Welcome to BUJAGALI FALLS
This information is currently being updated to include changes since the Bujagali Dam was completed. Bujagali Falls is no more. Bujagali LAKE is very much here. For a draft copy of the new booklet 'Bujagali Lake - East Africa's centre for adventure' please contact PK at info@atadventures.com
ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES AT BUJAGALI FALLS
With lots of big rapids on a beautiful, high-volume river, very exciting sections mixed with stretches to lay back and enjoy the scenery, white water rafting remains the most popular adventure activity. There are four rafting companies offering 1 day trips covering 31 km and two-day trips (45km) with overnight camping. Adrift Adventure Co and Nile River Explorers have been operating since 1996, Equator Rafts started in 2002 and Nalubale Rafting in 2005. For those who prefer a slightly smaller dose of adventure, each company offers family float trips so that children less then 14 years old can also enjoy time on the quieter sections between the Owens Falls Dam and Bujagali. Fortunately for the rafters, there are no longer any crocodiles or hippos in this part of the river (and unfortunate for the wildlife).
The upper reaches of the White Nile have also become a must do for international kayakers. Kayak the Nile offer kayak schools from half to several days, where the less experienced can acquire skills necessary to tackle many of the bigger rapids. For those who don't have time to learn, Kayak the Nile also offer also offer an adrenaline filled tandem kayak trip where adventure junkies are put in the front of two-seater kayaks and paddled down the biggest lines by professional guides.
A more peaceful option is a sunset canoe trip to Bujagali Falls or a fishing safari. But if high-powered petrol-head action is more up your street (or off your wave), the Wild Nile Jet, racing "up the rapids at breathtaking speeds" in a custom made 10-seater jet boat imported from New Zealand and powered by 450HP V8 motor is an "unforgettable experience for the whole family (ages 5-85 years)". Wild Nile Jet trips start from Adrift's Nile High Camp, blasting across the rapids, around forest clad islands, in a spray of water from twin Hamilton Jet motors, travels down-stream to Bujagali Falls and upstream to the Owens Falls Dam. Along the way, powering through the white-water there’s lots of white-knuckle action, power sliding inches from rocky outcrops and the sensation of travelling at speed in the safe hands of a professional jet boat pilot, you get the best insights as to how the river was formed.
Still on the waters and as a new addition to the options involving keeping your feet dry, Nile River Explorers now offer cruise boat trips for groups of up to 12 people near Bujagali Falls. This service compliments their new 50-seater boat based upstream in Jinja, where a cold soda or beer provides the perfect accompaniment to a sunset cruise at the Source of The Nile.
In 2002, the list of adventure activities available took to dry land with the arrival of All Terrain Adventures who provide quadbike safaris through the farms, forest and villages beside the Nile. Off the beaten tracks and into the warm heart of Uganda, this adventure company uses local guides trained to international standards, taking clients of all ages (family groups a specialty) on trips ranging from 1 hour to multi-day, starting from their base at Chillington Gate, Bujagali Falls. No previous riding experience is needed as before each safari, a free learner / practice session is conducted on All Terrain Adventures custom circuits. If it rains, the wetter the better - mud is even more fun. 
All Terrain Adventures range of automatic and semi-automatic quadbikes provide adventure at the press of a throttle for all ages. Smaller fully-automatic Kids Quads cater for younger riders. For those too small to ride themselves, there is the option of riding with a guide, Mum or Dad. Protective clothing (helmet, goggles, overalls, bandana, gumboots) and refreshments are included so all you need to bring is a big smile and perhaps a camera to capture some of the picturesque scenery along the routes.
ATA 'Roar of de Nile Guided ATV Safaris' are tailored to suit each group. All levels of rider from beginner to expert are well catered for on the 'best quadbike safaris on the planet, at the best prices in the World!' Open 7 days a week and no minimum numbers or fixed start times, All Terrain Adventures provides the most accessible adventure activities. With over 8 years experience and many thousands of happy clients, they have the best safety record of any company in the area.
Three kilometres upstream near the Jinja Nile Resort is Adrift's Nile High Bungee Jump. The tower is 44 meters above the water - time enough while falling to think hard about how well the rope is attached to your ankles! If jumpers want an extra adrenaline rush, there is the option of being dipped headfirst into the river before the first bounce.
Nile Horseback Safaris started conducting 4-legged trips along the west bank of the river, complimenting the 4-wheeled safaris run by All Terrain Adventures along the east bank. Over the years, their stables have expanded. Their horse are kept in first class condition and experienced guides accompany each safari.
