Sezibwa Falls
The Ssezibwa falls are an important part of Buganda’s history, culture and beliefs. This cultural importance adds to the mystery and attractiveness of the falls.
The Baganda believe in the supernatural powers of the river Ssezibwa.
The Kings (Kabakas) of Buganda used to come to this place to seek blessings and good health.
Kabaka Mwanga planted a wild olive tree known as Mwanga tree while on a journey between two of his palaces in 1889. This tree is over 100 years old.
The kings aside, people from all over Uganda still flock to the place to seek blessings from the gods for their health, jobs, children, business and families. The medicine men (traditional healer) invoke the gods or use local herbs to cure diseases, toothache, stomach upsets and skin diseases. Sacrifices to win the favor of the gods may include coffee beans, eggs, local beer, chicken or animals like sheep and goats.
Hiking & Climbing
This involves a hike on top of the fall where you will be able to see the River Sezibwa forcefully flowing down the rocks and escaping through the dense trees and bushes.
The hike may be challenging for those who are not fit but the final reward is great views of the waterfalls and surrounding scenery.
You may even spot lizards and other creatures along the way
Nature Walks
Arguably the most attractive activity after viewing the beautiful falls.
The surrounding forests are the first place to go to. The main trees types are bamboo, Muvule, Musizi, Mahogany, fig, Eucalyptus and Ebony trees. The area also has a lot of bushes and shrubs.
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 plantations (sugarcane and tea) in the surrounding areas. International tourists are charged about $4. This amount is used to pay the Guide and the balance for forest conservation efforts.
Bird Watching
The area surrounding the Ssezibwa waterfalls is covered by a forest which is a sanctuary to over 50 bird species.
Birders will find the place very amazing. Just at the foot of he falls one can spot African Finfoot and the Long-tailed Cormorant enjoying a swim. The other species within and around the falls include the African Finfoot, African Grey Hornbill, African Paradise Fly Catcher, Ashy Fly Catcher, Black-necked Weaver, Blue-spotted Wood Dove, Bronze Mannikin, Dark-capped Bulbul, Emerald Cuckoo, Fan-tailed Widowbird etc
