Sipi Falls Uganda

sipi falls Uganda

SIPI FALLS UGANDA

Sipi falls is located in the Eastern part of Uganda. It sits in Kapchorwa district on the slopes of Mountain Elgon. Also found at the edges of Mount Elgon National park near the Kenyan boarder, it is divided into three waterfalls with the first one being 100 meters high. This is also usually the starting point for those hiking to Mountain Elgon. The second waterfall plunges up to an altitude of 75 meters high with upper cascades before the plunge while the third waterfall plunges to an altitude of 85 meters with a vigorous flow and creates mini rainbows when the sun hits. The Sipi falls give a marvelous view of sights like Lake Kyoga, Karamoja lowlands, coffee plantations and other surroundings. One can hike to the falls using either the Sasa trail which is the main trail or the Sipi trail.

The name Sipi is derived from the ‘’Sep’’ plant which grows along the river banks. It resembles a type of wild banana and is used for medicinal purposes like treating malaria and measles by the locals.

Climate

The climate of Sipi falls is generally cool due to the hilly nature of Mountain Elgon. This makes it an ideal place to visit all year round.

How to get there

Sipi falls is located in Eastern Uganda approximately 275km from Kampala. One can get here by using either private or public means. It takes approximately 5 hours to get here from Kampala.

When to visit

Sipi falls can be visited all year round since the temperatures here are ever so cool. One however needs to carry heavy clothing because it is very cold here and the rains are unpredictable.

Activities

There are a number of activities one can do whilst at Sipi falls and they include the following

Hiking

Hiking at Sipi falls is a very exciting adventure that takes you to the waterfalls. Sipi falls is believed to be the most romantic place in Uganda as well. The hikes take an average of 2-3 hours depending on the stamina of the hikers. Hiking is done under the supervision of local guides who also give the hikers given walking sticks for support on the rugged hill.

 Abseiling

This is a thrilling experience for those looking to raise their adrenaline. This is done along the main waterfall of 100m (Chebonet falls). One can decide on the height to abseil ranging from 10-35m high. This is done under the supervision of the local guides who ensure your safety.

Abseilling at Sipi falls

Abseilling at Sipi falls

Coffee experience

Sipi falls is famously known for the local Arabica coffee that grows at an altitude of 1600-1900m. Coffee tours are organized by experienced local guides and farmers. The proceeds from the coffee tours usually go towards community projects.

This is a cool experience for those interested in witnessing how fine coffee is made. The local guides will guide you to the local village right from the farm where the coffee is planted to its harvest and how it is brewed. You will even get a chance to be taught how to make the coffee and taste it yourselves!!

Community walk

A guided community walk is organized by the local guides who take you through the tribe of the Sabiny who reside within the Sipi falls area. Here, one can get to see their way of living, witness the famous female gender mutilation though it has faded over the years. You will also witness the famous sunset view which is a marvelous experience.

Bird watching

There are many bird species one can witness from here since it is neighboring Mountain Elgon national park which has over 275 bird species.

Mountain Biking

This is a great activity for bikers who get a chance to ride on the rugged hills of Mountain Elgon. One can choose to travel with their own bike for this activity or hire one.

Mountain climbing

Mountain climbing can be done on Mountain Elgon at Sipi falls to its highest peak, Wagagai at 4,321km following either the Sasa or Sipi trails. Getting to the highest peak takes approximately 5-6 days depending on one’s stamina.

Pian-Upe wildlife reserve

Located between Mountain Elgon and Kidepo valley ark, Pian-Upe is a conservation area. It was once habitat to a great number of wildlife but these have decreased due to poaching. It is part of Mount Elgon Conservation Area (MECA). Efforts are being made to restore it to its former glory. There are a number of wildlife one can view while here like the cheetahs among others.

 Where to stay

There are a number of accommodation facilities one can stay while at Sipi falls. They include the following.

Suam guest house (UWA), forest exploration center Bandas, Sipi valley resort Kapchorwa, campsite in Kapakwi, student hostel, Kapkwata Guest house (along the Pisa trail), Sipi river lodge in the Sipi falls area, Masha hotel in Kapchorwa, Rose’s last chance  which is a community run Camp in Budadiri.

For bookings, one I s advised on making an early communication to know of the availability of the services.

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