inspiresafaris

[inspiresafaris]

African elephant

What is the African elephant? African elephants are the largest land animals on Earth. They are slightly larger than their Asian cousins and can be identified by their larger ears that look somewhat like the continent of Africa. (Asian elephants have smaller, rounded ears.) Although they were long grouped together as one species, scientists have determined that there are actually two species of African elephants—and that both are at risk of extinction. Savanna elephants are larger animals that roam the plains of sub-Saharan Africa, while forest elephants are smaller animals that live in the forests of Central and West Africa. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature lists savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. African elephants are keystone species, meaning they play a critical role in their ecosystem. Also known as “ecosystem engineers,” elephants shape their habitat in many ways. During the dry season, they use their tusks to dig up dry riverbeds and create watering holes many animals can drink from. Their dung is full of seeds, helping plants spread across the environment—and it makes pretty good habitat for dung beetles too. In the forest, their feasting on trees and shrubs creates pathways for smaller animals to move through, and in the savanna, they uproot trees and eat saplings, which helps keep the landscape open for zebras and other plains animals to thrive. Trunks and tusks Elephant ears radiate heat to help keep these large animals cool, but sometimes the African heat is too much. Elephants are fond of water and enjoy showering by sucking water into their trunks and spraying it all over themselves. Afterwards, they often spray their skin with a protective coating of dust. An elephant's trunk is actually a long nose used for smelling, breathing, trumpeting, drinking, and also for grabbing things—especially a potential meal. The trunk alone contains about 40,000 muscles. African elephants have two fingerlike features on the end of their trunk that they can use to grab small items. (Asian elephants have just one.) Both male and female African elephants have tusks, which are continuously growing teeth. Savanna elephants have curving tusks, while the tusks of forest elephants are straight. They use these tusks to dig for food and water and strip bark from trees. Males, whose tusks tend to be larger than females', also use their tusks to battle one another. Diet Elephants eat roots, grasses, fruit, and bark. An adult elephant can consume up to 300 pounds of food in a single day. These hungry animals do not sleep much, roaming great distances while foraging for the large quantities of food that they require to sustain their massive bodies. African elephants range throughout the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa and the rainforests of Central and West Africa. The continent’s northernmost elephants are found in Mali’s Sahel Desert. The small, nomadic herd of Mali elephants migrates in a circular route through the desert in search of water. Because elephants eat so much, they’re increasingly coming into contact with humans. An elephant can destroy an entire season of crops in a single night. A number of conservation programs work with farmers to help them protect their crops and provide compensation when an elephant does raid them. Herds Elephants are matriarchal, meaning they live in female-led groups. The matriarch is usually the biggest and oldest. She presides over a multi-generational herd that includes other females, called cows, and their young. Adult males, called bulls, tend to roam on their own, sometimes forming smaller, more loosely associated all-male groups. Having a baby elephant is a serious commitment. Elephants have a longer pregnancy than any other mammal—almost 22 months. Cows usually give birth to one calf every two to four years. At birth, elephants already weigh some 200 pounds and stand about three feet tall. Threats to survival Poaching for the illegal ivory trade is the biggest threat to African elephants’ survival. Before the Europeans began colonizing Africa, there may have been as many as 26 million elephants. By the early 20th century, their numbers had dropped to 10 million. Hunting continued to increase. By 1970, their numbers were down to 1.3 million. Between 1970 and 1990, hunting and poaching put the African elephant at risk of extinction, reducing its population by another half. In the years since, poaching has continued to threaten both species: Savanna elephants declined by 30 percent between 2007 and 2014, while forest elephants declined by 64 percent from 2002 to 2011 as poaching worsened in Central and West Africa. In 2021, the International Union for Conservation of Nature recognized them as separate species for the first time, listing savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. As few as 400,000 remain today. Compounding the problem is how long it takes for elephants to reproduce. With reproduction rates hovering around 5 to 6 percent, there are simply not enough calves being born to make up for the losses from poaching. African elephants are also losing their habitat as the human population grows and people convert land for agriculture and development. Elephants need a lot of room, so habitat destruction and fragmentation not only makes it harder for them to find food, water, and each other, but it also puts them in increased conflict with humans.   Conservation The decision to recognize African elephants as two separate species is seen as an important step for conservation, as it highlights the different challenges that each species faces. Scientists hope that the listing will bring more attention to forest elephants, which have often been overlooked by governments and donors when grouped together with more visible savanna elephants. African elephants are protected to varying degrees in all the countries of their geographic range. They’re also protected under international environmental agreements, CITES and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species. There have been recent efforts to bring re-legalize the international trade in ivory, but those so far have failed. Conservation groups and governments have worked to set aside land for wildlife—including corridors that connect those protected lands. Still, researchers believe that up to 70 percent of elephants' range is on unprotected land. To curb poaching, stopping the illegal trade is key. Advocates have launched campaigns that address both the supply side (poaching) and the demand side (people who buy ivory). There has been some progress in recent years, especially on the demand side: In 2015, China—believed to be the world’s biggest illegal and legal ivory market—agreed to a “near-complete” ban on the domestic trade of ivory. Since the ban went into effect, public demand for ivory seems to have fallen. On the supply side, protecting elephants from poaching also requires a local approach. In 2019, a study showed that the suffering of elephants is tied to that of the humans living nearby: Regions with high levels of poverty and corruption are more likely to have higher poaching rates. This suggests that helping communities develop sustainable livelihoods could reduce the lure of poaching. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

