MOUNTAIN ELGON AND SIPI FALLS
Mount Elgon National Park offers a unique blend of geology, biodiversity, culture, and outdoor adventure, from crater-ring hikes to viewing rare birds and engaging local traditions. Whether you’re after wildlife, wildflowers, waterfalls, or spiritual connection, Elgon delivers.
Sipi Falls is a series of three majestic waterfalls located on the foothills of Mount Elgon, in the Kapchorwa District, eastern Uganda. Named after the indigenous “Sep” plant that grows nearby, Sipi is both a stunning natural wonder and a vibrant cultural experience. The area is a favorite for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful escape into the countryside.
The falls are located approximately 275 km,5–7 hours Distance by road from Kampala depending on route and traffic. The mountain elgon area has cool temperate due to high altitude, evenings can get chilly. The falls lie just outside Mount Elgon National Park and near the Kenyan border, overlooking the vast Karamoja plains.
Sipi Falls consists of three separate falls along the Sipi River, which originates from Mount Elgon. Main Sipi Fall, the Lower Fall of about 95–100 meters and the most iconic and photographed waterfall easily accessible and where abseiling usually takes place.
Simba Fall, middle Fall of 74 meters Often missed by visitors but equally stunning. Lies deeper within local farmland, making the trek adventurous.
Ngasire Fall upper Fall of 85 meters set in a quiet, lush part of the trail offering breathtaking views of the entire Sipi area and the plains below.
Each waterfall offers a different atmosphere, and hiking between them provides a full immersion in the region’s natural beauty.
Activities in Mountain Elgon Region
1. Waterfall Hiking
•The classic Sipi experience.
•Treks typically take 3 to 4 hours and involve hiking through local villages, banana plantations, coffee farms, and forested trails.
•A local guide is highly recommended for navigation and cultural interpretation.
2. Abseiling / Rappelling
•One of the most thrilling activities at Sipi!
•Conducted at the Main Fall, where you rappel down the 100-meter rock face next to the rushing water.
•Safety gear and instructors are provided by local tour operators (e.g. Sipi River Lodge, Discover Sipi, or Rafiki Tours).
3. Coffee Tours
•The region is renowned for its high-quality Arabica coffee, grown by local farmers at high altitude.
•The coffee tour includes:
•Visiting plantations
•Learning about planting, harvesting, washing, drying, and roasting
•Traditional roasting over fire and hand-grinding
•Enjoying a fresh cup while overlooking the valleys
•It’s not just educational, but deeply cultural, as most farms are family-run and tours directly support the local economy.
4. Cultural Encounters
•Interact with the Bagisu and Sabiny communities.
•Learn about:
•Traditional dances
•Local beliefs and customs
•The Imbalu (circumcision) ceremony, a significant rite of passage among the Bagisu (seasonal)
•Local guides often double as storytellers, adding richness to the tour.
5. Nature & Wildlife Watching
•Sipi lies on the edge of Mount Elgon National Park, so while you may not spot large mammals, expect to see:
•Over 270 bird species
•Chameleons, monkeys, and butterflies
Best Time to Visit is the dry seasons (best for hiking and views): June – August December – February
•Rainy seasons (lushest scenery but slippery trails): March – May September – November