uganda
Aruu Falls in Uganda
Aruu Falls in Uganda are waterfalls located in Pader district in northern part of the country, along the Gulu Kitgum highway. The falls are approximately 386 kilometers from Uganda’s capital Kampala, 47 kilometers from Gulu, and 57 kilometers from Kigtum; a trip to the falls takes approximately 4 to 6 hours from Kampala city via the Gulu highway.
Aruu falls in Uganda are one of the most interesting waterfalls to visit; they are cascading streams of roaring waterfalls that offer a thrilling, unforgettable, and adventurous experience. The waterfalls are one of the must-see destinations for a breathtaking experience while on a Uganda safari to Kidepo Valley National Park. As seen from the bottom, the magnificent falls look incredible as the water falls over the rocks. Aruu falls are located in the Acholi- Lango region and the locals that surround the waterfalls are majorly Langi or Acholis. These people are also farmers and you will be sure to find farms in the communities that surround the waterfalls.
The Aruu Falls in Uganda are made up of several streams that flow with a roaring sound and a stirring scene that is simply stunning and unrivaled. The various streams of the falls flow from seven rocks: Ryanga, Awilo Yaa, Akweyo, Wang Okiye, Lacee, Okello Gem, and Lanya Kweyo. The jagged rocks have a step-like formation that allows the water to flow smoothly downstream from the river Agago.
why visit aru falls
The Aruu Falls in Uganda, though not well-known, is a wonderful place to visit; they are adventurous, exciting, and relaxing; the falls are some of Uganda’s hidden treasures and beauties, and visitors are in awe of how spectacular the Aruu falls are. The majority of visitors to the falls enjoy numerous water adventures and hiking through jagged rocks to reach the falls’ apex.
The stunning Aruu Falls is a sight to behold, with each section of the waterfall improving as you hike around it. A visit to these waterfalls is only suitable for a day trip. The water appears to be clean enough for swimming, but you swim at your own risk. Visitors to Aruu Falls, however, should keep in mind that the rocks are slippery as one descends, and they should be prepared to remove their shoes to cross the river barefoot. Again, it’s best to be cautious with phones and cameras if you must bring them. This activity is not suitable for the elderly, the disabled, or very young children.
Aruu Falls entry fees
Visitors are expected to pay entrance fees to access the waterfalls. You will also be assigned a local guide who will provide information about the falls. The guides to the falls are available at the campsite and are friendly, always ready to welcome you and take you around for such an amazing experience.
International visitors are charged UGX. 20,000, which is approximately US $6. East Africans and Ugandans pay a fee of UGX 10,000.
activities to do in Aruu Falls
Explore Aruu Waterfall
The most simple and common activity is waterfall viewing, in which you stand at strategic points along the waterfalls to take in the beauty, sound, and flow of the falls as they cascade over the rocks downstream. Though this may appear to be a minor activity, it usually takes people an hour or so to appreciate the beauty of these scenic waterfalls.
Nature Walks with Community visits
While on a visit to Aruu Falls in Uganda, you can also go on guided nature and community walks to learn more about the area and the people who live there. The nature walks take place in a portion of the forest, while the community walks take place in nearby villages. During the nature walks, you will be able to appreciate the various tree species found in the forests, as well as see some birds, butterflies, and other forest creatures.
On community walks, you will be able to participate in community and traditional activities such as food harvesting, and storage, and interact with the locals who live near the falls. While on the community walk, you can also visit the local market for fresh food and handcrafted items made by locals.
Visit the local market
There is a local market that sells fresh produce from nearby farms. When in season, you will be able to purchase fresh fruits such as mangoes, passion fruits, watermelons, and many others. Also, for those looking to buy a souvenir, such as some handcrafted artwork, this is the place to go.
Rock Climbing
Though the rocks are usually slippery due to the flowing water, rock climbing against the flow is one of the most exciting adventures at these falls, and it is one activity that will give you chills. However, the location’s management recommends that only experienced climbers participate in the activity and that they do so only during the dry seasons when the rocks are less slippery.
Swimming
There is a pool down the waterfalls where some of the water collects; you can swim there, but the management of the place advises you to swim with caution due to the rocky nature of the area, and only experienced swimmers should swim there.
how to get to aruu falls
The Aruu falls are accessible by car, but a good working 4WD vehicle is required because the road to the falls is narrow and can be slippery, especially on rainy days. The Kampala-Gulu highway takes about 6-7 hours to get from Kampala to Pader.
It is approximately 47 kilometers from Gulu city. If you don’t have a car, the falls can also be reached by motorcycle from the main road for those who live in nearby towns. The falls are about 7 kilometers away and cost between UGX 6000 and UGX 10,000 to reach by Boda bodas (moto bikes).
accommodation when visiting aruu falls
There are two campsites near Aruu Falls. One of the two has basic rooms where visitors can spend the night or pitch a tent and camp for the night, but don’t expect perfect/good service. However, the Aruu falls and nearby campsites are not well developed and are only suitable for a day trip. Visitors looking for decent and nice lodging should consider staying in Kitgum town at some of these accommodations:
Churchill Courts Hotel
It provides a variety of amenities designed specifically for visitors looking to unwind and explore Aruu Falls and the surrounding areas. They make certain that all of their guests receive value, comfort, and convenience. Their rooms are extremely comfortable, with air conditioning and free internet access for all guests. You’ll stay connected even when you’re not present. The hotel provides room service. Furthermore, Churchill Courts Hotel provides a complimentary breakfast, providing a welcome break from your hectic day. Visitors with automobiles can park for free.
The Northern Pearl
The Northern Pearl is an affordable luxury hotel in the Gulu district. Their entire environment is soothing and inviting. This is exactly what you’ll get if this is what you’re looking for. Each room has a toilet, clean towels, a TV, and a fan. There is also premium bedding, which includes fiber pillows, cotton quilts, and thick bedsheets. WIFI and breakfast are provided free of charge. The hotel’s on-site restaurant serves the best Indian cuisine in North Uganda. They also serve wood-fired pizza and continental cuisine.
Acholi Inn Hotel
The hotel is located at 6/4 Elizabeth Road in Gulu’s center, about two kilometers north of the town. The hotel was built during the colonial period in Uganda and was commissioned by the British in 1936. At the time of independence in 1962, it was one of about a dozen hotels that comprised Uganda Hotels Limited, a government parastatal under Obote I.
The hotel was privatized in 1995 and has undergone renovations since then. In addition to 120 standard rooms, Acholi Inn has a swimming pool, a health club, a gym, a sauna, and a steam room. Its main meeting room can accommodate 1,000 people. It also has air conditioning, satellite TV, a restaurant, and a cocktail bar.
Other accommodations around Aruu falls
Fugley’s Guest House, Kitgum Royal Hotel, Bomah hotel, Acaki Lodge, or pleasant lodge. Stay at the Bomah Hotel Gulu, Dich Comfort Hotel, Hotel Aluku Deluxe, or Jojo’s Palace Annex in Gulu town.
