Whitewater Rafting in Jinja: Best time to book, Price/costs, Is it safe? and How whitewater rafting is conducted in Uganda
Jinja, at the phenomenal Source of the Nile River is one of the incredible whitewater rafting spots of the World and for many thrill seekers to Uganda, a rafting adventure is always the highlight of the safari. For this adventure, visitors can expect extended, exuberant strings of Grade 4 and 5 rapids with wide array of thrills as well as spills.
Even with the tremendous strength of some rapids, majority of the participants of whitewater rafting in Jinja are first-time rafters hence making it a wonderful opportunity to move out of your comfort zone and venture into something breathtaking.
Whitewater rafting in Jinja is conducted by three most renowned rafting Companies that include Adrift Uganda, Nile River Explorers and Nalubale Rafting. They conduct this activity with great deal of professionalism as well as nice deals, and incredible emphasis on safety. Once you have paid the rafting fees, rescue kayaks and safety boats will be provided in addition to rafts.
The Grade 4 and 5 rapids on which the adventure is conducted flow with more bountiful and massive volume as well as vibrancy than those in River Zambezi hence making it more thrilling than other places in the African Continent. Much as the recent construction of Isimba and Bujagali dams destroyed some of the Grade 5 rapids such as Bad place, Namizi and Kyabirwa, the activity is still conducted on other beautiful rapids on Nile River. Expect over 20 kilometers of 10 rapids-Grade 4 and 5, interestingly one of the best adventures in the country and doesn’t require experience to enjoy the activity.
A full safety team and instructors are always available to offer briefing and safety procedures before embarking on this adventure of a lifetime.
How Whitewater rafting in Jinja is conducted
A typical day of whitewater rafting in Jinja begins with breakfast at the Hotel or Lodge prior to being transferred to the banks of Nile River. All valuables (phones, dry clothes, watches and jewelry) have to be left in the car with your driver. Participants are then briefed on safety measures as well as what to expect. Even first-time participants will learn how to hold the rope, how to paddle and right way to fall out of the raft. Visitors are also advised to stay calm during the activity.
Participants are offered two options-easy or difficult routes although those not prepared for Grade 4 and 5 can instead opt for Grade 3 rafting. There is also another option for Grade 2 whitewater rafting designed for visitors who are afraid of the ferocious (monster) rapids. However before undertaking the activity, it is advisable to clearly indicate any underlying ailments because the activity is not recommended for hypertensive and anemic persons.
Safety equipment such as helmets and waterproof jackets are provided and have to be fastened before the adventure actually begins. Participants are first trained for the first mile prior to venturing into the stronger, aggressive and more breathtaking rapids downstream. The main route comprises of nine main rapids-four of which are grade 5 but become faster and stronger as you continue downstream.
Is Whitewater rafting in Jinja safe?
Whitewater rafting in Jinja is absolutely safe, given the fact that it is conducted under the guidance and supervision of highly trained and experienced rafting crew to navigate through the smooth ad rough rapids, Participants are advised to always adhere to instructions from guides for memorable experience and safety purposes. There are also a number of rescue teams who move ahead of your group in kayaks to rescue falling and stranded participants.
Perfect time for whitewater rafting in Jinja
Whitewater rafting in Jinja is available all year round but the perfect time is the dry season-December to February and June to September when water levels are reasonable, sunshine is stronger and sky is clear although it is important to always apply sunscreen to protect sensitive skin.