Sipi falls

Sipi falls is perched in the east of Uganda in the northwest of mount Elgon. They are adjacent to mount Elgon National Park in Kapchorwa district. Sipi falls presents the views of the high elevating waterfalls amidst the lush vegetation.

It is comprised of three waterfalls and Sipi is an overall name to refer to them. The largest of the three waterfalls is called Sipi standing at a height of 95 meters above sea level, the middle is Simba falls at 74 metres above sea level and Ngasire falls at 85 meters above sea level. These are compact gems of adventure sharing 25% of the total number of tourists that visit Uganda per annum.

History of Sipi falls.

Their name Sipi originates from the word Sep. It denotes an indigenous plant in the surroundings of the falls that resembles a wild banana. The plant is characterized by green frands and a Crimson fib that gives it the likelihoods of the wild banana.

A legend has it that the first of all-time explorers asked the natives in the local area the name of the waterfalls and they heard them reply Sipi. It is important to note that there was hardly any learned individuals by that time. Language barrier was a common challenge amidst explorers and the local people.

The explorers were inquiring about the name of the waterfalls but the local people thought they were inquiring about the name of the plant in the surroundings. The local people therefore told them that the plant is called sep and the explorers understood that sep was the name of the waterfalls. So in their journals they named the waterfalls Sipi since it’s what they heard and that has been its name up to today.

Uniqueness of Sipi falls.

Sipi falls are unique in the sense that each of the waterfalls that make it up flow at different heights. They form a beautiful scenery that adds up to the overall attractiveness of the waterfalls on the whole destination at large.  The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation that makes visits to the falls even more rewarding.

Tourist activities carried out at Sipi falls.

Abseiling. This is an adventurous activity that allows visitors to explore and have fun at the Sipi falls. Visitors tie themselves abseiling gear to ensure that they are safe while exploring the waterfalls. They slope down and upwards as they enjoy the views of the waterfalls.

Hiking.  The hiking activities are conducted to the view of the top of the falls. This unveils opportunities for beautiful photography and sightseeing.

Nature walks. The nature walks are conducted in the areas around the falls in the forests and lush vegetation. They help the visitors to reconnect with nature and appreciate its wonders. They are conducted under the guidance of Ranger guides to ensure safety.

Cave exploring. In its natural form, Sipi is endowed with a variety of caves that adventurers enjoy exploring when at the scene. The caves are associated with interesting folklore that the elders at the site tell that offers an understanding of the history of the falls.

Other attractions around Sipi falls.

Coffee plantations. The falls are surrounded by plantations of coffee that are another attraction to tourists. Travellers get the opportunity to learn about how coffee is planted and the whole process it goes through up to the time it is ready for consumption. The beautiful scenery associated with the plantations provides a good spot for photography and videography.

Local communities.  There’s an opportunity to encounter the communities and learn more about them. Visits are launched to the homesteads of the Sebei people. They have interesting folklore associated with them,  their traditions and culture dances are attractive and get visitors excited.

 When to visit.

The best seasons to visit Sipi falls are the dry seasons which run from June to August and from December to March.  They are associated with low rainfall that enables travelers to maneuver through the Highlands with minimal hardships.