The source of River Nile is one of the icon features in Uganda’s history. Lake Victoria is without a doubt the source of the River Nile contributing up to 70% of the total water in the river. The British explorer John Speke arrived in Jinja in 1862 and marked Victoria as the source of the Nile. This incredible exploration of the source of the longest river in Africa and the world posed many questions over the years that followed. However, many questions were answered when the Norwegian divers measured the water pressure.

River Nile is the longest river in the world, flowing to Ethiopia through South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt. Its source is Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in East Africa. The Nile starts from Uganda on Lake Victoria crossing over 11 countries to the Mediterranean Sea. These countries include South Sudan, Ethiopia, Sudan, Egypt, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Kenya. The Nile journeys for about 6,650 kilometers to the sea taking about 3 months.

Although the source of River Nile is Lake Victoria, other external sources pump water into River Nile. These include underground streams, lakes, and rivers from far places like Burundi and Rwanda. Mountain Rwenzori is also a large contributor to the Nile as its melted glaciers feed many rivers and streams that pour their waters into Lake Victoria. The River Nile has three major tributaries including the Blue Nile and White Nile.

Boat Cruise to the source of River Nile

River Nile is the major tourist attraction in Jinja city and a boat cruise to the source is the icing on the cake and the major activity. The boat cruise starts at Lake Victoria where a ranger guide takes you through the brief history of the river. After enjoying the calm waters of the lake, you get to the source of the Nile. This is a point where Lake Victoria pours its waters into the River Nile. It is at this particular moment that the water changes its course to move up steam.

The roughness of the water as it enters into River Nile is at the Rippon Falls. These falls were once considered the actual source of River Nile by the British explorer John Hannington Speke. However, these falls were later submerged after the construction of the Owen Falls dam.

What to see on a boat cruise to the source of River Nile?    

While on a boat cruise to the source of the Nile in Jinja, visitors will encounter several other interesting attractions including the following.

Bird watching

The source of River Nile is also a natural hub for water-loving birds that can be spotted as they take advantage of the river. These birds nest on the tree branches that grow in and on the shores of the river. These birds feed on the small fish species that swim close to the surface. Some of the birds to encounter include red-throated bee-eaters, sacred ibis, egrets, grey herons, great cormorants, and pied kingfishers, to mention but a few.

Reptiles

Several reptiles have made the source of River Nile their natural haven to thrive. These harbor the shores of the river and the different islands. These reptiles on the source of the River Nile include the monitor lizards, among others.

What to do in Jinja?

Jinja City is the home of the longest river in the world. Other than visiting the source of the River Nile, Jinja has a lot to offer including the following.

White water rafting

White water rafting in Uganda is only available at Bujagali Falls on the River Nile in Jinja. Water rafting refers to traversing through rough water rapids and other obstacles like rocks in an inflatable raft or boat. This extreme outdoor water activity at Bujagali is done with professional divers and rafters who always keep the visitors safe as they embark on this activity. Visitors interested in this activity wear protective gear like helmets and life jackets to keep them safe.

Tubing

Tubing is another activity done on the River Nile. Tubing involves riding on a floating tube on a water source. Tubing in Jinja is done on the calm waters of the Nile with a lifeguard watching on to keep you safe. Tubing is a worthwhile activity to enjoy while on a visit to the source of the Nile.

Water biking

Water biking refers to riding or navigating the water on a water bike. This activity is popular on the River Nile as visitors bike through the calm waters of the Nile as they enjoy the scenery of the river.

Bungee jumping

Jinja is a one-stop center for bungee jumping in Uganda. A flexible elastic role is tied on the legs of the visitor or jumper and jumps head first while suspended on the roles. Bungee jumping is only available in Jinja.

When to do a boat cruise to the source of River Nile, Jinja?

Jinja is an open city accessed by visitors all year round. Boat cruising on the source of the Nile is an activity not shy of any weather. However, it is best done during the dry season due to the calm winds on the river that make it safe for cruising. In Uganda, the dry season runs from June to September and from December to February.

The wet season during March, May, April, October, and November is also good for boat cruises on the Nile. However, this season receives heavy rains that may increase the water levels and roughness of the river. Therefore, prepare the necessary gear and talk to your tour operator about the best season to visit the source of the Nile for a boat cruise.