On the 30th of April, 2025, the Uganda Tourism Board, in collaboration with Kapchorwa District Local Government and Kapchorwa Town Council, officially commissioned a newly constructed 2.6km gravel access road to Sipi Falls, which marked a significant milestone for Uganda’s tourism sector.
This development promises to enhance accessibility to one of Uganda’s most breathtaking natural attractions, located in the scenic foothills of Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda.
Sipi Falls, a series of three stunning waterfalls with the tallest plunging 95 meters, has long been a magnet for tourists seeking natural beauty and adventure. The falls, surrounded by lush greenery, banana plantations, and coffee farms, attract between 10-20% of Uganda’s annual tourists, according to Wikipedia data.
However, the previously challenging access road often deterred visitors, limiting the region’s tourism potential. The new gravel road addresses this barrier, making it easier for travelers to reach the falls and explore the surrounding areas, including Mount Elgon National Park.
The commissioning ceremony, captured in images shared by the Uganda Tourism Board on X, featured local leaders and officials cutting a ribbon to mark the road’s opening. Attendees, dressed in a mix of formal attire and high-visibility vests, stood on the freshly laid gravel path with the scenic backdrop of the falls and rolling hills. The event highlighted the collaborative effort to boost tourism infrastructure, a key driver of Uganda’s economy, which saw the sector contribute 7.7% to GDP in 2019, as reported by the World Bank.
Beyond improving accessibility, the project is expected to have a ripple effect on the local economy in Kapchorwa. The region is home to the Sabiny people, who rely heavily on agriculture, particularly the production of Bugisu Arabica coffee, a globally recognized variety grown on the slopes of Mount Elgon. Bugisu and Sebei Region in Eastern Uganda area produces some of the world’s best coffees (Arabica coffee), with fruity and wine-like notes that fetch premium prices.
“Sipi Falls is a jewel in Uganda’s tourism crown, and this new road ensures that more people can experience its beauty while supporting our local communities,” said a representative from the Uganda Tourism Board during the ceremony.
The initiative aligns with Uganda’s broader strategy to grow its tourism sector, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” by improving infrastructure and promoting sustainable travel.
For adventure seekers, Sipi Falls offers a range of activities, from hiking and abseiling down the main waterfall to rock climbing on Mount Elgon’s rugged cliffs, as noted by Responsible Tourism Company Eastern Uganda Region Travel Specialists.
Culturally, visitors can immerse themselves in Sabiny traditions, including coffee tours and community visits, providing a deeper connection to the region’s heritage.
As Uganda continues to position itself as a premier travel destination, the new access road to Sipi Falls is a step toward ensuring that both international and domestic tourists can explore the country’s natural wonders with ease. With the falls now more reachable than ever, Kapchorwa is poised to see a surge in visitors, bringing economic growth and global attention to this picturesque corner of Eastern Uganda.
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