Situated in Sipi Village Kapchorwa Mbale district, North East of Mbale and Sironko. Sipi falls is a lesser-known gem worth visiting. Sipi falls is a series of three separate falls formed at different altitudes. 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. . With a cooler climate than most of the country Sipi Falls is a nice place to unwind, relax and literally chill out away from the hustle and bustle of the towns and cities.
Hiking
Hike to the three Sipi Falls, since all the waterfalls are located in different areas of Mt. Elgon, it is impossible to see them at the same time but they can be seen in one day. The paths to these falls are approximately 7km to 8km as you walk and it takes around 3 hours to visit all the falls, but it is dependent on individual fitness and pace. As you hike you will need walking sticks to give you support since you go through some steep spots and in case it rains the paths get slippery and muddy.
There are different starting points for the hike depending on which waterfall to visit first. Though if you have lesser time you are advised to start with the main waterfall and continue with others later. But in cases where you have enough time it’s better to first hike to the first and second water fall, take a break may be have lunch or relax as you continue to the last water fall.
The Sipi Falls is perfect for day adventures in Uganda. Between the Sipi falls area local communities and Arabica coffee plantations. Arabica coffee is the main cash crop grown in this area.
Abseiling & Rock climbing
Are you looking for a place to abseiling in Uganda; Sipi is the place to go. This activity is done at the main water fall and is most enjoyed by adventurous travelers. Equipments also known as rappels to be used are availed and also there are skilled guides to guide you through this exciting adventure.
Coffee plantation visit
Arabica coffee is grown in Sipi. It is the world’s finest coffee. The coffee plantations are on the lower slopes of Mt. Elgon; while at Sipi add on your experience by visiting these plantations. The coffee is majorly Arabica coffee and grows within altitudes 1600m and 1900m, it is the cash crop to the Bagishu and Sabiny in this area, during this visit You will talk to the farmers, participate in picking the coffee beans if it is harvest time, roast them, pound them using local mortars and finally make yourself a cup of coffee. All proceeds from this tour go to the local communities, you will also be able to see how people live in these communities.
Cultural encounters
Being in Kapchorwa there is a lot to see like the Sabiny who basically stay around sipi. There way of life, dress code, traditional dances that can be organized by the community. Also this place is known for female and male circumcision, though that of females has reduced over the years since it was found to be unhealthy and risky to women, but that of men is an amazing activity to witness especially if you visit this area during the time circumcisions are done.
Climbing Mount Elgon
Sipi Falls is one of the main starting points for those interested on climbing mountain Elgon. Mount Elgon is an extinct volcano with the fourth highest peak (Wagagai) in Africa. It is the second largest volcanic mountain in the world with the largest surface area (caldera). The mountain is shared by Uganda and Kenya although the largest part is in Uganda. The factors mentioned above make hiking the mountain a great accomplishment for hikers around the world. Climbing Mount Elgon takes between 4 – 5 days depending on the overall fitness and experience of a hiker.
Bird watching
Uganda is one the best birding destinations in the world. Birding tours can be arranged within the Sipi area or as a starting point for a more complete birding experience in the Mount Elgon National Park. Are you are a birder?, You can’t miss out on visiting Sipi while on a safari in Uganda, in fact mountain Elgon national park has around 274 bird species so you will see most of them while in this area, you can also see some birds while seated in the gardens of Sipi River lodge if that is the accommodation you have opted for.
Mountain Biking
You can opt to travel with your bike if you are to take part in this activity; it is so adventurous and thrilling to ride your bike on the Rocky Mountains, something to remember always.
Visit the Sipi River
Apart from visiting the 3 waterfalls you could also take a time and visit the Sipi River, it has nice vegetation including the ‘sep plant’ which is where the name Sipi was derived. This plant is said to be a medicine to measles and fevers. Enjoy a walk along this river with its beautiful scenery.
Please contact us on info@lakatosafaris.com for your next adventurous trip to Sippi falls in Eastern Uganada