Ssezibwa Falls, a renowned hidden cultural treasure is located 32 kilometers from Kampala city along the main road between Kampala and Jinja in the District of Mukono, just a few hours drive from Kampala. Ssezibwa Falls is a natural wonder formed by water passing through a narrow opening in rocks and cascading at a high speed of 17 meters into a deep pool that measures approximately 14 meters deep.
Ssezibwa Falls and the neighboring areas are ideal for relaxation after an extensive wildlife safari in Uganda or after a demanding adventure activities such as Whitewater rafting, gorilla trekking or bungee jumping at the source of the Nile River.
The name “Ssezibwa” is a local name derived from to mean “something endless”. The falls hold significant cultural and spiritual value for the Baganda people and are among the top attractions in Uganda.
Characterized by sharp-edged rocks and a sizable pool below, Ssezibwa Falls receives it’s continuous water flow from the River Ssezibwa flowing all the way to Lake Kyoga.
The area surrounding the falls is inhabited by small primates like Vervet and red-tailed monkeys, as well as snakes such as the African cobra, green mambas, and horned adder.
There are other wildlife species that can be witnessed in your Ssezibwa Falls encounter, among them include otters, tadpoles, mongooses, and some wild cats.
To many local inhabitants of the area, the Bagandans, Ssezibwa Falls has more cultural and local attachment. It’s not just a Waterfalls. This cultural value enhances the magnificence and charm of the falls.
According to the Bugandans, history has it that, a woman named Nakangu Tebatuusa had a disagreement with her husband, Nsubuga Sebwaata, and returned to her parents’ home. She was pregnant.
In an attempt to mend her marriage, her father advised her to reconcile with her husband, and she was accompanied by her mother but as she neared her marital home, since her pregnancy was due, she grew weary and gave birth to twins in the form of water.
Her husband later found her with the help of a man who had spotted her heading towards the forest. They discovered a pool of water flowing, which later split into two rivers known as Bwanda and Ssezibwa.
Bwanda flowed towards the East to Nyenga at birth, while Sezibwa encountered numerous obstacles as it flowed towards the west. A spirit named Nalongo Nnkubo supported Sezibwa in overcoming these obstacles.
As a result, shrines were built near the waterfalls to worship these spirits. In addition to Nalongo Kkubo, other gods such as Walumbe (god of death and life), Musoke (god of rains), Ddungu (the hunting god), Kibuuka (god of war), Musisi (earthquakes), and Mukasa (fertility, wealth, and good health) are revered.
The legend of Sezibwa and Bwanda has led to a high regard for twins in Buganda until now, with their birth being considered a special blessing and rituals performed to appease the gods. The parents of twins are given special names like Salongo (Father) or Nalongo (Mother).
To tap into this incredible blessing, It was customary for anyone passing by the Ssezibwa waterfalls to throw stones into the water to tap from this incredible source of blessings.
In order to live longer and in better health, the Kings (Kabakas) of Buganda used to regularly visit this place to tap from its powers.
During a journey between two of his palaces in 1889, Kabaka Mwanga planted a wild olive tree known as the Mwanga tree. This tree, which is now over 100 years old, was a testament to the captivating beauty of the waterfalls that enchanted him.
King Muteesa II also planted a tree as a sign of respect and acknowledgment of the spiritual significance of the waterfalls and the river Ssezibwa.
In 2002, King Ronald Mwenda Mutebi II visited the site to officially designate it as one of Buganda’s important tourism destinations.
The kings may not be present, but individuals from various regions of Uganda continue to visit the site in search of blessings from the deities for their well-being, employment, offspring, livelihoods, and loved ones.
Traditional healers, known as medicine men, either call upon the gods or utilize indigenous herbs to treat ailments such as illnesses, toothaches, stomach discomforts, and skin conditions.
Offerings made to gain the favor of the deities may consist of items like coffee beans, eggs, local brew, poultry, or livestock like sheep and goats. These animals and birds are sacrificed at the top of the waterfall before being cast down to satisfy the gods and nourish Ssezibwa. It is not uncommon to encounter deceased animals at the base of the falls.
The Ssezibwa waterfalls are a great weekend getaway site or for guests on a holiday break. It’s close proximity to Kampala and easy accessibility offers a cool and serene environment. Moreover, its cheap compared to Uganda’s other destinations.
If you are coming from whitewater rafting in Jinja or visiting the Eastern Districts of Uganda can stop by the falls to rest and marvel at the clear waters.
