How to make the most of your Elgon trip

Due to the construction of new roads, the presence of running champions and the renowned Sipi waterfalls, Mount Elgon is claiming its spot on the international (tourism) map. In this blog seven tips to get the most out of your Elgon trip.

1.Move beyond Sipi

Without denying the beauty of the Sipi waterfalls, the place can have a pretty touristy and awkward feel to it. You easily get bothered by youth begging for money for example. What to do? Move a little higher up the mountain, to Kapchorwa Town and Kween. And explore the equally beautiful but more relaxed villages, rich in indigenous culture. Additional benefit: This is the cradle of Uganda’s Land of Running Champions with an abundance of attractive trails for hikers, bikers and runners.

Altogether, a perfect destination for both ‘slow travelers’ and ‘fast outdoor lovers’, as you will learn in the remainder of this blog.

*Running along the edge of Mount Elgon National Park, at only 2,5 kilometers outside Kapchorwa Town*

2. Be moderately fit

Mount Elgon is not the steepest mountain, though occasionally the climbs can get a little challenging. Therefore, it helps to be moderately fit:) In this way, you can move a little further off-the-beaten track where the more exciting natural and cultural wonders can be found.

3. Bring warm clothes

For most part of the year, Kapchorwa evenings are chilly. Make sure you bring enough warm clothes. Although the sun is frequently seen on this mountain, especially during morning hours, it is no unnecessary luxury to carry rain gear with you.

NB: At Home of Friends we provide extra blankets + a daily campfire to conquer the (relative) coldness:)

*Our campfire storytelling brings even more energy and warmth*

4. Take enough time to explore

Though we know how tight itineraries of tour operators tend to be, spending only one or two nights on Mount Elgon is a shame given all the highlights to discover. Because of its space, beauty and interesting cultures, Mount Elgon is a perfect slow travel destination. Make sure you book enough time to fully experience the area.

5. Be inspired by the running champions

Jacob Kiplimo. Peruth Chemutai. Joshua Cheptegei. Victor Kiplangat. Stella Chesang. Stephen Kiprotich. Is there any other place in the world with such a high number of champions on the square meter? We doubt! Make sure you pick some inspiration from these champions, either by visiting one of their villages, learning how to cook their food or by running / hiking on the same trails as they do!

*Cousins Jacob and Joshua during a training at Sebei College back in 2017*

6. Learn a few words in the local language

Kupsapiiny is quite a complex language and very different from the other (Bantu) languages in Uganda. The people in Kapchorwa appreciate it a lot when you speak some of their words. Tip: start with the variety of greetings.

A modest introduction:

General greeting: Mwénéé (hello, how are you?) Response: Amitéé (I am fine)

Greeting for women: Takwenjo (hello, how are you?) Response: Yeko (I am fine)

Greeting only for elder men: Subai? (hello, how are you sir?) Response: Abo (I am fine)

7. Explore Kween District to the fullest

In another recent blog we listed the top-10 things to do in Kween District. This area, especially the higher belts, is of an indescribable beauty. You need to experience it, and again, take your time to fully indulge yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of this hidden gem:)

I hope you enjoyed reading this blog. Please let me know what you think by leaving a comment 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.