Kalongo Hills: A Hiker's Paradise in Uganda

Getting There

• Private Car

  If you are driving from Moroto, take the Moroto-Kotido road (approximately 75 km). Follow the road to Kotido until you reach the junction near the Kotido market. From there, take the road towards Kalongo. Stay on this road for roughly 50 km, passing through several small villages. Look for road signs pointing towards Kalongo Hills. As you approach Kalongo, you will see the hills rising in the distance. Make sure to have a GPS or map app handy, as turning off can lead to detours.

• Public Taxi (Matatu)

  To reach Kalongo Hills from Moroto, take a public taxi (matatu) from the Moroto taxi park heading to Kotido. The fare is around UGX 5,000 (about $1.50). Once you reach Kotido, you may need to change taxis to a local taxi heading to Kalongo. The fare for this leg is typically UGX 3,000 (around $0.80). The matatus to Kalongo may not run frequently, so it’s advisable to confirm the schedule with locals or taxi drivers.

• Bicycle Hire

  For the more adventurous traveler, consider hiring a bicycle in Moroto. The journey to Kalongo Hills can be an exhilarating ride of approximately 125 km. You would first cycle to Kotido, then continue on to Kalongo. Be prepared for varying road conditions and ensure you have plenty of water and snacks. Bicycle rentals can cost around UGX 10,000 (about $2.50) per day.

• Walking

  If you are already in Kalongo or nearby, walking is a viable option to reach the hills. From the center of Kalongo town, head northwest and follow the local paths that lead up to the Kalongo Hills. This trek can take around 1-1.5 hours depending on your pace. Be sure to wear good walking shoes and carry a map or ask locals for directions to avoid getting lost.