African elephant

What is the African elephant? African elephants are the largest land animals on Earth. They are slightly larger than their Asian cousins and can be identified by their larger ears that look somewhat like the continent of Africa. (Asian elephants have smaller, rounded ears.) Although they were long grouped together as one species, scientists have determined that there are actually two species of African elephants—and that both are at risk of extinction. Savanna elephants are larger animals that roam the plains of sub-Saharan Africa, while forest elephants are smaller animals that live in the forests of Central and West Africa. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature lists savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. African elephants are keystone species, meaning they play a critical role in their ecosystem. Also known as “ecosystem engineers,” elephants shape their habitat in many ways. During the dry season, they use their tusks to dig up dry riverbeds and create watering holes many animals can drink from. Their dung is full of seeds, helping plants spread across the environment—and it makes pretty good habitat for dung beetles too. In the forest, their feasting on trees and shrubs creates pathways for smaller animals to move through, and in the savanna, they uproot trees and eat saplings, which helps keep the landscape open for zebras and other plains animals to thrive. Trunks and tusks Elephant ears radiate heat to help keep these large animals cool, but sometimes the African heat is too much. Elephants are fond of water and enjoy showering by sucking water into their trunks and spraying it all over themselves. Afterwards, they often spray their skin with a protective coating of dust. An elephant's trunk is actually a long nose used for smelling, breathing, trumpeting, drinking, and also for grabbing things—especially a potential meal. The trunk alone contains about 40,000 muscles. African elephants have two fingerlike features on the end of their trunk that they can use to grab small items. (Asian elephants have just one.) Both male and female African elephants have tusks, which are continuously growing teeth. Savanna elephants have curving tusks, while the tusks of forest elephants are straight. They use these tusks to dig for food and water and strip bark from trees. Males, whose tusks tend to be larger than females', also use their tusks to battle one another. Diet Elephants eat roots, grasses, fruit, and bark. An adult elephant can consume up to 300 pounds of food in a single day. These hungry animals do not sleep much, roaming great distances while foraging for the large quantities of food that they require to sustain their massive bodies. African elephants range throughout the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa and the rainforests of Central and West Africa. The continent’s northernmost elephants are found in Mali’s Sahel Desert. The small, nomadic herd of Mali elephants migrates in a circular route through the desert in search of water. Because elephants eat so much, they’re increasingly coming into contact with humans. An elephant can destroy an entire season of crops in a single night. A number of conservation programs work with farmers to help them protect their crops and provide compensation when an elephant does raid them. Herds Elephants are matriarchal, meaning they live in female-led groups. The matriarch is usually the biggest and oldest. She presides over a multi-generational herd that includes other females, called cows, and their young. Adult males, called bulls, tend to roam on their own, sometimes forming smaller, more loosely associated all-male groups. Having a baby elephant is a serious commitment. Elephants have a longer pregnancy than any other mammal—almost 22 months. Cows usually give birth to one calf every two to four years. At birth, elephants already weigh some 200 pounds and stand about three feet tall. Threats to survival Poaching for the illegal ivory trade is the biggest threat to African elephants’ survival. Before the Europeans began colonizing Africa, there may have been as many as 26 million elephants. By the early 20th century, their numbers had dropped to 10 million. Hunting continued to increase. By 1970, their numbers were down to 1.3 million. Between 1970 and 1990, hunting and poaching put the African elephant at risk of extinction, reducing its population by another half. In the years since, poaching has continued to threaten both species: Savanna elephants declined by 30 percent between 2007 and 2014, while forest elephants declined by 64 percent from 2002 to 2011 as poaching worsened in Central and West Africa. In 2021, the International Union for Conservation of Nature recognized them as separate species for the first time, listing savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. As few as 400,000 remain today. Compounding the problem is how long it takes for elephants to reproduce. With reproduction rates hovering around 5 to 6 percent, there are simply not enough calves being born to make up for the losses from poaching. African elephants are also losing their habitat as the human population grows and people convert land for agriculture and development. Elephants need a lot of room, so habitat destruction and fragmentation not only makes it harder for them to find food, water, and each other, but it also puts them in increased conflict with humans.   Conservation The decision to recognize African elephants as two separate species is seen as an important step for conservation, as it highlights the different challenges that each species faces. Scientists hope that the listing will bring more attention to forest elephants, which have often been overlooked by governments and donors when grouped together with more visible savanna elephants. African elephants are protected to varying degrees in all the countries of their geographic range. They’re also protected under international environmental agreements, CITES and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species. There have been recent efforts to bring re-legalize the international trade in ivory, but those so far have failed. Conservation groups and governments have worked to set aside land for wildlife—including corridors that connect those protected lands. Still, researchers believe that up to 70 percent of elephants' range is on unprotected land. To curb poaching, stopping the illegal trade is key. Advocates have launched campaigns that address both the supply side (poaching) and the demand side (people who buy ivory). There has been some progress in recent years, especially on the demand side: In 2015, China—believed to be the world’s biggest illegal and legal ivory market—agreed to a “near-complete” ban on the domestic trade of ivory. Since the ban went into effect, public demand for ivory seems to have fallen. On the supply side, protecting elephants from poaching also requires a local approach. In 2019, a study showed that the suffering of elephants is tied to that of the humans living nearby: Regions with high levels of poverty and corruption are more likely to have higher poaching rates. This suggests that helping communities develop sustainable livelihoods could reduce the lure of poaching. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

African elephant

What is the African elephant? African elephants are the largest land animals on Earth. They are slightly larger than their Asian cousins and can be identified by their larger ears that look somewhat like the continent of Africa. (Asian elephants have smaller, rounded ears.) Although they were long grouped together as one species, scientists have determined that there are actually two species of African elephants—and that both are at risk of extinction. Savanna elephants are larger animals that roam the plains of sub-Saharan Africa, while forest elephants are smaller animals that live in the forests of Central and West Africa. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature lists savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. African elephants are keystone species, meaning they play a critical role in their ecosystem. Also known as “ecosystem engineers,” elephants shape their habitat in many ways. During the dry season, they use their tusks to dig up dry riverbeds and create watering holes many animals can drink from. Their dung is full of seeds, helping plants spread across the environment—and it makes pretty good habitat for dung beetles too. In the forest, their feasting on trees and shrubs creates pathways for smaller animals to move through, and in the savanna, they uproot trees and eat saplings, which helps keep the landscape open for zebras and other plains animals to thrive. Trunks and tusks Elephant ears radiate heat to help keep these large animals cool, but sometimes the African heat is too much. Elephants are fond of water and enjoy showering by sucking water into their trunks and spraying it all over themselves. Afterwards, they often spray their skin with a protective coating of dust. An elephant's trunk is actually a long nose used for smelling, breathing, trumpeting, drinking, and also for grabbing things—especially a potential meal. The trunk alone contains about 40,000 muscles. African elephants have two fingerlike features on the end of their trunk that they can use to grab small items. (Asian elephants have just one.) Both male and female African elephants have tusks, which are continuously growing teeth. Savanna elephants have curving tusks, while the tusks of forest elephants are straight. They use these tusks to dig for food and water and strip bark from trees. Males, whose tusks tend to be larger than females', also use their tusks to battle one another. Diet Elephants eat roots, grasses, fruit, and bark. An adult elephant can consume up to 300 pounds of food in a single day. These hungry animals do not sleep much, roaming great distances while foraging for the large quantities of food that they require to sustain their massive bodies. African elephants range throughout the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa and the rainforests of Central and West Africa. The continent’s northernmost elephants are found in Mali’s Sahel Desert. The small, nomadic herd of Mali elephants migrates in a circular route through the desert in search of water. Because elephants eat so much, they’re increasingly coming into contact with humans. An elephant can destroy an entire season of crops in a single night. A number of conservation programs work with farmers to help them protect their crops and provide compensation when an elephant does raid them. Herds Elephants are matriarchal, meaning they live in female-led groups. The matriarch is usually the biggest and oldest. She presides over a multi-generational herd that includes other females, called cows, and their young. Adult males, called bulls, tend to roam on their own, sometimes forming smaller, more loosely associated all-male groups. Having a baby elephant is a serious commitment. Elephants have a longer pregnancy than any other mammal—almost 22 months. Cows usually give birth to one calf every two to four years. At birth, elephants already weigh some 200 pounds and stand about three feet tall. Threats to survival Poaching for the illegal ivory trade is the biggest threat to African elephants’ survival. Before the Europeans began colonizing Africa, there may have been as many as 26 million elephants. By the early 20th century, their numbers had dropped to 10 million. Hunting continued to increase. By 1970, their numbers were down to 1.3 million. Between 1970 and 1990, hunting and poaching put the African elephant at risk of extinction, reducing its population by another half. In the years since, poaching has continued to threaten both species: Savanna elephants declined by 30 percent between 2007 and 2014, while forest elephants declined by 64 percent from 2002 to 2011 as poaching worsened in Central and West Africa. In 2021, the International Union for Conservation of Nature recognized them as separate species for the first time, listing savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. As few as 400,000 remain today. Compounding the problem is how long it takes for elephants to reproduce. With reproduction rates hovering around 5 to 6 percent, there are simply not enough calves being born to make up for the losses from poaching. African elephants are also losing their habitat as the human population grows and people convert land for agriculture and development. Elephants need a lot of room, so habitat destruction and fragmentation not only makes it harder for them to find food, water, and each other, but it also puts them in increased conflict with humans.   Conservation The decision to recognize African elephants as two separate species is seen as an important step for conservation, as it highlights the different challenges that each species faces. Scientists hope that the listing will bring more attention to forest elephants, which have often been overlooked by governments and donors when grouped together with more visible savanna elephants. African elephants are protected to varying degrees in all the countries of their geographic range. They’re also protected under international environmental agreements, CITES and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species. There have been recent efforts to bring re-legalize the international trade in ivory, but those so far have failed. Conservation groups and governments have worked to set aside land for wildlife—including corridors that connect those protected lands. Still, researchers believe that up to 70 percent of elephants' range is on unprotected land. To curb poaching, stopping the illegal trade is key. Advocates have launched campaigns that address both the supply side (poaching) and the demand side (people who buy ivory). There has been some progress in recent years, especially on the demand side: In 2015, China—believed to be the world’s biggest illegal and legal ivory market—agreed to a “near-complete” ban on the domestic trade of ivory. Since the ban went into effect, public demand for ivory seems to have fallen. On the supply side, protecting elephants from poaching also requires a local approach. In 2019, a study showed that the suffering of elephants is tied to that of the humans living nearby: Regions with high levels of poverty and corruption are more likely to have higher poaching rates. This suggests that helping communities develop sustainable livelihoods could reduce the lure of poaching. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

