Jinja is a city in eastern Uganda, home to the source of the Nile River. This is where the world’s longest river flows out of the world’s largest tropical lake, beginning its long journey through the Sahara Desert to the Mediterranean Sea.
Before Europeans arrived, Jinja was just a small fishing village. In the 19th century, explorers set out to find the Nile’s source, and British explorer John Hannington Speke was the first to identify its location in Jinja. With the arrival of British colonial rule 1906, Jinja grew into a busy trading hub and an important stop for travelers heading to Kenya.
The city’s development accelerated with the construction of the Uganda railway between Kampala and Mombasa in the 20th century, bringing many Indians and Europeans to Jinja. With the railway and the Owen Falls Dam, Jinja became the industrial heart of Uganda. Today, the city has a vibrant center, and you can still experience its colonial past, especially in the surrounding suburbs.
Tourism in Jinja has grown significantly, becoming an important source of income for locals. The area boasts beautiful lodges along the Nile, lush tropical nature, and there is plenty of outdoor activities in Jinja, making it a popular stop on Uganda safaris.
Jinja is famous worldwide for its thrilling white-water rafting, with some of the most powerful rapids anywhere on Earth!
Jinja is the perfect spot for both beginners and experienced rafters.
The rapids here are unlike any other in the world, making the Nile in Uganda one of the wildest places to go rafting! As the river rushes through the stunning green landscape, the roar of the churning water shows you the raw power of nature.
During the rafting trip, you’ll tackle different levels of rapids, with grade V being the most intense. You’ll navigate the rapids in sturdy rubber boats, guided by an expert raft captain.
Between the wild rapids, you’ll float smoothly on the white, foamy Nile, giving you a chance to admire the beautiful scenery and lush surroundings. Rafting on the Nile in Jinja is one of Uganda’s most thrilling activities!
While no experience is needed, be prepared to fall out of the boat a few times and get swept under by the current. Don’t worry—the life jacket will keep you afloat, and kayakers are always nearby to help you back to the boat.
For some, rafting might bring a few nervous moments, so it’s good to keep that in mind. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, you can also go on a gentle “family raft” trip.
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In big inflatable tubes, you’ll float down the Nile, taking in the amazing views, colorful birds, and playful monkeys along the riverbanks. The small rapids are exciting but not too intense (class I, II, and III rapids).
You’ll experience some white-water action, but also have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. It’s a fun day out on the Nile, perfect for spending time with family or friends. The whole activity lasts about 2.5 hours and is great for all ages. Anyone from 8 years old (who can swim) can join in the fun!
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You can also experience the thrill of the Nile in a solo kayak! With a one-day package, you’ll receive professional training before heading out on the water. Under the guidance of an experienced guide, you’ll tackle the rapids and embrace the adventure!
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For Ugandan Citizens
For those who want to enjoy the powerful Nile and its tropical birds, Nile monitors, and otters at a more leisurely pace, a boat trip near the source of the Nile is a perfect option.
We offer a variety of boat trips that we can arrange for you to experience this beautiful, tranquil side of the river.
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If you’re craving an off-road adventure in Jinja, quad biking is an exciting way to discover the Ugandan countryside.
After a quick briefing, you’ll ride through villages, forests, and along the Nile’s edge. It’s an adrenaline-packed way to take in the stunning views and meet the friendly locals.
The tour lasts around 2 hours, with stops for drinks and time to chat with the people along the route. Quad biking is great for kids 10 and older, though we recommend it for ages 12 and up depending on comfort and ability.
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With a guide by your side, you’ll journey along the Nile from the Bujagali Falls to the heart of Jinja, passing through several charming villages along the way.
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, you can also opt for trips to the Mabira Forest or any other areas you wish to explore.
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For adventure lovers, there’s the chance to explore the lush countryside around Jinja on horseback. Riding a horse gives you a whole new view of African life and the stunning nature, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The views of the Nile are breathtaking, and for local children, seeing a Mzungu (a white person) on horseback is quite an exciting sight!
The horses are well cared for by their Australian owners and are perfect for both seasoned riders and beginners.
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Bungee jumping over the Nile River is the ultimate adrenaline rush in Jinja! You’ll jump from a 44-meter-high platform into the Nile, making it an exciting challenge for thrill-seekers, not for the faint of heart.
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The Uganda Railway Museum is a fascinating national museum located at Jinja Railway Station, along the Jinja-Iganga Highway.
Built in 1928, the station is one of Jinja’s oldest and most historical buildings. The museum showcases artifacts from Uganda’s pre-railway days, the early railway development, the colonial expansion era, and the post-independence railway story.
There’s also a section of the museum designed to engage young visitors, helping them learn and appreciate Uganda’s rich history. The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 6 pm.
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For International Tourists
Ugandan Citizens
2,000 UGX for children
Mabira Forest Reserve, located along the Kampala-Jinja highway between Lugazi and Jinja, is just a 30-minute drive from Jinja.
One of its main highlights is the Forest Canopy Super Skyway, offering over 200 meters of zip-lines through towering 40-meter-high trees, crossing the River Musamya.
You can enjoy a day trip or stay at the Griffin Falls Eco Campsite inside the forest. While there, you might spot Red Tailed Monkeys and elusive Grey Cheeked Mangabeys.
You can also explore the forest by walking or renting mountain bikes to ride along the trails. Contact us to arrange a day tour of Mabira Forest or a weekend getaway to Jinja, which can include a visit to the Source of the Nile along with a stop at the forest.
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Nyege Nyege is a vibrant, relatively new festival that has quickly become one of East Africa’s most popular events.
People from all over the world flock to Jinja to celebrate art, enjoy a wide range of music performances from artists and DJs representing various countries, sample delicious foods, and freely express themselves over four exciting days.
After an exciting adventure in Jinja, you can take a peaceful cruise a few kilometers downstream on the Nile to reach Wildwaters Lodge, one of Africa’s most tranquil spots.
Located about 6 km away on a private island in the middle of the Nile, the lodge sits on granite rocks surrounded by the sounds of rushing rapids.
Wildwaters Lodge offers a calm and intimate atmosphere, perfect for honeymooners and couples looking for peace.
In 2022, Lemala Wildwaters Lodge was voted the second most Instagrammable hotel in the world, just behind The Shore Club in Turks and Caicos in a global contest by Luxury Travel Advisor.
Rates:
Low Season (March 25 – May 31, 2025; November 1 – December 19, 2025; March 1 – 31, 2026):
Mid Season (January 6 – February 28, 2025; June 1 – 30, 2025; October 1 – 31, 2025; January 6 – 28, 2026):
High Season (July 1 – September 30, 2025; December 20, 2025 – January 5, 2026):
We will be happy to answer all your questions about highlights, accommodations and possible travel routes!
Since 2016, Greenway Nature Tours Africa has been offering 4×4 vehicle rentals, safari packages with accommodations, and guided tours for both individual and group travelers throughout East Africa, covering countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
The ideal time to visit Uganda is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. These months provide the best weather for wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking, with less rainfall, making travel more comfortable and enjoyable.
