Busowoko Waterfalls
Witness the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle across 14,763 km² of open savannah — Without a doubt, this park is Uganda’s crown jewel.
Best time to visit
Jun-Sept
Minimum stay
2-3 days
Top Sightings
Rapids, Water massage spots & the bird life
Distance from Capital
329 Kms2
Location
Jinja district
Best for
Friends & Groups
Busowoko Waterfalls
Busowoko Waterfalls is a remarkable site along the Upper Victoria Nile in Jinja, Eastern Uganda and It’s now for many incredible adventure activities including tubing, canoeing, swimming and more.
Located in Bususwa village, Kitanaba Sub-county, about 25 km from Jinja city, Busowoko waterfals offers an excellent escape for adventure lovers especially because of its many adventure activities, beautiful sceneries and calm wild sounds of flapping waters.
This serene spot provides a chance to experience the Nile’s flowing beauty in nature while connecting with nature as you capture memorable photos of the cascading water.
Busowoko is a lesser-known gem, making it a peaceful retreat for those looking to enjoy the scenic views and connect with nature. Its position near the source of the Nile makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring Jinja.
Busowoko Safari activities
COMBINE 01
Bird watching safaris
What do you know about Uganda birding, what birds do you know in Uganda birding
Location
Busowoko Waterfalls is found in Uganda’s eastern district of Jinja, approximately 25 km north of Jinja town, along the Nile River. Busowoko Falls is located in Bususwa village, in Kitanaba sub-county, and is located about 21 km north of Jinja City in Eastern Uganda. The waterfalls are easily accessible via Kayunga Road, with clear signposts guiding you to the site. The site is very accessible from Kampala or Mbale.
Entrance Fees
An entrance fee to the waterfalls is charged depending on the nationality of the person; however, it’s important to know that the entrance fee doesn’t include activities. Activities are charged separately by the service providers.
Local tourists: UGX 10,000 per person
Foreign tourists: UGX 20,000 per person
Vehicle parking: UGX 5,000
Two guests at Busowoko waterfalls
Selected Busowoko Sightings & Attractions
Griffin Falls
kororo falls
Itanda falls
Bujagali falls
Giant kingfisher
Source of River Nile
Murchison Falls Waterfalls
Canoe
Grey crown cranes
Activities at Busowoko Waterfalls
Busowoko Waterfalls offers a range of activities that allow you to experience the beauty and adventure of the Nile River up close. It’s important to know that all activities here at Busowoko are adventurous.
Whitewater Rafting
The fast-flowing rapids near Busowoko are ideal for whitewater rafting. Adventurers can take on these thrilling waves under the guidance of experienced instructors. Whether you’re a first-timer or an expert, there are several adrenaline-packed rafting grades to cater for all categories and groups. This activity leaves you with unforgettable memories.
Water Tubing
White water tubing down the famous world’s longest river – the River Nile. As the water falls down is an incredible way to experience this hidden gem. Glide along the water surface with the help of a professional guide and safety team as you traverse through the twists and turns of the flapping wild waters. For mild adventure lovers, this is a must-do activity.
Swimming
If you prefer something more relaxing, certain calm sections of the river near the falls are safe for swimming. The Busowoko waterfalls offer a refreshing break from the heat and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Luckily, this activity is free after paying for the entrance!
Nature Walks
The trails around Busowoko are perfect for a leisurely nature walk. As you wander, you’ll encounter lush greenery, scenic views of the cascading water, and various bird species. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquil environment.
Fishing
The Nile River near Busowoko is a great spot for fishing. Anglers can cast their lines in search of the river’s fish species, including tilapia and Nile perch. The experience is both calming and rewarding, especially if you catch something for dinner.
Photography
The picturesque setting of Busowoko Waterfalls is a photographer’s dream. From the dramatic rush of water to the vibrant plant life and colorful birds, every angle offers a unique shot.
Whether you’re a professional or just love snapping photos, you’ll leave with stunning images.
Enjoy the beauty of Busowoko waterfalls
Other Waterfalls in Jinja
Yes, besides Busowoko, there are several other exciting waterfalls in Jinja, each offering unique spectacular experiences. Some of these exhilarating activities include the following;
Itanda Falls: Located about 27 km from Jinja town, Itanda Falls is famous for its roaring rapids and is most recommended for advanced/expert adventure lovers. Itanda Falls is the number one destination for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and birdwatching on the River Nile. The powerful flow of water makes it an awe-inspiring sight, while the serene surrounding environment provides a perfect escape from city life.