African elephant

What is the African elephant? African elephants are the largest land animals on Earth. They are slightly larger than their Asian cousins and can be identified by their larger ears that look somewhat like the continent of Africa. (Asian elephants have smaller, rounded ears.) Although they were long grouped together as one species, scientists have determined that there are actually two species of African elephants—and that both are at risk of extinction. Savanna elephants are larger animals that roam the plains of sub-Saharan Africa, while forest elephants are smaller animals that live in the forests of Central and West Africa. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature lists savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. African elephants are keystone species, meaning they play a critical role in their ecosystem. Also known as “ecosystem engineers,” elephants shape their habitat in many ways. During the dry season, they use their tusks to dig up dry riverbeds and create watering holes many animals can drink from. Their dung is full of seeds, helping plants spread across the environment—and it makes pretty good habitat for dung beetles too. In the forest, their feasting on trees and shrubs creates pathways for smaller animals to move through, and in the savanna, they uproot trees and eat saplings, which helps keep the landscape open for zebras and other plains animals to thrive. Trunks and tusks Elephant ears radiate heat to help keep these large animals cool, but sometimes the African heat is too much. Elephants are fond of water and enjoy showering by sucking water into their trunks and spraying it all over themselves. Afterwards, they often spray their skin with a protective coating of dust. An elephant's trunk is actually a long nose used for smelling, breathing, trumpeting, drinking, and also for grabbing things—especially a potential meal. The trunk alone contains about 40,000 muscles. African elephants have two fingerlike features on the end of their trunk that they can use to grab small items. (Asian elephants have just one.) Both male and female African elephants have tusks, which are continuously growing teeth. Savanna elephants have curving tusks, while the tusks of forest elephants are straight. They use these tusks to dig for food and water and strip bark from trees. Males, whose tusks tend to be larger than females', also use their tusks to battle one another. Diet Elephants eat roots, grasses, fruit, and bark. An adult elephant can consume up to 300 pounds of food in a single day. These hungry animals do not sleep much, roaming great distances while foraging for the large quantities of food that they require to sustain their massive bodies. African elephants range throughout the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa and the rainforests of Central and West Africa. The continent’s northernmost elephants are found in Mali’s Sahel Desert. The small, nomadic herd of Mali elephants migrates in a circular route through the desert in search of water. Because elephants eat so much, they’re increasingly coming into contact with humans. An elephant can destroy an entire season of crops in a single night. A number of conservation programs work with farmers to help them protect their crops and provide compensation when an elephant does raid them. Herds Elephants are matriarchal, meaning they live in female-led groups. The matriarch is usually the biggest and oldest. She presides over a multi-generational herd that includes other females, called cows, and their young. Adult males, called bulls, tend to roam on their own, sometimes forming smaller, more loosely associated all-male groups. Having a baby elephant is a serious commitment. Elephants have a longer pregnancy than any other mammal—almost 22 months. Cows usually give birth to one calf every two to four years. At birth, elephants already weigh some 200 pounds and stand about three feet tall. Threats to survival Poaching for the illegal ivory trade is the biggest threat to African elephants’ survival. Before the Europeans began colonizing Africa, there may have been as many as 26 million elephants. By the early 20th century, their numbers had dropped to 10 million. Hunting continued to increase. By 1970, their numbers were down to 1.3 million. Between 1970 and 1990, hunting and poaching put the African elephant at risk of extinction, reducing its population by another half. In the years since, poaching has continued to threaten both species: Savanna elephants declined by 30 percent between 2007 and 2014, while forest elephants declined by 64 percent from 2002 to 2011 as poaching worsened in Central and West Africa. In 2021, the International Union for Conservation of Nature recognized them as separate species for the first time, listing savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. As few as 400,000 remain today. Compounding the problem is how long it takes for elephants to reproduce. With reproduction rates hovering around 5 to 6 percent, there are simply not enough calves being born to make up for the losses from poaching. African elephants are also losing their habitat as the human population grows and people convert land for agriculture and development. Elephants need a lot of room, so habitat destruction and fragmentation not only makes it harder for them to find food, water, and each other, but it also puts them in increased conflict with humans.   Conservation The decision to recognize African elephants as two separate species is seen as an important step for conservation, as it highlights the different challenges that each species faces. Scientists hope that the listing will bring more attention to forest elephants, which have often been overlooked by governments and donors when grouped together with more visible savanna elephants. African elephants are protected to varying degrees in all the countries of their geographic range. They’re also protected under international environmental agreements, CITES and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species. There have been recent efforts to bring re-legalize the international trade in ivory, but those so far have failed. Conservation groups and governments have worked to set aside land for wildlife—including corridors that connect those protected lands. Still, researchers believe that up to 70 percent of elephants' range is on unprotected land. To curb poaching, stopping the illegal trade is key. Advocates have launched campaigns that address both the supply side (poaching) and the demand side (people who buy ivory). There has been some progress in recent years, especially on the demand side: In 2015, China—believed to be the world’s biggest illegal and legal ivory market—agreed to a “near-complete” ban on the domestic trade of ivory. Since the ban went into effect, public demand for ivory seems to have fallen. On the supply side, protecting elephants from poaching also requires a local approach. In 2019, a study showed that the suffering of elephants is tied to that of the humans living nearby: Regions with high levels of poverty and corruption are more likely to have higher poaching rates. This suggests that helping communities develop sustainable livelihoods could reduce the lure of poaching. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

