The 16 best adventurous activities you must do in Uganda!
Activities available in Uganda
Are you a thrill seeker? Do you want to satisfy a wild craze? Are you prepared to confront your fears? At the Source of the Nile, Jinja, also known as the East-African Adventure Capital, you will find fantastic, exhilarating Africa Safari adventure activities. Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo have few activities to offer. In a matter of seconds, the water adventure transitions from lazy relaxation to crashing through grade five rapids. Adrenaline junkies can take on the legendary rapids at any time of year because Uganda benefits from a warm tropical climate all year.
Adrift, Nile River Explorers, Nalubale rafting, White Nile Rafting, Dream Balloons, All-Terrain Adventure, Nile Horseback Safaris, and Kayak the Nile are among the major operators and providers of exciting activities in Jinja.
Many activities are appropriate for the entire family. Age or weight restrictions may apply to some activities. Whether you prefer wild whitewater rafting exploration, a fun family trip, gentle scenic float trips, golfing, or a few days of exhilarating scenery and multi-sport quest, we have it all. You can find what you’re looking for based on your preferences and needs;
Ø Sport Fishing on a Hot Air Baloon Safari
Ø Hiking and mountaineering
Ø Golf Safari Zip-lining
Ø Horseback Riding
Ø Quad Biking Cycling and Mountain Biking
Ø Kayaking
Ø Surfing or Stand Up
Ø Paddle River Boarding
Ø Boat Cruise Family
Ø Float Jet Boating
1. Bungee Jumping in Uganda
Touching the source of the Nile while free-falling from a tall structure 44m into the Nile is not for the faint of heart. It is a thrilling experience that will get your adrenaline pumping.
The Nile river and forest canopy views are spectacular 3 kilometers upstream from Bujagali Falls. You have the option of using an ankle tie or a full-body harness. At most times, including at night, Adrift specializes in tandem jumps, water touches, and full-moon jumps. The age limit is 13 years, and the weight limit is 235kg, so you can do this dive with a friend.
2. Whitewater rafting in Uganda
Rafting the Nile’s white waters in Jinja
The Nile is regarded as one of the world’s safest and wildest grade 5 whitewater rapids, ideal for adrenaline junkies and novices alike. The trips include massive rapids and breathtaking scenery, as well as time to relax and swim on calmer stretches and catch your breath before the next section of raging white-water action.
Grade 4 and 5 rapids are typically difficult, and the guide will explain the planned route through so that you can decide whether to join the safety boat or, where possible, walk around and rejoin the raft. Grade 3 rafting is less strenuous than grade 5 rafting. Extreme rafting is more adventurous, faster, and offers more thrills and challenges. It is usually an exclusive trip with only you and an experienced river guide on a small inflatable raft. You will receive all necessary rafting briefings and training.
Children are permitted to go rafting, but only under certain conditions. They must be able to fit into an adult life jacket. They are aware that they must walk around two rapids. They will take a Grade 3 trip, running in the safety raft or on a paddle boat that will run the rapids but take conservative lines.
The activity usually begins at 9 a.m., and the minimum age is eight years. Safety briefings, life jackets, helmets, spray jackets, custom-made rafting equipment, plenty of water, breakfast, and lunch will be provided. Every trip includes a professional guide, safety rafts, kayakers, and a professional photographer to capture every unforgettable moment. You must bring loose clothing, shorts and a t-shirt, a hat, sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes.
3. Hot Air Balloon Safari
Hot air ballooning is only available in Uganda’s Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park, and is managed by Dream Balloons. Hot air ballooning is an ideal activity for honeymooners, adrenaline junkies, and those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The scenery is breathtaking, and the air is clean and refreshing. The spectacular experience of flying in a hot air balloon takes place in one of the following ways:
Sunrise/sunset hot air balloon safari with or without bush breakfast
Sunset hot air balloon safari- This flight begins at 4:00 p.m. This one, however, does not include any special offers such as bush meals after the ride. For large groups and students, they are short rides.
