| UGANDA |
| Uganda..... Yes, it is another country. No, it is not IN Kenya, but we're close to the border, and many people find that Uganda is a bit more user friendly and not so hard on the wallet. There is lots to see and do in Uganda, but here are our favorites: |
| Jinja |
| Jinja is about a 4hr matatu ride from Busia. The one good thing about this ride is that Ugandans' actually follow the vehicle occupancy laws but once you hit the nasty dirt road nothing seems to matter except to hurry up and get there - It's bumpy!!! There are so many cool things to keep you busy. White water rafting is definitely a must - fight your fears, it's such a fun experience. You could also try Bungee Jumping --if you dare! Market day is Tuesdays so be sure not to miss it. Ugandan art is unique to its culture. |
| The Backpackers is the main lodge located in town, just ask for directions on how to get there when you get to the stage. Camping $3pp Dorm $5pp. Well worth every penny! You'll find lots of interesting people from all over the world. They have a pool table, satellite TV, full bar, really great food, hot showers and lots of info on attractions across Uganda. Talk to Mark for any questions. There is also Bujagali Campsite located right on The Nile. Definitely the more popular spot with the party often going till 4am. Showers are a unique experience as they are great with privacy unless of coarse you mind the voyeuristic monkeys. There are multiple companies that operate on "The Mighty White Nile" however Nile River Explorers has the best safety record and most experienced guides. Rafting for the day will set you back $95 which includes breakfast, light lunch, massive dinner with beer, also 1 nights stay. If needed Nile River Explorers will also pick you or drop you in Kampala. These are monster grade 5 rapids, you can get a DVD of your day and they accept all types of currency and major credit cards. The DVD seem a bit expensive at the beginning of the day but by the end it's a must have!!! Other activities offered include: horse back safaris, kayaking the Nile, 2nd day rafting for only $40, Nile By Wire (flying fox), bungee jumping, escorted village walks, bike rentals and quad-bike safaris. For price info and bookings all enquiries must go through their website. My opinion? Hands down the MOST fun you can have in Africa! |
| BUSIA |
| Busia is the border town that is usually used when crossing from Kenya to Uganda. The Visa for Uganda has now gone up to $50 bucks,,,, sorry PLEASE NOTE: DO NOT TAKE PICTURES OF or AT THE BORDER CROSSING! Seems to be a touchy subject, as it's punishable by extreme measures! (Some say death) Either way one of our volunteers learned that one the hard way and I haven't found her yet.. Reward on her missing bag, as it has some of my stuff in it...idiot.. Also NO SMOKING Death doesn't seem to be on the table for this offence, but they like to yell at you about it for awhile, so if caught, take in the scenery and keep smiling. |
| If for some crazy reason you HAVE to have pictures of the border crossings, please just copy these... Seriously, they DON'T want you to take any pictures... |