African elephant

What is the African elephant? African elephants are the largest land animals on Earth. They are slightly larger than their Asian cousins and can be identified by their larger ears that look somewhat like the continent of Africa. (Asian elephants have smaller, rounded ears.) Although they were long grouped together as one species, scientists have determined that there are actually two species of African elephants—and that both are at risk of extinction. Savanna elephants are larger animals that roam the plains of sub-Saharan Africa, while forest elephants are smaller animals that live in the forests of Central and West Africa. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature lists savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. African elephants are keystone species, meaning they play a critical role in their ecosystem. Also known as “ecosystem engineers,” elephants shape their habitat in many ways. During the dry season, they use their tusks to dig up dry riverbeds and create watering holes many animals can drink from. Their dung is full of seeds, helping plants spread across the environment—and it makes pretty good habitat for dung beetles too. In the forest, their feasting on trees and shrubs creates pathways for smaller animals to move through, and in the savanna, they uproot trees and eat saplings, which helps keep the landscape open for zebras and other plains animals to thrive. Trunks and tusks Elephant ears radiate heat to help keep these large animals cool, but sometimes the African heat is too much. Elephants are fond of water and enjoy showering by sucking water into their trunks and spraying it all over themselves. Afterwards, they often spray their skin with a protective coating of dust. An elephant's trunk is actually a long nose used for smelling, breathing, trumpeting, drinking, and also for grabbing things—especially a potential meal. The trunk alone contains about 40,000 muscles. African elephants have two fingerlike features on the end of their trunk that they can use to grab small items. (Asian elephants have just one.) Both male and female African elephants have tusks, which are continuously growing teeth. Savanna elephants have curving tusks, while the tusks of forest elephants are straight. They use these tusks to dig for food and water and strip bark from trees. Males, whose tusks tend to be larger than females', also use their tusks to battle one another. Diet Elephants eat roots, grasses, fruit, and bark. An adult elephant can consume up to 300 pounds of food in a single day. These hungry animals do not sleep much, roaming great distances while foraging for the large quantities of food that they require to sustain their massive bodies. African elephants range throughout the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa and the rainforests of Central and West Africa. The continent’s northernmost elephants are found in Mali’s Sahel Desert. The small, nomadic herd of Mali elephants migrates in a circular route through the desert in search of water. Because elephants eat so much, they’re increasingly coming into contact with humans. An elephant can destroy an entire season of crops in a single night. A number of conservation programs work with farmers to help them protect their crops and provide compensation when an elephant does raid them. Herds Elephants are matriarchal, meaning they live in female-led groups. The matriarch is usually the biggest and oldest. She presides over a multi-generational herd that includes other females, called cows, and their young. Adult males, called bulls, tend to roam on their own, sometimes forming smaller, more loosely associated all-male groups. Having a baby elephant is a serious commitment. Elephants have a longer pregnancy than any other mammal—almost 22 months. Cows usually give birth to one calf every two to four years. At birth, elephants already weigh some 200 pounds and stand about three feet tall. Threats to survival Poaching for the illegal ivory trade is the biggest threat to African elephants’ survival. Before the Europeans began colonizing Africa, there may have been as many as 26 million elephants. By the early 20th century, their numbers had dropped to 10 million. Hunting continued to increase. By 1970, their numbers were down to 1.3 million. Between 1970 and 1990, hunting and poaching put the African elephant at risk of extinction, reducing its population by another half. In the years since, poaching has continued to threaten both species: Savanna elephants declined by 30 percent between 2007 and 2014, while forest elephants declined by 64 percent from 2002 to 2011 as poaching worsened in Central and West Africa. In 2021, the International Union for Conservation of Nature recognized them as separate species for the first time, listing savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. As few as 400,000 remain today. Compounding the problem is how long it takes for elephants to reproduce. With reproduction rates hovering around 5 to 6 percent, there are simply not enough calves being born to make up for the losses from poaching. African elephants are also losing their habitat as the human population grows and people convert land for agriculture and development. Elephants need a lot of room, so habitat destruction and fragmentation not only makes it harder for them to find food, water, and each other, but it also puts them in increased conflict with humans.   Conservation The decision to recognize African elephants as two separate species is seen as an important step for conservation, as it highlights the different challenges that each species faces. Scientists hope that the listing will bring more attention to forest elephants, which have often been overlooked by governments and donors when grouped together with more visible savanna elephants. African elephants are protected to varying degrees in all the countries of their geographic range. They’re also protected under international environmental agreements, CITES and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species. There have been recent efforts to bring re-legalize the international trade in ivory, but those so far have failed. Conservation groups and governments have worked to set aside land for wildlife—including corridors that connect those protected lands. Still, researchers believe that up to 70 percent of elephants' range is on unprotected land. To curb poaching, stopping the illegal trade is key. Advocates have launched campaigns that address both the supply side (poaching) and the demand side (people who buy ivory). There has been some progress in recent years, especially on the demand side: In 2015, China—believed to be the world’s biggest illegal and legal ivory market—agreed to a “near-complete” ban on the domestic trade of ivory. Since the ban went into effect, public demand for ivory seems to have fallen. On the supply side, protecting elephants from poaching also requires a local approach. In 2019, a study showed that the suffering of elephants is tied to that of the humans living nearby: Regions with high levels of poverty and corruption are more likely to have higher poaching rates. This suggests that helping communities develop sustainable livelihoods could reduce the lure of poaching. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

