Aruu Falls
Aruu Falls: The Aruu Falls are a group of waterfalls located in the Pader district of the Gulu Kitgum highway in northern Uganda. Using the Gulu highway, a trip to the falls takes approximately 4 to 6 hours from Kampala. The falls are approximately 386 kilometers from Kampala, the capital of Uganda, 47 kilometers from Gulu, and 57 kilometers from Kigtum.
The majority of the people who live near the falls are Langi or Acholis, and the falls are situated in the Acholi-Lango region. There are farms in the neighborhoods surrounding the waterfalls, and these folks are also farmers.
The falls are quite wonderful to look at since they are picturesque waterfalls with water flowing downstream over rocky rocks. The waterfalls are composed of many streams that cascade with a thunderous sound and an enthralling sight that is simply breathtaking and unparalleled.
The falls’ many streams originate from seven rocks that are; Ryanga, Awilo, Akweyo, Wang, Okiye Lacee, Okello, Gem, Yaa,Kweyo, Lanya.
The smooth flow of water downstream from the River Agago is made possible by the angular, step-like structure of these rocks.
Despite not being well-known, the falls are a wonderful spot to visit; they are thrilling, daring, and soothing. They are among Uganda’s best-kept secrets (Uganda Safari Attractions), and visitors are amazed by how magnificent the Aruu falls are. The majority of visitors to the falls are happy to participate in a variety of water sports and go across rocky terrain to reach the falls’ base.
Rock climbing or hiking are the only ways to reach the Aruu waterfalls because they are located in a rocky and forested area. Upon arriving at the falls, you can engage in the following activities during your visit.
Seeing a waterfall
The simplest and most popular pastime is waterfall viewing, which involves standing at key locations along the falls to enjoy their beauty, sound, and flow while also looking downstream at the rocks. Even though it can appear like a by-the-way pastime, visitors typically spend an hour or so admiring the distinctiveness of these picturesque waterfalls.
Having a picnic
As previously mentioned, the Aruu Falls are surrounded by rocks, which provide for unparalleled picnic spots. As a result, you can choose to eat a picnic lunch on one of the many picnic rocks nearby and take in the refreshing breeze. You may take in breathtaking views of the Acholi-Lango region while sitting on these rocks.
Walks in the Nature and Community
To learn more about the local communities and the surroundings of the falls, you can also go on guided nature and community walks. The community walks are held in the neighboring communities, while the nature walks go through a portion of the forest. You will witness a variety of birds, butterflies, and other forest critters while on the nature walks, which will allow you to appreciate the many tree species found in the forests. You can participate in customary and communal activities, such as gathering and storing food and chatting with the villagers who live near the falls, during community walks. Along the community stroll, you may also stop at the local market to buy freshly produced food items and handcrafted items created by locals.
Rock climbing
One of the most thrilling experiences at these falls is rock climbing against the flowing water, which is an activity that gives you chills even though the rocks are typically slick due to the water’s speed. However, the place’s management suggests that only experienced climbers engage in the activity, and that they do so only in the dry seasons when the rocks are less slippery.
Observing birds
During your visit to the falls, you may see a few different species of birds that wander the area. These birds include African wagtails, stone chat birds, weaver birds, hornbills, and many others.
Swimming
The management of the location insists that you should swim with caution due to the rocky nature of the area and that only experienced swimmers should swim in the pool where some of the water accumulates down the waterfalls.
Taking pictures
On Uganda Tours to the Northern Region, some tourists travel to the falls to capture pictures and videos against the waterfalls’ distinctive and lovely backdrops, which provide the ideal backdrop for nature photography.