Experience the Ultimate Sipi Falls Hiking Adventure
Discover what awaits you on your Sipi Falls Hike
The Sipi Falls Hike
The Sipi Falls hike is more than just a walk; it’s a journey into the heart of Eastern Uganda’s natural beauty.
Our expertly guided tour takes you along a beautiful trail through coffee farms, over hills, and into quiet valleys, leading you to the base and peaks of all three powerful waterfalls.
This moderate hike is the perfect way to experience Uganda’s breathtaking landscape and a fantastic training ground for larger climbs like hiking Mount Elgon.
The full distance of the entire hike is about 7 to 8 kilometres. It takes about 4-5 hours. However, we can adjust the length to suit you. Depending on your preference.
Hike through lush landscapes, stand under incredible waterfalls, and connect with local culture on a fully-guided tour.
Sipi Falls Hike Highlights
The Sipi Falls hike takes you through coffee farms, unmarked trails, and onto three waterfalls. You can choose a short or long hiking route. Both routes start and end in our office at Sipi town or at your preferred lodge/hotel, if you are staying around Sipi.
- Full-Day Exploration: Hike 7-8km to all three stunning waterfalls.
- Expert Guides: Our local guides know the best photo spots and hidden stories.
- Cultural Immersion: Walk through working farms and meet the welcoming Sebei people.
- Flexible Itineraries: Choose a 2-3 hour short hike or a 5-6 hour full adventure.
- Unbeatable Value: Prices start from just $15 – $20 per person.
Key Details for hiking Sipi Falls
- Location• Kapchorwa, East of Mbale town
- Trails wind through Mount Elgon foothills
- Age requirement: ages 5 and up
What’s Included On the Sipi Falls Hike
- Certified local guide
- Guided fee
- A light walking stick
What to Bring On the Sipi Falls Hike
- Good walking shoes
- hat and sunscreen
- rain jacket (weather changes fast)
- small daypack
- camera or phone
- extra water and snacks
What’s Included On the Sipi Falls Hike
- Certified local guide
- Guided fee
- A light walking stick
What to Bring On the Sipi Falls Hike
- Good walking shoes
- hat and sunscreen
- rain jacket (weather changes fast)
- small daypack
- camera or phone
- extra water and snacks
Reasons you should join us for the Sipi Falls hiking adventure
The Sipi Falls hike is an incredible hike and a good way to prepare for bigger climbs like Mount Elgon ( 4321 masl) or the Rwenzori Mountains (5109masl).
The trail is moderately difficult. You will climb a series of cliffs, which helps your body adjust to higher altitudes. You will see a breathtaking landscape. The area has lush plants, rugged cliffs, and deep valleys.
As you hike up, you get panoramic views of the Sipi plateau and the valleys below. It is a popular attraction for a reason. You can find out why so many people visit.
The experience of hiking to the bottom of the falls and feeling the powerful water is incredible.
The falls are very photogenic, especially after rain. The clear water flows over dark rock, surrounded by green plants. This makes a great background for photos. You can take amazing pictures at the top or the bottom. If you have a camera, our guides can help take great photos for you.
You will also learn new things. Our guides will tell you stories about Sipi, its people, and their history. You can learn historical facts, see sites like Mise Cave, and understand how the local people live in this amazing nature.
Sipi Falls Uganda
Welcome to Sipi Falls, a beautiful, hidden site in Uganda. Sipi Falls is made up of three major waterfalls on the Sipi River. Many people, both from Uganda and other countries, come to see them all year round.
The top waterfall drops 85 meters. The water hits the rocks hard and sends mist into the air. If the sun is out, you’ll often see a rainbow here. The water goes underground at the base and resurfaces 200 meters away, flowing underneath the larger rocks.
The middle waterfall has small cascades and pools at the top. During your Sipi Falls hike, it is safe to swim in these pools or take a natural bath at the rapids waterfalls with a pool below before the water drops 65 meters over the cliff. The last waterfall is the tallest at 100 meters high. It’s also the highlight of your trip to hiking Sipi Falls, and it’s easy to reach.
Come & Experience the Hidden Wonders of Eastern Uganda
Sipi Falls is a beautiful place in Uganda, near Mount Elgon. It has three waterfalls that are the main attraction, but there is more to see.
The area has lush green hills and wide views that are worth the visit if you’re travelling within Uganda. Beautiful hiking trails that take you through this quiet and natural landscape.
However, Mount Elgon was once a volcano. Its eruptions left behind different rocks. Over time, water carved these rocks into the cliffs and valleys you will see now.
