Aruu Falls in Pader District of Northern Uganda

Aruu falls are found in Pader District in northern Uganda roughly four and half kilometers off Pader-Kitgum highway. The boiling springs are in the middle of a forest zone mainly occupied by Acholi and Langi people who are largely peasants. The falls are one of the many waterfalls in Uganda, a country naturally endowed with many tourist sites. The waterfalls are located in the middle of a forested area and the encompassing area is inhabited by the Acholi and Langi people who are largely peasant farmers.

Tourist Activities at Aruu Waterfalls 

You may enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the large rocks at the bottom of the falls as you enjoy the cool breeze of Uganda – the Pearl of Africa. Visitors at the site usually enjoy swimming in the roaring waters. This is only done at one’s own risk, even though the place is not much risky. You will also likely to find some visitors bathing under the falls as they enjoy the aquatic adventure. At the bottom of the waterfalls, picnics are possible as you enjoy some lunch meals under the cool soothing breeze from the waters.

The falls derive its name from the Luo word “Aruu,” meaning “woken up”. The waterfalls are said to have got the name from the clan of Pyailim; clan leaders say the noise of the falls kept them from sleeping during the night.

Location, Setting and Structure of Aruu Falls

Aruu waterfalls is situated in Lupaya village, Angagura sub county, Pader district. The falls, among the tourist attractions in Northern Uganda are located 47 kilometers from Gulu, 57 kilometers from Kitgum and 386 kilometers from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda.

The falls are circled by lush vegetation and holds cultural significance in Acholi tradition and boasts a rich political history. The former President of Uganda, Idi Amin Dada frequented the falls quite often for political planning.

The falls are believed to have originated from the Timu forest in Kabong district and the water flow through to Agago and then to Pader.