Add dates

Things to do in Jinja

Our most recommended things to do in Jinja

From Kampala: Jinja & the Source of the River Nile Day Trip

1. From Kampala: Jinja & the Source of the River Nile Day Trip

Explore the Ugandan countryside and discover the town of Jinja on the shore of Lake Victoria with this full-day tour from Kampala. See a range of sights, including the source of the River Nile, Sezibwa Falls, BoatCruise and more. Get insights from your guide, and enjoy included lunch and hotel transfers. After pickup at your hotel in Kampala, drive for approximately 80 kilometers (around 50 miles) to Jinja. Visit the authentic, original source of the Nile site where the British explorer, John Hanning Speke, first discovered the River Nile (of course the Africans knew there was a river, but anyway). Stand where he stood, and take a picture with the monument. Next, go for a boat ride across the river and into Lake Victoria. See monkeys, monitor lizards, pythons, and maybe even an authentic African Witchdoctor. Admire a truly spectacular natural setting that is ideal for birdwatching and allows for nature walks. This tour is thoughtfully put together and the efficient itinerary also packs in Sezibwa Falls, a walk in the Sezibwa Forest, and hiking to the top of falls. All transportation and entrance fees are included.

Jinja, Kampala, or Entebbe: Jinja City Tour with Nile Cruise

2. Jinja, Kampala, or Entebbe: Jinja City Tour with Nile Cruise

Enjoy a relaxed sightseeing drive to the picturesque Jinja, the Source of the great Nile river. Visit and explore the many natural attractions along the route including the rare Ssezibwa falls and its twin rivers, the Mabira forest nature walk, the sugar cane plantations of Lugazi and enjoy a locally popular snack of chicken and plantain at Namawojjolo market. Take a boat cruise on the river Nile and visit the exact spot where the Nile separates from Lake Victoria on its journey to the mediterranean. Enjoy Jinja's signature deepfried tilapia for lunch, and visit Jinja city's market, main street and monuments by car.

Jinja: Two-Day Rafting, Horse Riding, Quad Biking Adventure

3. Jinja: Two-Day Rafting, Horse Riding, Quad Biking Adventure

Begin the experience with an early-morning departure from your accommodation in Kampala, Entebbe, or Jinja. Make a pit stop at the popular Namawojjolo road market for a taste of Uganda's most loved travel snack, roasted plantain and roast chicken. Continue on until arriving at Mabira Forest for 1.5 hours of zip lining. Proceed to Jinja and enjoy 1.5 hours of horseback riding along the banks of the Nile. Head to a popular lakeside restaurant for a lunch consisting of Jinja's signature dish of deep-fried tilapia and fries. In the afternoon, set off for 1.5 hours of quad biking through local villages along the banks of the Nile. Head to the hotel to check in and relax. Opt for a mini walking tour of Jinja town and the local bars in the early evening. Enjoy dinner and an overnight at a decent, mid-range hotel. Wake up for included breakfast at the hotel and depart for the preferred aquatic activity. Choose between a full-day, grade-5 whitewater rafting experience, or any two half-day activities, including kayaking, Nile tubing, or Nile bugging. Enjoy an included lunch and evening snack, as well as one beer, throughout the day. Return to Kampala or Entebbe in the late afternoon.

Jinja: Guided Walking Tour with Optional Source of the Nile

4. Jinja: Guided Walking Tour with Optional Source of the Nile

Welcome to Jinja! Meet up with our local guide at the main post office and hop from stop to stop along Jinja's main street. Discover Uganda's oldest cafe and try some of Uganda's renowned robusta coffee. Visit colonial buildings such as Uganda's first storeyed building and police station. Learn about Jinja's special place in Uganda's British colonial history. Hear about the first asian settlers and the dark chapter involving the infamous Idi Amin Dada. Visit the central fresh produce market and try fruit and street food. Lastly, visit the world war cemetery and memorials, the old railway bridge and if you choose this option, the source of the Nile.

Frequently asked questions about Jinja

What top attractions are a must-see in Jinja?

The must-see attractions in Jinja are:

Other Sightseeing Options in Jinja

Want to discover all there is to do in Jinja? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Jinja

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 9 reviews

Isaac was my driver/guide and it was a lot of fun :DI booked the tour on the previous evening before the tour, so i was there alone. Basically it was a VIP drive in my case. We've visited jungles, went to sugar cane valley and some small villages, took some street food by the road, went to Jinja and Nile river park, took a boat ride to the place where the Nile River starts its way from the Victoria lake , and visited a small island with a souvenir shop in that spot. It was a nice day. Prepare to take some long sleeve shirt and appropriate shoes, as you will take a short 45 minutes tour to the real jungle forest. Also prepare mentally for the traffic jams towards Kampala on the way back, if you go on Friday as many people go "to the city". Generally the tour is highly recommended. You see some legendary places and real rural Uganda as well.

Great trip over all - if you are unable to stay in Jinja for a night or two, this is the best way to get a wonderful taster and experience of Uganda beyond Kampala, and see the source of the longest river in the world with some breathtaking views. Might seem a bit pricey but with all that is included, it is well worth it. The driver and guide we very kind, and super fun to talk to. Very enriching experience. Highly recommend.

The trip was great. The only thing to consider is the traffic, which was really heavy. You have to consider if you like to stay at least 5 to 6 hours in the car.

You will spend couple hours driving but already knowing this before it was a great experience. So thanks again to the guides and the driver.

Great experience, well organised and great communication from the organiser. Will be recommending.