Bungee Jumping at Jinja – Source of the Nile
At the point where the mighty Nile River begins its 6,650-kilometer journey to the Mediterranean, the town of Jinja in eastern Uganda has become a symbol of adventure. It’s not just the birthplace of the world’s longest river — it’s also the adrenaline capital of East Africa. Among its many thrill-seeking activities, none is as heart-stopping, iconic, and unforgettable as bungee jumping at the Source of the Nile.
The Ultimate Leap of Faith
Imagine standing on a towering platform, feeling the rush of wind against your face, the thunder of the Nile below, and your heart racing faster with each passing second. You look down — the river gleams like a silver ribbon — and then, in one breathtaking moment, you dive. The world disappears into a blur of air, sound, and freedom.
This is bungee jumping at Jinja, a pure adrenaline experience that draws adventurers from around the world. The jump is operated by Adrift Uganda, one of the continent’s most reputable adventure companies, ensuring world-class safety standards and professional guidance for every leap.
The Experience
The bungee tower rises 44 meters (about 145 feet) above the Nile, built to international safety standards and maintained by expert technicians. After check-in, jumpers are weighed, fitted with harnesses, and given a detailed safety briefing by trained instructors. Then comes the climb to the platform — each step heightens the anticipation until you reach the edge, where the view opens up to the wide river and green landscapes beyond.
There are two main types of jumps available:
Full Nile Touch Jump – This is the ultimate thrill where you dive headfirst and lightly touch the Nile’s surface before bouncing back skyward. It’s the most popular and symbolic version — a baptism of adventure at Africa’s most famous river.
Standard Bungee Jump – For those who prefer to stay dry, this version gives you the same rush without dipping into the water.
The jump itself lasts only seconds, but the memory lasts a lifetime. As you rebound and hang suspended over the river, the feeling of achievement and euphoria is indescribable.
Safety and Professionalism
Bungee jumping at Jinja is managed with international safety protocols. Adrift Uganda uses dual ankle and body harness systems, and every jump is supervised by certified instructors. All equipment is tested regularly, and the operation follows Australian and New Zealand standards for bungee safety.
Even first-time jumpers are made to feel comfortable. The guides are calm, humorous, and reassuring — they’ll talk you through every step, making sure fear turns into excitement before you take the plunge.
What to Expect
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Location: Adrift Bungee Tower, approximately 3 km from Jinja town, near the Nile High Camp.
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Height: 44 meters (145 feet) above the Nile River.
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Age limit: Minimum age is 13 years (parental consent required for minors).
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Weight limit: Between 35 kg and 260 kg.
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Duration: Around 1.5 to 2 hours for the entire experience, including registration, briefing, and jump.
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Price range: Between USD 115 and USD 130 per person, depending on the package and video/photo options.
Photos and videos are available on-site so you can relive the moment — or prove to friends that you really did it!
Best Time to Go
Bungee jumping in Jinja is available all year round. The best time to visit is during the dry seasons (December–February and June–August) when the skies are clear, and the river’s visibility is at its best. Early morning or late afternoon jumps offer the most stunning light for photography and unforgettable views over the Nile.
What Else to Do in Jinja
For thrill-seekers, Jinja offers a full menu of adventure experiences:
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White-water rafting on Grade 5 rapids of the Nile — some of the best rafting in the world.
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Quad biking through villages and sugarcane plantations.
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Kayaking, tubing, and jet boating on calmer sections of the river.
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Horseback riding and sunset cruises for slower-paced adventures.
Between jumps and river runs, Jinja’s relaxed cafés and riverside lodges make it easy to unwind and soak up the laid-back charm of Uganda’s adventure capital.
Where to Stay
Stay close to the action at Adrift River Base, where you can wake up to the sound of the river and enjoy easy access to all water activities. Other great options include The Nile Porch, Jinja Nile Resort, and 2 Friends Guesthouse for comfort and great views. Budget travelers can camp at Nile River Camp, a social hub for backpackers and thrill-seekers.
Why You’ll Love It
Bungee jumping at the Source of the Nile is more than just a thrill — it’s a symbolic leap into the wild heart of Africa. Few experiences bring you this close to freedom, fear, and exhilaration all at once. Whether it’s your first jump or your tenth, the feeling of diving over the Nile, surrounded by lush Ugandan scenery, will stay with you forever.
It’s not just about conquering height — it’s about conquering yourself.