African elephant

What is the African elephant? African elephants are the largest land animals on Earth. They are slightly larger than their Asian cousins and can be identified by their larger ears that look somewhat like the continent of Africa. (Asian elephants have smaller, rounded ears.) Although they were long grouped together as one species, scientists have determined that there are actually two species of African elephants—and that both are at risk of extinction. Savanna elephants are larger animals that roam the plains of sub-Saharan Africa, while forest elephants are smaller animals that live in the forests of Central and West Africa. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature lists savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. African elephants are keystone species, meaning they play a critical role in their ecosystem. Also known as “ecosystem engineers,” elephants shape their habitat in many ways. During the dry season, they use their tusks to dig up dry riverbeds and create watering holes many animals can drink from. Their dung is full of seeds, helping plants spread across the environment—and it makes pretty good habitat for dung beetles too. In the forest, their feasting on trees and shrubs creates pathways for smaller animals to move through, and in the savanna, they uproot trees and eat saplings, which helps keep the landscape open for zebras and other plains animals to thrive. Trunks and tusks Elephant ears radiate heat to help keep these large animals cool, but sometimes the African heat is too much. Elephants are fond of water and enjoy showering by sucking water into their trunks and spraying it all over themselves. Afterwards, they often spray their skin with a protective coating of dust. An elephant's trunk is actually a long nose used for smelling, breathing, trumpeting, drinking, and also for grabbing things—especially a potential meal. The trunk alone contains about 40,000 muscles. African elephants have two fingerlike features on the end of their trunk that they can use to grab small items. (Asian elephants have just one.) Both male and female African elephants have tusks, which are continuously growing teeth. Savanna elephants have curving tusks, while the tusks of forest elephants are straight. They use these tusks to dig for food and water and strip bark from trees. Males, whose tusks tend to be larger than females', also use their tusks to battle one another. Diet Elephants eat roots, grasses, fruit, and bark. An adult elephant can consume up to 300 pounds of food in a single day. These hungry animals do not sleep much, roaming great distances while foraging for the large quantities of food that they require to sustain their massive bodies. African elephants range throughout the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa and the rainforests of Central and West Africa. The continent’s northernmost elephants are found in Mali’s Sahel Desert. The small, nomadic herd of Mali elephants migrates in a circular route through the desert in search of water. Because elephants eat so much, they’re increasingly coming into contact with humans. An elephant can destroy an entire season of crops in a single night. A number of conservation programs work with farmers to help them protect their crops and provide compensation when an elephant does raid them. Herds Elephants are matriarchal, meaning they live in female-led groups. The matriarch is usually the biggest and oldest. She presides over a multi-generational herd that includes other females, called cows, and their young. Adult males, called bulls, tend to roam on their own, sometimes forming smaller, more loosely associated all-male groups. Having a baby elephant is a serious commitment. Elephants have a longer pregnancy than any other mammal—almost 22 months. Cows usually give birth to one calf every two to four years. At birth, elephants already weigh some 200 pounds and stand about three feet tall. Threats to survival Poaching for the illegal ivory trade is the biggest threat to African elephants’ survival. Before the Europeans began colonizing Africa, there may have been as many as 26 million elephants. By the early 20th century, their numbers had dropped to 10 million. Hunting continued to increase. By 1970, their numbers were down to 1.3 million. Between 1970 and 1990, hunting and poaching put the African elephant at risk of extinction, reducing its population by another half. In the years since, poaching has continued to threaten both species: Savanna elephants declined by 30 percent between 2007 and 2014, while forest elephants declined by 64 percent from 2002 to 2011 as poaching worsened in Central and West Africa. In 2021, the International Union for Conservation of Nature recognized them as separate species for the first time, listing savanna elephants as endangered and forest elephants as critically endangered. As few as 400,000 remain today. Compounding the problem is how long it takes for elephants to reproduce. With reproduction rates hovering around 5 to 6 percent, there are simply not enough calves being born to make up for the losses from poaching. African elephants are also losing their habitat as the human population grows and people convert land for agriculture and development. Elephants need a lot of room, so habitat destruction and fragmentation not only makes it harder for them to find food, water, and each other, but it also puts them in increased conflict with humans.   Conservation The decision to recognize African elephants as two separate species is seen as an important step for conservation, as it highlights the different challenges that each species faces. Scientists hope that the listing will bring more attention to forest elephants, which have often been overlooked by governments and donors when grouped together with more visible savanna elephants. African elephants are protected to varying degrees in all the countries of their geographic range. They’re also protected under international environmental agreements, CITES and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species. There have been recent efforts to bring re-legalize the international trade in ivory, but those so far have failed. Conservation groups and governments have worked to set aside land for wildlife—including corridors that connect those protected lands. Still, researchers believe that up to 70 percent of elephants' range is on unprotected land. To curb poaching, stopping the illegal trade is key. Advocates have launched campaigns that address both the supply side (poaching) and the demand side (people who buy ivory). There has been some progress in recent years, especially on the demand side: In 2015, China—believed to be the world’s biggest illegal and legal ivory market—agreed to a “near-complete” ban on the domestic trade of ivory. Since the ban went into effect, public demand for ivory seems to have fallen. On the supply side, protecting elephants from poaching also requires a local approach. In 2019, a study showed that the suffering of elephants is tied to that of the humans living nearby: Regions with high levels of poverty and corruption are more likely to have higher poaching rates. This suggests that helping communities develop sustainable livelihoods could reduce the lure of poaching. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

8 Days Chimps, Gorillas, Wildlife Experience & White Water Rafting

This 8 days Uganda Gorillas and Wildlife Safari strikes a perfect balance between wildlife and nature. The wildlife safari and chimpanzee trekking takes you to Kibale National Park for chimpanzee habituation experience, then to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s second largest park with plenty of wildlife, birds and primates. It also takes you to the misty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is home to more than half the population of Mountain Gorillas. Later to Lake Bunyonyi for some relaxation, which is said to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Uganda. En route Entebbe, you will visit Lake Mburo. Lake Mburo National Park is known for wildlife viewing, bird watching, boat ride and guided nature walk. Then it will end by adrenaline experience of white Water Rafting at Nile Trip Summery Day 1: Transfer from Entebbe to Kibale National park Day 2: Chimpanzee tracking and transfer to Queen Elizabeth Day 3: Morning Game Drive and evening Boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth and Kazinga Channel Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi through Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park Day 5: Do participate in Gorilla tracking Experience and transfer to Bunyonyi Day 6: Transfer to Lake Mburo national Park for evening Boat cruise Day 7: Do Morning Nature Walk in Mburo and Transfer to Jinja. Day 8: White Water Rafting and Transfer to Entebbe with night arrival in Entebbe.   Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

8 Days Chimps, Gorillas, Wildlife Experience & White Water Rafting

This 8 days Uganda Gorillas and Wildlife Safari strikes a perfect balance between wildlife and nature. The wildlife safari and chimpanzee trekking takes you to Kibale National Park for chimpanzee habituation experience, then to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s second largest park with plenty of wildlife, birds and primates. It also takes you to the misty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is home to more than half the population of Mountain Gorillas. Later to Lake Bunyonyi for some relaxation, which is said to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Uganda. En route Entebbe, you will visit Lake Mburo. Lake Mburo National Park is known for wildlife viewing, bird watching, boat ride and guided nature walk. Then it will end by adrenaline experience of white Water Rafting at Nile Trip Summery Day 1: Transfer from Entebbe to Kibale National park Day 2: Chimpanzee tracking and transfer to Queen Elizabeth Day 3: Morning Game Drive and evening Boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth and Kazinga Channel Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi through Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park Day 5: Do participate in Gorilla tracking Experience and transfer to Bunyonyi Day 6: Transfer to Lake Mburo national Park for evening Boat cruise Day 7: Do Morning Nature Walk in Mburo and Transfer to Jinja. Day 8: White Water Rafting and Transfer to Entebbe with night arrival in Entebbe.   Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

