Sipi Falls Hike & Coffee Tour

The Sipi Falls hike links all three waterfalls on the slopes of Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda in a single guided walk of four to six hours, through smallholder farms, past caves behind the falls and along cliffs with views over the plains to Karamoja. Most walks include a visit to a coffee farm, where you pick, roast and grind your own cup.

The route

Walks usually start at the main, highest fall, which drops about a hundred metres, and descend to its base before climbing to the second and third falls. Paths cross farmland and village tracks, and local guides explain the crops, the Bagisu culture and the history of the area. There is a cave behind one of the falls that you can walk into.

The coffee tour

Arabica coffee grows on Elgon's volcanic soils. On a farm visit you see the whole process: picking ripe cherries, pulping, drying, roasting over a fire and grinding in a wooden mortar. Then you drink the result. It is a highlight for many travellers and supports local farming families.

Abseiling and climbing

Local operators offer an abseil of roughly 100 metres beside the main fall, and rock climbing on the surrounding cliffs. Both are best booked a day ahead.

When to go and what to wear

The falls are fullest in the rains, April to May and August to November, when paths are also muddy. December to February is drier and easier underfoot. Wear walking shoes with grip, bring a rain jacket and water, and expect to get some spray. Stay at Sipi River Lodge, at the foot of the second fall.

Add Sipi to a safari

Sipi is the first stop on our ten-day Uganda waterfalls and gorillas route and on the fourteen-day Grand Waterfalls of Africa.

Read our Sipi Falls guide and check the month-by-month water levels before you book.

Seasons, age limits and operating days are set by the operators and can change; check them when you book.