Untrained guides threaten tourism at Sipi Falls

Licensed tour guides at Sipi falls in eastern Uganda are warning that untrained and unregistered individuals posing as guides are tarnishing the destination’s reputation and putting visitors at risk.

The Sipi Tour Guide Association says these self-proclaimed guides, often young people without formal training or certification, intercept tourists along access routes and offer unofficial tours at inflated prices.

Many reportedly give inaccurate information about the falls and surrounding attractions, leaving visitors frustrated.

“Several tourists have complained about being overcharged and poorly guided,” said David Chebet, a licensed guide, adding that one tourist already filed a complaint about being verbally abused after questioning the price.

Others returned disappointed by the lack of proper explanation or guidance. Perched at the foothills of Mount Elgon near the Kenya-Uganda border, Sipi falls is often described as one of the country’s most beautiful natural attractions.

The three stunning waterfalls cascading down the slopes of the mountain range from 65 to 100 meters high, offering breathtaking scenery, cool mountain air, and opportunities for adventure sports.

The serene setting of Sipi makes it a must-visit destination for both domestic and international tourists, with hundreds visiting the area for hiking, abseiling, bird-watching, and rich cultural experiences among the Sabiny people. These activities, however, require trained guides equipped with safety gear and first-aid skills.

“The fake guides have none of these, and if something goes wrong, there’s no accountability,” warned Patrick Solimo, a tour operator and member of the Uganda Community Tourism Association (UCOTA).

According to the association, most licensed guides have completed Uganda Tourism Board (UTB)-supported training and operate under professional standards. But enforcement is weak.

“There is no formal office, no registration mechanism, and no enforcement,” said Peter Kibet, chairperson of the Sipi Tour Guide Association. “This vice is left to flourish, and it is hurting the tourism industry and the local economy.”

Operators also cite other challenges like poor road conditions, limited directional signage, and the absence of a central tourism information centre, which makes it easier for impostors to target independent travellers. Kibet urged tourists to book tours only through registered lodges or recognised operators and to always ask for proof of registration and a receipt.

“To avoid impostors and forgers, seek guides from your place of lodging or officially recognised operators,” he advised.

Tourism is one of Uganda’s top foreign-exchange earners, contributing about 7 per cent of the country’s GDP and employing hundreds of thousands of people. Iconic natural attractions like Sipi falls are a key part of this appeal.