The Sipi River still changes the land today, creating three cascading waterfalls and great pathways for hiking Sipi Falls. Along the Sipi Falls hike, you have a chance to see wider views and quiet valleys. Sipi Falls shows nature’s powerful and untouched beauty.
History of Sipi Falls
Sipi Falls is a cascade of three stunning waterfalls fed by the Sipi River, flowing down from the top of Mount Elgon above 4000 masl. In Eastern Uganda, near the Kenyan border.
Located on Mount Elgon’s slopes, about 275 kilometres from Kampala city, Sipi Falls is a true natural hidden gem.
The name “Sipi” comes from a local plant found along the riverbanks called “Sep.” This unique plant resembles a wild banana, with translucent green fronds accented by a vibrant crimson streak.
Traditionally, locals have used parts of the “Sep” plant to treat ailments like measles and fever.
Locals have it that foreigners who came to visit the Waterfalls once encountered a woman harvesting the “Sep” plant near the falls.
When they asked for the name of the waterfalls, she misunderstood and replied with “Sep,” unknowingly giving these iconic three falls their name.
“Sipi Falls” Today, Sipi Falls stands as a breathtaking symbol of natural beauty and cultural heritage in Uganda.
History of Sipi Falls
Sipi Falls is a cascade of three stunning waterfalls fed by the Sipi River, flowing down from the top of Mount Elgon above 4000 masl. In Eastern Uganda, near the Kenyan border.
Located on Mount Elgon’s slopes, about 275 kilometres from Kampala city, Sipi Falls is a true natural hidden gem.
The name “Sipi” comes from a local plant found along the riverbanks called “Sep.” This unique plant resembles a wild banana, with translucent green fronds accented by a vibrant crimson streak.
Traditionally, locals have used parts of the “Sep” plant to treat ailments like measles and fever.
Locals have it that foreigners who came to visit the Waterfalls once encountered a woman harvesting the “Sep” plant near the falls.
When they asked for the name of the waterfalls, she misunderstood and replied with “Sep,” unknowingly giving these iconic three falls their name.
“Sipi Falls” Today, Sipi Falls stands as a breathtaking symbol of natural beauty and cultural heritage in Uganda.
The local people of Sipi Falls
The local people around Sipi Falls are calm and friendly. The Sebei people who live here are welcoming and enjoy socialising.
They will talk with you and are happy to answer questions about their way of life and traditions.
While you are hiking, small children will often wave and say hello to you. This kind of touch will be an addition to your hiking Sipi Falls adventure.
Experience breathtaking waterfalls, explore hidden caves, sip in fresh Arabica coffee, and create memories that last a lifetime on our expertly guided tour to Sipi Falls.
The beauty of Hiking Sipi Falls, both the second and Upper waterfalls.
Visiting the second and upper Sipi Falls is a great experience.
The second fall has the best landscape. You’ll walk through local communities and a small jungle near the second waterfalls. The Sipi Falls hike goes along the cliffside next to the waterfalls and passes caves under the rocks.
From the top, you’ll see simply beautiful views of the Sipi area. As you continue toward the third falls, which is less crowded, you’ll pass a natural swimming pool. Take your time and enjoy a swim.
At the first falls (85m), you can stand close up and watch the white water fall over the black rocks at the pool. The water goes underground for about 200 meters before coming out again and flowing to the second falls.
The upper falls area has amazing, lush green plants and farm fields, with many trails going in different directions. Don’t worry, our guides are familiar with every route.
You can also go to the bottom of the first Sipi Falls. To see the full beauty of this hiking area, from the top, you can see the whole Sipi region.
This hike offers views of Mount Elgon in the mist. The route descends through the villages of Gamatui. You’ll eventually return to the Sipi Centre where you started.
HIKING SIPI FALLS’ UPPER TRAIL
Spend time in nature on your Sipi Falls hike. This upper trail, near Mount Elgon, is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors. The trail is beautiful, and the waterfalls stand out against the landscape.
At the top, the flat ground gives you a clear view of the Sipi community. On good days, you can even see mountains like Mount Kadam in the northeast. You’ll also spot lakes, like Basina & Opeta and plains in Karamoja.
As you get closer to the upper trail, you’ll start to understand why you chose to come. This hike takes you right to the edge of Mount Elgon National Park. Many visitors who join us on this trail are surprised by how much they love the upper hike; the view makes them want to come back.
This is a hidden spot in the Sebei region. If you plan to add it to your Sipi Falls hike, be sure to bring enough water, snacks, and a packed lunch.
The upper trail is easily combined with the hike to all three waterfalls.
Sipi Falls hike price/ costs
Short Hike per person, covering all three major waterfalls without the upper trail of the first waterfall.
