Eastern Uganda, on the foothills of Mount Elgon, near the town of Kapchorwa.
Sipi Water Falls
Camp
Sipi Falls is not a single cascade, but a trio of breathtaking waterfalls, each plunging from a different height along the Sipi River as it flows down the western side of Mount Elgon. Located on the mountain’s edge, the area boasts spectacular views over the vast Karamoja plains and is a central hub for adventure and cultural tourism in Eastern Uganda. The name “Sipi” is derived from the local word ‘sep,’ an indigenous, wild banana-like plant found along the riverbanks, used by the local community for medicinal purposes (treating fever and measles).
Eastern Uganda, on the foothills of Mount Elgon, near the town of Kapchorwa.
Yes, a Uganda Tourist Visa is required for most international travelers.
English, Swahili, and local languages
The primary hiking trail covering all three falls is 7 to 8 km long.
The Three Falls:
- The Main Fall (Sipi): The largest and most famous, dropping approximately 100 meters (328 ft). This is the one most commonly photographed and where abseiling is done.
- Simba Falls: The middle fall, which plunges about 85 meters (279 ft).
- Ngasire Falls: The upper fall, with a drop of roughly 65 meters (213 ft).
Top Activities & Experiences
- Sipi Falls Hike: The signature activity is a guided hike that connects all three waterfalls. The full circuit takes about 3 hours, weaving through local farmlands and villages.
- Abseiling/Rappelling: For the adrenaline junkie, you can descend the sheer rock face of the main 100-meter waterfall, an unforgettable experience.
- Coffee Tour (The “Farm to Cup” Experience): The Sipi area is famous for its high-quality, organic Bugisu Arabica coffee. Visitors can take a hands-on tour with a local Sabiny farmer, learning the process from bean planting to harvesting, grinding, and finally, savoring a freshly brewed cup.
- Cultural Encounters: Interact with the local Sabiny and Bagisu people, learning about their traditions, including the unique cultural aspects of the Sebei runners.
- Mount Elgon Climbing: Sipi is the main trailhead for multi-day hikes to the summit of Mount Elgon, an extinct shield volcano with the world’s largest volcanic base.
The Local Story
A popular local story attributes the name “Sipi” to a British traveler. The traveler asked a local woman the name of the waterfalls, but she misunderstood, thinking he was asking the name of the medicinal plant she was harvesting. Her reply, “Sep,” became the enduring name of the river and the falls.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (Dec–Feb & Jun–Aug): This is generally the best time for hiking. The trails are drier and less slippery, making the trek to all three falls more comfortable.
- Wet Season (Mar–May & Sep–Nov): Though the trails are muddier, the waterfalls are at their most powerful and magnificent, fed by the mountain rain.
Travel Tips
- Guides are Mandatory: Always hire a local guide (easily arranged through your lodge or the community center) for the waterfall hike to ensure safety and to support the local community.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, as the trails can be slippery and muddy, especially near the falls and during the wet season.
- Altitude: Sipi is at an altitude of about 1,775 meters (5,823 ft), so the weather is significantly cooler than the rest of the country. Pack layers!
Sipi Falls is a true gem of Eastern Uganda, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, high-octane adventure, and rich cultural immersion. It’s a destination where you can trade the wildlife safari vehicle for a hiking stick and a sense of wonder.
We recognize Sipi Falls as a premier destination for hiking and adventure sports in Uganda. Our recommendations are based on verified local operator insights, emphasizing sustainable tourism and authentic cultural exchanges with the Sabiny coffee farmers.
