Sipi falls is found in Kapchorwa district in the East of Uganda, about 277km making it a 4 hours’ drive from Uganda’s capital, Kampala. The falls are found on the foothills of Mountain Elgon just at the edge of Mount Elgon National park nearing the Kenyan border to Uganda.
Sitting at an elevation of 1,775 metres, Sipi Falls is a strenuous and often muddy hike, but the effort is well worth it.
Looking at the beauty of the three majestic falls, there is this natural feeling that makes visitors on Sipi falls forget their worries and become whole again. The feeling that makes people forget about their aching feet and mud-stained trousers from the lengthy hike.
Sipi Falls is Uganda’s most beautiful waterfall located in Kapchorwa district in the East of Uganda, about 277km making it a 4 hours’ drive from Uganda’s capital, Kampala. The falls are found on the foothills of Mountain Elgon just at the edge of Mount Elgon National park nearing the Kenyan border to Uganda.
Kapchorwa is Home of Uganda’s Olympic gold medalists
Kapchorwa is home of Uganda’s Olympic gold medalists including John Akii-Bua, Peruth Chemutai, Joshua Cheptegei and Stephen Kiprotich among others. This is perhaps what makes visitor to this community wanting to bring out the champion in them.
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!
The best time for hiking and sightseeing in Sipi Falls is during the dry season between June and October when there’s less chance of rainfall and temperatures remain pleasant throughout the day.
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.
With some level of physical fitness, a hike to the top of Sipi falls is the best tourist activity at Sipi. See the green landscape, terraced hillsides and the fresh water falls cascading down the slopes of Mount Elgon.
Abseiling is also available with experienced guides who will teach you how to safely abseil down the walls of one of Sipi’s many waterfalls. These tours offer an exciting challenge as well as breathtaking views that cannot be found anywhere else in Africa.
And 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.
