At Home of Friends, our passion lies in offering immersive community tours on the Ugandan side of Mount Elgon. But beyond our immediate surroundings, there are even more fascinating attractions waiting to be explored in the wider Elgon region. From ancient rock paintings to wildlife reserves and majestic caves, here are five of our favorite destinations—all within a 2.5-hour drive from our Guesthouse.
1. Nyero Rock Paintings (near Kumi Town)
Step back in time at the Nyero Rock Paintings, a UNESCO heritage site located just 10 kilometers off the Mbale-Soroti highway in Kumi Town. These ancient rock paintings are a window into Uganda’s past, and since 2021, they’ve been complemented by a special museum that offers even more context to the artwork. In just an hour, a guide will walk you through the six major rock art pieces, explaining their significance and symbolism.
Fun fact: One of the paintings is featured on the one-thousand Uganda Shillings note! This site is a must-visit for history lovers looking to delve into Uganda’s cultural heritage.
One of the six major rock paintings @ Nyero. Photo taken during a visit in October 2021
2. Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve (along the Mbale - Moroto highway)
Rumors are swirling that Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve may soon be upgraded to National Park status, and for good reason. As Uganda’s second-largest protected area, Pian Upe is a vast expanse of savannah with unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. Recently, there have been some exciting developments in this area, including a new airstrip, investments in park management, and increased conservation efforts.
During last years’ team-building visit to Pian Upe, we spotted Jackson’s hartebeests, ostriches, and warthogs, despite the high grasses making wildlife viewing a bit tricky. For the best chance to see wildlife, we recommend visiting between January and March when the grasses are low, offering clear views of creatures like the roan ntelope, greater kudu, and dik-dik. And if you're a bird lover, Pian Upe is nothing short of paradise!
Want to see the wildlife and landscape up close? Check out the following video from the Uganda Wildlife Authority for a stunning preview:
Team Home of Friends during a briefing before our Pian Upe game drive, August 2023
3. Kitum Cave (Mount Elgon, Kenya)
Imagine witnessing elephants venturing deep into a cave—this isn’t a scene from a movie, but a reality at Kitum Cave, located just across the Ugandan-Kenyan border. It’s a two-hour drive from our Guesthouse, and it’s worth every minute. National Geographic even created a documentary about this remarkable place, the only known cave in the world where elephants venture in to mine salt.
The walls of Kitum Cave are rich in salt, attracting not only elephants but also buffalo and hyenas. With their tusks, elephants break off pieces of the cave walls to chew and swallow. Over time, this behavior has expanded the cave itself! It’s an awe-inspiring, once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness nature’s giants in such a unique setting.
Watch elephants in Kitum Cave in this captivating short documentary by Terra Mater:
4. Wanale Falls (Mbale Town)
The towering ridge of Wanale Falls is impossible to miss as you approach Mbale Town. This stunning natural feature offers a steep but rewarding hike, culminating in panoramic views over the Bagisu lowlands. Beyond the spectacular scenery, Wanale is also rich in local culture. During my August 2020 climb, I learned about the traditional practice of painting houses—a ritual passed down through generations.
Whether you're there for the hike or the history, Wanale Falls is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of the Elgon region.
5. Bushiyi Trail (southern side of Mount Elgon)
For those seeking a true off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Bushiyi Trail is calling your name. Recently developed by our local partner, Massif Montane Expedition, in collaboration with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), this trail takes you deep into the wilds of Mount Elgon. Starting from a village in Bududa District, the trail leads all the way to Wagagai Peak, offering trekkers an opportunity to experience the untamed beauty of the southern side of Mount Elgon.
As you hike, you’ll traverse a variety of landscapes—from lush montane forests to wide-open moorlands and rugged rocky slopes. This trail is perfect for adventurous souls seeking an authentic, wild experience in Uganda’s highlands.
For more information on this incredible trail, check out the dedicated page by Massif Montane Expedition.
Views from the Bushiyi Trail. Photo by Juma of Massif Montane Expedition (July 2023)
Ready to explore the wider Mount Elgon region? Whether you're hiking to hidden rock art, spotting wildlife in Pian Upe, or marveling at elephants in Kitum Cave, these nearby attractions offer an array of experiences that will leave you in awe. Pack your curiosity and set off on your next unforgettable adventure!
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 fiancé 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.
