Aruu Falls

Aruu Falls are some of the most scenic natural features that make Uganda a true Pearl of Africa. Aruu waterfalls in Uganda boast of their irresistible beauty, you can view them as they cascade downstream with a roar. The Aruu Falls are found in Pader District, Northern Uganda and accessible on the Gulu-Kitgum highway.

From Gulu city to Aruu Falls, 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 comprise 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. They are among the spectacular waterfalls found within a forest and rocky areas, making them the best spot for adventure seekers to explore.

Why visit Aruu Waterfalls?

Aruu Falls are stunning and iconic attraction in Northern Uganda. While on Aruu Falls 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 Aruu Falls tour. As you walk, be keen enough because the rocks can be slippery. This adventure is perfect for all skilled climbers on Uganda safari, and best done during the peak/dry season –December, January, February or June, July, August and September.

Nature/community walking tours

Go guided nature walk or community visit with an experienced local guide. The waterfalls and its surrounding are all spectacular, offering visitors 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 Aruu Falls should be a must-do in Uganda. The area is found in a scenic landscape with 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, bird while singing and so much more.

Swimming

For enthusiastic swimmers, you can go swimming in the pool down Aruu Falls, but make sure that you take keen attention on the rocky parts of the falls. Swimming here is perfect for experienced swimmers.

Entry fees

You can be allowed to visit Aruu Falls when you have paid and entry fees charged: Shs. 20,000 ($6) for international travelers. East African residents and Ugandans inclusive are charged shs. 10,000.

Getting to Aruu Falls

Aruu Falls is accessible by road, 6 to 7 hours’ drive from Kampala and a good 4×4 safari vehicle guarantees a smooth road trip to Pader on Kampala-Gulu highway. You can combine safaris to Aruu Falls with visit 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, Karamoja region and is Uganda’s 3^rd 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 Aruu Falls via Gulu highway from Kampala. The main experience here is rhino tracking and takes 2 hours or more but 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, Bomah Hotel Gulu, and Jojo’s Palace Annex.