Sipi Falls Uganda Tour

SIPI FALLS The Sipi falls are a phenomenon to many visitors, both local and foreign, yearly. Regarded as one of the most romantic places in Uganda,the falls are a series of three prominent waterfalls, with the longest drops as high 100m. The second waterfall drops 75m below and has upper cascades before the plunge. The third water fall measures 85m and is tall and columnar. It has a vigorous flow with mist and even creates mini rainbows when the sun hits it! However, there are countless other less prominent falls nearby. They can be a wonderful place to bring a loved one to spend some quality time together. The falls pick their water as it flows from the slopes of Mountain Elgon.Located in Eastern Uganda in Kapchorwa District, North East of Mbale and Sironko, coordinates: 1.20’16’N 34.22’46’E, the falls are situated at the edge of Mount Elgon National Park near the Kenyan border 55km north of Mbale District. Sipi falls is also usually the starting point for many hikers looking to scale Mountain Elgon. The falls are also popular for the cool weather, the ice cold water which some describe as healing when dove into and the Bugisu Arabica coffee plantations nearby. Arabica coffee is known to grow at altitudes of about 1600m.  The breathtaking waterfalls derive their name from the Sipi River which in turn was named after the local plant growing along the river banks called the “sep”. This plant resembles a type of wild banana with translucent green fronds with a bolt of crimson red used for medicinal purposes like treating measles and fever. Local folklore has it that British sightseers once found a lady picking wild plants in a nearby plantation and asked her the name of the falls. She thought they were asking the name of the plant so she replied, “Sep.” When To Go To Sipi Falls Sipi falls is a nice place to visit all year round. Uganda has tropical climate and this means that it is warm all year and has no drastic changes. Sipi falls itself is always cool, in fact cooler than all the areas around and is a wonderful place to visit to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. As mentioned before a swim in the Sipi waters can be next to heavenly and the environment is good for meditation. The scenery will have you thanking God for his creation. Where To Lodge When In Sipi Falls Sipi falls has many safari lodges around the area that you can stay at to enjoy the cool environment in the area and relax and wind down. In case you are backpacking, the Crow’s Nest is a good place to stay. Cows Nest is situated 2000m on the slopes of mountain Elgon. It offers a stunning view of the Sipi falls and the slopes of the mountain. It is made up of a number of dome tents and provides very little luxuries and is thus perfect if on a small budget. And if you have a little more money to spend, the resorts and hotels can be a good place to lay your head. These include Sipi Falls Resort which is located within the Mount Elgon National Park. The resort is made up of self-contained grass thatched huts which will heighten your enjoyment by sleeping the way the indigenous people of the country used to. The resort also has a view of the falls and the fantastic Karimajong plains. You could also stay at the Sipi River Lodge which is made up of luxurious cottages with very tasteful décor and is perfect if you prefer a quality night in. other resorts include Mbale resort hotel, Lacam lodge, Mount Elgon hotel and Noah’s ark hotel among others. Activities To Do At Sipi Falls Hiking Sipi Falls Hiking. Hiking is a very good option for tourists who go to Sipi falls. You can pick from numerous popular waterfall walks. These can be as short and simple as 15 minutes or as strenuous as hikes all day. However the cool breeze of the Sipi falls will offer a lot of comfort. Sipi Arabica Coffee The Arabica coffee plantations are also a marvel for many tourists who come to Sipi falls. The plantations are set mainly around mountain elgon which has volcanic soils which are perfect for this type of coffee coupled with the cool weather to ensure healthy coffee plants. The plantations are found in the Bugisu region and you will have fun hanging out and meeting all the people in the coffee production chain like the farmers, processors, exporters and roasters among others. You can even partake in the roasting and sorting yourself as you prepare your own cup of coffee straight from the source. The coffee is some of the best coffees on earth and is daily winning respect world over. You will appreciate the process and every cup will be more enjoyable. Visit a local coffee farmer to learn about his work and the life cycle of the crop. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

Sipi Falls Uganda Tour

SIPI FALLS The Sipi falls are a phenomenon to many visitors, both local and foreign, yearly. Regarded as one of the most romantic places in Uganda,the falls are a series of three prominent waterfalls, with the longest drops as high 100m. The second waterfall drops 75m below and has upper cascades before the plunge. The third water fall measures 85m and is tall and columnar. It has a vigorous flow with mist and even creates mini rainbows when the sun hits it! However, there are countless other less prominent falls nearby. They can be a wonderful place to bring a loved one to spend some quality time together. The falls pick their water as it flows from the slopes of Mountain Elgon.Located in Eastern Uganda in Kapchorwa District, North East of Mbale and Sironko, coordinates: 1.20’16’N 34.22’46’E, the falls are situated at the edge of Mount Elgon National Park near the Kenyan border 55km north of Mbale District. Sipi falls is also usually the starting point for many hikers looking to scale Mountain Elgon. The falls are also popular for the cool weather, the ice cold water which some describe as healing when dove into and the Bugisu Arabica coffee plantations nearby. Arabica coffee is known to grow at altitudes of about 1600m.  The breathtaking waterfalls derive their name from the Sipi River which in turn was named after the local plant growing along the river banks called the “sep”. This plant resembles a type of wild banana with translucent green fronds with a bolt of crimson red used for medicinal purposes like treating measles and fever. Local folklore has it that British sightseers once found a lady picking wild plants in a nearby plantation and asked her the name of the falls. She thought they were asking the name of the plant so she replied, “Sep.” When To Go To Sipi Falls Sipi falls is a nice place to visit all year round. Uganda has tropical climate and this means that it is warm all year and has no drastic changes. Sipi falls itself is always cool, in fact cooler than all the areas around and is a wonderful place to visit to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. As mentioned before a swim in the Sipi waters can be next to heavenly and the environment is good for meditation. The scenery will have you thanking God for his creation. Where To Lodge When In Sipi Falls Sipi falls has many safari lodges around the area that you can stay at to enjoy the cool environment in the area and relax and wind down. In case you are backpacking, the Crow’s Nest is a good place to stay. Cows Nest is situated 2000m on the slopes of mountain Elgon. It offers a stunning view of the Sipi falls and the slopes of the mountain. It is made up of a number of dome tents and provides very little luxuries and is thus perfect if on a small budget. And if you have a little more money to spend, the resorts and hotels can be a good place to lay your head. These include Sipi Falls Resort which is located within the Mount Elgon National Park. The resort is made up of self-contained grass thatched huts which will heighten your enjoyment by sleeping the way the indigenous people of the country used to. The resort also has a view of the falls and the fantastic Karimajong plains. You could also stay at the Sipi River Lodge which is made up of luxurious cottages with very tasteful décor and is perfect if you prefer a quality night in. other resorts include Mbale resort hotel, Lacam lodge, Mount Elgon hotel and Noah’s ark hotel among others. Activities To Do At Sipi Falls Hiking Sipi Falls Hiking. Hiking is a very good option for tourists who go to Sipi falls. You can pick from numerous popular waterfall walks. These can be as short and simple as 15 minutes or as strenuous as hikes all day. However the cool breeze of the Sipi falls will offer a lot of comfort. Sipi Arabica Coffee The Arabica coffee plantations are also a marvel for many tourists who come to Sipi falls. The plantations are set mainly around mountain elgon which has volcanic soils which are perfect for this type of coffee coupled with the cool weather to ensure healthy coffee plants. The plantations are found in the Bugisu region and you will have fun hanging out and meeting all the people in the coffee production chain like the farmers, processors, exporters and roasters among others. You can even partake in the roasting and sorting yourself as you prepare your own cup of coffee straight from the source. The coffee is some of the best coffees on earth and is daily winning respect world over. You will appreciate the process and every cup will be more enjoyable. Visit a local coffee farmer to learn about his work and the life cycle of the crop. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

