Jinja is a beautiful city situated in the eastern region of Uganda on the northern shores of Lake Victoria; it is known as an industrial city that was put in place in the year 1907, it is among the exciting towns in the country besides Kampala. The city is home to a diversity of thrilling adventure activities that have influenced many tourists to visit the place. It is paramount to note that the strategic location of Jinja has made the town a star attraction that is worthy to explore on a two-day or one-day Uganda safari.
One of the interesting facts about Jinja is that it hosts the historic source of the Nile which is one of the main reasons why many travelers love visiting the place. The city is popularly termed as the “Adventure Capital of Uganda” since it is a famous hub destination for lots of adventure activities such as; white water rafting, bungee jumping, boat cruise to the source of the Nile, tubing, horse riding and many more all which make a tour to Jinja worth every penny you pay.
Historical background
Jinja town is within the Busoga region and it’s surrounded by the districts of Iganga, Mayuge, Mukono, and Kayunga. Originally Jinja it was once a fishing village. The town was established by the British government to act as an administrative Centre for Busoga sub region. Ever since then the town remained the capital city of Busoga until it was upgrade to municipality level.
Occupants of Jinja
The city was once inhabited by the Indian traders, these were catholic Christians and English speaking and origin of the Portuguese colony. Apparently, jinja is occupied with all tribes of different nationals and races. It has an esteemed population of about 392,000 according to the current statics carried out in the region.
Economic activities
Jinja has fertile soils therefore agriculture is the major key activity practiced in the region due to the presence of reliable rainfall amounts as well as the abundant water sources. The area features many industries such as; grain milling, leather and paper processing plant among others.
Attractions found in jinja
- The source of the Nile
- Itanda falls
- Bujagali falls
- Kyabirwa falls
- Itanda falls
- Busoga culture
- Agriculture
- Crafts and many more.
Top Tourist Activities to do in Jinja
White water rafting
Rafting is one of the key highlights on Uganda safari; it is a recreational and adventure activity that gives you a good impression about the fascinating Pearl of Africa. When you take a visit to the source of the Nile, enjoy the unbeatable adventure on the world longest river as you experience the grade four and five water rapids. White rafting in jinja is best done when in groups and in some areas, the water is clear, calm and can be ideal for swimming. Catch glimpse of the stunning scenery and various colorful bird species.
Bungee Jumping
It is another adrenaline pumping experience conducted in jinja; it involves jumping off from a 43-meter raised platform into open space of the Nile water, you can kiss or touch the Nile while swinging on a rope. It is activity for the few with fearless hearts and have the zeal to test however they can go with their adventure spirits.
Quad Biking
This is an adventure activity that is kids friendly, therefore if you are planning a family tour, quad biking can be ideal for a bond experience on your vacation. It does not require any level of experience due to the fact that there is free training before you take part in the activity. Enjoy sliding over the potholes and puddles of a muddy ground thus giving you a unique experience.
Boat cruise to source of the Nile
Don’t miss the experience of a jet boat cruise along river Nile taking you to witness the source of the Nile as declared by John Speke. While cruising the Nile, you encounter plenty of wonderful bird species plus the eye-catching scenery of the Nile. If you are a bird lover, birding in jinja is extremely interesting while on a boat cruise.
Kayaking
Kayaking is another amazing ideal to explore the River Nile up close. It exposes you to the stunning surrounding of the Nile and you enjoy sighting many exotic birds as you experience the Nile.
Horse Riding
In Uganda, we have only two safari destinations where horse riding in best done. Beside Lake Mburo national park, jinja is another astonishing place where you can enjoy unforgettable memories of horse riding in the Pearl of Africa. the activity is conducted in along the shores of the Nile, with in the surrounding communities and landscape thus make the horse riding extremely adventurous and fun. Birders also have a chance to encounter many beautiful bird species while on a horse ride.
Other activities that can be done on jinja include; tubing, visiting the source of the Nile, Mountain biking and many more. In synopsis, jinja has a lot to offer on a Uganda safari and this can not be explored in just one day hence your trip to the Pearl of Africa can be incomplete with out a visit to the Adventure Capital of Uganda.
Incase you are planning a Uganda tour to jinja this season, with the above facts, we hope you get guided on how best to delight in an adventurous tour as you explore the Pearl of Africa. For further more questions and inquiries, don’t hesitate to contact our travel experts for assistance on how to organize your jinja road trip. To get in touch with us, simply send us an email to info@ugandacarrentalservices.com or call us directly on+256-700135510, +256 414-699459 to speak to our customer care personnel.
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