Explore the amazing Sipi Falls on a Uganda Tour
Sipi Falls is the most stunning waterfall in the pearl of Africa and one of the most visited tourist sites in Uganda. Located in the East of Uganda, 277km from the capital city Kampala, they are located in Kapchorwa close to the Uganda –Kenya border on the foothills of Mount Elgon. The falls are composed of three different falls whose waters originate from the fast-flowing rivers penetrating through the steep slopes to form the thunderous falls.
Sipi is derived from “Sep” which is the name of an indigenous herbal plant known for treating fever and measles growing along the banks of River Sipi. There are other smaller falls on Mount Elgon but they are inaccessible since they are located in very higher altitude areas.
The amazing waterfalls
Each of the three waterfalls flows from a different height, the highest which is also the main one falls from 100 meters high, it is also larger than the other two falls which fall from a height of 75 and 85 meters, however, they all contribute to the stunning nature of these falls hence being dubbed as the most romantic spot in Uganda. The falls can be hiked to and once on each of them, you can have a glimpse of Lake Kyoga, the low-lying areas of Karamoja, Arabica coffee plantations along the slopes, and beautiful sceneries only enjoyed from the top.
The Sipi area is a cool surrounding due to the hilly nature, though the nights are very cold and freezing, there are frequent rains that happen occasionally hence causing some difficulty during the hikes. However, it provides a calm environment away from the noise and crowd of the city.
The nearby communities have hospitable people and majorly the Sabiny and Bagishu live around this area and do farming such as growing Arabica coffee which is the major cash crop in this land, this coffee is grown on altitudes between 1600metres and 1900metres above sea level. While these individuals can engage in visiting these plantations, these visits can be organized by local guides in the area.
The Bagisu and the Sabiny are the two communities surrounding this area, they carry out farming especially the growing of Arabica coffee which is usually done above 1600 meters above sea level. You can visit any of these communities and engage in their different activities such as coffee brewing, and cultural dances.
Tourist Activities done in Sipi Area
Hiking Sipi Falls
Hiking to the top of the falls offers a different feel compared to just viewing it from afar, To take part in the hike you need to be guided by a local tour guide who costs $5. It is important to hire one because they know the routes to falls, unlike the locals who might be confused by the various routes.
The hike is about 7 km long and might take between 3-4 hours according to how fit one is, you are to pass through the plantation farms, and steep slopes before you reach your destination at the top.
Abseiling
Are you looking for a thrilling experience, this might just be what you are looking for. This experience includes climbing down the steep rocks alongside the falls with the regulation of a firm device. Get a better experience from Chebonet Falls.
Fly Fishing
This is a fishing method that involves catching fish by attracting them to a fake and artificial fly. This is done on top of the falls.
Visit Sisiyi falls
You can get enough of the falls, and get an additional feel by visiting the Sisiyi Falls which are located along the way to Kidepo National Park in Bulambuli District which is close to Mbale and Kapchorwa. The falls are nice for picnics and camps.
When to Visit Sipi Falls?
Periods when there is less rainfall are the best since during these times, the trails for hiking are very dry and easy to navigate, unlike the wet season when they get slippery and muddy. These times are between December and March and between July to September since Uganda has two dry seasons.
