It is in Jinja District, Busoga sub-region in the Eastern Region of Uganda. It is approximately 81 kilometres (50 mi) east of Kampala. It sits along the northern shores of Lake Victoria near the source of the White Nile at an average elevation of 1,204 metres (3,950 ft) above sea level.
In 1954, the construction of the Owen Falls Dam submerged the Ripon Falls. Most of the “Flat Rocks” that gave the area its name disappeared under water as well. Both the Baganda on the western side and the Busoga on the eastern side of the Nile called the area “the stones” which is “ejjinja” in both languages. The name “Jinja” derives from this.
Source of the Nile Bridge Jinja
Though beautiful, the scene was not exactly what I expected, for the broad surface of the lake was shut out from view by a spur of hill, and the falls, about twelve feet deep and four to five hundred feet broad, were broken by rocks still it was a sight that attracted one to it for hours.
The national census of 2002 estimated Jinja’s population to be 71,213 of which 36,325 were males and 34,888 were females. In 2010, the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) estimated the population at 82,800. In 2011, UBOS estimated the population at 89,700. In 2014, the national population census put the population at 72,931 However, the Municipality Authority contested the recent census of 2014, saying it under-counted Jinja’s population. According to the 2014 national population census data, Jinja is the largest metropolitan area in the Jinja District and the 14th-largest metropolis in the country.
The majority of the population are of Bantu origin. Lusoga is the main local language. Jinja has a large population of inhabitants who are defined as “working urban poor“. Jinja has the second largest economy in Uganda. In the past, factories chose Jinja as their base because of the nearby electric power station at the Owen Falls Dam. Since the early 2000s, the economy of Jinja has picked up steadily.
Tourism attraction in the city.
The Source of the Nile
The second longest river in the world is an internationally unique attraction attracting both international tourists and domestic excursionists. Bujagali falls that are situated along the Nile River about 10 kilometers from Jinja city. The scenery and rafting activities of Bujagali falls attract a potential number of tourists. They also offer opportunity for bird watching.
Itanda falls
Located on the Nile within a distance of about 18 kilometers north-west of Jinja city. They provide an opportunity for bird watching (mostly seen are the weaver birds), camping and picnic outings well as Kyabirwa falls located 8 kilometers from Jinja providing beautiful scenery and landscape for campsite .
Lake Victoria beaches
Including the sites at sailing club, Tilapia club and masese have been fully exploited due to the water sports which attract domestic, foreign residents and foreign non-resident tourists.
Islands in Lake Victoria
Which include Samuka, Ndaiga, Lwabitookel and Lwabitookell. It is only Samuka island which have been fully exploited tourism purposes despite the existing potential in all islands that include boat racing, sport fishing, over-night camping, day excursions and water sports.
Historical sites
They include Bujagali ancestral site for soga tribe ancestral spirits at Bujagali falls, the current Busoga king’s palace at Nakabengompumudde hill, the historical meeting place of Busoga chiefs and the British colonial Governors. Mpumudde is also known as place where king Kabalega of Bunyoro Kingdom died.
The sources of Nile River
It is the major activity attracting domestic tourists in the area and the international tourists who wish to participate in the same activity which was done long ago John Speke the first European to lay eyes on the source of the Nile River.
Other activities which attract tourists
White water rafting
Bungee jumping
Kayaking
Sport fishing
Quad biking
Cycling
Community tour
Horseback riding
3 Day Itinerary from Kampala to Jinja City
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Jinja
Morning: Departure from Kampala early in the morning around 7:00 AM. The drive takes about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.
Arrive in Jinja: Check into the hotel or accommodation. Some popular options include the Source of the Nile Hotel or Jinja Nile Resort.
Afternoon: Visit the Source of the Nile, after checking in, head to the Source of the Nile. It’s one of Uganda’s most famous landmarks. You can take a boat ride to explore the river and learn about the historical significance of the Nile.
Visit the Nile Viewpoint: A great spot for scenic views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
Evening: Dinner by the Nile, enjoy a sunset dinner at a riverside restaurant, like The Hairy Lemon or The Source of the Nile Hotel. The atmosphere and views are perfect for a relaxing evening.
Day 2: Adventure Activities and Local Culture
Morning: Jinja Town Tour, start the day with a quick tour of the town. Visit the Jinja Central Market to experience local culture and buy handmade crafts.
Jinja Nile Bridge: Don’t miss the famous Jinja Nile Bridge. It’s a great spot for a photo op with views of the Nile and the surrounding area.
Afternoon: White Water Rafting, Jinja is known for being the adventure capital of Uganda, especially for white-water rafting on the Nile. Spend a few hours experiencing the thrill of rafting on Class 5 rapids
Evening: Relax at the accommodation and take a moment to relax. Enjoy some downtime by the pool or in the lounge area of the hotel.
Day 3: Nature and Wildlife
Morning: Start the day with a trip to Itanda Falls, located about 20 km from Jinja. The falls are a beautiful and less commercialized site, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature. It’s a great spot for a picnic or photography.
Afternoon: Explore Mabira Forest on the way back to Jinja, stop by Mabira Forest for a nature walk. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and birds.
Evening: Return to Kampala after a day in nature, begin the journey back to Kampala. Depending on traffic, the arrival be in in the evening.
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