REMARKABLE 5 DAYS IN THE EAST

Photo: A group photo taken during the game drive in Kidepo Valley National Park 

A month ago I joined a group of travel enthusiasts on a 5 Days trip dubbed 5 Days in the East organized by Travoo Africa.  I must confess this was the longest trip I have ever been on besides work.  The fares of this trip were beyond belief for a trip of that caliber.  Personally, it took me days to believe in this trip but a couple of travel influencers I knew as “credible” were on it, and because of that, I gave them a benefit of the doubt. As a tour consultant, I know how much a trip of that kind would cost, slightly higher than what was charged.

So I signed up for this trip on the eve of setting off through Sheevon popularly known as Mukiga Traveller after viewing a flyer on her WhatsApp status with the caption “2 slots left.” At that moment I was at the floating Restaurant at UWEC having lunch after the Wildlife Day 2022 Celebrations. Quickly I replied to her status; “I’m tempted to join.”

“It’s gonna be fun” She replied!

“Are the slots still available?” I asked.

“Yes, I have 2 slots” She replied!

“Reserve for me one,” I said.

“Payment is needed ASAP to finalize bookings,” She said

“Let me send you the money right away” I replied. And I sent her the money. That’s how I signed up for the 5 Days trip in the East. The trip I say I was never ready for but after seeing that flyer quickly I made a decision which most Ugandans do by the way while booking trips. We never book in advance. We’re just influenced by our peers. Furthermore, I didn’t know the details of this trip but I got to know the details after I had made payments. Something risible isn’t it? But this was because of the overconfidence I had in the person I was booking through.

So that evening I was added to the WhatsApp group created, and the Itinerary and other details of the trip were shared. I read through, to understand well the kind of trip I had signed up for and the Itinerary. The Itinerary showed we were to visit 3 Major destinations in those 5 Days (4^th – 8^th March 2022) were; Sipi Falls, Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, and Kidepo Valley National Park. This was enough to excite me and looked forward to this trip. I packed my bags that evening to get prepared for the 5 Days in the East. Packing wasn’t hard for me because as a frequent traveler I know what shouldn’t miss while packing for any trip. Soon I will write about what you shouldn’t miss always while packing for a trip/vacation.  Just keep following closely.

DAY 1 FRIDAY 4 MARCH 2022 - TRAVELLING TO SIPI FALLS 

Photo: At the departure point being briefed before we set off 

On the dawn of this day, my bags were well packed and I was ready to hit the road. The departure on this day was 9:00am and the meeting point was at Uganda Museum that’s where the UWA buses which we used were parked. And I made sure by 8:30am I was at the said pick-up point.  But your guess is good as mine we never left at 9:00am and that makes a typical Domestic trip. Lol! Timekeeping is always a challenge except for a few of us who really mind timekeeping like me as a tour operator absolutely I have to keep time. We finally set off a few minutes past 10am and we headed for Kapchorwa. Our first stopover was in Namawojjo, a famous stopover on the eastern route. Well known for Roasted Chicken and Plantain, Rolex and Roasted Goats' meat, Beef and Drinks plus other merchandise. A stopover here is always a must or Najjembe is another similar place for Nyama Choma.

Photo: Road Side Traders at Namawojjolo exchanging items for cash with the travelers.  Photo by: Travoo Africa 

After here we proceeded to Jinja where we made a stopover and later to Mbale for a lunch break and quick shopping for snacks, drinks, and other merchandise to use because where we were headed some things were hard to get in some of these places. We later proceeded to Sipi and had a stopover at another famous spot Towei viewpoint a perfect place for photoshoots and sunset views if you arrive at the point between 6:30pm and 7:00pm. 

Pictorial: Stopover and Photo Moment at Towei View Point in Kapchorwa. Photo by Derrick Ssenyonyi | Travoo Africa

We proceeded to our respective lodges for dinner and overnight stay. Around 3 Lodges were booked; Casa Lodge, Sipi Guest House, and Sipi Valley Resort. I personally slept at Sipi Valley Resort one of the best Lodges in Sipi strategically located with great views. Dinner was served and a party was later staged at the Resort. Day 1 was absolutely amazing, the travelers were full of vibe, and silent disco headsets were given to everyone. Retiring was at will.

