Useful Mountain Hiking Tips-Uganda safari news

Mountain hiking or climbing can be for a first timer or an experienced traveler but no matter what you always need to be safe on your amazing hike by knowing these useful mountain hiking tips. Mountain hiking isn’t in most cases a single days’ activity not even for Mount Elgon that is referred to be lower than the adjacent Mountain Rwenzori of Western Uganda and the Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. A mountain hiking safari in Uganda to Mount Elgon National Park can last from 3-5 days depending on your hiking ability.

Mount Elgon is situated in Eastern Uganda bordering Kenya in the west with its highest peak known as Wagagai at 4,321m(14,177ft) above sea level. Mount Elgon is the world’s largest volcanic base 50-80km with the largest intact caldera covering about 40km². When tourists on Uganda tours are planning a trip to the park, the common activity is hiking due to the fact the mountain has a low altitude and can be hiked by all able family members. Hiking isn’t just for a trip but has much more benefits for those who choose to undertake it since the body relaxes and reduces stress. Hiking isn’t an easy safari activity in Mount Elgon National Park and therefore requires planning just like any other trip.

Mountain Hiking Tips for climbers

Mountain climbers or hikers should be reasonably fit and without heart or lung problems. This is because hiking is a rigorous activity and requires use of energy to get to the peak. And also remember the higher you go the cooler it becomes therefore health can be at risk with the temperatures and no good housing since you camp on the mountain during the hike.

At 3,000m above sea level, hikers may not feel hungry but they should always try to eat because you require energy to get to the peak and return.

Carbohydrates and fruits are recommended where as rich or fatty foods are discouraged since they are harder to digest.

Always keep hydrated. Take at least three litters of water daily since dehydration is one of the major reasons for failure to complete the climb. You will definitely lose some water during the hike when you get sweaty.

While starting the hike, you have a lot of strength however, don’t hike for so many meters because you may lose it all. Hike to an advisable height then relax and wait for the next day to continue with the hike.

What to carry for a Mountain Hiking trip

 

Consider water proof hiking Shoes: Your hiking with your legs therefore they should be priority. The nature of shoes also determines the distance that you will comfortably cover and the health of your feet after the hike. Let the only pain that you will experience be the unavoidable muscle pain and not pain caused by inappropriate shoes.

Carry Food Substance: Hiking requires energy but many hikers tend to carry snacks rather than take food. Fortunately, on a hike to Mount Elgon you can go along with porters who can provide food by cooking at the camping points. If you don’t eat well during a hike you may return home to fall sick and regret your choice of safari.

Carry Enough Drinking Water: Water covers a larger percentage in the human body fluids which makes it a substance that cannot be ignored. Lack of water may result in dehydration which is accompanied by side effects such as drying of lips and stomach disorders. Carry enough water to keep you hydrated all through your hiking.

Don't Forget Warm Waterproof Clothing: Some people go hiking for one day while others go for more days. Warm clothing may sound ridiculous for people hiking for the first time. If you ask them, they will tell you; when do we wear warm clothing while we are sweating? This question only makes sense when it is a one-day hike and there is no rain but are you sure about the weather? Those hiking for many days should never question the suggested clothing because something to warm you through the night while you are resting and waterproof in case it rains or the obvious morning dew is necessary. If you want to avoid arthritis, chest problems, common cold and any diseases resulting from exposure to coldness, warm waterproof clothing should never be neglected; just avoid cotton.

There many attractions in Mount Elgon National Park and if you just can’t go far with the hike then you can opt for a hike to Sipi falls for a single day, take a nature walk at kapkwai forest or go for a community tour.