Mbale
The central city of eastern Uganda at the foot of Mount Elgon, a transport and supply hub for trips to Sipi and climbs.
Mbale is the commercial centre of eastern Uganda, nestled at the foot of Mount Elgon and the Wanale Ridge, about 4–5 hours by bus from Kampala. The town has a lively central market, colonial-era streets, and several mosques and churches. The Uganda Wildlife Authority's Mount Elgon office is also here, where climbing permits can be arranged. Minibuses to Sipi Falls leave from the main bus station. In August of every even-numbered year, the Bugisu people hold a grand circumcision ceremony, Imbalu, in the surrounding area, with singing and dancing processions that are a distinctive feature of the region.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Wanale Ridge
- Sipi Escarpment Viewpoint
- Sipi Falls (Main Falls)
- Bugisu Coffee Farm Tour
- Upper Sipi Falls (Simba & Ngasire)
- Kapkwai Forest Exploration Centre & Chebonet Falls
- Wagagai Peak
- Mount Elgon National Park