Jinja

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Jinja is a city in Uganda.

[edit] Understand

The city is located the at the source of the Nile, and in Uganda more famously the source of Nile Beer. This is a popular destination for backpackers for its white water rafting. Three main operators work the rapids, offering a range of options, including body surfing, kayaking lessons and a video or dvd of the experience afterwards. It is possible to arrange a day trip from any travel agent in Kampala. Be sure to use sunscreen!

[edit] Get in

it is possible to get matatus from kampala to jinja for around uhs3000 per person.

[edit] Get around

The town is quite spread out, if you intend to go shopping for gifts etc, get a taxi to 'the source' and all of the touristy shops are within walking distance. If going further afield, boda-bodas or matatus are the best way.

[edit] See

The source of the Nile is actually a rather uninteresting dam which can be seen on the way into Jinja from Kampala.

[edit] Do

The main attraction in Jinja is white water rafting on the Nile. There are a number of safe reliable operators. Nalubale Rafting has nice new equipment and their guides are very experienced. All companies offer half days, full days and extended trips.

[edit] Buy

Uganda is not a terribly touristy country. Jinja is one of the only places that sells 'African souvenirs'. A day of shopping is best started by The Source Café. It is possible to buy drums, Ugandan guitars, paintings, and many other things ideal as gifts. Remember that -- apart from a few locations in Kampala -- you are unlikely to find shops like this elsewhere in Uganda.

[edit] Eat

There are several restaurants and cafés in the centre of the town. The Source café serves mainly western food and is a real mzungu trap; as a result, there are often children begging outside. There are numerous Indian and Chinese restaurants close by. One less well-known gem, Ossy's, is a small café opposite to the Source; it is cheaper, sells nicer food, and has much better service than its neighbour.

[edit] Drink

[edit] Sleep

• Bellevue in the city center is slightly upmarket but offers after bargaining a very basic tiny room for only 5000 shilling. The other hotels in the city center start at 10000 shilling. Another option is to take accommodation in one of the lodges outside the city center, near the nile.

[edit] Get out

WikiPedia:Jinja