Elgon

Elgon, often referred to as Mount Elgon, is a large volcanic mountain that straddles the border between Uganda and Kenya in East Africa. Its highest summit, Wagagai Peak, rises to about 4,321 meters (14,177 feet) above sea level. Elgon is part of the East African Rift system and constitutes a broad volcanic massif with a large caldera formed by ancient eruptions and subsequent collapse.

Geography and geology

The mountain consists of layered volcanic rocks and features a substantial caldera landscape. The faulted, uplifted massifs give rise to a variety of relief, including steep slopes, high ridges, and extensive highland scenery. The region experiences a climate ranging from warm, humid lowlands to cool, moist conditions near the summit, creating a mosaic of habitats.

Ecology and conservation

Elgon’s slopes support diverse ecosystems, including montane forests, bamboo zones, and alpine moorlands near the summit. These habitats harbor a range of flora and fauna, and the area functions as an important watershed for rivers that feed the Lake Victoria and Nile basins. The mountain and surrounding areas are protected on both sides of the border, with Mount Elgon National Park designated in Uganda and a corresponding protected area in Kenya, aimed at conserving biodiversity and supporting sustainable tourism and local livelihoods.

Human context

The Elgon region is inhabited by various communities in Uganda and Kenya, including groups such as the Bagisu and Sabiny in Uganda. The mountain holds cultural significance for many local people and supports eco-tourism activities, including trekking routes that lead to Wagagai Peak and through the surrounding forests.

Overall, Mount Elgon is recognized for its geological prominence, ecological richness, and role as a cross-border protected landscape in East Africa.