Sipi Falls Uganda Tour
SIPI FALLS
The Sipi falls are a
phenomenon to many visitors, both local and foreign, yearly. Regarded as one of
the most romantic places in Uganda,the falls are a series of three prominent
waterfalls, with the longest drops as high 100m. The second waterfall drops 75m
below and has upper cascades before the plunge. The third water fall measures
85m and is tall and columnar. It has a vigorous flow with mist and even creates
mini rainbows when the sun hits it! However, there are countless other less
prominent falls nearby. They can be a wonderful place to bring a loved one to
spend some quality time together. The falls pick their water as it flows from
the slopes of Mountain Elgon.Located in Eastern Uganda in Kapchorwa District,
North East of Mbale and Sironko, coordinates: 1.20’16’N 34.22’46’E, the falls are situated at the edge of Mount Elgon
National Park near the Kenyan
border 55km north of Mbale District. Sipi falls is also usually the starting point for
many hikers looking to scale Mountain Elgon. The falls are also popular for the
cool weather, the ice cold water which some describe as healing when dove into
and the Bugisu Arabica coffee plantations nearby. Arabica coffee is known to
grow at altitudes of about 1600m. The breathtaking waterfalls derive
their name from the Sipi River which in turn was named after the local plant
growing along the river banks called the “sep”. This plant resembles a type of
wild banana with translucent green fronds with a bolt of crimson red used for
medicinal purposes like treating measles and fever. Local folklore has it that
British sightseers once found a lady picking wild plants in a nearby plantation
and asked her the name of the falls. She thought they were asking the name of
the plant so she replied, “Sep.”
When to go to Sipi Falls
Sipi falls is a nice
place to visit all year round. Uganda has tropical climate and this means that
it is warm all year and has no drastic changes. Sipi falls itself is always cool, in fact
cooler than all the areas around and is a wonderful place to visit to escape
the hustle and bustle of city life. As mentioned before a swim in the Sipi
waters can be next to heavenly and the environment is good for meditation. The
scenery will have you thanking God for his creation.
Where to lodge when in Sipi Falls
Sipi falls has many
safari lodges around the area that you can stay at to enjoy the cool
environment in the area and relax and wind down. In case you are backpacking,
the Crow’s Nest is a good place to stay. Cows Nest is situated 2000m on the
slopes of mountain Elgon. It offers a stunning view of the Sipi falls and the
slopes of the mountain. It is made up of a number of dome tents and provides
very little luxuries and is thus perfect if on a small budget.
And if you have a
little more money to spend, the resorts and hotels can be a good place to lay
your head. These include Sipi Falls Resort which is located within the Mount Elgon National
Park. The resort is made up of self-contained grass thatched huts which will
heighten your enjoyment by sleeping the way the indigenous people of the
country used to. The resort also has a view of the falls and the fantastic
Karimajong plains. You could also stay at the Sipi River Lodge which is made up
of luxurious cottages with very tasteful décor and is perfect if you prefer a
quality night in. other resorts include Mbale resort hotel, Lacam lodge, Mount
Elgon hotel and Noah’s ark hotel among others.
Activities to do at Sipi falls
Hiking is a
very good option for tourists who go to Sipi falls. You can pick from numerous
popular waterfall walks. These can be as short and simple as 15 minutes or as
strenuous as hikes all day. However the cool breeze of the Sipi falls will offer
a lot of comfort.
Sipi Arabica Coffee. The Arabica coffee plantations are also a marvel for many
tourists who come to Sipi falls. The plantations are set mainly around mountain
elgon which has volcanic soils which are perfect for this type of coffee
coupled with the cool weather to ensure healthy coffee plants. The plantations
are found in the Bugisu region and you will have fun hanging out and meeting
all the people in the coffee production chain like the farmers, processors,
exporters and roasters among others. You can even partake in the roasting and
sorting yourself as you prepare your own cup of coffee straight from the
source. The coffee is some of the best coffees on earth and is daily winning
respect world over. You will appreciate the process and every cup will be more
enjoyable. Visit a local coffee farmer to learn about his work and the life
cycle of the crop.
Mount Elgon expeditions. Mt Elgon is one of highest mountain continental and the
second largest volcanic in the world measuring about 3000m above sea level and
is imperious to the landscape. Hiking on this majestic giant can be a thrill to
you as a thrill seeker.
Abseiling. Abseiling
is the art of descending rock and slopes using a friction device attached to
your harness. At Sipi falls abseiling descents can be organized at the Chebonet
Falls and are made up of 15 sport climbing routes ranging from 10m – 35m. You
can enjoy the descents and also have fun climbing all the way up. Make sure you
have a climbing helmet and other gear before partaking.
The runner’s
experience. At Sipi you can visit the home of the national running legends and
trek or run the routes that they run and while there, you might as well take
part and enjoy some of the Sebei culture like circumcision.
Bird watching. The world renowned activity can be enjoyed at the Sipi.
Get immersed in the beauty of the Ugandan wildlife and challenge yourself to
spot as many species as you can. It will be both soothing and fun.
Fly Fishing. On
a remote section of the Sipi River above the waterfall, you can learn and take
part in the art of fly fishing which requires different techniques from other
types of fishing, for example luring the fish with a “fly”.
Pian-Upe Wildlife Reserve. Take a look at the wild life at the Pian Upe and enjoy the
diversity in the country. The reserve has some intriguing animals including the
ostrich.
Mountain biking. For
the thrill chasers, mountain biking can be a great way to get the Sipi wind
rushing through your hair. Enjoy the scenery as you whish past with speed and
enjoy the time of your life.
Nyero Rock Paintings. The Nyero rock paintings in Kumi, two hours from Sipi
falls are some of the most historical rock art in the nation. They are revered
as a sacred place for the Gods and now hold a lot of Uganda’s and even the
heritage of mankind. Immerse yourself in history and tour how the ancient
people used to live through their art. Marvel at their advanced and artistic
way of interpreting life.
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