Sipi Falls Hiking
Guided Sipi Falls Hike in Eastern Uganda
Experience the Ultimate Sipi Falls Hiking Adventure
Hiking Sipi Falls is more than a scenic walk. It is an immersive journey through the foothills of Mount Elgon, where powerful waterfalls, fertile coffee farms, and dramatic cliff landscapes come together in one unforgettable experience.
On this guided Sipi Falls hike, you will explore all three waterfalls along the Sipi River, walk through traditional Sebei villages, and experience the raw beauty of Eastern Uganda at a relaxed but rewarding pace. Whether you are a casual traveler, a hiking enthusiast, or preparing for a Mount Elgon trek, this hike offers the perfect balance of nature, culture, and adventure.
Enjoy lush landscapes, stand under incredible waterfalls, and connect with local culture on a fully-guided tour.
The Sipi Falls Hike – What to Expect
The Sipi Falls hike follows a network of trails through coffee plantations, rolling hills, quiet valleys, and rocky escarpments. With a knowledgeable local guide, you will reach the base and viewpoints of all three major waterfalls.
- Distance: Approximately 7–8 km
- Duration: 4–5 hours (adjustable)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start & End Point: Mulima Adventures office in Sipi town or your lodge
The route can be shortened or extended depending on your fitness level and interests. This flexibility makes hiking Sipi Falls suitable for families, solo travelers, and experienced trekkers alike.
Sipi Falls Hiking Prices
Short Hike (All three waterfalls, no upper trail)
- Foreigners: USD 15
- Ugandans: UGX 37,000
Long Hike (All waterfalls + upper trail)
- Foreigners: USD 20
- Ugandans: UGX 55,000
Why Hike Sipi Falls?
Hiking Sipi Falls is one of the most rewarding outdoor activities in Uganda. It combines physical movement with constant visual highlights and meaningful local interaction.
Key Reasons to Join This Hike
- A perfect training hike for Mount Elgon (4,321 masl) or Rwenzori Mountains (5,109 masl)
- Gradual ascents that help your body adapt to elevation
- Spectacular panoramic views of the Sipi Plateau and surrounding valleys
- Close-up access to powerful waterfalls and natural pools
- Rich cultural encounters with the Sebei people
Standing at the base of the falls, feeling the force of the water and the cool mist rising from the rocks, is an experience few visitors forget.
Why Hike Sipi Falls?
Hiking Sipi Falls is one of the most rewarding outdoor activities in Uganda. It combines physical movement with constant visual highlights and meaningful local interaction.
Key Reasons to Join This Hike
- A perfect training hike for Mount Elgon (4,321 masl) or Rwenzori Mountains (5,109 masl)
- Gradual ascents that help your body adapt to elevation
- Spectacular panoramic views of the Sipi Plateau and surrounding valleys
- Close-up access to powerful waterfalls and natural pools
- Rich cultural encounters with the Sebei people
Standing at the base of the falls, feeling the force of the water and the cool mist rising from the rocks, is an experience few visitors forget.
Sipi Falls Hiking Highlights
- Full-Day Exploration: Visit all three waterfalls on a 7–8 km hike
- Certified Local Guides: Deep knowledge of trails, safety, and local history
- Cultural Immersion: Walk through working farms and village paths
- Flexible Routes: Choose a shorter 2–3 hour hike or a full adventure
- Excellent Value: Affordable pricing with high-quality guiding
About Sipi Falls, Uganda
Sipi Falls is a series of three spectacular waterfalls located on the slopes of Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda, near the Kenyan border. Fed by the Sipi River, the waterfalls cascade down ancient volcanic cliffs shaped by Mount Elgon’s eruptions millions of years ago.
- Upper Falls: Approximately 100 meters (the tallest)
- Middle Falls: About 65 meters, with safe natural pools above
- Lower Falls: Around 85 meters, known for rainbows and mist
The water of the first fall disappears underground for nearly 200 meters before resurfacing downstream—one of the unique geological features of the area.
Hiking the Second and Upper Sipi Falls
The second and upper waterfalls offer some of the most scenic sections of the hike. Trails pass through villages, small jungle sections, caves beneath rock overhangs, and cliffside paths overlooking the valley.
- Swim in natural pools near the upper falls
- Enjoy quieter, less crowded trails
- Photograph dramatic landscapes and misty mountain views
- Walk through fertile farmland shaped by volcanic soil
From the upper viewpoints, you can often see Mount Elgon wrapped in mist, as well as distant plains stretching toward Karamoja.
The Upper Trail Near Mount Elgon
The upper Sipi Falls trail reaches the edge of Mount Elgon National Park and is a favorite among experienced hikers. The terrain opens into flatter ground that reveals sweeping views of the Sipi community, Mount Kadam, and—on clear days—distant lakes such as Bisina and Opeta.
This trail is ideal for travelers seeking solitude, elevation, and wide-open landscapes. It can easily be combined with the main waterfall hike for a full-day experience.
Come & Experience the Hidden Wonders of Eastern Uganda
Local Culture & People of Sipi Falls
The Sebei people who live around Sipi Falls are known for their warmth and hospitality. During your hike, you will pass through villages where daily life unfolds naturally—children greeting visitors, farmers tending crops, and families working the land.
Your guide will share stories about local traditions, history, and landmarks such as caves once used for shelter and rituals. These cultural elements add depth and meaning to the hiking experience.
Wildlife & Nature Along the Trail
While hiking Sipi Falls, you may encounter:
- Monkeys near the waterfall bases
- Chameleons hidden in coffee trees
- Numerous bird species
- Farm animals and traditional crops
Our guides ensure respectful wildlife viewing and help you spot animals without disturbing their natural habitat.
What’s Included in the Sipi Falls Hike
- Certified local hiking guide
- Guide fees
- Light walking stick
What to Bring
- Good walking or hiking shoes
- Hat and sunscreen
- Rain jacket (weather can change quickly)
- Small daypack
- Camera or phone
- Water and snacks
What’s Included in the Sipi Falls Hike
- Certified local hiking guide
- Guide fees
- Light walking stick
What to Bring
- Good walking or hiking shoes
- Hat and sunscreen
- Rain jacket (weather can change quickly)
- Small daypack
- Camera or phone
- Water and snacks
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.