Sezibwa Falls: Situated along the Kampala-Jinja highway in Mukono district, about 35 km from Jinja, Sezibwa Falls boasts great scenery, birding experience, and, importantly, the magnificent cultural significance to the Buganda kingdom. The site holds spiritual importance in Buganda tradition, as many people, including the King of Buganda, often visit Ssezibwa Falls to seek blessings for good health and protection. Activities here include guided tours, birdwatching, and hiking. Its calm, mystical atmosphere makes it a unique attraction.
Kalagala Falls: Found downstream of the Nile, Kalagala Falls is another hotspot for adventure enthusiasts. After the famous Itanda Falls, Kalagala Falls is your second-best place for expert/advanced white-water rafting and kayaking. The falls are surrounded by a scenic landscape of rolling hills and tropical vegetation, making it an ideal spot for picnics and photography.
Selected Busowoko Safari Packages
11 Days
Private
11 days Uganda Premium Gorilla, Wildlife & River Nile Adventure
from
$ 2900
per person
3 Days
Private
3 Days Murchison Falls & White rhino Tracking in Ziwa
from
$ 620
per person
How to Get Around
Keeping in mind that Busowoko is about 25 kms from Jinja city, reaching this exciting site by public transport is not the very best option. To reap the very best benefit from Busowoko, joining a well-arranged group safari is your best bet. This usually comes with breakfast, lunch, activities, and professional advice to allow you to focus on the fun instead of being bothered with arrangements.
After leaving Kampala, you shall take about 3 hours to arrive by private means, and you shall finally drive northwards for about 25kilometers before arriving at Busowoko. However, if you have already arrived in Jinja city, you have the option of boarding a local motorcycle taxi (boda boda) or hiring a private taxi rapidly available in Jinja town.
Ready for the Busowoko adventure?
If you’re looking for a unique and exciting adventure, an accessible weekend getaway, or if you are already in Eastern Uganda, Busowoko Waterfalls should be at the top of your list.
With thrilling whitewater rafting, relaxing swimming spots, scenic nature walks, and rewarding fishing opportunities, choosing a short adventure to Busowoko is definitely worth the efforts. This is a calm adventure site for all sorts of adventure lovers – from adrenaline junkie to people simple seeking peace in nature.
Don’t miss out on the exciting adventures at this hidden gem—plan your visit to Busowoko Waterfalls and let’s lasting memories in the heart of the true source of the Nile.
Busowoko in Summary
Best Attractions
Rapids, Water massage spots & the bird life
Best time to visit
Jun-Sept
Best Attractions
Wildlife, river scenery and game drives
Top activities
River tubing, water massaging & nature walks
How to Get there.
The busowoko falls can be accessed by road transport using private means from Kampala the capital city of Uganda and drive North East for 3 hours to Jinja or alternatively, you can use a public transport mostly a taxi from Kampala to Jinja and from there, you can just get a boda from Jinja city direct to Busowoko falls
Recommended duration
Source Garden Hotel (Budget), Kipling Lodge (Standard), Lemala wild waters
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be expected from Busowoko Falls?
A number of things and attractions can be expected from Busowoko Falls, and some of these attractions include the powerful flowing rapids, the scenic green views, and the popular natural water massage. The area has spots where visitors sit right under the rushing water and observe how every moment goes by with the splashes of water from the falls
What activities do you see there?
Visitors and everyone who comes to see these falls will enjoy the natural water massages, tubing, white water rafting, photography, camping, and cultural interactions within the Basoga. Most of these activities always provide a clear view of the Nile River- the longest river in the world from different angles. White water rafting and tubing can also be done from other areas for example at Bujagali Falls, Itanda Falls, Murchison Falls and other areas.
Is it possible to get food anywhere around?
The area is accessible by every individual and some of the people that can access this include food sellers, road sellers, vendors,near by supermarkets and near by shops. Food selling points are present in the area providing basic food stuffs, basic snacks and cold drinks. All categories of drinks are available in all areas including soft and hard drinks
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit the area basically depends on the weather conditions of the place. In Uganda, the best time to visit areas in Uganda including the National Parks, the Lakes, the physical features and other areas is always during the drier months of the year and this is usually from Jun-sept. This is because the tracks and trails are usually drier, it is easy to determine the amount of water levels the river has since there is no added rain water in the rivers making it safe for water activities
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Low Season
Oct, Nov, Mar, Apr, may
Peak Season
Jun, July, Aug, Sept, Dec
Recommended Stay
Buhoma Gorilla Camp,
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