2-Day Sipi Falls Hike & Coffee Tour from Kampala

Summary

Sipi Falls Adventure: Hiking, Coffee & Local Life in Eastern Uganda

If you want real adventure mixed with local flavor, this two-day Sipi Falls trip is for you. You’ll hike hidden trails, taste fresh Ugandan coffee straight from the farm, and meet people who call these hills home.

What’s the experience like?

We left Kampala just as the sun was peeking through the clouds, winding past sugarcane fields and the thick green of Mabira Forest. The road east has its own rhythm—kids waving by roadside stalls, the smell of roasting maize drifting in through the window. Our driver pointed out Ssezibwa Falls as we passed; locals believe it’s got spiritual roots. By early afternoon, we were climbing into Kapchorwa, where the air felt cooler and you could see Mount Elgon hiding behind a misty veil.

The evening coffee tour was a real eye-opener. We met Moses, who walked us through his family’s small plot—he let us pick ripe cherries right off the bush. The scent of fresh beans roasting over charcoal is something I won’t forget soon. We ground them by hand and brewed a cup right there; honestly, it tasted richer than anything I’ve had back home. Dinner at our lodge was simple but filling—matoke and goat stew—and I slept like a log with the sound of distant waterfalls outside.

Next morning started early. Our guide Sarah led us along muddy trails to all three Sipi Falls. Each one’s different: one thunders down a sheer cliff, another tumbles over mossy rocks where kids splash around barefoot. There’s this spot halfway up where you can feel the spray on your face—it wakes you up better than any coffee! Locals sell roasted peanuts in little paper cones near the trailhead; perfect snack for tired legs. After lunch we headed back to Kampala, windows down, dust in our hair and shoes still muddy from the hike.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Travel and Coffee Tour

• Travel to Kapchorwa
• Evening coffee guided tour

Day 2 — Sipi Falls Hike and Return

• Hiking and viewing the 3 falls
• Drive back to Kampala

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners or kids?

Most people can handle the hike if they’re reasonably fit—there are some steep bits but guides go at your pace. Kids who enjoy walking outdoors will love it.

What should I pack for the Sipi Falls hike?

Bring comfy walking shoes (it gets muddy), a light rain jacket (weather changes fast), sunscreen, and maybe a small backpack for snacks or water.

Are meals included? What kind of food is served?

Yes—breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all covered. Expect local dishes like matoke (plantain), rice, beans, plus some meat options depending on what’s fresh that day.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?

Let us know ahead of time—we’ll do our best to arrange meals that suit your needs.

What’s included

Your trip covers private transport from Kampala to Kapchorwa and back, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), one night’s stay in Sipi with cozy local hospitality, guided hikes to all three falls plus an authentic coffee experience with local farmers.