Some of the great activities here include the following;
The Ssezibwa waterfalls is surrounded by forests and sugar plantation and making it a perfect habitat for over 50 species of birds including; the African Finfoot, the grey Hornbill, Little Hazzard, Blue turaco, Little buzzard, yellow wagtail, superb sunbird, olive bellied-sunbird, white-browed robin-chat, yellow-ramped tinker bird, white headed sawing, yellow fronted canary, common bulbul, and many others.
Besides just watching the waterfall, Nature walk is regarded the very best activity to do here in Ssezibwa waterfalls.
The surrounding forest that offers great views of the local eucalyptus, mahogany, fig trees, mvule, ebony and shrubs is definitely your first recommended place followed by arranging a mild village walk as you encounter any of the 4 local neighborhoods of Ngogwe, Madudu, Wamala and Kungu can be more satisfying than you think.
With the help of a local Guide, you will also spot more birds, butterflies and small primates. The walk can be prolonged to include visits to local farms and sugarcane or tea plantations.
Rock climbing is one of the thrilling activities available during the tour of Sezibwa falls.
It is an enjoyable adventure that requires participants to be physically and mentally fit in order to have a positive experience.
During a Sezibwa falls rock climbing, you will ascend to the top of the rocks, descend the falls, and traverse the rocky terrain until you reach the designated top of the falls which is the best view point to sight the waterfalls and it’s surrounding.
The rocks at Sezibwa falls are large and sharp, forming a picturesque backdrop for the falls. Along the climb, you may encounter fascinating creatures like lizards, skinks, or snakes, adding to the adventure.
During your visit to Sezibwa Falls on safari, you will discover the many shrines built to enable the local people who still believe in consulting or communication with their dead ancestors and gods.
Jjaja Ssezibwa’ s shrine is located just besides the beautiful waterfalls, a planned visit to this shrine as you learn more about the local belief is possible. Get in touch and let’s have this arranged for you.
This shrine is said to have several objects of spiritual importance including beads, beans, calabashes, spears, pots, cowrie shells and bark clothes among others.
Only men who haven’t had sex the previous nights are allowed to enter. No female can enter here. If you subscribe to any denomination, Christianity or islam, you might want to think twice before visiting this shrine.
The beautiful green gardens, great topography, easy access of drinks and foods especially from Ssezibwa Resort and other amazing sceneries make Ssezibwa falls an incredible for picnic.
Planning a family get-together, employees picnic parties and intimate picnics here can be much more rewarding as you watch the incredible ‘endless’ waterfalls.
It’s important to note that this is a public camping site and therefore, you shall be camping on the same ground with other locals who have come to visit the shrines.
Just like any other beautiful waterfall, Ssezibwa is an incredible swimming site especially for the experienced swimmers.
Because of its deep level, the management does not recommend swimming here however, if you trust your swimming skills, why not challenge yourself and swim from the special twin waterfall!
The astonishing and serene sceneries around Ssezibwa waterfalls offers amazing photographs. Aside from the scenic waterfall, the green background, rocks and trees look great on camera.
This is one of the most visited sites by locals who desire great photography especially during proposals, birthday parties or any other related activities.
Ssezibwa Falls is just 30 kilometers from Kampala and therefore very accessible. Located between Kampala city and Jinja city in Mukono, you shall arrive in Ssezibwa.
Once you reach the junction leading to the falls, you will encounter a marram road and because of the nature of this road, a 4×4 WD is most recommended here especially during the rainy season, to navigate through this rough terrain. Drive cautiously and pay attention to avoid missing the main junction that will take you to the falls. Although there is a signpost directing you to the Ssezibwa River Resort, it can be easily overlooked.
Upon entering through the main gate constructed from reeds, you will be greeted by the stunning scenery and the soothing sounds of the waterfalls. The area is abundant with trees and remains relatively untouched.
As you explore further into the site, you will not only discover the waterfalls but also a bridge that spans across the river downstream. This bridge provides an excellent best-view point to admire the falls and capture memorable photographs. On the other side of the bridge, you will find rocks, trees, and well-maintained grass, all contributing to a serene environment perfect for relaxation.
Ssezibwa Falls is an incredible destination offering impressive unwinding activities and much recommended for weekend getaways especially due to it’s easy accessibility from Kampala. In fact, just 30 kilometers from Kampala.
Ssezibwa also offer unforgettable relaxation especially from the tiring adventure activities such as the white water rafting, bungee-jumping and other demanding activities. When you visit Ssezibwa Falls, you aren’t just visiting a site, you are visiting a part of a great treasure of the Buganda people.
Planning a visit to Ssezibwa Falls, you shall lean more about the destination and appreciate the enduring bond between humanity and the environment, a tribute to the awe and enigma of the world that surrounds us. Start planning today!
Low season
Oct, Nov, Mar, Apr, may
Peak season
Jun, July, Aug, Sept, Dec