KISIIZI FALLS

Located in Rukungiri district, Western Uganda, the breathtaking Kisiizi Waterfalls cascade down 30 meters on the Rushoma River, feeding into Lake Edward. Situated near Kisiizi Hospital, these picturesque falls have a somber history, once serving as a site of punishment and death for unmarried Bakiga girls who became pregnant. However, since the establishment of Kisiizi Hospital by the Church of Uganda in 1958, the area has transformed into a beacon of hope and healing. Today, visitors can explore the falls as part of their Uganda safari adventures, including gorilla treks, wildlife excursions, birding tours, and cultural experiences, offering a poignant reminder of the region’s complex past and resilient spirit.

The cultural history of Kisiizi Falls is steeped in a complex and troubling tradition. According to local elders, the falls were once used as a site of punishment and death for unmarried Bakiga girls who became pregnant out of wedlock. The gruesome practice, intended to instill fear and maintain moral standards, involved the girl’s father and brother escorting her to the top of the falls, where she would be pushed to her death. This brutal custom was meant to scare other girls into abstaining from premarital sex and remaining virgins until marriage. However, the practice came to a dramatic end with a tragic incident involving a young pregnant woman who, when pushed to her death, grasped her brother and father, and all three plummeted to their deaths. The shocking loss of two men led to the abandonment of this cruel tradition, as the community realized that more girls might follow suit, resulting in further loss of life.

Activities done around Kisiizi falls

Bird watching

The Kisiizi Falls area is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with its lush trees and permanent water source attracting a diverse array of bird species, including the Scarlet Chested Sunbird, African Black Headed Oriole, Haddad Ibis, Black Kite, African Firefinch, African Harrier Hawk, African Paradise Fly-catcher, African Pied Wagtail, African Pygmy Kingfisher, Nubian Woodpecker, Augur Buzzard, Black Headed Weaver, Black-winged Red Bishop, Ross’s Turaco, Bronze Mannequin, Double Toothed Barbet, Emerald-spotted Wood-dove, Grey Crowned Crane, Grey Heron, Speckled Mousebird, Hamerkop, Lesser Striped Swallow, Yellow Mottled Widow birds, Long Crested Eagle, Mackinnon’s Fiscal, Malachite Kingfisher, Pied Crow, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Ring Necked Dove, Willow Warbler, Rufus Chested Swallow, White Browed Robin Chat, Yellow-backed Weaver, and Yellow-billed Stork, making it an ideal location for bird enthusiasts to explore and discover the incredible variety of birdlife that calls this region home.

Forest walks

Explore the lush forest surrounding Kisiizi Falls, where you can indulge in a peaceful picnic amidst nature’s serenity. Take a leisurely forest hike, offering breathtaking views of the Kigezi hills and valleys, and discover the falls from a unique perspective. For a truly unforgettable experience, hike up to the top of Kisiizi Falls and marvel at the stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape, providing a thrilling conclusion to your forest walk adventure.

Community experiences

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Bakiga tribe, indigenous to Kisiizi, by visiting a local family and gaining insight into their daily lives. Participate in a unique community experience, exploring their gardens and learning about traditional farming methods, harvesting fresh produce, and assisting in preparing a local dish that you’ll get to savor. As you share a meal with your hosts, listen to captivating stories about local customs, their evolution over time, and the significant role of Kisiizi Hospital in the community, fostering a deeper understanding and connection with the people and their way of life.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Kisiizi Falls is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the surrounding areas. These periods offer clear skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures, allowing for optimal enjoyment of the falls’ beauty and the various activities available. In contrast, the rainy seasons, from March to May and September to November, can make the roads and trails slippery, and the mist from the falls can reduce visibility, making it less suitable for visitors.

How to get there

To get to Kisiizi Falls, located in Rukungiri District, Western Uganda, you can take a domestic flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi Airstrip, followed by a 1-hour drive to the falls. Alternatively, you can embark on a scenic 7-hour road trip from Kampala, Uganda’s capital city, via Mbarara and Rukungiri towns, offering breathtaking views of the Ugandan countryside. Additionally, public transportation options like buses and taxis are available from Kampala and Rukungiri, although they may take longer. Once you arrive, local guides and tour operators can assist with transportation and accommodation arrangements, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.