Sipi River
Sipi River is one of the most significant attractions in Eastern Uganda, and its name originated from the local word “Sep”, an indigenous plant with a similar appearance to a wild banana. This plant is common along the banks of the Sipi River and is known to have green and translucent fronds with a crimson rib hence making it appear as a wild banana.
This popular River is about 3 kilometers northeast of Sipi Town and about 274 kilometers northeast of Kampala, the Capital City of Uganda. The spectacular Sipi River flows from the upper slopes of Mount Elgon and drains into the Lake Kyoga basin, part of the African Great Lakes systems (although not considered a Great Lake).
Sipi River flowing from the upper slopes of Mount Elgon contributed to the formation of Sipi Falls, a series of three breathtaking waterfalls on the foothills of this extinct Volcano. The waterfalls (the longest stands at 100 meters, the middle falls at 65 meters, and the third drops at 85 meters) are positioned northeast of Mbale and Sironko, at the edge of Mount Elgon National Park close to the Kenyan border.
Things to do around/close to the Sipi River
The majority of Sipi River activities are done around the Sipi Falls area and they include:-
Hiking
This is the main activity done around the Sipi area and involves exploring the local villages to learn about the daily lives of the two tribes- Bagisu and Sabiny, banana and coffee plantations and culminates with the views of the three breathtaking waterfalls.
Abseiling and Rock climbing
Are you an adventurous traveler looking for an adrenaline rush during your visit to the Sipi Falls area? Then try out Abseiling and rock climbing, especially on the 100-meter waterfall whose cliff face is more thrilling and worthwhile. You don’t need to be an experienced rock climber to undertake this adventure but rather passion and a moderate level of fitness.
Coffee tours
Are you a coffee lover and would like to learn about how your favorite beverage is grown, harvested, processed, and brewed? Then allow us to take you through this exciting adventure. Arabica is the coffee variety grown around the Sipi area and Mount Elgon slopes at altitudes of 1,600 to 1,900 meters above sea level. You will be taken through the process of planting coffee seeds in Nursery beds, transplanting, pruning, harvesting, drying, roasting, and finally brewing for enjoyment in a cup.
Bird watching
Birding adventures are done along the Banks of the Sipi River, the nearby local farms/gardens, forests on the slopes of Mount Elgon, and banana and coffee plantations with over 250 avian species to look out for.
Cultural/community tours
Cultural tours lead to either Bagisu or Sabiny villages to learn about their day-to-day lives, local dishes, and traditional dance performances, and visit the local Museum for their unique symbols and objects. For travelers who visit in the right season, there are opportunities to experience “Imbalu”- public male circumcision among the Bagisu people.
Other adventures to enjoy around the Sipi River area include Mountain Biking, Trout/fly fishing, and nature photography.
Accommodation facilities close to the River
For visitors looking for a place to spend overnight close to the Sipi River choose Sipi Valley Resort, Sipi Falls Lodge, Rafiki Lodge Sipi, Sipi Guesthouse, Moses Campsite, Sipi Heritage Lodge (formerly Sipi River Lodge), Mise Cave Lodge, Lacam Lodge, Noah’s Ark Hotel, Crow’s Nest Rest Camp, Larry’s Homestay, to mention but a few.
After visiting Mount Elgon National Park, you can extend your journey with an amazing wildlife game drive in the nearby Kidepo Valley National Park or extend further west for a wildlife safari to Murchison Falls National Park. Further South western Uganda, you can encounter the Big 5 including the rhinos, African elephants, buffaloes, lions and leopards, in Queen Elizabeth National Park or opt for the breathtaking gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