However, for the time being, only eight passengers are permitted to ride in the balloon. Children under the age of six are not permitted. Your experience will include seeing the general scenic view of the park, Lake Albert and Victoria Nile views, off-road animals hidden, bush breakfast experience in the wild, pickups from various destinations, participation certificates, ferry crossings, and the hot air balloon ride. This ride lasts an hour.
4. Horseback Riding Safaris in Uganda Lake Mburo NP
L.Mburo Horseback Riding Safari | Photo Credit: Extraordinary Journeys
Horseback riding is an exciting way to experience nature’s tranquility, wildlife, and birds. This experience is appropriate for people of all ages, including children and the elderly. The activity is suitable for people of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. You should not be concerned if you have no prior experience. The horses are well trained to respond to your skill level, making the ride more enjoyable. The guides are knowledgeable and professional, and they will take you at your own pace.
Pony rides, mixed group safaris, advanced rider safaris, and overnight horse safaris are some of the horseback riding packages available. There is a weight limit of 90kgs for safety reasons. This experience can be had in either the east at Jinja or the west at Lake Mburo National Park.
5. Ugandan Kayaking
Going solo and kayaking through the raging river or taking a more leisurely paddle on flat water is an alternative to rafting. You can take on the Nile and explore the mighty river with the double-sided paddle. A kayak school’s goal is for you to have a good time, feel confident, and gain control of your kayak. You will learn forward paddling, capsize prevention, and control techniques.
You can get the most out of your experience by doing the following: Tandem Kayaking (grade 5)- full day/ half day
Rafting in Extreme Conditions
Kayak / Canoe Cruises with a Seat-on-Top
SUP (stand-up paddle boarding) (SUP)
An experienced and knowledgeable guide, high-flotation life jackets, helmets, spray jackets, light snacks, and drinks are all included in the all-inclusive safari package.
6. Stand Up Paddle – SUP
The stand-up paddle expedition is an experience that begins with a calm water introduction and progresses to a river trip. You will begin at the Owen Falls dam and travel down to Bujagali. The flat water here is ideal for learning how to control the board and for your instructor to provide you with tips along the way, such as basic strokes and rescue techniques. You will put your skills to the test and tackle your first rapid with your guide leading the way at the Nile’s first free-flowing section, which contains up to grade 3 rapids.
With this learning experience, you will benefit from a variety of river features, allowing you to develop a wide range of skills ranging from running rapids to surfing and eddy lines. With experienced guides, safety equipment, no rocks to hit, warm water, and deep rapids, the Nile is a safe place to learn SUP. You will feel accomplished as you progress from a beginner to being able to control your kayak on white water. The scenery is breathtaking, and there is a wide variety of birdlife and plant life to enjoy.
7. Jet Boating on the River Nile
Jet boat up the River Nile Rapids at breathtaking speeds and enjoy the River Nile’s wild 360-degree spins without being immersed in it except for a bit of spray. The entire family, aged 5 to 85, had an unforgettable, fantastic experience on a custom-made 12-seater jet boat. You don’t need any swimming experience, and you’ll be guided by a professional jet boat pilot. High-flotation life jackets, helmets, spray jackets, light snacks, and drinks are all included in the trip package. A threesome package that includes white water rafting, bungee jumping, and jet-boating is also available.
8. River Boarding or River Surfing on the Nile
For serious whitewater enthusiasts, river boarding is an unforgettable experience. The Nile has eight major rapids that present different skill challenges depending on the water level. The adventure includes rafting and river boarding. You can relax during the flat sections and safely raft the few rapids deemed unsafe for river boarding. For serious whitewater enthusiasts, river boarding is an unforgettable experience. The Nile has eight major rapids that present different skill challenges depending on the water level. The adventure includes rafting and river boarding. You can relax during the flat sections and safely raft the few rapids deemed unsafe for river boarding.