Nile Horseback Safaris offer short (2hr and 3hr) safaris and longer overnight and multiday horse safaris. For their shorter safaris, no riding experience is necessary. They have also recently introduced a 1 hour, walking only, safari. This safari is suitable for people with children under 6 years old, nervous riders or people who have a limited amount of time. "A wonderful stroll through the villages and along the Nile enjoying the scenery of the area for anyone."
Nile River Explorers Mountain Biking have user powered tours using high quality bikes and expert local guides to help clients safely pedal their way in and around the Jinja area. "Whether it's a physical challenge you are looking for or to meander through villages by the banks of the Nile, they can make it happen for you". By taking a guided tour through Mabira Forest you will see places you can't get to in a vehicle and also learn about local flora and fauna around the area. NRE Mountain Biking also offers guided tours of Jinja and its scenic viewpoints as well as individual bike hire for the day.
After participating in some of these adventure activities, there are lots of places to kick back and put up your heels with a cool drink. While relaxing beside the falls you may get an opportunity to see Ugandan acrobat Jeremiah Bazale. This amazing man lost the use of a leg from polio when young. To the accompaniment of music from the Budondo Cultural Group he performs feats of strength and balance.
Boat cruises run by local fishermen on the quiet waters below Speke Camp, are another way to take it easy and enjoy the scenery and wildlife. These trips take you out to some of the islands where you can walk to viewpoints overlooking the big rapids at Bujagali Falls.
VOLUNTEER WORKING HOLIDAYS
Soft Power Education started operation in 1999, supporting the Ugandan Government in working towards its Millennium Development Goals for the Primary Education Sector. Supported by donations and volunteers from all over the world, Soft Power Education has help thousands of children in the area get a better education. Special facilities such as the Amagezi Education Centre allow school children in the area to enjoy practical, interactive and hands-on learning sessions using equipment they do not have access to in school. The Soft Power Medical Centre at Bujagali Falls provides healthcare facilities to everyone living in the area or visiting.
Volunteer working holidays are becoming more popular and with Soft Power's mix of 'Education thru Friendship Thru Adventure', visitors who want to put more into their holidays can find placement. Anyone making a donation to this registered NGO can be assured that "every single penny donated to Soft Power Education goes towards refurbishing and upgrading the schools involved in the programme; the running costs of the two pre-schools; running the Amagezi Education Centre; continuing the work in Murchison; buying building materials and paying for labour and staff."
RESTAURANTS, BARS, CAFE'S & SHOPS.
DeNile Cafe at the All Terrain Adventures site has a large menu and budget prices. As well as breakfasts, lunches, snacks, great coffee and the best fruit smoothies around, DeNile Cafe also host the only crocodile to be found in the area.
The Black Lantern offers a fine international a' la carte menu, "a culinary experience not to be missed ... famous for its pork spare ribs the Black Lantern has become a favourite destination for those who enjoy a little indulgence... Open for breakfast, lunch & dinner, [their] 1st class chefs and waiters will ensure a friendly and fulfilling dining experience".
Nile River Explorers offers a great place to party; music, a rafting video after each day's trip and a vibrant atmosphere. The 'Fork and Paddle' offers meals such as steak rolls, burgers and chips, baked potatoes, vegetarian meals, etc.. The well stocked bars are open until late in the evening. A cold beer is guaranteed. A good sound system, magnificent views across the river, and a laid-back ambiance are just some of the reasons why this place is always busy.
Beside Chillington Gate a number of stalls and duki, (small shops) have sprung up over the last few years. The duka's sell a range of small goods such as household items, foodstuffs, and any number of little things that the visitor may have forgotten to bring. Several stalls offer their versions of the famous 'Bujagali Rolex', an omelette and vegetables wrapped in a hot chapatti. Amongst the food stalls are small restaurants offering local dishes such as matooke, beans, fish stew, sweet potatoes and sauces. While waiting for food to be cooked, visitors can browse through a range of shops selling traditional crafts, paintings, carvings, clothing, and souvenirs such as jewellery.
PLACES TO STAY
Accommodation to be found right at Bujagali Falls generally caters more towards the mid to budget range. Jinja (just 7km south) has many hotels, motels, guesthouses and apartments. Even closer, the Jinja Nile Resort is just 4km upstream.
The Nile Porch has a series of chalets overlooking the Nile. "Magnificent views to admire sitting on your veranda watching the sun go down. A swimming pool and decorative ponds set in carefully tended gardens with first-class facilities and service make this a special place to recover from the adrenaline rushes of the day... Locally made furniture and fittings, specifically designed for the Nile Porch using natural resources from the surrounding area, offer both comfort and pleasure to the eye." The pool provides safe swimming without trekking down to the river. Wi-fi internet access is available to keep up to date with the world outside - if necessary.
