+256 771056981 info@bonobosafricansafariholidays.com
+256 771056981 info@bonobosafricansafariholidays.com
The Nile River…the longest river in the world

The Nile River ”the longest river in the world”

The Nile River ”the longest river” The Nile River flows from south to north through eastern Africa. It begins in the rivers that flow into Lake Victoria (located in modern-day Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya), and empties into the Mediterranean Sea more than 6,600 kilometers (4,100 miles) to the north, making it the longest river in the world. The Nile River was critical to the development of ancient Egypt. In addition to Egypt, the Nile runs through or along the border of 10 other African countries, namely, Burundi, Tanzania, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia, and South Sudan. Its three main tributaries are the White Nile, the Blue Nile, and the Atbara.

Rippon falls in jinja, Uganda

The White Nile leaves Lake Victoria at Ripon Falls near Jinja, Uganda, as the “Victoria Nile.” It flows north for some 130 kilometers (81 mi) to Lake Kyoga. The last part of the approximately 200 kilometers (120 mi) river section starts from the western shores of the lake and flows at first to the west until just south of Masindi Port, where the river turns north, then makes a great half circle to the east and north to Karuma Falls. For the remaining part, it flows western through the Murchison Falls until it reaches the northern shores of Lake Albert where it forms a significant river delta.

Lake Albert is on the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but the Nile is not a border river at this point. After leaving Lake Albert, the River continues north through Uganda and is known as the Albert Nile. The Blue Nile is the other tributary that forms the Nile. It starts with a bright blue color in its waters but later, when it comes near Sudan the darker sediment it carries changes the shade of blue, making it darker.

Location of River Nile in Uganda #The Nile River ”the longest river”

Mahatma-Gandhi-River-Nile, Uganda is the source of Rive Nile – the world’s longest river from where the Nile starts its 4000-mile journey to the Mediterranean Sea through to Sudan and Egypt. The source of river Nile is located in Jinja about 1,5 hours from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. Jinja is a hive of many other touristic activities for anyone interested in a weekend gateway from the bustle of the city including all year white water rafting, Kayaking, Jet boating, bungee jumping to kiss the Nile, Squad biking, horse riding by the shores of the Nile etc.

The Nile starts its journey to Egypt from Lake Victoria in Jinja town – eastern Uganda. When you drive out to the source of the Nile, your first encounter are the beautiful gardens in the vicinity. Next is the several craft shops with mostly African pieces sourced from all over the country. You can then visit and photograph several monuments which have a historical attachment to the Nile. For example, Mahatma Gandhi requested that some of his ashes be sprinkled in the Nile after cremation along many other rivers in the world.

At the shores of river Nile

Once on the shores of River Nile, you will take a motorized traditional boat to where the river waters ‘start’ separating from the lake waters, the spot is clearly marked with a sign post. Over the years because of several dam constructions downstream along the Nile, the water levels have increased up stream making it sometimes impossible to step on the slab by the signpost for photos. However, you are still able to take them while in the boat with the sign in the back ground. In the dry seasons when the rains are scanty it is sometimes possible to step on the slab for personal photos.

There is amazing scenery all along the Nile as it curves through Uganda with sections through communities where you have sightings of fishermen, gardens along the Nile and homes with energetic beautiful children often excited to see boats on the water. Other sections simply have hotels and factories especially those near the source of the Nile. Another big section of river Nile is through the protected area of the Murchison falls national park and Karuma falls which is inaccessible by boat or walking because of the huge rocks and falls. Inside the Murchison falls national park, The Nile River ”the longest river” there are great boat trips offered both by the park on Victoria Nile to the bottom of Murchison falls.

The fact about the source of the Nile #The Nile River ”the longest river”

The Ruvyironza River of Burundi is regarded as the true and ultimate source of the Nile. The Ruvyironza is one of the upper branches of the Kagera River, which follows the Rwanda-Tanzania and Uganda-Tanzania borders into Lake Victoria. The main source of the Nile is Lake Victoria, but the lake itself has feeder rivers of considerable size like the Kagera River.

Facts about the Nile river #The Nile River ”the longest river”

  • it is the longest river in the world.
  • The Nile flows into the Mediterranean Sea.
  • river Nile has a length of about 6,695 kilometers (4,160 miles)
  • Its average discharge is 3.1 million litres (680,000 gallons) per second.
  • The Nile basin is huge and includes parts of Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, Congo (Kinshasa), Kenya.
  • The Nile receives its name from the Greek Neilos, which means a valley or river valley.
  • A lifeline to Egypt.
  • The longest river in Africa.
  • Home to one of the oldest ancient civilizations.
  • A diverse ecosystem.
  • A major source of transportation

source of irrigation

For thousands of years, the river has provided a source of irrigation to transform the dry area around it into lush agricultural land. Today, the river continues to serve as a source of irrigation, as well as an important transportation and trade route connecting Africa with markets in Europe and beyond. It was as well useful in every aspect of life in Egypt – the Nile provided food and resources, land for agriculture, a means of travel, and was critical in the transportation of materials for building projects and other large-scale endeavors as well as a lifeline that literally brought life to the desert.