Some rapids create waves that you can try to surf. Every trip includes a safety raft, kayakers, and professional photographers to document those priceless moments. You will be subjected to extensive safety briefings and drills. You’ll be outfitted with a river board, flippers, helmet, and life jacket, and you’ll be led into the heart of the rapids by an experienced guide. This strenuous activity requires a minimum age of 14 years. Boarding equipment, experienced guides, food and drinks, and free photographs are all included in the package.
Murchison Falls Boat Safari on the Victoria Nile
The Nile River is the world’s longest river, and it can be explored on a 2-hour riverboat cruise that departs from the newly formed Bujagali Lake, which is located between the Owens Falls Dam and the Bujagali Dam. The location is at the Nile’s Source in Jinja. Beautiful scenery, birdlife, and animals will be visible. Nile River Explorers, Noah’s Ark, and Nile River Camp all offer lunch cruises and even a breathtaking sunset cruise.
The launch trip upstream from Paraa to the foot of Murchison Falls National Park offers a spectacular display of wildlife and birdlife. The three-hour journey begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m. daily. A boat trip to the Nile-Lake Albert Delta takes 4 to 5 hours round trip and includes viewing other wildlife and birds. This trip is recommended for birders looking for the elusive Shoebill on a morning cruise downstream. A tranquil sundowner cruise, on the other hand, provides the classic view of a tropical sunset reflected on the river.
The boat cruise on the Kazinga channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park is a great way to see most of the wildlife that comes to the channel’s banks for water. The boat cruise is available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. local time. The boat ride begins on the Mweya peninsula, which is located 20 kilometers west of the Kasese-Mbarara main road through Katunguru.
10. Sports fishing in Uganda
Sport fishing (catch and release) on the Nile River in Jinja can be enjoyed by both novice and experienced anglers. They typically use trawling, spinning, and bait fishing to catch species such as Nile perch, tilapia, yellow fish, and catfish. All fishing equipment, camping equipment, safety equipment, and drinking water are provided. Fly fishermen, on the other hand, must bring their own equipment. Serious anglers can use GPS, a fish-finder, the latest rods and reels, the latest lures, and an experienced and capable skipper to look for big Nile Perch.
Sports fishing is done in Murchison Falls along the River Nile’s rocky surfaces, at the bottom of the falls at the Devil’s Cauldron, and on the Nile’s banks. Murchison Falls and Karuma Falls are the two fishing spots. Anglers using casting lures will find Nile perch and some catfish to be exciting challenges. Smaller fish, such as tigerfish, can be caught using live bait or spinning. Fishing spots can be reached by boat or by walking 45 minutes down from the top of the falls to the gorge.
Fishing can be done in Murchison at any time of year, but the best catches are seen early in the morning and late in the day. From mid-January to early April, when the water level is low and clearer, you can catch more when there is a dramatic variation in weather conditions. All anglers should have rods ranging in length from 8 to 11 feet with a multiplier reel and a 7″ spinning rod for smaller fish.
While fishing along the Nile’s banks, keep an eye out for hippos and Nile crocodiles.
11. Floating Safari along the Victoria Nile
This is a calm and enjoyable ride for families or small children. It is an excellent trip for younger children to float and swim down a peaceful stretch of the river. Drift down calm green pools at sunset while getting up close and personal with the incredible birdlife along the Victoria Nile.
You can also go on a houseboat safari, which can accommodate 8 people and has two crew members who will also prepare the meals. You will unwind and enjoy fishing, scenery, primates, and birdlife.
12. Zip-lining in Mabira Forest
Aaron Blanchard of Carnation, WA, founded the Mabira Forest Canopy Super Skyway in 2014. It is located in Mabira Forest, 45 minutes from Kampala on the Jinja-Kampala highway. The zip line system provides a canopy tour of the Mabira forest, allowing you to soar between the ancient tall trees. You’ll get a different perspective of Mabira Forest, primates like grey-cheeked mangabeys and red-tailed monkeys, a variety of bird species, and the roaring Griffin Falls while you’re up there. A network of five zip lines spans 250 meters across the Musamya River, with six platforms in the treetops. The weight capacity is limited to 250kg for safety reasons. The activity is divided into two sessions: morning (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and afternoon (2 p.m. to 6p.m.)
