Kapchorwa is the name of both the district and its central town. In local Kupsapiiny language Kapchorwa literally means ‘Home of Friends’. Kapchorwa is the home and training base of running champions like Cheptegei, Chemutai and Kiplimo. What else do you need to know about Kapchorwa? Ten answers to ten frequently asked questions:
1. Where is Kapchorwa located?
Kapchorwa Town is located on the northern slopes of Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda, perched at an altitude of 1.900m. above sea level. Kapchorwa Town has some stunning views over the Karamoja plains and the lakes Bisina and Kyoga.
Kapchorwa Town with the Karamoja plains in the background. Photo taken close to Shauriako viewpoint.
2. How far is Kapchorwa from Kampala?
Sipi Falls is a 6,5 to 7,5 hours drive from Kampala, depending on the traffic jam in Seeta and Mukono. All roads leading to Kapchorwa District have been tarmacked over the past years, so expect a relatively smooth drive. Be prepared though for some steep ascends around Sipi Falls and Kapchorwa Town.
Interested to explore Kapchorwa? Check out our accommodation offer.
3. Who are the people living in Kapchorwa?
The indigenous people of Kapchorwa are the Sabiny, a Southern Nilotic ethnic group, who occupy three districts: Kapchorwa, Kween and Bukwo, an area of 1.730,9 square kilometers. The Sabiny form 90% of the population on Mount Elgon, the Gisu (a Bantu tribe) 10%. The Sebei are with approximately three-hundred thousand in number.
A subtribe of the Sabiny are the Mosopisiek, approximately 15000 in number, and the former inhabitants of what is now Mount Elgon National Park. The Mosopisiek live on the higher slopes of the mountain, mostly in Kween, but also in Kapchorwa and Bukwo District.
The Sebei Cultural Storytellers, a Kapchorwa-based cultural group, April 2021
4. How can I reach Kapchorwa from the Kenyan side?
The highway Kitale – Suam – Kapchorwa is nearing completion. This wide road meanders through the beautifully green slopes of Mount Elgon. From the border in Suam it is a 77 kilometers drive to Kapchorwa Town.
The new Suam - Kapchorwa highway, near Kapkwata forest in Kween District
5. Which running champions hail from Kapchorwa?
Famous running champions who live and train in Kapchorwa are Joshua Cheptegei, Peruth Chemutai, Jacob Kiplimo, Stella Chesang, Victor Kiplangat, Moses Kipsiro and Stephen Kiprotich. Check the Run Kapchorwa website for more information about running in the footsteps of these local heroes.
Running along the edge of Mount Elgon National Park, just 3 kilometers outside Kapchorwa Town
6. WhAT ARE KAPCHORWA’s TOURISTIC HIGHLIGHTS?
Sipi Falls is Kapchorwa District’s best-known tourist attraction. Over the past years more highlights in and around Kapchorwa Town have been discovered by tourists. Download our free and exclusive map to learn more about what to do in the beautiful area around our Kapchorwa Guesthouse and in Kween District.
#beautybeyondsipi #landofchampions #exploreelgon
Easter performance by the Sebei Cultural Storytellers, Home of Friends April 2023
7. Does Kapchorwa have a hospital?
Yes, Kapchorwa has a hospital, though the quality of care is low compared to international standards. A reputable clinic in Kapchorwa Town is Masha. A recommendable hospital in the wider region is IMC in Mbale, at a 1,5 hours drive. For bone fractures, the best place to go is Kumi Orthopaedic Center, at a 2,5 hours drive from Kapchorwa Town.
8. How is the security in Kapchorwa?
Issues of cattle raiding are settled nowadays. Tourists are able to move freely and safely through Kapchorwa region. For more insights watch this interview with Kapchorwa’s RDC (Resident District Commissioner):
9. Does Kapchorwa have a university?
In Kapchorwa, a branch of Uganda Christian University (UCU) is soon opening its doors. There is also an established branch of Makerere University Business School (MUBS).
10. Does Kapchorwa have a good supermarket?
As in many smaller and bigger Ugandan towns, there are several Indian supermarkets. Though the Ugandan-owned supermarket Super Stores has the best choice!
Did this blog help you to learn more about Kapchorwa? Let me know via the comments box 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 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.