Simple highlights/summary #The Nile River ”the longest river”

Agriculture

the art and science of cultivating land for growing crops (farming) or raising livestock (ranching).

Blue Nile

tributary of the Nile River flowing from Lake Tana in Ethiopia and meeting the White Nile at Khartoum, Sudan, to form the Nile River.

Cultivate

to prepare and nurture the land for crops.

Erosion

act in which earth is worn away, often by water, wind, or ice.

Flax

plant cultivated for its oil, seeds, and fibers, used to make linen. Also called linseed.

Nile River

(5,592 kilometers/3,473 miles) river in East Africa.

Papyrus

ancient writing material, similar to paper, made from the papyrus plant.
Sediment solid material transported and deposited by water, ice, and wind.
Tributary stream that feeds, or flows, into a larger stream.
White Nile

 

 

tributary of the Nile River flowing from the highland rivers of Burundi to Lake Victoria and meeting the Blue Nile to form the Nile River at Khartoum, Sudan.

 

Warmth

 

 

 

 

the main tributary of river Nile in Uganda is

the White Nile

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reasons why Uganda is called a source of the Nile

 

River Nile is one of the warmest region in Sudan with an average daily high temperature of 38 degrees centigrade. It is yearlong warm or hot.

 

The Nile is made of two main tributaries – the White Nile which starts in Uganda through South Sudan to Sudan and the Blue Nile which begins in Ethiopia and meets the White Nile in Sudan and continues to Egypt.

 

 

Both white Nile and Blue Nile are natural water bodies that run flowing from lake Victoria and lake Albert of Uganda and it also connects in Khartoum to form the basis of the Nile that is made up of cascade Nile along the Egyptian Nile.

Attractions at river Nile #The Nile River ”the longest river”

The three core reasons people travel are leisure tourism, business tourism, and visiting friends and relatives. A leisure tourism trip is a type of vacation that is usually focused on enjoyment and relaxation. The source of the Nile in Uganda has become an international tourism site attracting more than 1 million tourists each year for leisure tourism.

Tourists’ expectations when visiting a particular place are related to several features of the chosen destination: culture, architecture, gastronomy, infrastructure, landscape, events, shopping, etc. These features attract people to the destination and contribute to the overall experience of the trip.

Nile river the most tourist attraction, ”it’s where ancient Egyptian kings and queens ruled, where great temples were built, and where the world’s first ever civilization thrived.’’ Today, Cairo stands as the capital of Egypt, and it’s where the Nile River flows into the Mediterranean Sea. A Nile Cruise is the best way to explore the ancient sites of Egypt.

Tourists are popular in river Nile because it constitutes a major tourism resource, providing spectacular settings, recreation facilities, a means of transport, a sense of heritage and adventure, links with the environment and natural world. The rivers are inhabited by numerous species of vertebrates, including the hippopotamus, Nile crocodile, Nile monitor, rock python, spotted-necked otter, and numerous cobras. They also support many species of birds, amphibians, and fish.

activities done at river Nile

Horseback riding along the Nile river/Jinja

Don’t miss out on a fantastic 2-3-hour horse ride.  Enjoy the beautiful Nile scenic views and the warm hospitality of the local people who wave to you as you pass by their homes. The horses are maintained by their Australian owners, well-trained and healthy.

Quad Biking around Jinja #The Nile River ”the longest river”

Quad biking is a great and amazing experience for tourists who like speed and dirt. Explore villages around the banks of the River Nile and back at the lodge you will be all smiles and covered with mud except your white teeth, tourists are asking us to add Quad biking on their trip, so just let us know if this is an activity for you.

 Fishing trip #The Nile River ”the longest river”

We organize all kinds of trips that include: multiple day trips, camping trips, full-day trips, morning or afternoon trips etc., examples of fish include; Tilapia, yellow fish, and the occasional catfish. Tourists pursue these fish mainly in Lake Victoria and on the River Nile. All safety gear, fishing gear and camping equipment for those that stay overnight are available.  Just let us know and book with us.

Visit the source of the Nile in Jinja #The Nile River ”the longest river”

The source of the Nile was discovered in 1858 by John Hanning Speke the first European explorer in Uganda. The source of the Nile has wonderful and beautiful gardens that attract thousands of tourists. Here you will take a guided boat ride to show you the exact source of the Nile, you can also take a boat ride across Lake Victoria. The site is still being built to meet world-class tourism standards.

Chill-out and Relax along the source

As most come to just see Jinja, others come to relax and chill-out. Wild water lodge is a premier spot to relax and chill-out with a white water section in the middle of the river Nile. Wild water lodge is one of the best and ultimate chill-out locations in Uganda. There are many great and fantastic hotels along the Nile and the massive Nile harbor. Never miss-out relax and chill-out along the Nile River from after a tiring volcano climb or gorilla trek.

Experimenting Bungee jumping at Jinja

Experience Bungee jumping in the mighty River Nile. Bungee jumping in one of the world’s longest rivers is quite something!  Bungee jumping can be done during the day or even at night!

