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The Sipi Falls and Moses’ Homestay

At the foot of Mount Elgon, the Sipi Falls sparkle. Alongside breathtaking hikes and abseiling adventures, you’ll discover true local life here. Join Moses’ family in harvesting matoke, roasting coffee, and cooking in a traditional kitchen. A unique blend of nature, culture, and hospitality!

Sipi Falls: Green, welcoming, and a touch of adventure

Nestled in the lush green hills at the foot of Mount Elgon, the spectacular Sipi Falls await. This hidden gem of Uganda offers not only breathtaking views and adventurous activities but also a unique insight into the diverse culture and history of the local communities. Among them, the Sabiny tribe—a proud people with a rich heritage of runners, distinctive construction techniques, and vibrant ceremonies. Here, you experience the essence of Africa, and it all begins with a hike into this extraordinary landscape.

Where are the Sipi Falls?

When you drive east from Uganda’s capital, Kampala, you’ll find the lush Mount Elgon National Park near the border with Kenya. For a hefty sum, you can hike through the park and trek up Mount Elgon. But you can also opt for Sipi Falls! This stunning area, on the edge of the national park, is just as breathtaking and offers incredible hiking opportunities. Walk towards the different waterfalls, take a refreshing dip in one of the many streams, or abseil down the falls into the valley below. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional villages, coffee plantations, and banana trees. There’s plenty to see and do, which is reflected in the wide range of accommodation options. However, if you stay in a resort or hotel, you’ll miss out on experiencing the true rhythm of daily life in this remarkable region.

The hike at the Sipi Falls

The highlight of this region is the hike to the spectacular Sipi Falls. With a guide who knows all the ins and outs of the area, you’ll embark on a trek of two to three hours. Along the way, you’ll take in breathtaking views of the valley, pass two of the three iconic waterfalls, and gain insight into the local way of life. The trails lead you through picturesque villages and vibrant hills where Arabica coffee plants thrive. If you’re a true coffee enthusiast, you might already know that even Simon Lévelt in the Netherlands sells coffee from Sipi Falls, Uganda. On a coffee tour, you’ll learn step by step how this coffee is produced. And don’t forget to enjoy a cup yourself! A great place to do so is the Arabica Coffee Spot, a cosy stop where you can not only sip fresh coffee but also enjoy delicious food such as matoke, grilled chicken, or a hearty portion of Ugandan chips.

Then comes the grand finale: the largest of the three waterfalls, an astonishing 110 metres high! You’ll hear the roar of the water long before you see it, and once you reach the top, the view is truly spectacular. But the real adrenaline rush is yet to come – because here, we’re going abseiling!

Abseiling Down the Waterfall

Standing at the edge of a cliff, you’re strapped into a sturdy harness and given just enough instruction to muster the courage to take the plunge. Before you know it, you're clipped onto the rope, staring straight down into the depths below. The adventure begins: a breathtaking 110-metre descent alongside the roaring waterfall itself.

As you slowly make your way down, feeling the rope glide through your fingers, the mist from the falls sprays against your face, the thunderous sound of the cascading water fills your ears, and the sun catches the droplets, creating a dazzling rainbow. It’s a full sensory experience, leaving you with an unforgettable memory.

Once you reach the bottom, your adrenaline is still pumping, and euphoria rushes through your body. A short half-hour hike follows to bring you back to the main road. Along the way, you finally have a moment to take in the tranquillity of nature, gradually realising the incredible adventure you’ve just experienced.

The Homestay of our host Moses

After the hike, you can unwind at the cosy homestay of Moses and his family, making your stay even more unique and authentic. Moses warmly welcomes travellers into his household: take a peek into the kitchen, where your evening meal is prepared without gleaming appliances, stroll through the garden and lend a hand in gathering the day's harvest, or have a chat with the neighbours who curiously pop by. Around seven o’clock, as the sun sets, you can walk together to a stunning 360-degree viewpoint, where maize from the family’s own garden is thrown on the barbecue while the golden sunrays slowly dip below the horizon.

Facilities

Moses is a true host and ensures that you want for nothing. The beds are equipped with mosquito nets, and the toilet has been upgraded to a flush toilet. The real adventurers will step under the cold running shower water. Prefer a basin of warm water? That’s fine too! You step out of your room to find a traditional breakfast with fresh fruit waiting on the table, while the children prepare to head off to school. You get a glimpse into the daily customs of a Ugandan family, insider tips for exploring the area, and an experience that will undoubtedly stay with you. Highly recommended!

 

Why the Sipi Falls?

Sipi Falls is much more than just your standard waterfall visit. It’s a journey through the nature and culture of Uganda. You experience the pride of the Sabiny tribe in the shadow of Mt. Elgon and the thrill of an abseiling adventure that you won’t easily forget. So put on your hiking shoes, grab your camera, and let yourself be taken on a journey through this unique part of Uganda.

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1. Africa is our home

We know it from the farthest corners, and that results in amazing trips. We put them together by venturing out there ourselves. Believe us, you won't find these experiences anywhere else!

2. Local experiences

That means you'll visit local people in their villages and communities. Hike with the Masai, cook with your host family in a homestay, and cast a line with traditional fishermen.

3. You decide

So, what are you in the mood for? We'll custom-tailor the entire trip to your wishes. And you can count on us along the way, even in the middle of the night.

4. Travel responsibly

While you enjoy your dream trip, you'll be contributing to the development of local communities, economies, and the environment. That feels good!

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