MOUNT ELGON NATURE WALK

Nature walks are a great way to unwind and connect with nature. Join us for a nature walk in Mount Elgon National Park in Kapkwai. The national park is home to Mount Elgon, the mountain with the largest caldera in the world. Mount Elgon was once Africa’s highest mountain (5,895m) but is now the 8th highest (4,321m) because of millennia of erosion.

Explore caves, waterfalls, primates, mixed bamboos among other interesting features during the nature walk. It takes a minimum of 3 days to hike to the highest peak of Mount Elgon Wagagai (4,321m).

This nature walk is perfect for those who want to get a glimpse of the national park without having to spend three or more days in it. Taking the nature walk is also a great way to prepare for Mount Elgon trekking in case that’s on your to-do list.

There are three trails for the circular forest walk. Choose a trail depending on fitness level, features of interest and time.

You can explore different trails

The 3km trail

The shortest trail starts from the exploration centre offices. Almost immediately, you’ll see monkeys jumping over the forest trees. The trail takes on a steep incline as you go towards the ridge view. Discover several plant species as you hike up. The melodious chirping of birds and insects accompanies you as you trek under the dense canopy of leaves. At the ridge viewpoint, observe the vast forest in all its glory.

The 5km trail

The 5km trail starts at the same point as the 3km trail. After the intersection that separates the two trails, embark on a steep upward climb. Our guides will show you several medicinal plants while telling you what they treat. Enjoy the rays of sunlight seeping through the tree-tops as you listen to the songs of birds.

At the top of this trail, you’ll encounter Kapkwai cave. Take a rest in the cave before you continue the walk. Explore the historical cave and listen to our guides who’ll tell you its history and importance to the local people.

The next part of the trail is easier. The forest cover is denser, which makes the atmosphere cooler. It’s also relatively flat and therefore enables you to go faster. At one point, you’ll walk on some cool wooden stairs.

The next viewpoint offers a vast view of the verdant forest cover. The forest stretches on for miles with different tree species, adding to the beauty of the place. It’s a brilliant spot for taking photographs and videos. Rest for a while before continuing.

The next stop is Chebonet falls. This waterfall lies amidst thick tall trees. If you want, you can take a cold shower to refresh you after the long walk. By now, you’d have worked up a sweat. Carry extra clothing if the shower idea interests you. After viewing the waterfall, take a long walk back to the starting point.

The 7km trail

The 7km trail comes with an opportunity to view extra features, one being the mixed bamboo forest. If you take the 7km trail, you’ll also see more plants and animal species. The vegetation is thicker and the view wider. This adds more fun to the hike. During the return hike, you’ll walk through the mixed bamboo forest and admire the beautiful trees. Choose whether to visit Kapkwai Cave or Chebonet Falls as you go back to the starting point.

Is the nature walk safe?

The nature walk in Kapkwai is very safe. The Mount Elgon region is one of the safest parts of Uganda with no active conflict. Besides, the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers provide security for people and animals in the park. You don’t have to worry about anything during the nature walk in Kapkwai.

Why take a nature walk in Mount Elgon National Park?

The Mount Elgon national park boasts of an untouched wilderness, making it a great place to unwind. The lack of crowds in the national park makes it ideal for nature walks. It’s peaceful. Bird and insect noises accompany you as you hike through the forest.

It has interesting features. There are a lot of things to see in the park. There are prominent features like waterfalls and caves, and other less pronounced features. During the 5km walk, you can see the Jackson’s table from a distance.

The nature walk is family friendly and requires no special skills. It can work for both beginners and seasoned hikers. Children above ten years can go for the Kapkwai nature walk.

There’s wildlife in the park. During the nature walk, you may spot blue monkeys and white Columbus. Savannah elephants and other animals are deeper in the park.

Enjoy perfectly fresh air as you walk in the forest. It just gets better the higher and deeper you go into the woods.

What’s the best time to go for the nature walk?

We take nature walks in Mount Elgon national park all year round. However, taking it in the dry season makes for a better experience. The dry months in the Mount Elgon region are June to August and December to March.

Get started

Come for the Nature Walk in Kapkwai Exploration Center with us.