I’d always dreamed of visiting Sipi Falls, a series of three waterfalls located in the eastern Ugandan district of Kapchorwa. The falls are known for their stunning beauty and the variety of activities available to visitors, including hiking, swimming, and abseiling.
Finally, my dream came true. I packed my bags and set off on my journey to Sipi Falls. I went on a trip planned by L’okawa Tours and Travel https://lokawatours.com/ from Kampala. The drive from Jinja was long, but the scenery was breathtaking. As we approached the falls, I could see the mist rising in the air and hear the roar of the water.
I checked into Moses camp site and then headed straight to the falls. The first waterfall, Sipi Falls Main, is the tallest and most impressive. I stood at the edge of the cliff and watched as the water cascaded down, creating a rainbow in the mist.
At Moses Camping site I experienced sleeping in a tent, we were many people on the trip and each one of us had a tent all in one place, the kind of security you get knowing you are surrounded by a crowd of other travelers. The morning came early as we had slept late, sweet sounds of birds in the trees above the tents and gentle noise by monkeys in the nearby trees were inspiring us to get out of the tent to see the surrounding.
The morning sunrise at Moses Camp site was amazing; the sun just raising above the cliffs with the view of the waterfalls was very exciting. Overseeing the lower belt of the Karamoja region, a very flat area with scenic aerial views is another food for the eye and mind.
I decided to hike to the top of the falls. The hike was challenging, but the views were worth it. At the top, I had a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
After my hike, I cooled off with others in a swim in one of the pools at the bottom of the falls. The water was cold and refreshing.
My trip to Sipi Falls was an unforgettable experience. I was awestruck by the beauty of the falls and the variety of activities available to visitors. I highly recommend a trip to Sipi Falls to anyone looking for an adventurous and scenic vacation. I left Sipi Falls with a heart full of memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of Uganda.
About Sipi Falls
Sipi falls is located in the East of Uganda approximately 277km from Kampala Uganda’s capital in Kapchorwa district. These falls are found on the foothills of Mountain Elgon just at the edge of Mount Elgon National park nearing the Kenyan border to Uganda. The name sipi was derived from the word ‘sep’ which is a name of a wild banana-like indigenous plant that grows along the banks of the Sipi River, this plant can be used as medicine for treating fevers and measles by local people in that area.
The sipi falls is comprised of 3 waterfalls each flowing from a different altitude. The highest fall drops from an altitude of 100m referred to as the main fall since it is the last fall in the series, this fall is a little bigger than the other two falls, but all give Uganda a beautiful scenery. In fact most people say that sipi falls are the ‘most romantic falls’ in Uganda which is evidenced by the wonderful falls. This area is majorly where most hikes to Mt. Elgon are started from. Hiking up to these falls gives a beautiful scenic view, like Lake Kyoga, the karamoja low lands, coffee plantations and other surrounding areas.
The climate in this area is cool since it’s a hilly area and sometimes as individuals are hiking there are rains, which makes hiking a bit hard but it is also an experience of its own, generally it is a place available for chilling, loosening up and relaxing from the congestion around cities.
The nearby communities have hospitable people and majorly the Sabiny and Bagishu live around this area and do farming such as growing of 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 there individuals can engage in visiting these plantations, these visits can be organized by local guides in the area.
There are no worries of where to stay or how much to pay and all other things because all types of accommodation are available for you while in Sipi such as the luxurious lodges, mid-range hotels and budget hotels and also campsites are available for those interested in camping.
Hiking at Sipi Falls
Sitting at an elevation of 1,775 metres, Sipi Falls is a strenuous and often muddy hike, but the effort is well worth it.
When you stop to look at the beauty of the three majestic falls, you’ll feel your worries and woes fade away. All of a sudden, you’ll forget about your aching feet and mud-stained trousers from your lengthy hike. To reach all three falls, it takes on average around three hours of walking through semi-rugged terrain. The view is worth it though; the sky reflecting off the cascading water like glass creates a breathtaking landscape. The smell that fills your senses allows you to truly appreciate nature with every breath taken in. The satisfaction and joy of knowing that you have seen something so beautiful with your own two eyes will bring tears to many lucky hikers who get to experience this adventure firsthand – be sure to bring your camera!
What to Expect on a Sipi Falls Hike
The majority of this hike follows a river, making it very easy to keep on the right track. You will pass through different farmlands while also getting to explore some local communities. By doing this, you can take in all sorts of different sights and sounds, such as the peaceful sounds of the flowing water in the river or the birds chirping happily. This can be quite therapeutic, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy your surroundings. As a bonus, you could even spot some wildlife along your way – you never know what you’re going to find! Furthermore, by sticking close to the river you can be sure that finding your way back won’t be an issue whatsoever; as long as you follow the river downstream, eventually you’ll end up
About The 3 Sipi Falls
The second-highest of the Sipi Falls comes first. It plunges 85 metres before concluding in a spectacular splash. The next fall is the smallest, at 65 metres. The last fall is the tallest at 100 metres. The second of the Sipi Falls is the highest, with a magnificent drop of 85 metres. Following this is the smallest fall, dropping 65 metres. Finally, the grandest and tallest plunge is the last at a lofty 100 metres.
When Is The Best Time To Hike Sipi Falls?
Locally in Sipi, our partner Sipi Falls Explorers http://www.sipifallsexplorers.com has an incredible team that will give you the best experience of your adventure. You can also join the local team of Trekkers the Sipi Falls Trekkers and have a group experience of culture and geographical exploration.
All in all, visiting Sipi Falls is an unforgettable experience. We organize trips to Sipi Falls throughout the year. Our trip takes us from Kampala through Jinja to Kapchorwa where you reach the base of the Sipi falls, and hike with knowledgeable guides as you explore the three falls. You’ll have incredible views of three majestic waterfalls cascading down steep cliffs as you make your way up the mountain. When you reach the top, take some time to explore and marvel at the beauty of Sipi Falls. You can also go whitewater rafting or take a guided bird-watching tour if you have extra time.
Kitara Foundation for Regional Tourism 