Aruu Falls
Aruu Falls
Aruu Falls are some of the most scenic natural features that make Uganda a true Pearl of Africa. Uganda boasts of their irresistible beauty, you can view them as they cascade downstream with a roar. The Falls are found in Pader District, Northern Uganda, and accessible on the Gulu-Kitgum highway.
From Gulu city, it is 47km, and from Kitgum, it is 57km drive. From Kampala, Aruu waterfalls are accessible 386km along the Gulu highway. These magnificent waterfalls are situated within the Acholi, Lango Region, and surrounding communities comprised of Langi and Acholi.
The streams flow from different rocks including Akweyo, Ryanga, Okello Gem, Lanya Kweyo, Awilo Yaa, Lacee, and Wang Okiye. The waterfalls feature jagged rocks, and they facilitate water flow from R. Agago.
Why visit Aruu Waterfalls?
They are stunning and iconic attractions in Northern Uganda. While on the tour, expect to enjoy plenty of experiences including;
Birding
Birding expeditions can be conducted around Aruu Waterfalls. During bird walk, you stand a chance to identify birds such as the Eastern grey plantains eaters, Egyptian goose, weaver birds, African wagtails, hornbills, and others.
Rock climbing
Rock climbing is a lovely adventure experience that awaits you on the tour. As you walk, be keen enough because the rocks can be slippery.
Nature/community walking tours
Go guided nature walk or community visit with an experienced local guide. The waterfalls and their surroundings are all spectacular, offering visitors the opportunity to explore different daily practices including food storage, harvesting, and a chance to interact with residents.
Photography
If you love taking photos, a visit to the falls should be a must-do in Uganda. The area is found in a scenic landscape with an excellent background for you to have quality pictures.
Camping
Camping is one thing you should expect to have while on Aruu Falls tours. You can camp adjacent to the falls and enjoy the roar of the waterfalls, birds while singing and so much more.
Swimming
For enthusiastic swimmers, you can go swimming in the pool down it, but make sure that you pay keen attention to the rocky parts of the falls. Swimming here is perfect for experienced swimmers.
Entry fees
You can be allowed to visit when you have paid and entry fees are charged: Ugx. 20,000 ($6) for international travelers. East African residents and Ugandans inclusive are charged Ugx. 10,000.
Getting to the Falls
It is accessible by road, a 6 to 7-hour drive from Kampala and a good 4×4 safari vehicle guarantees a smooth road trip to Pader on the Kampala-Gulu highway. You can combine safaris with visits to other places such as Murchison Falls National Park or Kidepo Valley National Park.
Murchison Falls National Park is accessible along the Gulu highway and branching off to this spectacular park is a great chance to enjoy a game drive, launch cruise, birding, white water rafting, and nature walks. Murchison Falls Park is the biggest of the 10 parks in Uganda, spanning 3840sq.km, and is the best place to encounter the big game plus abundant antelope families, primates, and birds.
Kidepo is set in the far Northeast, Karamonja region, and is Uganda’s 3rd largest park with land area coverage of 1442sq.km. Kidepo NP offers excellent savanna game drives for tourists to see wildlife such as cheetahs, leopards, lions, buffaloes, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and others.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary-visit rhinos in the wild only at Ziwa en route to via Gulu highway from Kampala. The main experience here is rhino tracking which takes 2 hours or more but is so rewarding as you explore in-depth about rhino behaviors.
Where to stay
Accommodation facilities to consider for a night stay in and around Aruu include hotels such as Bomah Hotel, Kitgum Royal Hotel, Fugley’s Guesthouse, and Acaki Lodge –all in Kitgum town. In Gulu City, book hotels such as Acholi Inn, Hotel Aluku, Churchill Courts Hotel, Boma Hotel Gulu, and Jojo’s Palace Annex.
