An extinct volcano, Mt Elgon straddles the border of Kenya and Uganda and while it has great potential for hiking, it is not popular because of its position. The mountain’s biggest attraction is the elephants which have a great penchant for the salt found in caves on the mountain slopes.
This is the only place in the world where elephants go underground. There are three caves open to visitors, Kitum, Chepnyali and Mackingeny and you are most likely to see elephants in Kitum. Sadly, the elephants have been hard hit by Ugandan poachers and in past years there have been ongoing battles between park rangers and poachers, as well as ethnic clashes. Hikers might want to check if all is quiet before taking to the hills.
