A waterfall is a mass of flowing water rapidly dropping over a steep cliff. Not to be limited by its definition, waterfalls are naturally beautiful with a diversity of experiences one can have with different waterfalls around the world.
Water falling is an exciting activity for the body, soul and entire refreshment of the mind- special moments that you will remember for the rest of your life.
The uniqueness of Uganda’s natural waterfalls is that; the water flows throughout the year and is reachable with clear trails or roads eliminating that frustration you get when you travel thousands of miles only to find no water flowing or inaccessible way to a flowing waterfall. However, the waterfalls are at their scenic best during rainy seasons; best for photo shoots.
Here are the 5 most breathtaking natural waterfalls in Uganda
Murchison Falls (Kabalega Falls)
Murchison Falls–also known as Kabalega Falls, is a waterfall between Lake Kyoga and Lake Albert on the White Nile River in Uganda- the second longest river in the world. At the top of Murchison Falls, the Nile forces its way through a gap in the rocks, only 7 metres (23 ft) wide, and tumbles 43 metres (141 ft), before flowing westward into Lake Albert.
If you want to experience the power of nature in display- visit the famous Murchison falls. The falls are incredibly powerful with high-speed water gushing from the wide Victoria Nile above the falls, squeezed into a gorge less than ten meters (30ft) wide. A hike to the bottom of the fall is one of the unforgettable parts of the falls excursion; a more impressive view of the fall, rainbows and devils cauldron. Simply breathtaking sight!!
With an added advantage; it’s located within the Murchison National park in the Northern region of the Albertine Rift Valley always offers the possibility of seeing great birds, amazing wildlife on the banks of the river like crocodiles basking under the sun, elephants, giraffes, warthogs, leopards, buffalos, monkeys, water bucks, kops and countless birds of varieties etc.
Sipi Falls
Sipi falls– is magical and the most beautiful falls at the foothills of Mount Elgon, located in Kapchorwa District in eastern Uganda. It consists of a series of three stunning falls; the first fall at the top is at 85 meters high, middle at 65 meters and the biggest falls at 100 meters high over a massive cliff into the plunge pool below it. Its character can go from a thunderous wall of water to graceful parallel strands of water exposing the Curtain Cave behind it.
Taking a natural shower under the fall or diving for a swim in the large plunge pool is a priceless experience. If you want to have a spectacular sight of the gorgeous falls, beautiful scenery, hike all the three falls, trek, bike, bird watching, nature walks into the lush green nature and have a stunning experience, Sipi falls is worth a visit.
Aruu Falls
Aruu Falls – Magnificent Aruu falls is located in Pader District; the best attraction site in Northern Uganda. These falls are truly breathtaking. The graceful flow of the water over the slippery cascading rocks naturally arranged into a series of steps will definitely relax and mesmerize you with their intricate beauty.
Tourists who wish to visit Kidepo National Park can make a stopover and enjoy the sight of the scenic cascading Aruu falls. Nature walks, swimming, rocking climbing, fishing, bird watching, visit to local markets are some of the activities one can indulge in.
Sezibwa Falls
Sezibwa Falls– one of the unique waterfalls in Uganda; a gorgeous oasis for nature lovers. It’s approximately 35km along Kampala- Jinja highway in Mukono District in Central Uganda. The smoky brownish water gushes between the two rocks and falls 7 meters high producing a hissing sound.
It is the nearest of all to the capital city of Uganda. It’s a hideout place isolated, quiet and serene; perfect for family picnic or couples who would wish to enjoy their private time. It’s also a much-loved place for bird watchers, rock climbing, camping and taking nature walks.
Karuma Falls
Karuma Falls– the stunning falls is on the Victoria Nile south of Murchison falls. The falls are 311 km from Kampala City on Gulu highway.
The Karuma Falls comprise of a sequence of natural good locking rock formations at the base of the Victoria Nile, within this place creating a spectacular ripple of water of a stunning white foam appearance. Karuma Bridge which was constructed in 1963 crosses the huge waterfalls and connects the districts of Masindi in Western Uganda and Gulu in Northern Uganda.
The waterfall is a perfect spot for bird-watching, wildlife viewing like buffaloes, antelopes, monkeys, baboons. Nature walks around the banks of the falls is an exciting activity for most tourist.