Sunset cruise on Lake Victoria

This ferry cruise is fantastic and enjoyable and we can arrange for you some BBQ snacks with drinks. You will enjoy the golden glittering Nile and Lake Victoria water as the sun sets. A magical and amazing evening (darkness sets in at almost 10mins past 7pm).

White water rafting

This leaves you with a great memorable rafting experience that you will never forget. Here you will raft in the white section of the river Nile and will get wet due to the water splash. White water rafting from mild to wild takes 1-2days and we can organize for you any white water rafting trip of your choice. You can enjoy yourself with your friends and family; never miss this trip on your safari to Uganda!

Jet-boating

You will take a jet-boat ride up the rapids of the River Nile. The pilot leading the ride knows the river very well, so this is a safe adventure.  Jet-boating is for those who don’t want to stay longer on the river.

Kayaking

Kayaking takes you on the Nile river paddling at leisure & just enjoying the beautiful scenery & the fresh breeze of the Nile. Though it’s not adventurous as white water rafting, it’s still great water experience.

Nile floating

Nile floating is where you take a soft ride by boat, swimming or floating on the peaceful end of the Nile. This activity is very good for young children as well as adults. It also helps in discovering the calmness, the beautiful nature of the Nile.

River boarding

It’s known as river surfing, the adventurous water activity that involves both water rafting & river boarding where you face the strongest rapids on Nile. It’s a mixture of almost all the water activities & though it’s very exciting, thrilling its not to be taken lightly.

Accommodations at the river Nile in Uganda

30 Wilson (Jinja (0.4 km)

With Jinja Golf Course reachable in 2.6 km, 30 Wilson provides accommodation, a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a bar and a shared lounge.

Jinja Backpackers (Jinja (0.5 km)

Located in Jinja, within 2.3 km off Jinja Golf Course and 6.5 km off Source of the Nile – Speke Monument, Jinja Backpackers provides accommodation with a garden and free Wi-Fi as well as free private parking.

Nile Village Hotel & Spa (Hotel in Jinja (0.2 km)

Boasting lush gardens and an outdoor swimming pool, the Nile Village Hotel & Spa is situated on the banks of the Victoria Nile, in Jinja.

Jusvero Motel (Jinja (1 km)

Providing river views, Jusvero Motel in Jinja provides accommodation, a restaurant, a shared lounge, a garden and a terrace.

Yonny’s Citadel (Jinja (1.4 km)

Boasting garden views, Yonny’s Citadel provides accommodation with a balcony and a kettle, around 4.9 km from Jinja Railway Station.

Nile Village Hotel & Spa 4 stars (Hotel in Jinja)

Boasting lush gardens and an outdoor swimming pool, the Nile Village Hotel & Spa is situated on the banks of the Victoria Nile, in Jinja. location, the breakfast and quality of food served. The Spa is amazing and the workers do an absolute professional job with the treatments!!!

Al-Nisaa Hotel and Spa (Hotel in Jinja)

Situated in Jinja, Al-Nisaa Hotel and Spa features accommodation with private balconies. Popular points of interest around the property include Safir Clinic and Spire Road School. beautiful rooms, good breakfast!

2 Friends Guest House 4 stars (Hotel in Jinja)

2 Friends Jinja offers accommodation in Jinja. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar. Every room comes with a flat-screen TV. Some rooms feature a seating area for your convenience. Breakfast is the highlight of the day, the tasty menu and the fact that, you can have refill of beverages nonstop while also getting access to more waffles and sausages- such a generous place! The staff are absolutely awesome and the chef in the breakfast Lounge & the receptionist makes you feel like you have been friends forever.

Surjios Guest House 5 stars (Hotel in Jinja)

meanwhile, its located in Jinja 14 km from Bujagali Falls, Surjios Guest House offers free Wi-Fi, secure parking and an outdoor swimming pool. furthermore, the property boasts a wonderful garden and terrace. In other words, this is a very nice guest house, clean, & quiet where one can relax. Most recommended!

Igar Plaza Hotel (Hotel in Jinja)

meanwhile, its set in Jinja 1.2 km from Source of the Nile – Speke Monument. however, Igar Plaza Hotel features a terrace. furthermore, everything is great, and the staff are very kind as well.

Signature Hotel Apartments 4 stars (Hotel in Jinja)

however, it’s 3.1 km from Jinja Golf Course. meanwhile, Signature Hotel Apartments features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking and a garden.

Impala Suites 3 stars (Hotel in Jinja)

however, it’s 2.8 km from Jinja Golf Course. meanwhile, Impala Suites features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge.

Bilkon Hotel Jinja 3 stars

Meanwhile, it offers a BBQ and terrace. furthermore, guests can enjoy the on-site bar and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

Victoria Panorama Hotel (Hotel in Jinja)

however, it’s 5.9 km from Jinja Railway Station. meanwhile, it’s accommodation is with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge.

Nice Guest House 3 stars (Hotel in Jinja)

meanwhile, its between Mehta Golf Club and Iganga Station, Nice Guest House provides rooms with full facilities.

A visit to the Nile will be thrilling experience for you, so don’t hesitate to try it out.

Leave a Reply