Jinja & the River Nile

Back in the Victorian era, explorers declared Jinja – which lies on Lake Victoria – as the source of the Nile, the world’s longest river. This declaration began the unlikely fame and popularity of this small, sleepy town. Today, it’s still the official birthplace of the world’s longest river, as this is where the White Nile begins its 4230-mile journey to the Mediterranean.

But now its fame comes less from pith helmets and more from helmets of a different kind: rafting.

Jinia works perfectly as a short pre- or post-safari stay, especially before gorilla trekking, when a splash of adrenaline - or river island downtime - resets the pace.

White Water Rafting on the River Nile

White water rafting on the Nile River is the major draw for a new generation of thrill-seekers. Jinja offers some of the world’s top Grade 5 rapids, with heart-stopping runs near Bujagali Falls.

Not quite ready to be catapulted into froth? There are gentler Grade 3 options too—think of it as “raft yoga” compared to “raft CrossFit.”

Beyond the Raft

However the adventure doesn’t stop there: kayaking, quad biking, horse-riding and bungee jumping all feature on Jinja’s activity menu.

Or, for something slower, take a riverboat cruise on Lake Bujagali.

In short, Jinja is the rare place where you can bungee jump before breakfast and then read your book to the soundtrack of Nile rapids by lunch.

Wildwaters Reserve

For those who like their adventure with a side of serenity, the Wildwaters Reserve protects several of the tropical forested islands mid-stream in the Nile.

Lemala Wildwaters Lodge sits on a private river-island surrounded by surging rapids. Accessible only by canoe, it offers guided walks, fishing, and hammocks with the soundtrack of the Nile in full flow.

You’re close enough to feel the river’s energy, but blissfully away from the rafting crowds. As you are some half an hour away from the main white water rafting and adventure sports hustle and bustle.

Wildwaters Reserve protects riverine islands rich in endemic birds, fish, and unique flora

Whether you crave adrenaline or just Nile-side calm, Jinja is the perfect add-on to your Uganda safari. Let us tailor it for you.