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Images of Uganda #8: Bungee Jumping Jinja
As I sat at the bar waiting for the rain to subside and the bungee equipment to be assembled, the 44-m Nile High Bungee platform did not look daunting at all.
But the horror of jumping off it!
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Bungee jumping in Jinja—often branded “Nile High Bungee”—is East Africa’s premier adrenaline rush, offering a spectacular and unforgettable way to experience the sheer force of the River Nile.
Located in Jinja, about 80 km east of Kampala, this attraction stands out as Uganda’s—and indeed the region’s—only fixed bungee tower over water.
Bungee Jumping Jinja Location & Setting
Perched atop a purpose-built 44-meter platform overlooking the Nile, the jump site provides breathtaking views: lush banks, calm river stretches, and the legendary birthplace of the White Nile.
Jinja is known as Uganda’s “adventure capital,” with bungee jumping complementing other offerings like rafting, kayaking, ziplining, and quad biking.
The Jump Experience
- Briefing & Gear-up: After signing a waiver, you choose between a short jump (mid-air bounce) or long jump (with a touch of the water). You’re fitted with ankle harnesses and a certified bungee cord made of tested latex.
- Takeoff: On jump day, participants are asked to arrive ~30 minutes early. They climb the tower, and the experience begins with a countdown—“3, 2, 1, bungee!”—before freefalling toward the Nile.
- Fall & Rebound: The cord stretches to reduce descent before rebounding you upward, oscillating more gently until your descent eases. For long jumpers, a boat crew awaits in the river to assist you after the water touch.
Safety Protocols
Safety is paramount. Equipment meets international standards—ISO-certified and maintained to U.S./Canada, New Zealand, and Australian norms.
Annual audits by international consultants ensure ongoing compliance. The crew has over a decade of incident-free operations—there have been no recorded accidents since launch.
These measures include:
- Minimum age: 13+; minimum weight: 35 kg; maximum weight: ~110–260 kg depending on the source (ISO equipment ranges operate within these limits).
- Medical exclusions: no high blood pressure, heart conditions, asthma, pregnancy, or intoxication.
- Weather protocols: no jumping during rain or storms, as ropes can become slippery.
Pricing Breakdown
Rates vary by nationality and operator:
| Participant | Price |
|---|---|
| Ugandans | UGX 200,000–220,000 |
| East African residents | USD 100–125 |
| Foreign tourists | USD 115–120 |
| Tandem/instructor jump | USD 150–180 (approx.) |
Prices generally include equipment, briefing, everything except transfers.
Operators like Adrift Uganda may provide shuttle service from Kampala or Jinja itself.
When to Go & Practical Tips
- Timing: Open year-round, though dry months are preferable. Rainy weather can delay jumps.
- Clothing: Comfortable, activewear with secure shoes; avoid loose items. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent due to equatorial climate.
Uganda Images/Uganda Photos #9: Red Chilli Hideaway, Kampala
If ever you are in Kampala, Uganda and are looking for budget accommodation, then I couldn’t recommend more highly the Red Chilli Hideaway with its new purpose-built location in Butabika.
Although it’s a bit out of town, Red Chilli offers a complimentary shuttle service, 3 times a day, to and from downtown Kampala.
Good food, a well-stocked bar, 4G internet, a swimming pool, and very convivial atmosphere.
What more could you ask for at those prices (as low as US$7 for campers and US$40 for a double room en-suite)?