Half-Day Jinja Walking Tour: Source of Nile & Boat Ride Options
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Jinja, the land of the Source of the Nile. Meet up with our friendly local guides and fellow travellers for this shared experience. Together, explore the lively streets, monuments, secret venues and markets of Uganda's most scenic town. Feel free to tip the guide at the end
Available options
With Source of Nile &Boat ride
Source + Boat: Includes entry to source of the Nile plus 45 minute boat ride to Source point & on Lake Victoria
Standard Walking Tour
No source of Nile or Boat: This option does not include entry to the source of the Nile or the boat ride
Source of Nile Entry-No Boat
Entry to source of Nile: This option includes entry to the source of the Nile but without a boat ride
What's included
Guide fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet-up point, introductions, tour briefing and Jinja town background
2
Place of historical and artistic significance to Jinja town. Also an opportunity to learn about the cafe's conservation effort. This is also our first refreshment/ toilet stop
3
Building of historical significance in Jinja and a great place to explore the migration of indians into the British colonies of East Africa, including Uganda. Also analyse the impact of Jinja's asian community on the economy and politics of the town and the country
4
History of one of the original colonial structures built in Jinja town. Significance of the police station in Jinja's history and current affairs
5
Local crafts artisans and paint shops village. Meet the vendors who make their living here and a chance for guests to talk to the vendors and ask them about their trade and life in the town. Also a chance to pick up a souvenir
6
Main fresh produce market of the town. Opportunity to see the hustle and bustle of Jinja's busiest spot. Guests may try fresh in-season fruit (carry local currency)
7
Great street food vendor making freshly delicious street delicacies. Chance for guests to try out Ugandan street food (carry local currency)
8
Memorial built to commemorate Ugandans who died supporting the British war effort in both World War 1 and World War 2. Hear the important general facts and a few individual stories of the Ugandans who fought in the wars
9
The Rippon falls site and bridge that marked the first link between Jinja and Central Uganda
10
Finish at entrance of the source of the Nile
What's not included
Option including a visit to the source of the Nile, excludes other activities at the source e.g boat
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.3
7 reviews
5★
2
4★
5
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
At the main street entrance of the Jinja Main Post office. Our guide will be wearing a t-shirt with immersionug Free Walking Tours tee shirt and/ or umbrella. They will also be wearing a big smile
About Jinja
Jinja is a vibrant city in Uganda known as the source of the Nile River. It offers a mix of adventure activities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation.
Top Attractions
Source of the Nile
The official starting point of the Nile River, marked by a monument. Visitors can take boat trips to the exact spot where the Nile begins its journey.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget (5,000-10,000 UGX or 2-4 USD)
Jinja Nile Resort
A popular spot for white-water rafting, kayaking, and other water sports on the Nile River.
Adventure
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive (50,000-200,000 UGX or 20-80 USD)
Bujagali Falls
A scenic waterfall on the Nile River, offering beautiful views and a peaceful escape from the city.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free to Budget (5,000-10,000 UGX or 2-4 USD)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Matooke
Steamed green bananas served with a sauce, often made with groundnuts (peanuts) or meat.
Main Dish
Vegetarian (without meat sauce)
Rolex
A rolled chapati filled with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat.
Street Food
Can be vegetarian or with meat
Luwombo
Steamed meat or fish wrapped in banana leaves with vegetables and spices.
Main Dish
Contains meat or fish
Popular Activities
White-water rafting
Kayaking
Bungee jumping
Boat trips on the Nile
Sunset views at the riverfront
Visiting local markets
Exploring historical sites
Swimming
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
22-28°C
72-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Luganda, Lusoga
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Ugandan Shilling (UGX)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Jinja is generally safe, but petty crime and scams can occur. Use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Entebbe International Airport • 80 km from Jinja
By bus
Kampala Bus Park
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable but can be crowded. Routes cover most parts of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Boda Boda (motorcycle taxis)
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jinja Town
Nile Riverfront
Day trips
Mabira Forest
30 km from Jinja • Full day
A lush forest offering hiking, birdwatching, and primate trekking.
Ssezibwa Falls
40 km from Jinja • Half day
A beautiful waterfall with cultural significance, surrounded by lush vegetation.
Festivals
Nile River Festival • September
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more authentic and informative experience.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Luganda or Lusoga to connect with locals.
- Carry small denominations for local markets and taxis.
- Book adventure activities in advance, especially during peak season.
- Respect local customs and traditions to ensure a positive interaction with the community.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
