Uganda’s attractive waterfalls

 Uganda’s attractive waterfalls

Uganda’s attractive waterfalls :  Apart from wildlife, Uganda the Pearl of Africa has got many other attractions. These include the waterfalls that can be enjoyed no matter which direction of the country you are visiting. Generally, the waterfalls activity is sometimes combined with a wildlife safari. However, this depends on how many days and time you have for your safari. Below are some of the most enjoyed waterfalls in Uganda.

 ARUU FALLS

These falls are situated in Pader district in Angagura sub-county along Gulu-Kitgum High way. It is basically an impressive and pavilion cascade waterfall, 250m wide comprising of five different streams. These flow westwards down a series of moss-covered rocks on a tributary of the Aswa River. Note that; the major source of water for the Aruu falls is River Agago. The fall is rarely visited although it is a hidden treasure of Uganda. They pour into seven enclaves namely; Ryanga, Lanya Kweyo, Wange Okiye, Awilo Yaa, Lacee, Okello Gem, and Akweyo. Historically, it is believed that the enclave around the falls have been occupied by a certain group of people who came from Otwa in search for pasture.

What to do at Aruu falls

Bird watching

Many bird species are viewed at the falls. These include; weaver birds, Egyptian goose, hornbills, African wagtail, eastern grey plantain eater, etc.

Swimming

This activity is the most interesting during the dry seasons when the falls are not very strong. However, swimming at the falls is at your own risk. Others opt to bath at the falls for the relaxation of their minds and also get memories and stories to tell.

Nature walks

It is a stunning activity whereby tourists walk around the falls and the surrounding communities. This is a golden opportunity where you get to meet and interact with the community and local tribes like the Langi and Acholi. During this activity you learn more about their dances, customs, culture and their lifestyle.

Visiting the local markets

The local market has it all for you, fresh fruits like oranges, watermelon, mangoes, passion fruits, etc. There are also crafts in the market which make it a must visit place.

Rock climbing

Enjoy your safari by climbing to the top of the falls and explore the cool breeze at Aruu falls. However this is also at your own risk since the rocks are slippery to climb. The falls are forested therefore you may stand a chance of sighting the Vervet monkeys.

How to get to Aruu falls

To reach Aruu falls, follow Kitgum road out of Gulu, crossing the Aswa river bridge after 40km. Then continue for another 7km further to Angagura trading centre. Pass Aruu falls Primary School to where Agago River blocks the road. Walk west along the north bank of the fast-flowing river for about 300m and then you reach the top of the waterfall.

SSEZIBWA FALLS

The waterfall lies on Ssezibwa River and was a favorite spot of Kabaka Mwanga and Kabaka Muteesa II. Here,  these two kings planted their trees and they still flourish. According to the legend, Ssezibwa was a progeny of a woman called Nakangu. She was expected to give birth to twin children but instead what poured from her womb was a twin river.

What to expect at Ssezibwa falls

Birding

Bird watching is among the most fantastic and popular activities at here. Generally, the place has got over 200 bird species as that can be spotted during your visit. These include; kingfishers, hornbills, snake birds, cormorants, red chested cuckoo, red eyed dove, warblers, olive birds, etc. Primates are also residents in the area such as the white and black colobus, red tailed monkeys, etc.

Hiking

This is an interesting activity however, someone to engage in it has to be physically fit. Therefore those with health hazards are restricted from hiking since it’s very tiresome and thrilling.

Nature visits

At Ssezibwa, there are various tree species in the area that are used by traditionalists for medical purposes. The python is also another benevolent creature at this place. Once you visit this python you have to leave eggs or a cock for its feline counterpart. Communal ceremonies in which nine pieces of meat are sacrificed at the appropriate spirit’s shrine are also held here. Tourists are welcome on such occasions although their time is unpredictable.

Community visits

The visits can be done to encounter different cultures in Uganda and around the area. Visiting Ssezibwa is not seasonal since the falls can be visited all year round.

MURCHISON FALLS

This is the most electrifying sight of its type in East Africa. It has got fast-flowing but wide Nile being transformed into an explosive froth of thunderous white water. Later, it funnels through a narrow cleft in the Rift Valley Escarpment. The falls are located in the southern part of Murchison Falls National Park. The fall was named after the president of the geologist’s society Roderick Murchison. Baker’s view on a ridge looks directly towards Murchison Falls as well as its broader of Uhuru Falls which is hundred metres to the north.

During the reign of Idi Amin in 1970s, he named the falls after the king of Bunyoro “Kabalega”. However, this was not legally promoted and following his demise that led to the rise of Obote, the name was reverted to Murchison Falls. As a result, lending the name to the surrounding Murchison Falls National Park. The Nile at the top of Murchison Falls forces its way through the gap in the rocks before flowing westwards into Lake Albert. Here, tourists can appreciate the staggering power with which the Nile crashes through the narrow gap in the escarpment. In addition, not forgetting the deafening roar and voluminous spray it generates. There is no much wildlife in the vicinity of the falls therefore considered safe to walk with no protection. However, you will be able to spot some primates like the black and white colobus as well as baboons.

SIPI FALLS

The fall is Elgon’s main tourist focus which lies at an altitude of 1,775m on the mountain foot slopes. Basically, this is a series of three waterfalls all flowing at different altitudes. The falls are located in Eastern Uganda in the district of Kapchorwa, northeast of Sironko and Mbale. In fact, it is strategically located at the base of Mount Elgon which lies between the boarder of Uganda and Kenya.

The first waterfall is 100meters long, followed with the second with drops of 85 metres and then third with 75metres. The falls was named after an indigenous plant called “Sep” found at the banks of the river looking alike with a type of wild banana.  The Sipi falls is a very peaceful and pretty spot which makes it the most agreeable base for gentle day walks around the hills. These basically offer spectacular views on the lowlands and the surrounding communities.

What to see and do at Sipi Falls

Hiking

The Sipi Falls area is the starting point for many hikes up Mt. Elgon. The most popular route starts in Budadiri and follows the Sasa trail to the summit. It then descends down the Sipi trail back to the Sipi Falls. Hikes around the falls offer stunning views of the Karamoja plains, Lake Kyoga, and the slopes of Mt. Elgon. However, it is advisable for the tourists to have a walking stick for support when moving through the steep and slippery areas.

Coffee tour

The tour is another interesting option whereby coffee gardens are found in the low laying areas of Mt. Elgon. Tourists visit the local subsistence farms whereby you can learn about the farming process. These include; harvesting, drying, roasting and grinding them in the traditional mortar and pestle for consumption. In fact, coffee is the main cash crop for the Bagisu and Sabiny who live in the area.

Abseiling

This interesting activity is mostly done at Chebonet falls and Rob’s rock. It is the most adventurous and interesting activity whereby it makes one to associate with birds in air.

Fishing

While here, you are free to join the fishermen and discover different techniques used to catch fish. This is carried out on the fresh waters of Sipi falls and all you have to do is to have your fishing gargets. However, the activity is best done in the early morning when the water is still calm and cool.

Birding

There are various number of bird species of which some are found at Sipi Falls and Mt. Elgon. These include; African blue flycatcher, weaver birds, sun birds, black throated wattle eye. Alpine chat, African hill babbler, mountain yellow warbler and much more.