Over the years, we’ve ventured deep into the hidden corners of Mount Elgon, uncovering the fascinating history and cultural significance of various caves. Each cave has a story. Some sacred, others spine-chilling.
Here’s a top-seven list of the most intriguing cultural caves on Mount Elgon:
1) KapTUUCH CaveS (TUMBABOI VILLAGE, KAPCHORWA DISTRICT)
Our latest discovery! In the local Kupsapiiny language, Kaptuuch means "Home of Cows." Nestled in the remote Tumbaboi area, a series of four caves are home to men who live alongside their cattle. For these men, cows are everything, and take priority over education, politics, and even family life. On a recent exploration, we met a former resident of Kapchorwa Town who had left the stress of city life and school fees behind, trading it for peace and simplicity in this serene cave.
Want to visit and interact with the natives who still live in these caves in the 21st century?
You can now explore these caves and learn about the lives of its residents with two options: a full-day 25 km hike for the adventurous, or a half-day experience with convenient drop-off and pick-up for a shorter adventure. To (pre)book simply send us a message!
Views from the first Kaptuuch cave with layers of cow dung on the cave floor
2. Cave Complex (Barawa Village, Kapchorwa TOWN)
When Semu was a boy, his family would take refuge in this cave to hide from Karamojong cattle raiders. Today, the threat is gone, but Semu and his son Poul are keeping the cave’s heritage alive. Visitors are welcomed with cultural artifacts, the chance to learn traditional millet grinding, and cooking lessons that recreate a warrior’s feast. Occasionally, the Sebei Cultural Storytellers grace the cave with dance and drama performances. An unforgettable cultural experience!
Semu giving cultural backgrounds to a guest
3. Mukuuso cave (Kitowoi parish, Kween District)
Located high up on Mount Elgon, Mukuuso Cave tells a tragic story. In 1917, a rival clan trapped people inside by blocking the entrance and lighting a fire. The gruesome event that followed still haunts the cave. As part of the Mosopisiek Trail, our guide David will share the cave's full history. For the brave at heart, you can explore deeper into the largest cave on Mount Elgon. Just don’t forget your torch! And if you're into geology, here is a fascinating 1965 article about bored stones in Mukuuso Cave.
Native guide David in front of Mukuuso cave during the initial mapping of the Mosopisiek Trail in August 2020
4. Yatui cave (Sabu village, Kween District)
Yatui Cave holds deep spiritual meaning for the local Community. It’s the site of rituals for reburials, renaming troublesome children, and honoring ancestors. Imagine a stick with a fruit at its tip, swirling while names of legendary ancestors are chanted. When the stick stands still, the ritual is complete! Local guides David and Cephus will walk you through these fascinating traditions, as part of the Mosopisiek Trail.
5. Mise cave (Sipi Falls, Kapchorwa District)
Mise Cave is a sacred site for the Sebei people, thought to cool tensions and unite conflicting parties. Its mineral-rich walls contain crystal stones and salty rocks that were once a source of sustenance for cows during cattle raids by the Karamojong. The peaceful atmosphere of this cave has made it a place of reflection and healing for generations.
Book your tour into this cave through Mise Cave Lodge.
6. Tutum cave (Mount Elgon National Park)
At an 11-kilometer hike from Kapkwai Exploration Center, Tutum Cave is one of the largest and most beautiful on Mount Elgon. You can visit this cave on a long Kapkwai day hike, or as part of the multi-day Sipi Trail leading to Mount Elgon’s peaks. It’s a true hidden gem, surrounded by lush nature and spectacular views.
Our operations manager Eliza in Tutum cave as part of her Kapkwai nature walk in June 2023
7. Sangura cave (Bukwo Town, Bukwo District)
This cave once sheltered over 2,000 cows during the last Pokot cattle raids in the 1990s. The walk to Sangura Cave is a scenic journey through remote villages, offering stunning views of Bukwo’s landscapes. It’s a peaceful retreat today, but it holds a powerful history.
Team Home of Friends discovering Sangura cave in April 2023
Did any of these caves make you curious? Whether you’re interested in ancient history, a nature lover, or simply seeking adventure, there’s something about Mount Elgon’s caves that will captivate you.
Let us know which one you’d like to explore 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.
