Set along the western slopes of Mt. Elgon, Sipi Falls are a series of scenic water falls, that occur along the Sipi river as it cascades over hanging volcanic rocks on its way way downstream onto the Teso grasslands below. The falls occur in the high-altitude village of Sipi that’s named after river Sipi, also a base to begin to explore these volcanic slopes that boast pleasant climate, panoramic views, tropical rainforests at nearby Mt. Elgon National Park and incredible cultural diversity.
Activities to do while at Sipi and Mt.Elgon
-
Hiking the Sipi Triple Water Falls
A hike to the impressive triple water falls, begins from the village of Sipi, taking in between 3-4hrs and stretches 7-8km. It follows a local trail along the Sipi river up stream to the top-most water fall at 1789m asl locally known as Chebkoch and boasts a drop of 85m. The trail heads downstream to the middle waterfalls called Chebkui, that spread over a rock like a curtain with a 65m drop. At the bottom of this second water falls, is a natural pool where you can take a dive to wash off the sweat or just refresh. The falling sheet of water overshadows a natural cave that extends over 100m into the heart of the rock used by the locals and holds cultural significance. The trail culminates below on the thunderous main water falls named Kaptogolo that plunge some 100m, the highest of the three.
The hike is moderate fand to any average fit traveler, it shouldn’t present any difficulty except in rainy season when the trails are slippery. The local guides here are knowledgeable and shares first hand local knowledge and insights about their local culture. On the trek you get to meet local folks in their humble homesteads, as they work their farms and plantations and see diverse lifestyle.
-
Take a Coffee Experience Tour at Sipi Falls
Whether you are an ardent coffee drinker or not once you are at Sipi, take a demonstrative coffee tour at the local farm and meet the farmers that grow this in-demand crop. The volcanic fertile slopes of Mt. Elgon grows the world’s high-quality coffee, the Bugisu Arabic Coffee; a unique variety of Arabic coffee adapted to growing on higher altitudes of 1600-2200m asl. The coffee tour experience is led by a local farmer that shares insights on ancient traditional coffee growing methods, from the garden to see how plants are planted and maintained for generations. The tour then takes you through harvesting, washing, roasting and grinding and finally brewing a cup of this fresh delicacy. Here is an opportunity to purchase this original local roasted and ground coffee. Proceeds on this activity goes to support these local brewers.
-
Hiking adventure on Mt. Elgon
While at Sipi, extend your adventure quest to Mt. Elgon National Park whose gate of Kapkwai lies only 8km from Sipi village. This national park gate is a trail head of a multi-day Sipi route to the summit of Wagagai of 4321m also the highest peak on Mt. Elgon. Other hiking options here include short daily hikes to explore the bird and primate rich tropical and bamboo forests and stunning panoramic landscapes, caves and ridges.
Dedicated naturalists on guided nature walks at Mt. Elgon have chances to encounter the humble De-Brazza Monkey, Red-tailed Monkey, Guereza, several forest duikers and forest Elephants among the 30 mammal checklist protected in here. Over 350 bird species include Golden-winged Sunbird and a selection of good forest specialists unique to this montane eco-zones.
-
Explore the unique Cultures
One major activity while at Sipi is a cultural experience with the Sabiny and Bagisu people that call these fertile slopes home. A community experience includes storytelling, folklore, insights on ancient traditions and agricultural heritage. As you trek through the humble villages, you will interact with ordinary folks and appreciate their way of life and even participate in their cultural dances. The visit ends at a local women handicraft shop where you can purchase local made crafts support the less-privileged of this society.
-
Abseiling Experience at Sipi Falls
While at Sipi Falls, conquer your fear and stretch your limits of heights and as you abseil down a 100m drop. This adrenaline thriller occur on the main waterfall. The operator at Sipi boasts of an incredible team of safety guides.
-
Take a biking scenic tour at Sipi
The high altitude of Sipi and Mt. Elgon is a great place to cycle through the winding roads of this hilly landscape. The breathtaking scenery of mountain ranges, and conducive climate allow stunning golden sunsets and sunrises that continue to wow several travelers. Among the prominent adventurers and Uganda’s first British Governor Cohen that set up his home overlooking the main waterfall.