overview
Jinja, Uganda’s former industrial center and second-largest town, is a must-see destination just 85km east of the capital, Kampala. Established in 1907, this quiet, well-planned town offers travelers an excellent 2-day white water rafting tour package.
Significantly, Jinja is the renowned location for the Source of the Nile, where Lake Victoria powerfully releases its waters into the world’s longest river. Consequently, the town has become the adventure hub of East Africa, offering numerous thrilling activities. Beyond the world-class white water rafting, you can experience bungee jumping, horseback riding, quad biking, scenic boat rides, nature walks, and unforgettable sightseeing. Definitely make visiting Jinja a priority during your Uganda safari.
White water rafting on the Nile offers an amazing activity that actively teaches you how to handle pressure and remain calm under turbulent conditions. You’ll row through the powerful rapids in Jinja, which are consistently graded 4 and 5. Consequently, these grades offer some of the best rafting experiences available anywhere in Africa.
Even though a new power dam has required adjustments, rafting companies have simply adapted the route and launching points, ensuring the adventure continues. Indeed, this long activity also provides time to relax, mingle with other rafters, spot diverse birdlife, and enjoy nature while observing local fishermen and women along the riverbanks.
Moreover, this 2-day package delivers much more than just rafting. For instance, you’ll stop at Mabira Forest and the Ssezibwa Falls, visit the Source of the Nile, and tour Jinja town. Finally, you’ll choose three adrenaline-raising activities from bungee jumping, quad biking, or horseback riding to complete your adventure.
Tour Highlights
Visit Sezibwa falls
Tour Mabira forest
Boat ride at the Nile source
White water rafting
Bungee jumping, horse riding or quad biking
Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Jinja with a stopover at Mabira and Sezibwa Falls
After a delightful breakfast, a guide/driver of Rosamy Africa safaris will pick you up from your hotel, the airport, or any pre-arranged spot. Your journey from Kampala to Jinja promises many interesting sights, keeping you fully engaged along the way.
First, you’ll stop for a guided nature walk around the spectacular Ssezibwa Falls. Next, you’ll enjoy a second nature walk within Mabira Forest, actively looking for a variety of birds and primates, such as the Red-Tailed Monkey.
Following this, you’ll continue your journey, passing eye-catching sugar and tea plantations. Finally, you’ll cross the newly built Jinja Bridge and proceed directly to your lodge for check-in and lunch.
In the afternoon, you’ll go for a tour of Jinja town and then take a boat ride to actively explore the Source of the Nile and Samuka Island. Note that Samuka Island is a vital breeding ground for numerous bird species. As you leave the area, remember to purchase unique souvenirs from the artisan shops. Finally, your driver will take you back to your hotel for a relaxing shower, dinner, and mingling.
Accommodation: Jinja Nile resort(luxury), 2 friends guest house(budget)
Day 2: White water rafting & Adrenaline activities
Get ready for a great day of adventure! After your morning breakfast, you’ll head out for white water rafting along the mighty River Nile. Significantly, the Nile in Jinja offers some of the best spots for water rafting and kayaking in all of Africa.
Even though a recently constructed power dam shortened the original 10km stretch of rapids, the excitement remains. Today, you’ll actively participate in the morning rafting session, which starts at 9:00 am. First, you’ll join fellow rafters for registration and a safety briefing. Next, guides will supply you with all the necessary gear, including life jackets and helmets. The rafting activity will continue for approximately four hours, after which you’ll break for lunch.
Following lunch, you’ll actively tackle your chosen adrenaline activities: quad biking, horse riding, and bungee jumping (if available). Each activity typically takes about one hour. Finally, after completing all the adventures, your driver will start the journey back to Kampala.
