Mount Elgon National Park

Background Information - History and location
Mt. Elgon is a huge dormant volcano on the Kenya-Uganda border. Its highest peak in Kenya is Koitoboss
at 4,155 m. Elgon is a Maasai word, "ol doinyo ilgoon" for "mountain shaped like human breast."

Many rivers, such as the Nzoia, Suam and Turkwell feeding Lake Victoria and Lake Turkana originate
from the park

The park's history is embedded in the lifestyles and culture of the native community. The vast unique caves
have been venues for traditional ceremonies and cattle salt lick areas for the local Sabot community. The
mountain peak has been used as a sacred worship place and considered a home for gods (who are still
consulted by members of the native community entering the park).

 

ACCESS

• Roads: Mt. Elgon is located 420 kms from Nairobi. Access is via tarmac road to Kitale, branch to murram road then to the Chorlim Gate
• Airstrips: There is one airstrip in the park

PARK GATES

• Chorlim (main gate)
• Kassawai
• Kiptogot
• Kimothon

SIZE / LOCATION

• 196 km2
• On the western border of Kenya with Uganda, in Trans-nzoia District of Rift Valley Province

CLIMATE

• The climate is moist to moderate dry. Annual rainfall is over 1,270mm

SAFARI CARD REQUIRED?

• At present the park does not operate the Safari Card system. Entry is by cash only.

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

• Caves
• Salt Mining Elephants of Kitum Cave
• Spectacular Waterfall
• Game Viewing around the Mountain
• Birdwatching
• Viewing the mountain
   

WILDLIFE

• Elephant, leopard, giant forest hog, bushbuck, buffalo, duiker, black and white colobus, blue monkeys and golden cat, among others.
• More than 240 bird species in the area, including the African crowned eagle, Ross’ turaco, and red-fronted  parrot.

BIRDS

•   340 bird species have been recorded, of which 230 are forest dependant, while 110 are forest specialist.

WHERE TO STAY

• In the park: No lodges or tented campsites in the park at the moment
• KWS Self – Catering Accommodation:
  • Koitoboss Guesthouse. Sleeps 6 pax
  • Kapkuro Bandas. 4 units each sleeps 3 pax
• Camping Facilities:
  • Public Campsites: There are three public campsites namely Nyati, Chorlim and Rongai Campsites
  • Special Campsites: Saltlick Special Campsite

ACTIVITY OPTIONS

• Mountain Climbing
• Horse Riding
• Picnicking
• Camping
• Birdwatching
  

WHAT TO TAKE WITH YOU

• Drinking water, picnic items and camping equipment if you intend to stay overnight, walking boots, warm clothing, training shoes, socks, sandals and gaiters. Also useful are: binoculars, camera, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and guidebooks.
  

 

To Book or Enquire

Please call us now on +254 (0)202444914.

Alternatively, you can make an enquiry by clicking the button below.