Discover the Serenity of Mount Elgon Central Forest Reserve
Experience the magic of Mount Elgon Central Forest Reserve, Uganda's hidden gem with breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and serene hiking trails.
Nestled in Uganda, the Mount Elgon Central Forest Reserve is a breathtaking natural paradise that offers tourists an immersive experience in lush woodlands, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and nature photography, this reserve is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with nature.
A brief summary to Mount Elgon Central Forest Reserve
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best chance to see wildlife and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the reserve is home to many unique species.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the trails comfortably and safely.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the ecosystem and local culture.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities within the reserve are limited.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Mbale, take the Mbale-Bukwa road. After approximately 30 kilometers, you will reach the town of Budadiri. From Budadiri, continue on the same road for about 10 kilometers until you see signs for the Mount Elgon Central Forest Reserve. Turn onto the road leading into the reserve, which is well marked. The entrance to the forest reserve is about 5 kilometers down this road. Please note that parking fees may apply at the entrance, so have some Ugandan Shillings ready.
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Public Transportation
To reach Mount Elgon Central Forest Reserve using public transportation, start by taking a taxi or matatu from Mbale to Budadiri. Taxis frequently depart from the Mbale taxi park. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Once you reach Budadiri, you can hire a boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) to take you to the entrance of the Mount Elgon Central Forest Reserve. This ride will take around 15 minutes and can cost about 10,000 to 15,000 UGX. Ensure to negotiate the fare beforehand. At the reserve entrance, be prepared to pay any applicable entrance fees.
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Boda-boda (Motorcycle Taxi)
If you're already in Budadiri, you can easily hire a boda-boda to take you directly to Mount Elgon Central Forest Reserve. Boda-bodas are readily available in Budadiri; just look for a designated boda-boda stage or ask locals. The ride will take about 15 minutes, and the fare should be between 10,000 to 15,000 UGX. Ensure that the driver knows the exact location of the reserve entrance.
Discover more about Mount Elgon Central Forest Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mountain Elgon
19.6 km
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Cwmbale Eco-Tourist Lodge
29.9 km
Discover tranquility and eco-friendly luxury at Cwmbale Eco-Tourist Lodge, your base for adventures in the heart of Uganda's stunning landscapes.
Kayegi Hotel
32.3 km
Discover comfort and tranquility at Kayegi Hotel in Mbale, your perfect base for exploring Uganda's natural beauty and vibrant culture.
Rocy Hotel
32.3 km
Experience comfort and modern amenities at Rocy Hotel in Mbale, Uganda, your perfect base for exploring the region's natural beauty and cultural richness.
Sunrise
32.4 km
Experience the heart of Mbale at Sunrise, your comfortable serviced apartment for relaxation, events, and local exploration in Uganda.
Elgon Palace hotel, mbale
32.9 km
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Mt Elgon Hotel
32.9 km
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Hummingbird Inn
32.9 km
Experience the charm of Hummingbird Inn in Mbale, Uganda - a perfect blend of comfort and local culture for unforgettable adventures.
Mbale Resort Hotel
33.2 km
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Le cottage mbale
33.3 km
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Dream Palace Hotel- Senior Qtrs, Mbale Uganda
33.5 km
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Thatch Lounge
33.6 km
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Starlight Hotel
33.6 km
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R & R Gardens Hotel
33.7 km
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Hotel Restville
33.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Chesokwo Hills, Caves and Escapement
12.1 km
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Nabusakala Hill top
12.3 km
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KITSAWA HILLTOP
13.6 km
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Bushiyi Trail Mt Elgon National Park Uganda
18.0 km
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Chesing'or
20.1 km
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Mount Elgon National Park
22.0 km
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Wagagai summit
24.0 km
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Sudek
24.5 km
Explore Sudek's breathtaking hiking trails in Wariva, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife create an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Wanale
25.7 km
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Mt. Elgon Forest Reserve
25.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Mt. Elgon Forest Reserve, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Kenya.
Ugandan Wildlife Service Station
26.1 km
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Mt Elgon - Kaberwa Forest
27.4 km
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Mount Elgon
27.8 km
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Mudde cave camp
28.2 km
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Mbale Overlook
28.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Mount Elgon Forest
19.3 km
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Sasa patrol hut
29.2 km
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Mt.Elgon Backpackers
32.2 km
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Sparrows Bar and Restaurant
33.2 km
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Pigeons and Doves
33.2 km
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Starlings Restaurant
33.2 km
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D'MUGIZ Restaurant & Bar
33.4 km
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Moodimoon restaurants
33.9 km
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East African Pork Jont
34.0 km
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Horizontal Gardens Mbale
34.2 km
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Fish Café and Lounge
34.4 km
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LE-STAR RESTAURANT AND BAR
34.5 km
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Endiro Coffee
34.6 km
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Eco Shamba Café
34.6 km
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Rotea Restaurant
34.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
MILLENIUM Mattress store
9.8 km
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Katale
10.1 km
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BULOBA TRADING CENTER
13.3 km
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Mwalimu's Shop
14.7 km
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BUNGOMA/KIMILILI BOTTLERS & AGENCIES LTD
16.0 km
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Nashon Boutique
16.2 km
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Justin Shop
16.2 km
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Alex stores
16.3 km
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CHEMWAY
18.9 km
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Randa Trading Center
19.5 km
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Bungoma chemist
21.8 km
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Mwenye haki garments
24.7 km
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MAGUNGU TRADING CENTRE
26.5 km
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Grain Industries Limited
27.8 km
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Abarrotes Paola
27.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
LONDON Pub & ACCOMMODATION
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The Palace Bar & Restaurant
24.7 km
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Olive Bar
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Two Sisters Pub -Buweri
31.7 km
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Cocktail Guest Lodge
32.8 km
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Dreamz pub
33.1 km
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Highway Bar
33.6 km
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Hi5 Bar And Louge (Former Thatch)
33.6 km
Discover the essence of Kampala nightlife at Hi5 Bar And Lounge, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere await.
Eden bistro kimilili
33.6 km
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Pavement Pub
34.6 km
Discover the lively ambiance and local flavors at Pavement Pub, a popular spot in Mbale for drinks and entertainment.
Arizona Pub
34.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Arizona Pub in Mbale, Uganda, where refreshing drinks meet local culture and vibrant nightlife.
Meco's Highway Bar And Lodge
34.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Meco's Highway Bar And Lodge, where locals and travelers come together to enjoy drinks and authentic Ugandan cuisine.
Lux Bar Mbale
34.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Lux Bar Mbale, where refreshing drinks and local culture come together for an unforgettable experience.
Casablanca Pub
34.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and local culture at Casablanca Pub in Mbale, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
Forester
34.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at Forester in Mbale, a local bar offering refreshing drinks and a taste of Ugandan nightlife.
