Uganda · East Africa
Sipi Falls
Three separate falls cascade down the foothills of Mount Elgon through terraced Arabica coffee farms, and a full-day walk links all three with a chance to abseil the main drop. Local guides double as coffee-farm hosts, folding a cupping session into the hike.
Three separate falls cascade down the foothills of Mount Elgon through terraced Arabica coffee farms, and a full-day walk links all three with a chance to abseil the main drop. Local guides double as coffee-farm hosts, folding a cupping session into the hike.
Sipi Falls drops 99 metres (325 ft) on the Sipi, inside Mount Elgon National Park. It is a tiered-type fall, and the nearest base for a visit is Sipi, with EBB the closest airport. Access to the main viewpoint is rated moderate.
Drier months make the ridge trails between the three falls easier going.
What you can do here
Abseiling
Going over the lip on a rope, face-first or otherwise, with the water beside you.
Camping
Falls where you can legally sleep within earshot of the water.
Hiking
From ten-minute boardwalks to multi-day approaches through cloud forest.
Photography
Light angles, moonbows, spray management and the hours that actually work.
When to go
Drier months make the ridge trails between the three falls easier going.
Entry: Community guide fee required, ~$15-25 USD
Getting there
- Base townSipi
- AirportEBB
- CountryUganda
- RegionEast Africa, Africa
- AccessModerate — a real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail
On the map
1.3167, 34.3667
Quick answers
How tall is Sipi Falls?
Sipi Falls drops 99 metres (325 feet). It is a tiered-type waterfall on the Sipi.
When is the best time to visit Sipi Falls?
Peak flow is January to February and June to August and December. Drier months make the ridge trails between the three falls easier going.
What can you do at Sipi Falls?
Beyond the viewpoints: abseiling, camping, hiking and photography. Access to the main viewpoint is rated moderate — a real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail.
How do you get to Sipi Falls?
The usual base is Sipi, and the closest airport is EBB. A real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail from there. Community guide fee required, ~$15-25 USD.
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