Foreigners. $15 (55,000)
Ugandan’s. $10 (37,000)
The long hike per person covers all three major waterfalls, including the upper trail of the first waterfall.
Foreigners. $20 ( 75,000)
Ugandan’s. $15 ( 55,000)
What to expect to see on the Sipi Falls hike
Sometimes you can find monkeys near the base of the waterfalls. You can watch them while the sound of the water helps you relax.
Local boys might walk with you during the hike. Some may offer to help you. Others might try to sell you crystals they found in the caves below the falls. You can buy them if you want.
During your Sipi Falls hike, our certified guides ensure your experience is authentic and respectful to local wildlife. We’ll help you spot chameleons in their natural habitat without disturbing them.
Here you’ll have a moment to look at it freely and take great photos. Chameleons are common in coffee trees. And if you are not lucky along the hike, you will likely see one if you join our coffee tour experience.
There is more to see near Sipi Falls. Besides the three main waterfalls, you will see smaller falls, caves like Kaptum, many birds, farm animals, local crops, and people doing their daily work.
The hike combines both the nature and culture of the people living around this incredible area of Sipi Falls.
Other things to do at Sipi Falls
The Sipi Falls hike is popular, but you can add other activities to your day. A coffee tour or a sunset walk are good choices. They are relaxing to wind down your trip/day at Sipi Falls.
If you want something more exciting adventures, try out our Rock climbing or Abseiling Sipi Falls by the main waterfall.
You could also hike to other nearby waterfalls, like Chebonet Falls, Benet Hike and Wanale Hike.
You can find all this information about these activities on our website.
Other things to do at Sipi Falls
The Sipi Falls hike is popular, but you can add other activities to your day. A coffee tour or a sunset walk are good choices. They are relaxing to wind down your trip/day at Sipi Falls.
If you want something more exciting adventures, try out our Rock climbing or Abseiling Sipi Falls by the main waterfall.
You could also hike to other nearby waterfalls, like Chebonet Falls, Benet Hike and Wanale Hike.
You can find all this information about these activities on our website.
FAQ
Do you need a guide for the Sipi Falls hike?
Yes, we recommend going with a local guide.
The trails are not clearly marked. Many paths lead to local homes instead of the falls, so it’s easy to take a wrong turn. Some visitors try hiking alone and end up wandering through villages instead of seeing the falls.
You might get lost, and you’ll likely miss a lot of what makes Sipi special.
A guide is especially useful in the rainy season. Heavy rain can wash away trails, and local guides know how to find safe alternate routes.
In rural Uganda, trails and bridges change often, maybe because of the heavy rains we receive. A guide helps you navigate these changes safely.
Our guides also help take good photos of the area and point out interesting features. They share stories about the landscape and local life, which makes the hike more meaningful.
Our guides at Mulima Adventures ensure you see every hidden corner and enjoy your time here.
What is the best time for the Sipi Falls hike?
You can hike Sipi Falls any time of year. The weather here is usually mild.
But for the best experience, go between June and August or from December to March. During these drier months, the trails are less muddy and easier to walk.
The waterfalls are also at their most powerful during the heavier rains, so the views are more impressive. You’ll get clearer skies for better photos, too.
Can you swim at Sipi Falls during the hike?
Yes, you can swim. There is a natural pool at the top of the second waterfall where you can take a shower or swim.
The water is fresh and cold during some months. You can also swim in the pool at the bottom of the main waterfall if you’re looking for a bigger adventure.
We recommend you bring a swimsuit and a towel so you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the river.
Where is Sipi Falls located in Uganda?
Sipi Falls is located on the edge of Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda. It’s about a one-hour drive from Mbale town. You take the Mbale-Kapchorwa road for roughly 50 kilometres.
The falls are on the mountain’s slopes at 1,700- 1800 meters above sea level. The high elevation means the area is often cool and misty.
Contact us now to book your guided trip
If you are a hiking enthusiast, we offer several interesting other hiking opportunities
Other waterfalls apart from Sipi Falls
There are several relatively unknown waterfalls in the Sipi region, however, Sipi Falls stand out as remarkably fascinating compared to the others!
If you are looking to embark on a Sipi Falls hike, the other picturesque waterfalls to look out for include, Chebonet Waterfalls, Sisiyi Waterfalls, Wanale Waterfalls, Cheptoi Waterfalls, and Kamarok Falls. The falls are located strategically ascending into awe-striking basins at the end of a hiking trail. One would say they are the hiker’s treasure chest whose view remarkably serves as a worthwhile reward at the end of a trail.