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Source of the Nile Jinja – All about Jinja the source of the Nile.
Source of the Nile Jinja – All about Jinja the source of the Nile. Safaris & Tours, Location, Best time to visit, attraction, Safari accommodations and more
Source of the Nile Jinja – All about Jinja the source of the Nile.
Considered one of the top tourist attractions in Uganda, The Nile’s source in Jinja is a must-visit destination located in the eastern part of country about 80 kilometers from the capital city, Kampala.
This iconic spot has not only earned a reputation as East Africa’s adventure capital but also as the starting point of the world’s longest river- River Nile
Stretching over 6,696 kilometers from Lake Victoria, the River Nile which is the main attraction in Jinja passes through several countries like South Sudan, Sudan, Burundi, Rwanda, Ethiopia and Egypt before emptying its water into the Mediterranean Sea.
Many travelers from all over the world not only are attracted to come to this place to visit the source of the Nile, but also to enjoy all the thrilling adventurous activities that this historical site has to offer.
The River Nile has not only led to the growth of Uganda through tourism but also led to the development and modernization n of some other countries like Egypt. The Nile River enables these two countries to produce electricity for its citizens to run their daily runs.
Jinja Source of the Nile
In Uganda, we have the Owen Falls Dam (the now Nalubaale dam) which generates hydroelectricity to Uganda nad its neighboring countries like Kenya.
Completed in 1970, the Nile also supports its largest Dam in Egypt the Aswan High Dam which supports this country and its people in so many ways.
The dam aside, Uganda is very well known as an agricultural country. The banks of the river Nile are extremely fertile favoring the growing of both food and cash crops which help grow the economy through exports.
It is no secret that Egypt is a desert country, however, with the Nile providing water for irrigation, the farmers in this dry land are in position to successfully practice agriculture
Historical studies suggest that the British explorer -John Hanning Speke was the first European to discover Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile in the year 1856. He was inspired to name the Lake Victoria in honor of the then Queen of England, Queen Victoria.
Additionally, a visit to the source of the Nile is incomplete without a photo at the John Speke location where a monument was placed to honor his groundbreaking discovery.
Source of the Nile Jinja – All about Jinja the source of the Nile. Pictorial
Historical sites.
As you walk through the gardens, you’ll see a statue of Mahatma Gandhi who before his death. requested that some of his ashes be scattered in the Nile. Due to the much love he had for the Nile, the government was inspired to place a statue of Gandhi in his memory and it attracts a lot of visitors, both locally and internationally.
The Source of the River Nile.
Upon taking a boat you will come across this historical site discovered by John Speke as the source of the Nile after which a monument was led in his honor. So many visitors feel like a Jinja tour is incomplete without a photo of the source of the Nile.
Source of the Nile
Activities at the source of the Nile Jinja.
As already established, Jinja is not only the source of the Nile River but also considered East Africa’s adventure city. There is so many thrilling, adrenaline activities that you can do during your visit to Jinja which will leave you with lasting memories some of which include the following.
Bungee Jumping
Are you looking for that adrenaline rush down your spine or simply want to challenge yourself? Guess what? we have just the adventure activity for you- bungee jumping carried out at a 43 meters high platform above the Nile with maximum supervision to ensure your safety.
However, it is important to note that this extremely thrilling adventure is not open to children under 13 or anyone with health issues.
Whitewater Rafting
Depending on the experience and thrill you want to encounter, whitewater rafting on the Nile is a top- tier experience with routes traversing up to ten rapids, including the formidable grade 5s.
This activity is carried out in Kalagala and Itanda Falls by the use of high-quality equipment’s operated by trained guides who are with right from briefing session down to taking celebratory pictures.
Whitewater Rafting
Tubing down the Nile.
This involves floating downstream on inflated tubes enjoying beautiful views of forests, birdlife and local villages. This laid-back activity is best done under the afternoon sun and can be done for a maximum of 3 hours.
Recommended Safaris to Source of the Nile Jinja
Horseback Riding.
Another great way to experience the daily lives of the local people living in villages around the Nile is horseback riding. These rides follow quiet trails along the river Nile and can be done by first time riders simply due to the fact that horses are extremely trained and rides are led by experienced guides.
Kayaking
With the guidance of experienced instructors who ensure you are safe, Kayaking offers a more intimate experience with the River Nile paddling through calm stretches and rapids. It’s a slower-paced yet very rewarding activity option for seeing the river’s wildlife and scenery.
Quad Biking.
Quad biking takes you through local villages, farmlands, and forested areas near the River Nile. With a short safety briefing given to you by the instructors, its open to all skill levels. You guides leads you through off road paths with close encounter with the rural villages and its local people
Quad Biking in Jinja
Cycling
Pass through sugarcane fields, tea plantations, and residential areas cycling is another activity that you can ensure you explore this beautiful city of Jinja. Depending on your interest and pace, cycling tours can be short or half day.
Sport Fishing.
Spot fishing is an activity accrued out in the early morning or lake afternoon allowing you to catch fish which you later release back into the river. With the help of local guides who know all best fishing spots and provide you with fishing gears, some of the fish species which you will be able to catch in the world’s longest river- Nile River include the Nile perch and tilapia.
Top Sightings in Source of the Nile Jinja
Mabira Forest
African Fish Eagle
Nile Crocodile
Baboon
Bat eared Fox
Birdwatching
The source of the Nile among other destinations in Uganda like Queen Elizabeth National Park is a natures haven for birdwatching experiences. Some of the bird species you will sight see during your visit to the source of the Nile include kingfishers, storks, ducks and on extremely rare occasions, the shoebill.
For a better and more fulfilling bird watching experience, Nata adventures can arrange for boat cruise over the Nile which you in return expect to have a better encounter with more other bird species that proudly inhabit the Nile River and its surroundings.
Visit Jinja Central Market.
With its beautiful colors, local produce, crafts, and people going about daily business, Jinja’s central market is worth a visit. The market is surrounded by colonial-era buildings with a mix of Indian, European, and African design styles. It’s the only place to visit in Jinja if you want to get a feel of the city.
Crafts in Jinja Central Market
How to get to Jinja source of the Nile
The journey to Jinja source of the Nile from Kampala is a scenic one passing through Mabira Forest, roadside markets, tea, and sugar plantations before embarking on a boat ride to the precise location of the source
During your trip, Nata adventures can arrange for a boat to transport you to your final destination, the source of the Nile.
When to visit the source of the Nile?
The source of the Nile Jinja is an all-year-round travel destination. However, it is important to note that the amount of excitement and experience not forgetting enjoyment highly depend on the weather.
With that mentioned, the best time for River Nile cruise is between October and April. The weather within this timeframe is very pleasant allowing maximum enjoyment.
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Lake Mburo National Park
Kampala City: Capital City of Uganda
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Nyungwe Forest National Park
Volcanoes National Park
KIgali City
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