipi Falls Hike (1-4 hours)
We couldn’t leave out the classic Sipi Falls Hike, the oldest hike in the region. Although the area is quite touristy, the beauty of this hike is undisputable. Your guide will lead you past the cascading Sipi waterfalls, through fertile farmlands, and into charming local villages.
Two Dutch visitors @ Sipi Falls in December 2021. Photo credit: Juma Chebet
What do you think?
I’d love to hear your thoughts on these hikes! Have you tried any of them, or are you planning your first adventure to Mount Elgon? Let me know in the comments below!
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.