All-Terrain Vehicle Quad Biking is a thrilling “all ages, all levels, all adventure” muddy adventure that the entire family can enjoy. The packages are tailored to different skill levels, ranging from easy, scenic rides to tricky, challenging sections. A professional guide, protective clothing, and refreshments are included in the package. Even if you have no prior experience, you will be trained and able to enjoy the scenic sights of the Nile. Lake Mburo National Park also offers multi-day game-viewing and adventure safari packages.
14. Mountain Biking and Cycling in Uganda
Mountain biking and cycling are enjoyable activities that allow you to exercise your body while also enjoying the scenery and beauty of the lakes, forest, and birdlife.
In the east, you can ride through various trails to marvel at the birdlife, trees, and cultures, such as the Bujagali ride, Bugembe Viewpoint, and Mabira Forest Reserve ride.
In the west, Lake Mburo National Park offers cycling tours where you can see wildlife and enjoy beautiful scenery.
Golf safaris are becoming increasingly popular tourist attractions, with a great climate to enjoy all year. While visiting this fascinating country, you will have a one-of-a-kind golfing experience. Courses in ‘rolling parkland’ with beautiful greens, very few steepish slopes, broad tree-lined fairways, bunkers, a burn that meanders throughout, and professional cardies are available. The majority of the holes are well-designed, with the burn playing an appropriate role, several thought-provoking doglegs, and strategically placed bunkers. Some courses are located directly on Lake Victoria or near the National Park.
Some of the golf courses in Uganda are:
Ø Golf course in Entebbe
Ø Jinja Golf Course is located in Jinja Garuga. Golf Course Kihihi
Ø Golf Course Toro
Ø Golf Course Lugazi
Ø Kampala Golf Course in Uganda
Ø Tailor-made itineraries with Green Fees and pre-booked Tee-off times, as well as stays at some of Uganda’s most luxurious hotels and lodges, can be organized at Kinyara Golf Club in Masindi.
Bujagali Falls’ Big Game Mini Golf
The Big Game Mini Golf course is located in Jinja, Uganda, and features an African safari-themed course with life-sized statues of the Big-5 (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant) and other animals. Big Game mini-Golf is a family-friendly adventure that is open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Putt past the python, round the rhino, tee off past the African tiger, and hack from inside the African tiger.
16. Mountaineering and Hiking in Uganda
Aside from its popularity with mountain gorillas, the Pearl of Africa is the best destination for mountain climbing adventure, with mountains and volcanoes located throughout the country. There are short and long hiking trails in World Heritage Sites such as Rwenzori National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Mt Elgon National Park to suit your skill, fitness, and expectations. Hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of nearby communities, wildlife, and other neighborhood attractions at the mountaineering spots.
Rwenzori Mountains Hiking
The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Moon Mountains,” run along the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Rwenzori is Uganda’s highest peak and the third highest in the world. The highest peak, Mt. Stanley/ Margherita, stands at 5109m and is one of only three on the continent with permanently snowcapped peaks, which frequently melt into rivers that flow to the lowland rivers Nyamwamba and Mubuku. Mount Rwenzori National Park, established in 1991, is located at the mountain’s base. The Rwenzori Mountains are home to a diverse range of rare and endemic wildlife, tropical rainforests, breathtaking glaciers, and stunning waterfalls, rivers, and lakes.
Travelers choose a trail based on their fitness level and the destination; the Central Circuit is the longest, taking 8 days to reach Margherita.
Muhoma Loop- 3 day easier trail
1 day Chimpanzee Trail
1 day Kilembe Trail
Margherita Peak is the highest of six snow-capped mountains.
