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Hiking Sisiyi Falls on Mount Elgon
Hiking Sisiyi Falls is one of the many adventurous things to do while on Uganda safaris at Mount Elgon National Park. The Sisiyi waterfalls are one of the most beautiful sites to visit in Eastern Uganda. These amazing waterfalls are located on the slopes of Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda, in the Buyaga sub-county of the Bulambuli region. The stunning falls are only a short distance down the roadway to the districts of Kapchorwa, Moroto, and Sironko, making it an ideal stop on a safari to Mount Elgon National Park. Sisiyi waterfalls derive their name from the streams that never stop flowing, even during the dreadful dry seasons. The falls’ water remains constant no matter what time of the year you visit.
Falling about 100 meters down the high Sisiyi cliff, the falls perch on a 13-acre stretch of lush, verdant woods surrounding the spectacular waterfall. The falls create a magnificent splatter as it streams on. Generally, Mount Elgon features a variety of waterfalls that stream its face amid the rich foliage that covers this side of the mountain. Although the mountain’s most popular sight is Sipi Falls, Sisiyi Falls is equally stunning. The falls are frequently mistaken for the Sipi Falls, as someone would say Sisiyi when they meant Sipi. Nonetheless, the two are opposed in practically every manner.
Hiking Sisiyi Falls
Hiking Sisiyi Falls is one of the best things to do in Mount Elgon National Park and is a great add-on after hiking Sipi Falls. This waterfall cascades around 100 meters down the steep Sisiyi cliff from the Crater Lake on Mount Elgon’s peak. The spectacular waterfall is set on a 13-acre property surrounded by beautiful green forest and while on your Uganda safari, you will appreciate the lush greenery of green crops such as coffee, bananas, and eucalyptus trees on the muddy hills.
One of the most fascinating features about these falls is that they never dry out, no matter what season you visit; the water is continuously flowing. The waterfalls cascade down the slope of Mount Elgon, which is covered with verdant flora. Although the falls are often overshadowed by the famed Sipi Falls, these falls are so beautiful and worth visiting.
The magnificent picturesque area is located near Bulambuli, a 45-minute drive away and a short 15-minute stroll takes you to the base of the beautiful Sisiyi waterfall. This hike begins and ends in a lovely garden where beverages and refreshments may be purchased. Following that, travelers are led on a hike up a stunning route to the top of the cliff. Here, you will be shown one of the region’s best-kept farms as well as one of the district’s most spectacularly situated schools.
Hikind Sisiyi Falls takes between 2 to 4 hours and the walk involves trekking through muddy and steep slopes; hence you ought to come prepared. There are local guides with exerted knowledge of the area and they will lead you through this verdant forest to explore the falls. A guide is always vital especially for international tourists to help get to your destination, in addition to enjoying a safe and memorable hike.
Since the falls are located inside Mount Elgon National Park, please keep in mind that there is an admission fee of $35 for adults and $5 for children, which must be paid upon entry. Unlike other waterfalls in Uganda, Sisiyi Falls does not have a history of spirits and folklore. There have been stories from the local Indians about the ice plunge pool at the base of the falls that is believed to heal mental illnesses; however, the indigenous Bagisu have no evidence to back these stories. Otherwise, hikers can enjoy the tranquil, natural beauty of “Mezi ge lisusi,” or Smokey Waters.
Other Things to Do Around Sisiyi Falls
Visit Sipi Falls
These are the most popular falls in the region and are ranked as the most beautiful in the entire country. The falls are a set of three cascading waterfalls located on the slopes of Mount Elgon which is shared by Uganda and Kenya. It takes 3 to 4 hours to explore all three waterfalls, depending on one’s overall fitness. The route to the top of the falls includes around 7 km of difficult ascents, ladder climbing, and passing through neighboring farmland; all giving a thrilling experience. There are several starting points depending on the waterfall you choose to visit.
Hiking Mount Elgon
Shared by Uganda and Kenya, Mount Elgon is a top mountaineering destination in Uganda. The extinct volcano features Africa’s fourth-highest summit (Wagagai) and the world’s second-biggest volcanic caldera. The mountain offers spectacular hikes with enthralling views of waterfalls, wildlife, bird species, coffee plantations, etc. Climbing Mount Elgon takes between 5 and 6 days, depending on the hiker’s general fitness and expertise. Although its peak is in Uganda, Mount Elgon can be hiked from both Kenya and Uganda and it is popular for offering easy hikes.
Cultural Tours
Visitors who come to hike Sisiyi Falls can also visit the Bagisu and Sebei tribes that reside around the area and learn about their cultures and traditions. Most visitors are often drawn to these tribes’ circumcision ceremonies where youth males (among the Bagisu) and females (among the Sebei) undergo initiation into adulthood. The ceremonies are characterized by dancing, singing, and traditional rituals which keep the visitors entertained.
Where to Stay Around Sisiyi Falls?
Various lodges and hotels offer comfortable and affordable accommodations to travelers visiting Sisiyi Falls. These range from budget to midrange to luxury lodges and hotels and one of the ideal options is the Sisiyi Falls Resort. Built by Doctor Patrick Mutono and his wife, the resort offers unparalleled views of the falls and allows travelers to have a pleasant night while enjoying the waterfalls. The cottages were built with careful thought to enhance and preserve the area’s natural beauty and while here, you will get to appreciate the area’s gorgeous flora.
The Sisiyi Falls resort is known as the “Garden of Eden,” and it truly is a paradise unlike any other in the region. The resort offers travelers a fantastic area to marvel at its original beauty; allowing tourists to rest from the noisy and hectic atmosphere of metropolitan centers.
Getting to Sisiyi Falls
Sisiyi Falls is located in Mount Elgon National Park which is about 4 hours by road. The waterfall is further located in the Bulambuli area, near the Buyaga Trading Center, about 40 kilometers east of Mbale town. The breathtaking Sisiyi Falls are only a short distance along the highway that connects to the districts of Moroto, Sironko, and Kapchorwa, making it an ideal stop on a safari to Mount Elgon National Park or the Karamoja sub-region which is home to Kidepo Valley National Park and several fascinating wildlife reserves.
