Tourists from near and far travel to Uganda to try Jinja’s world-renowned, heart palpitation-inducing whitewater rafting. While there are many rafting companies in Jinja, the main two outfitters are Nalubale and Nile River Explorers. Both offer class 3 (suitable for intermediates or adventurers) and class 5 (experts or adrenaline junkies) tours, including breakfast and safety training, a rental helmet and life vest, and free photos of the experience. Additionally, Nalubale offers class 2 tours, which are suitable for beginners and families. Before selecting class 5, consider how comfortable you are with the raft capsizing. The class 5 course navigates violent sections of the river, including a water fall, so you will likely get tossed from the raft and thrashed around the tumultuous waters. However, the class 5 rapids require no previous experience—perfect for thrill-seekers wanting to test their limits.
If rafting isn’t enough to get your adrenaline pumping, there is also tandem or solo whitewater kayaking. You can even take a multi-day kayak course with Kayak the Nile to learn how to navigate the turbulent class 5 rapids like a pro! Don’t worry: When you flip (and you will flip), at least you’ll be wearing a helmet.
INSIDER TIPTake advantage of the shuttle from Kampala to Jinja offered by many of the rafting operators, free with reservation of a full-day tour.