Sisiyi Waterfalls is one of the most captivating places to visit in Eastern Uganda’s Bulambuli district. Sisiyi Falls is sometimes confused with Sipi Falls. The two, however, are different in almost every way. The falls are just a short distance along the highway to the districts of Moroto, Sironko, Bulambuli, and Kapchorwa, making it a perfect stop while on a trip to Mount Elgon National Park.
The waterfalls derived their name from the ever-flowing waters because the waterfalls never run dry, whether in rainy seasons or during the harsh dry season. Anytime you visit the site, you will find the same level of water flowing. The site sits on 13 acres of land and is surrounded by a green forest. The waterfall flows at about 100 meters down the high Sisiyi cliff off the crater lake on the summit of Mount Elgon.
Activities at the Sisiyi Falls
Hiking
When hiking the rocks, tourists don’t have to worry about the heat. Tourists can hike the falls quite easily in a hand-holding chain, usually guided by a guide. The whole experience will be enjoyable.
Visiting the three waterfalls
Depending on one’s general fitness, it takes 3 to 4 hours to visit all three waterfalls. Approximately 7km of steep ascents, ladder climbing, and passing through nearby fields are all part of the journey to the top of the falls.
Depending on the specific waterfall you plan to visit, there are many starting points. To save your energy for the main waterfall downside, you should start with the topmost waterfall if you plan to view all three.
Climbing up Mount Elgon
As a starting point to climb Mount Elgon, consider the Sipi Falls. The extinct volcano has Africa’s fourth-highest summit, Wagagai. With the largest surface area, it is the second-largest volcanic peak in the world (caldera). Even though Uganda owns the majority of the mountain, it is shared by Kenya and Uganda. Depending on the hiker’s general health and experience level, Mount Elgon can be climbed in 5 to 6 days.
Cultural Walks
The Bagisu and Sabiny are two nearby tribes that occupy the region around Sipi. Visitors can choose to embark on a cultural visit to learn about the local culture of one of these tribes after seeing the waterfalls. Visitors are drawn to the Sebei and Bugisu cultures of circumcision. Bagisu boys and Sabiny girls (teenagers) go through traditional initiation rituals that end in circumcision before entering adulthood. However, today, female circumcision is nonexistent as a result of campaigns by female activists.
Sisiyi Falls is a great place to escape the commotion of the city. You can choose to relax by the waterfalls and do nothing else or have a fun-filled adventure.