Jinja

Highlights

• White-water rafting on the Nile, among the better commercial runs anywhere
• The source of the Nile, where the river leaves Lake Victoria
• Bungee jumping over the river, and kayaking for those with the skill
• Riverside lodges and campsites that make a restful contrast to the adrenaline
• Quad biking and mountain biking through the villages and sugar country inland

Getting around

• About two to three hours by road from Kampala, longer when the traffic is bad leaving the city.
• Boda-bodas and taxis cover the town.
• Rafting companies collect from Kampala and from Jinja accommodation.

Good to know

• Two to four nights - one for rafting, one to recover, more if you add other activities.
• You do not need rafting experience; commercial trips take complete beginners with safety kayakers alongside.
• Choose operators with a visible safety record, safety kayakers and proper briefings.
• Dam construction has changed some rapids over the years - ask what the current run actually includes.

This is genuinely adventurous activity on big water. Use established operators, wear the helmet and jacket as fitted, and be honest about your swimming ability at the briefing.