Nile River Explorers Bujagali Campsite offers much more than camping these days. Although good facilities are still maintained for camping; with a range of bandas, dormitories and safari tents there is no need to come with a tent. The focus is on budget priced accommodation. The reception area provides information, a book swap and several computers with internet access.
Eden Rock Resorts has similar facilities at similar prices. There are not the same views over the Nile but they advertise a quieter environment. Eden Rock have a large camp ground, small bandas for couples and dorms, a restaurant and family bandas set back from the river in fenced grounds with lots of gardens.
The River Camp has recently opened; offering beautiful views and a quiet family orientated atmosphere. Rooms, dormitories and spacious camp grounds, a large bar and restaurant as well as a swimming pool. It has been built to complement the Nile Porch, providing accommodation at budget prices.
Speke Camp still has lovely tent sites beside the river but other facilities have become run-down.
HOW TO GET THERE
If using your own vehicle; cross the River Nile and at the first roundabout, turn left (instead of right into Jinja or straight ahead towards Kenya). Follow the road northwest for 7 km, past the turnoff to the Jinja Nile Resort and Adrift Camp. WATCH OUT for unmarked speed bumps, bicycles and children. If at night, beware of vehicles without lights!
The road surface deteriorates changing from seal to murram. Pass through Buwenda Trading Centre, across a small valley and as you climb out, take the left turn marked to Bujagali Falls. Approximately 500m along this side road, you arrive at Chillington Gate. If going down to the falls, Speke Camp charge an entry fee at the box just through the gate. Other sites do not charge for entry.
GPS coordinates: N00 29.101 E033 09.755
If coming by public transport: Bus or matatu to the first roundabout on the east side of the dam. Boda Boda motorcycle taxis are readily available at the roundabout and at the falls, to take you there and back, quickly and economically. DO NOT ride 3 up and insist that your rider takes his time. Get a quote before starting. Special hire taxis are almost as readily available for about three times the price of a boda-boda and are by far your best bet if the road is wet (very slippery).
Nile River Explorers offer a free shuttle service from Kampala leaving before 8 am, returning late in the afternoon. This service must be pre-booked with NRE. Telephone 0772422373 or email rafting@starcom.co.ug
HOWEVER YOU GET HERE, HAVE A SAFE, PLEASANT TRIP AND MAKE SURE YOU BRING A SMILE.
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Bujagali Falls - East Africa's centre for adventure.
Adventure tourism is a rapidly growing part of commercial tourism worldwide, particularly favoured by younger travellers. In Uganda, Bujagali Falls is the main focus for this type of vacation and recreation.
Millions of years ago; as the Rift Valley slowly rolled, twisted and formed patterns across the land; as the Virunga Mountains and later the Ruwenzori's (sharing the evocative name of 'The Mountains of the Moon') rose along the backbone of Central Africa; a large depression formed on the eastern side of these high ranges. Rainclouds forming over the Indian Ocean crossed East Africa and collided with the barrier, watering the slopes with abundant rainfall. Slowly the great depression filled.  Around 13,000 years ago, Lake Victoria / Nalubale filled with enough water to overflow its lowest point, at the north end beside what was to become Jinja Town. The thick, red top soils were washed away, cutting a riverbed north west towards Lake Kyoga. Hard granite outcrops remained. Rippon Falls (beside what was to become Jinja Town in Uganda), formed the first rocky barrier along the watercourse, controlling the outflow from the lake. Bujagali Falls became the second large terrace for water to cascade over.
People of many cultures and tribes came to settle around Africa's largest lake and 100s of years ago, people known as the Busoga settled on the east bank and the Buganda kingdom spread as far as the west bank, putting down roots, farming the lush green land on both side of the Nile.
John Hanning Speke was the first European to visit the area reaching the west bank on July 21, 1862. He christened this section of the White Nile, (as distinguished from the 'Blue Nile' that flows out of Ethiopia) the 'Victoria Nile'.
In 1954, construction work on the Owens Falls Dam was completed and Rippon Falls were submerged. As Jinja grew, people seeking a day out beside the Nile started to visit Bujagali Falls. A wrought iron archway bearing a crocodile in silhouette and the name 'Chillington Gate' still stands on the road in. When overland trucks started visiting Uganda, it soon became a tradition to overnight at the falls on the way to Kampala.
Nearby Budhagali, at the intersection with the road to Jinja, was a focal point for merchants trading with farmers in the area, including farmers around Kyabirwa Village, the closest settlement to the falls.
