Kalenjin wilderness hike is found in the ground and wilderness of Kapchorwa along the Sebei land in eastern Uganda. The hike gives you a chance to learn about the Kalenjin culture; from their language to dressing cord and food. The language spoken here is ‘Kupsabiny’.
The Kalenjin wilderness trail is endowed with mesmerizing attractions such as birds, butterflies, and tree species, coffee plantations, and some community members who always warmly welcome guests. This hike continues to give you spectacular views of Sirinda and Cheptoi waterfalls.
The hike has two options for the half day, and full day. The half-day hike is best for the people who have less time or less level of fitness, and it takes about 6 to 7 hours. A full-day hike is known for nature lovers with high level of fitness. It starts early in the morning till late in the evening.
The Sirinda viewpoint is a good place best known for a relaxing and calm environment especially after hurting or walking for a long distance. It was also used by ancestors as a hiding ground from the Karamojong who were used to come and attack them to raid the cows of the Kalenjin people.
Kalenjin People on Kalenjin Wilderness Hike
Kalenjin people are believed to have come from Ethiopian highlands and then moved to Kenya, from where others continued to Uganda in the eastern region. This ethnic group of people are categorized into the Baya and the Sula, and they are well known as the best athletes, which has made the Sebei region a land for champions. Notably, Joshua Cheptegei, Jacob Kiplimo, Peruth Chemutai, and Stephen Kiprotich; they all come from the Sebei region and are pure Kalenjins.
The Kalenjins were great cattle keepers and great cultivators which made them have unstable settlement. As a result, they could keep moving from one place to another looking for green pastures and water for their animals and fertile soils which could support agriculture.
Kalenjin people are mostly found in three districts, that is Kapchorwa, Kween, and Bukwa districts. Before conducting a tour of the Kalenjin wilderness hike you will need a tour guide who understands very well the place including the Kalenjin wilderness hiking trail and Kapchorwa area as well.
Besides Kalenjin people, Uganda is a rich multi-cultural country, so don’t miss out on experiences with the nearby Bamasaba, Sebei people, Iteso People and further northeast, the famous Karamojong group or Ike community. Get mesmerized by the Batwa trail in both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. While in Bwindi, you can also also opt for the breathtaking gorilla trekking experience.