5109m Stanley/Margherita Peak ASL spans 120 kilometers north/south and 48 kilometers east/west Speak – 4889m
Baker ASL – 4843m
Gess, ASL – 4797m
Emin ASL – 4791m
Luigi de Savio ASL – 4626m ASL
Rwenzori Mountaineering Services (RMS) is an indigenous, non-governmental organization that has been granted a concession by The Uganda Wildlife Authority to provide trekking tourism services and support on the Central Circuit Trail within the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. They run six mountain camps for visitors, arrange guides and porters, manage a campsite/accommodation at the trekking head/base, coordinate transport to Kasese, may provide food, and may rent climbing and equipment. The fees include National Park admission fees. According to the trip tariff, the maximum weight of his/her luggage is 25kg. Any additional weight will necessitate the hiring of an additional porter.
Volcanoes of Virunga
Eight Virunga mountain volcanoes are shared by Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Uganda shares three volcanoes, all of which offer excellent day hikes with a variety of unique and rare wildlife, including mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, endemic birds, and mountain vegetation.
Muhabura (4127m) (4127m)
The chain of the Virungas begins with the third highest peak, which is located on the Rwanda-Uganda border. The hike to the summit takes about 5 hours, making it difficult, and the descent takes about the same amount of time. It has a small crater lake at the summit that can be easily circumnavigated to gain access to spectacular views of neighboring Karisimbi in Rwanda and Mikeno in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Mgahinga (3474m) (3474m)
It is the shortest and easiest of the three trails located between Muhavura and Sabinyo. It has a larger crater lake, but circumnavigating it to get better views is difficult.
Sabinyo (3645m) (3645m)
This is the most difficult hike of the three, but also the most interesting. It is located on the border of three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Mount Sabinyo is best hiked from Uganda, despite the fact that it is shared by the three countries. Hiking in Rwanda and the Congo is difficult due to the rugged terrain and numerous crater lakes. The volcano has three peaks that resemble three spaced teeth, giving rise to the local name Sabinyo, which translates as “Old Man’s Teeth.” one in uganda and the othertwo inRwanda and DRC
Mountain Elgon (4321m)
Mountain Elgon is located in eastern Uganda, near the Kenyan border, with its highest peak, Wagagai, on the Ugandan side. It was once the highest peak in Africa, but soil erosion has reduced it to the eighth highest peak in Africa and the fourth highest in East Africa. Aside from climbing Mt. Elgon, visitors can enjoy the fascinating wildlife, varied vegetation, caves, water pools, falls, and breathtaking scenery.
There are two major trails that take 4 to 5 days to reach the summit:
– Sasa or Budadiri trailhead- accessible from Mbale, the more direct route to the peaks and through the bamboo forest.
– Piswa trail- less difficult to hike than Sasa trail.
The Sipi Falls
The Sipi Falls are arguably the most beautiful waterfall set of three stunning waterfalls (85m, 75m, and 100m) located along the foothills of Mountain Elgon. The falls are fed by hot springs at Mount Elgon’s summit on the Uganda-Kenya border.
To prepare for the cold nights, bring sturdy hiking shoes, drinking water, energy snacks, a safe sleeping bag, and warm jackets and sweaters. In all other water activities, please do not bring any valuables such as a camera, jewelry, or electronics because you may lose them. You may, however, bring a change of clothes, sunscreen, a towel, and any medication you require.
Are these activities safe?
The companies that run these activities want you to have a good time while staying safe. They have professional guides and crew who are constantly trained to ensure that safety procedures and standards are followed. Periodic maintenance checks to ensure that equipment is in good working order and has an appropriate working lifespan. Before each activity, all visitors are briefed, and each trip includes a safety raft and kayakers.
To summarize, Jinja is unquestionably the Capital of adventure, adrenaline-pumping, and thrilling activities. Whether you are a first-time thrill seeker or an experienced adrenaline junkie, all you need to experience these challenges is a sense of adventure and the ability to hold your breath.
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