Sipi Falls Uganda Tour

SIPI FALLS The Sipi falls are a phenomenon to many visitors, both local and foreign, yearly. Regarded as one of the most romantic places in Uganda,the falls are a series of three prominent waterfalls, with the longest drops as high 100m. The second waterfall drops 75m below and has upper cascades before the plunge. The third water fall measures 85m and is tall and columnar. It has a vigorous flow with mist and even creates mini rainbows when the sun hits it! However, there are countless other less prominent falls nearby. They can be a wonderful place to bring a loved one to spend some quality time together. The falls pick their water as it flows from the slopes of Mountain Elgon.Located in Eastern Uganda in Kapchorwa District, North East of Mbale and Sironko, coordinates: 1.20’16’N 34.22’46’E, the falls are situated at the edge of Mount Elgon National Park near the Kenyan border 55km north of Mbale District. Sipi falls is also usually the starting point for many hikers looking to scale Mountain Elgon. The falls are also popular for the cool weather, the ice cold water which some describe as healing when dove into and the Bugisu Arabica coffee plantations nearby. Arabica coffee is known to grow at altitudes of about 1600m.  The breathtaking waterfalls derive their name from the Sipi River which in turn was named after the local plant growing along the river banks called the “sep”. This plant resembles a type of wild banana with translucent green fronds with a bolt of crimson red used for medicinal purposes like treating measles and fever. Local folklore has it that British sightseers once found a lady picking wild plants in a nearby plantation and asked her the name of the falls. She thought they were asking the name of the plant so she replied, “Sep.” When To Go To Sipi Falls Sipi falls is a nice place to visit all year round. Uganda has tropical climate and this means that it is warm all year and has no drastic changes. Sipi falls itself is always cool, in fact cooler than all the areas around and is a wonderful place to visit to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. As mentioned before a swim in the Sipi waters can be next to heavenly and the environment is good for meditation. The scenery will have you thanking God for his creation. Where To Lodge When In Sipi Falls Sipi falls has many safari lodges around the area that you can stay at to enjoy the cool environment in the area and relax and wind down. In case you are backpacking, the Crow’s Nest is a good place to stay. Cows Nest is situated 2000m on the slopes of mountain Elgon. It offers a stunning view of the Sipi falls and the slopes of the mountain. It is made up of a number of dome tents and provides very little luxuries and is thus perfect if on a small budget. And if you have a little more money to spend, the resorts and hotels can be a good place to lay your head. These include Sipi Falls Resort which is located within the Mount Elgon National Park. The resort is made up of self-contained grass thatched huts which will heighten your enjoyment by sleeping the way the indigenous people of the country used to. The resort also has a view of the falls and the fantastic Karimajong plains. You could also stay at the Sipi River Lodge which is made up of luxurious cottages with very tasteful décor and is perfect if you prefer a quality night in. other resorts include Mbale resort hotel, Lacam lodge, Mount Elgon hotel and Noah’s ark hotel among others. Activities To Do At Sipi Falls Hiking Sipi Falls Hiking. Hiking is a very good option for tourists who go to Sipi falls. You can pick from numerous popular waterfall walks. These can be as short and simple as 15 minutes or as strenuous as hikes all day. However the cool breeze of the Sipi falls will offer a lot of comfort. Sipi Arabica Coffee The Arabica coffee plantations are also a marvel for many tourists who come to Sipi falls. The plantations are set mainly around mountain elgon which has volcanic soils which are perfect for this type of coffee coupled with the cool weather to ensure healthy coffee plants. The plantations are found in the Bugisu region and you will have fun hanging out and meeting all the people in the coffee production chain like the farmers, processors, exporters and roasters among others. You can even partake in the roasting and sorting yourself as you prepare your own cup of coffee straight from the source. The coffee is some of the best coffees on earth and is daily winning respect world over. You will appreciate the process and every cup will be more enjoyable. Visit a local coffee farmer to learn about his work and the life cycle of the crop. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

Sipi Falls Uganda Tour

SIPI FALLS The Sipi falls are a phenomenon to many visitors, both local and foreign, yearly. Regarded as one of the most romantic places in Uganda,the falls are a series of three prominent waterfalls, with the longest drops as high 100m. The second waterfall drops 75m below and has upper cascades before the plunge. The third water fall measures 85m and is tall and columnar. It has a vigorous flow with mist and even creates mini rainbows when the sun hits it! However, there are countless other less prominent falls nearby. They can be a wonderful place to bring a loved one to spend some quality time together. The falls pick their water as it flows from the slopes of Mountain Elgon.Located in Eastern Uganda in Kapchorwa District, North East of Mbale and Sironko, coordinates: 1.20’16’N 34.22’46’E, the falls are situated at the edge of Mount Elgon National Park near the Kenyan border 55km north of Mbale District. Sipi falls is also usually the starting point for many hikers looking to scale Mountain Elgon. The falls are also popular for the cool weather, the ice cold water which some describe as healing when dove into and the Bugisu Arabica coffee plantations nearby. Arabica coffee is known to grow at altitudes of about 1600m.  The breathtaking waterfalls derive their name from the Sipi River which in turn was named after the local plant growing along the river banks called the “sep”. This plant resembles a type of wild banana with translucent green fronds with a bolt of crimson red used for medicinal purposes like treating measles and fever. Local folklore has it that British sightseers once found a lady picking wild plants in a nearby plantation and asked her the name of the falls. She thought they were asking the name of the plant so she replied, “Sep.” When To Go To Sipi Falls Sipi falls is a nice place to visit all year round. Uganda has tropical climate and this means that it is warm all year and has no drastic changes. Sipi falls itself is always cool, in fact cooler than all the areas around and is a wonderful place to visit to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. As mentioned before a swim in the Sipi waters can be next to heavenly and the environment is good for meditation. The scenery will have you thanking God for his creation. Where To Lodge When In Sipi Falls Sipi falls has many safari lodges around the area that you can stay at to enjoy the cool environment in the area and relax and wind down. In case you are backpacking, the Crow’s Nest is a good place to stay. Cows Nest is situated 2000m on the slopes of mountain Elgon. It offers a stunning view of the Sipi falls and the slopes of the mountain. It is made up of a number of dome tents and provides very little luxuries and is thus perfect if on a small budget. And if you have a little more money to spend, the resorts and hotels can be a good place to lay your head. These include Sipi Falls Resort which is located within the Mount Elgon National Park. The resort is made up of self-contained grass thatched huts which will heighten your enjoyment by sleeping the way the indigenous people of the country used to. The resort also has a view of the falls and the fantastic Karimajong plains. You could also stay at the Sipi River Lodge which is made up of luxurious cottages with very tasteful décor and is perfect if you prefer a quality night in. other resorts include Mbale resort hotel, Lacam lodge, Mount Elgon hotel and Noah’s ark hotel among others. Activities To Do At Sipi Falls Hiking Sipi Falls Hiking. Hiking is a very good option for tourists who go to Sipi falls. You can pick from numerous popular waterfall walks. These can be as short and simple as 15 minutes or as strenuous as hikes all day. However the cool breeze of the Sipi falls will offer a lot of comfort. Sipi Arabica Coffee The Arabica coffee plantations are also a marvel for many tourists who come to Sipi falls. The plantations are set mainly around mountain elgon which has volcanic soils which are perfect for this type of coffee coupled with the cool weather to ensure healthy coffee plants. The plantations are found in the Bugisu region and you will have fun hanging out and meeting all the people in the coffee production chain like the farmers, processors, exporters and roasters among others. You can even partake in the roasting and sorting yourself as you prepare your own cup of coffee straight from the source. The coffee is some of the best coffees on earth and is daily winning respect world over. You will appreciate the process and every cup will be more enjoyable. Visit a local coffee farmer to learn about his work and the life cycle of the crop. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