At Bujagali Falls, the river is split into 7 channels, separated by rocky outcrops of forest clad islands. There are many species of birds (endemic and migratory), an abundance of fish and, until the end of Uganda's civil war, large populations of crocodile and hippo.
The flow of the river varies very little all year round; it is controlled by the parallel dams a few kilometres upstream at the source of the river. The catchment area of Lake Victoria is vast and this is its only outlet. The roar from up to a million litres per second, hums all day and night providing a blanket of sound to comfort all sleeping within earshot.
Over thousands of years Bujagali Falls has been visited by humans. For many generations it has been a sacred site for the Busoga people and it is not uncommon to see witchdoctors and others coming to the riverbank to make sacrifices and leave offerings to the spirits who live by the river and in the large mvule trees nearby. Nabamba Budhagali is a witchdoctor who has lived in the area for many years. His compound is on the approach road to the site and he is the 39th Jajja or priest/caretaker of the spirits who live at Budhagali Falls. The witchdoctor can be visited for advice and information about the spiritual aspects of the area. At a convention in 2001, he and many other traditional leaders from around Uganda established that the traditional spirits living by the falls did not want to shift when the fall are partially submerged by rising waters, when the Bujagali Dam is completed in 2011.
Although called the Bujagali Dam, it is located three kilometres downstream. The water will back up to a projected depth that will submerge most of the islands and create a small tree-lined lake within the confines of the river banks. Water travelling through the Owens Falls / Nalubale Dams will pass through the new Bujagali Dam approximately 7 hours later. There is no reservoir required, Lake Victoria provides that.
Since 1996, the area has come to be very popular for white-water rafting. Trips run by Adrift Adventure Co., Nile River Explorers and more recently Equator and Nalubale Rafting start from above Bujagali Falls. Clients have a some orientation time and then they hit the first big, safely raft able section by the east bank at Bujagali, where the adventurous are roller-coasted down a grade 4 / 5 rapid on their way through one of the most exciting and beautiful sections of white-water action in the World.
When the new dam is completed this section and 2 other major rapids (Kyabirwa Falls / Total Gunga and Big Brother / Silverback) will also be submerged under quieter waters. This does not mean an end to rafting on the Nile. Trips will to start downstream below the dam, through the exhilarating rapids that remain and extend over other rapids below the current finish point for 1 day trips, at Itanda Falls (home to 'The Bad Place').
Also in 1996, a Kenyan entrepreneur, Raj Shaa, partially developed the site down beside the river. For a number of years Speke Camp was used as a base by Adrift and since 2002 by Equator Rafts. Nile River Explorers developed a site near Chillington Gate. Budget bandas, dormitories and camping sites provided the first tourist accommodation for the area. Bujagali Falls remained a favoured picnic site (on Christmas day 2001 over 2000 people visited) and tour companies (particularly Overland Travel operators) started to overnight. Visiting Bujagali Falls became an important must-do for many Ugandan children coming in school groups to see an important part of their heritage.
In 1999, Speke Camp (which was at that time leased from the Jinja District council with some of the rent being paid to Budondo sub-county) changed hands and the current owner, Sudhir Ruparelia, took over the lease.
The green clad islands are home or resting point to many species of bird, the foaming blue and white water is an oxygenated paradise for Nile perch, tilapia, and tiger fish. Early mornings, the Nile valley shrouded in slowly lifting mist, fish eagles calling, a small flock of white egrets feeding on the lawns and bedraggled cormorants drying their wings on rocky outcrops, will stir every nature lover's heart. The pounding rapids bring a rush of adrenaline to rafters and kayakers. Just a few minutes north of the equator, at 1150 meters above sea-level, with a lovely climate all year round, vibrant sunrises and sunsets reflecting orange and purple off the river and the hypnotic quality of the rushing water, Bujagali Falls is a superb place to relax and absorb the environment. Down by the river's edge, the roar of water lulls visitors and locals alike. Bars, restaurants and cafés providing shade, comfortable seating, music, food and drink have sprung up on the east bank. Accommodation has improved to international standards.
Almost every morning Colourful flotillas of rafts pass over Bujagali Falls; close enough to see the whites of their eyes! Kayakers from all over the world provide occasional entertainment. During the day the 'Bujagali Swimmers' will for a 5,000/= (@ $2) fee, allow themselves to be washed through the main rapid using only a plastic jerrycan for floatation. Local fishing boats can be hired for trips out onto the calmer waters below the falls. There are many opportunities for sightseeing, fishing and bird-watching. Budondo Cultural Group provides musical entertainment at weekends and a number of small craft shops and food stalls have sprung up by Chillington Gate. The intriguingly named 'Avoid Morning Sex' shop is one example of local entrepreneurship.
  
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