Uganda’s hidden cultural treasure | Sezibwa Falls

Uganda’s hidden cultural treasure | Sezibwa Falls

Uganda’s hidden cultural treasure | Sezibwa Falls : is a river in Uganda and derived its name from the Luganda phrase “sizibwa kkubo”. This basically translates to “my path cannot be blocked”. The locals say its because its flow could not be stopped even with different obstacles it encountered along its way. Sezibwa is located in Buikwe District near the town of Ngogwe then pours into Lake Kyoga in Kayunga District. It takes approximately 1 hours’ drive from the capital Kampala depending on the traffic flowing out of the city.

Actually, the site is a Buganda heritage site marked with an out-span of sharp-edged rocks. Additionally, it has got magnificent sound of soothing waters flowing down the steep ridged stones. It is one of Uganda’s hidden cultural treasures with one part owned by Buganda Kingdom and another by the Anglican Church of Uganda. A tour to Sezibwa falls is usually part of the famous Jinja one day tour that takes you to Mabira forest and the source of river Nile. Alternatively, you can also have this tour besides or included on your longer Uganda safaris. These include; the gorilla safaris, birding safari, cultural safaris, wildlife safaris, etc.

The Legend or River Sezibwa

In the 19th century, the waterfall which lies on the Sezibwa River was a favorite spot for two the Kabakas. Kabaka Mwanga and Kabaka Mutesa II both of whom planted trees there that still flourish today. The river is believed to have been born by a woman named Nakangu Tebatuusa while on her way to Kavuma Bukunja. She belonged to a chibe (fox) clan whose husband was Nsubuga Sebwaato. The heavily pregnant Nakangu was expected to give birth to twin children, but instead what poured from her womb was a twin river. As a result,this split into two distinct streams around an island immediately below the waterfall. The spirits of Nakangu’s unborn children- Sezibwa and Mubeya each inhabitant one of these streams. 

What to expect while at Sezibwa Falls

Cultural Experience

Upon arrival here after being welcomed by the resident tour guide, you will start your tour around the area. Later, you will come to an area with many shrines where people come for worship and others performing cultural rituals. Here, the traditional healers have different shrines where people camp for days or overnight. However, this depends on their request as they seek for blessings and healing from their ancestors through the traditional doctors. In fact, the worshipers believe that the falls have supernatural powers that connect them to their ancestors. These include; receive long life, defeat of their enemies and wealth among their many needs. For example, one of the prominent shrines is “Mbuga ya Musoke” where they claim to have a resident python known as Nalongo. The shrine has also got a traditional healer who performs ceremonies for the barren, business success, good harvest, etc.

Bird watching

Sezibwa falls area is known as one of the many destinations for birding in Uganda. For an avid bird watcher, this makes a good weekend away exploring some of the common and rare species of birds. The area is basically rich in some water birds, forest species and some savannah species found in the gardens adjacent to the falls. Birds include; the African fin foot, Giant kingfisher, Long-tailed cormorant, African grey horn bill. African paradise flycatcher, Ashy flycatcher, Black-necked weaver, Blue-spotted wood dove, Bronze manikin. Dark-capped bulbul, Emerald cuckoo, Fan-tailed widow bird, Kingfisher, etc.

Rock climbing and Hiking

This sight has beautiful racked rocks for an interesting rock-climbing experience. This involves a hike on top of the falls where you will be able to see the river Sezibwa forcefully flowing down the rocks. The hike may be challenging for those who are not fit but the rocks are not too difficult or high. Besides, it is enough to give you a rock-climbing experience among the other attractions in the area. Hence, the final reward is great views of the waterfalls and surrounding scenery. 

Picnics and camping

The beautiful green gardens around the falls are perfect for picnics. Here, you can organize small family parties and merry making without disturbing others. You can as well set up a picnic site under one of the tall trees and enjoy the cool breeze. You can also watch the amazing waterfalls, play games as you have good time with family or friends. Those interested in camping will find the neatly mowed grounds after the bridge perfect. Camping close to the falls offers a cool environment with beautiful sounds of birds and primates. While camping or partying here, you are free to carry your food and drinks.

Nature and village walks

With the help of a local guide, you will safely go for the most attractive activity after viewing the beautiful falls. The surrounding forests are generally good for nature walks. This involves coming across tree types like the bamboo, Muvule, Musizi, Mahogany, Eucalyptus, Ebony trees, etc. Besides, you will also spot different birds, butterflies and small primates. The walk can be prolonged to include visits to local farms, plantations and more so to the four villages i.e Ngogwe, Madudu, Wamala and Kungu. Most of intentional tourists who come to the sight often wish to have close encounters and experiences with local villagers in an African home. 

Getting there

The Falls lies 40km east of Kampala and it can be reached by following the Jinja road as far as Kayanja trading center. At the signposted junction, turn right and continue south for almost 2km. Then turn right again on a signposted track that brings you to the entrance gate after 350m. Using public transport, any eastbound matatu out of Kampala old taxi park can drop you at Kayanja. Visit the Sezibwa falls and enjoy learning more about this legend by booking/contacting us.