Jinja Tour
Jinja Tour

Jinja

Jinja

Overview

Located halfway between Kampala and Mbale, in the southeastern part of the country, the city of Jinja is where the Nile River leaves Lake Victoria for Egypt. It is situated about 80 kilometers (50 miles) away from Kampala. The city was founded by British settlers at the beginning of the 20th century. During the colonial years of Uganda, a hydroelectric dam was constructed near the city at Owen Falls, which is nowadays known as the Nalubaale power station. Nalubaale is the local name for Lake Victoria. 

The city of Jinja is surrounded by greenery, and the flowing water of the Nile and Lake Victoria create a breathtaking atmosphere.

Jinja tours & packages

A 2-Day Whitewater Rafting in Jinja

Jinja, Uganda

Top Attraction

Jinja is considered “the adventure capital of East Africa” because of the numerous activities available in town, particularly for visitors. There are countless exciting activities you can engage in on your Jinja tour, which will make your visit unforgettable. The following is a list of some of them: 

  • Mabira Forest: The Mabira tropical rainforest is outside the city of Jinja, and it’s a must for any visitors coming to Uganda. One can participate in many activities, like watching the many species of birds, monkey track, cycling, hiking, and camping. While walking and camping among the giant trees can be a relaxing experience, you can also zipline between the tallest trees if you look for some adrenaline! If that is your thing, ensure to visit the Griffin Falls Camp inside the forest reserve. 

 

  • Itanda Falls: Ranked as one of the most challenging kayaking and whitewater rafting spots, the Itanda Falls are a series of majestic and powerful waterfalls along the Victoria Nile. Reaching there takes about a 45-minute drive from the city, but the spectacular landscapes and views are truly worth it. If you’re visiting the city, put this spot on your bucket list. 
  • Ripon Falls: another of the many falls along the Victoria Nile is the Ripon Falls. This spot is considered by many to be where the river Nile starts to flow since it’s the northernmost part of Lake Victoria. It, too, can be an excellent spot for kayaking. 
  • A-One Beach: Situated on the eastern shores of the city, this beach resort has a great view of Lake Victoria. The beach is also closest to three islands in the lake, and you can take a boat there to visit them.
  • The Ssezibwa Falls: This is on the Kampala-Jinja highway. This waterfall flows into Lake Kyoga, and many small primates live around the spot. It is also an important spiritual and cultural site for the Buganda people, who believe the waterfalls to have supernatural powers. Do not miss the local snake cave. People perform rituals there for the dead. 
  • The Monument of Mahatma Gandhi: Besides being a significant influence in India, Gandhi is known for his role in Africa. Even his last wish was to have some of his ash scattered on the river Nile. This bronze bust, located near the source of the Nile, was a gift by the Indian government commemorating this act.
  • Markets, Churches, and Old Indian Buildings: If you are on a Jinja tour, you can go and see the old Hindu temples. You can also visit the Jinja market to familiarize yourself with traditional local daily activities. 

 

  • Whitewater Rafting: There are numerous rafting spots across the Nile for enthusiasts. You can go to the Nile’s source or the many waterfalls and flowing streams. This will surely be an exciting experience.
  • Golfing: The Big Game Mini-Golf course is fascinating. It was made with giant leopard statues, buffalo, lion, elephant, rhino, etc. You can also visit the Jinja Golf Club if you’re into this sport. You will experience a different way of golfing in these resorts, including seeing animals, drinking, and hanging around with the locals and tourists.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: The Nile River roaring streams offer many great kayaking spots. Many waterfalls along the river are among the most challenging kayaking spots, even for the elite kayaker. But even if you don’t know much about kayaking and canoeing, they teach you how to ride the canoes.

 

  • Quad Biking: You can go Quad biking in the forests, farms, villages, and next to the river. Anyone can get on these bikes, and they give you free lessons on how to ride them. It is easy; however, participants are advised against riding above the speed limit since you must be wary of the animals crossing the road. 

 

  • Horseback Riding: You can go to the countryside and ride horses to experience a gentle, lovely ride next to the Nile River and enjoy the view of the forests.


  • Fishing on the Nile: Jinja was primarily a fishing village in the past; it is still a popular fishing destination for the well-known Nile perch, which can be found in the lagoons. There are many fishing safaris in Jinja you can partake in. Fishing in Jinja is usually done during the dry season, from June to August and from December to February. There are even fishing competitions if you’re into that.



Tourist Transportation

Jinja is a significant station on the Uganda Railway. It also serves as a terminal for boats to and from Lake Victoria. 

Jinja Airport is a small civilian and military airport located approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) north of, Kimaka, Jinja’s core business center.

A bridge known as The Source of the Nile Bridge has been constructed to cross the Nile. It links Jinja with the settlement of Njeru. 

Buses are available to take you to and from Kampala, as well as taxis. For inner city transportation, you can take tuk-tuks and boda bodas.

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