Sipi Falls Uganda Tour

SIPI FALLS The Sipi falls are a phenomenon to many visitors, both local and foreign, yearly. Regarded as one of the most romantic places in Uganda,the falls are a series of three prominent waterfalls, with the longest drops as high 100m. The second waterfall drops 75m below and has upper cascades before the plunge. The third water fall measures 85m and is tall and columnar. It has a vigorous flow with mist and even creates mini rainbows when the sun hits it! However, there are countless other less prominent falls nearby. They can be a wonderful place to bring a loved one to spend some quality time together. The falls pick their water as it flows from the slopes of Mountain Elgon.Located in Eastern Uganda in Kapchorwa District, North East of Mbale and Sironko, coordinates: 1.20’16’N 34.22’46’E, the falls are situated at the edge of Mount Elgon National Park near the Kenyan border 55km north of Mbale District. Sipi falls is also usually the starting point for many hikers looking to scale Mountain Elgon. The falls are also popular for the cool weather, the ice cold water which some describe as healing when dove into and the Bugisu Arabica coffee plantations nearby. Arabica coffee is known to grow at altitudes of about 1600m.  The breathtaking waterfalls derive their name from the Sipi River which in turn was named after the local plant growing along the river banks called the “sep”. This plant resembles a type of wild banana with translucent green fronds with a bolt of crimson red used for medicinal purposes like treating measles and fever. Local folklore has it that British sightseers once found a lady picking wild plants in a nearby plantation and asked her the name of the falls. She thought they were asking the name of the plant so she replied, “Sep.” When To Go To Sipi Falls Sipi falls is a nice place to visit all year round. Uganda has tropical climate and this means that it is warm all year and has no drastic changes. Sipi falls itself is always cool, in fact cooler than all the areas around and is a wonderful place to visit to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. As mentioned before a swim in the Sipi waters can be next to heavenly and the environment is good for meditation. The scenery will have you thanking God for his creation. Where To Lodge When In Sipi Falls Sipi falls has many safari lodges around the area that you can stay at to enjoy the cool environment in the area and relax and wind down. In case you are backpacking, the Crow’s Nest is a good place to stay. Cows Nest is situated 2000m on the slopes of mountain Elgon. It offers a stunning view of the Sipi falls and the slopes of the mountain. It is made up of a number of dome tents and provides very little luxuries and is thus perfect if on a small budget. And if you have a little more money to spend, the resorts and hotels can be a good place to lay your head. These include Sipi Falls Resort which is located within the Mount Elgon National Park. The resort is made up of self-contained grass thatched huts which will heighten your enjoyment by sleeping the way the indigenous people of the country used to. The resort also has a view of the falls and the fantastic Karimajong plains. You could also stay at the Sipi River Lodge which is made up of luxurious cottages with very tasteful décor and is perfect if you prefer a quality night in. other resorts include Mbale resort hotel, Lacam lodge, Mount Elgon hotel and Noah’s ark hotel among others. Activities To Do At Sipi Falls Hiking Sipi Falls Hiking. Hiking is a very good option for tourists who go to Sipi falls. You can pick from numerous popular waterfall walks. These can be as short and simple as 15 minutes or as strenuous as hikes all day. However the cool breeze of the Sipi falls will offer a lot of comfort. Sipi Arabica Coffee The Arabica coffee plantations are also a marvel for many tourists who come to Sipi falls. The plantations are set mainly around mountain elgon which has volcanic soils which are perfect for this type of coffee coupled with the cool weather to ensure healthy coffee plants. The plantations are found in the Bugisu region and you will have fun hanging out and meeting all the people in the coffee production chain like the farmers, processors, exporters and roasters among others. You can even partake in the roasting and sorting yourself as you prepare your own cup of coffee straight from the source. The coffee is some of the best coffees on earth and is daily winning respect world over. You will appreciate the process and every cup will be more enjoyable. Visit a local coffee farmer to learn about his work and the life cycle of the crop. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

Sipi Falls Uganda Tour

SIPI FALLS The Sipi falls are a phenomenon to many visitors, both local and foreign, yearly. Regarded as one of the most romantic places in Uganda,the falls are a series of three prominent waterfalls, with the longest drops as high 100m. The second waterfall drops 75m below and has upper cascades before the plunge. The third water fall measures 85m and is tall and columnar. It has a vigorous flow with mist and even creates mini rainbows when the sun hits it! However, there are countless other less prominent falls nearby. They can be a wonderful place to bring a loved one to spend some quality time together. The falls pick their water as it flows from the slopes of Mountain Elgon.Located in Eastern Uganda in Kapchorwa District, North East of Mbale and Sironko, coordinates: 1.20’16’N 34.22’46’E, the falls are situated at the edge of Mount Elgon National Park near the Kenyan border 55km north of Mbale District. Sipi falls is also usually the starting point for many hikers looking to scale Mountain Elgon. The falls are also popular for the cool weather, the ice cold water which some describe as healing when dove into and the Bugisu Arabica coffee plantations nearby. Arabica coffee is known to grow at altitudes of about 1600m.  The breathtaking waterfalls derive their name from the Sipi River which in turn was named after the local plant growing along the river banks called the “sep”. This plant resembles a type of wild banana with translucent green fronds with a bolt of crimson red used for medicinal purposes like treating measles and fever. Local folklore has it that British sightseers once found a lady picking wild plants in a nearby plantation and asked her the name of the falls. She thought they were asking the name of the plant so she replied, “Sep.” When To Go To Sipi Falls Sipi falls is a nice place to visit all year round. Uganda has tropical climate and this means that it is warm all year and has no drastic changes. Sipi falls itself is always cool, in fact cooler than all the areas around and is a wonderful place to visit to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. As mentioned before a swim in the Sipi waters can be next to heavenly and the environment is good for meditation. The scenery will have you thanking God for his creation. Where To Lodge When In Sipi Falls Sipi falls has many safari lodges around the area that you can stay at to enjoy the cool environment in the area and relax and wind down. In case you are backpacking, the Crow’s Nest is a good place to stay. Cows Nest is situated 2000m on the slopes of mountain Elgon. It offers a stunning view of the Sipi falls and the slopes of the mountain. It is made up of a number of dome tents and provides very little luxuries and is thus perfect if on a small budget. And if you have a little more money to spend, the resorts and hotels can be a good place to lay your head. These include Sipi Falls Resort which is located within the Mount Elgon National Park. The resort is made up of self-contained grass thatched huts which will heighten your enjoyment by sleeping the way the indigenous people of the country used to. The resort also has a view of the falls and the fantastic Karimajong plains. You could also stay at the Sipi River Lodge which is made up of luxurious cottages with very tasteful décor and is perfect if you prefer a quality night in. other resorts include Mbale resort hotel, Lacam lodge, Mount Elgon hotel and Noah’s ark hotel among others. Activities To Do At Sipi Falls Hiking Sipi Falls Hiking. Hiking is a very good option for tourists who go to Sipi falls. You can pick from numerous popular waterfall walks. These can be as short and simple as 15 minutes or as strenuous as hikes all day. However the cool breeze of the Sipi falls will offer a lot of comfort. Sipi Arabica Coffee The Arabica coffee plantations are also a marvel for many tourists who come to Sipi falls. The plantations are set mainly around mountain elgon which has volcanic soils which are perfect for this type of coffee coupled with the cool weather to ensure healthy coffee plants. The plantations are found in the Bugisu region and you will have fun hanging out and meeting all the people in the coffee production chain like the farmers, processors, exporters and roasters among others. You can even partake in the roasting and sorting yourself as you prepare your own cup of coffee straight from the source. The coffee is some of the best coffees on earth and is daily winning respect world over. You will appreciate the process and every cup will be more enjoyable. Visit a local coffee farmer to learn about his work and the life cycle of the crop. Read the full article

[inspiresafaris]

[inspiresafaris]

[inspiresafaris]

#visitjinjacity #visitthesourceofthenile