 

Photo: Party Mood activated. Travelers having a good time at Sipi Valley Resort. Photo by Derrick Ssenyonyi | Travoo Africa 

DAY 2 SATURDAY 05^th MARCH 2022 - HIKING AND ABSEILING AT SIPI FALLS 

 Having had a beautiful night and morning breakfast at 9am at Sipi Valley Resort, we were ready for the day’s activities. The major activities for this day were hiking to the falls and Abseiling for those who were brave and had resources for the activity. Our Guide William Cheptoek who was our official guide was ready to lead us on the Hike. The Sun was out and really scorching by 9am. We divided ourselves into manageable groups and each group had a guide. We began the hike at 10:30am (us who wished to hike) while others went for abseiling straight without doing the hike. I did both Hiked and Abseiled. The scorching sun was a blessing in disguise and cooling our bodies was a must by getting soaked at the waterfalls. This was one of the best experiences. The experience is totally different when you visit Sipi in the wet season. The place is boggy and cold, the water volumes are high and waterfall roars are heard Kms away. On my last visit to Sipi Falls, I froze after being soaked.

Photo: At the 65M waterfall getting soaked in Water

After visiting the falls we went swimming at one of the natural swimming pools. You would wonder what this looks like. It’s such a beautiful plunge pool with shallow and deep ends and rocks. Not so wide but you can have a good swim, definitely. This was another cooling place for our bodies after a long walk. Our time was fast spent and we had to go for abseiling were the big team was at the moment.

Photo: Me pausing for the Photo in the Plunge Pool during the swimming 

We got to the abseiling point, with my group after the 4hours walk that was charged up with amazing experiences and we were ready for another challenge. Of course not all the 70 of us. But some of us who were brave enough. I did abseil for the second time courtesy of Mulima Mountain Adventures. Not like the first time this was a totally different experience. I was brave enough to do the activity. I was meant to do it with Faith a friend I met on this particular trip but I couldn’t believe it that she started feeling panicky and breathless after she began to descend. I had to descend alone.  This climaxed in Day 2 activities. We hiked again to the Resort, and this was a real Hike the elevation was about 2,000m asl, and a distance of about 2kms trek. Forget about the morning hike, I could feel my legs get feeble but I had to hike anyway to the resort. There was no alternative route nearer than the one we hiked the only solution was to endure and hike.

Photo: A team of Travelers charged up for Abseiling. Photo by Derrick Ssenyonyi | Travoo

Photo: At the 110M Abseiling point. Photo by Derrick Ssenyonyi | Travoo Africa

DAY 3 SUNDAY 06^th MARCH 2022 - TRAVELLING TO KIDEPO VALLEY NATIONAL PARK THROUGH PIAN UPE WILDLIFE RESERVE

On day 3, we began our day with morning breakfast at 6:30am and checked out at our respective Lodges, and transferred from Sipi at 7am to Kidepo Valley National Park through Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. This was a long journey of 407kms on a bumpy and dusty road of Kween, Namalu, Nakapiripiriti, Moroto, Kotido, and Kaboong. It was such an awesome experience of its own.

We arrived at Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve Headquarters at 9am where we had a stopover for a few minutes, and took photos before we proceeded to Moroto. 

A group photo at Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve Headquater in Kween District. Photo by Derrick Ssenyonyi | Travoo Africa 

We later drove to Moroto for a quick lunch and refueling of the Buses before we embarked on another 229Kms to Kidepo our final destination. Lunch was skimpy due to the limited time we had. My lunch was a Rolex and I enjoyed it. Lol! The Journey was tedious and amazing at the same time. We arrived in Kidepo at 5:30pm and drove to Apoka Bandas. Our evening was lit up, Campfire, and a silent disco for the travelers was set up.

Arrival at Apoka Bandas in Kidepo Valley National Park 

DAY 4 MONDAY 07^th MARCH 2022 - GAME DRIVE AND COMMUNITY VISIT 

A beautiful morning it was on this day, with a beautiful sunrise in the true African Wilderness at 6:30am – we started off our game drive in the Narus Valley.  

Photo: Beautiful Sunrise in Kidepo Valley National taken during the Morning Game Drive by Derrick Ssenyonyi | Travoo 

A number of wild animals were sighted, the Elephants, Buffalos, Giraffes, Jackson’s heartbeast, and a Lion. This Lion was guarding a kill. Presumably, they must have hunted the previous night according to our ranger guide. He also told us, he (the Lion) was just guarding the Kill against other animals like the Hyenas to snatch it, and probably the other Lions and Lionesses in the pride had gone to look for water.

Photo: A Lion lying on the ground while guarding a kill from other predators in Kidepo Valley National Park. Photo by Derrick Ssenyonyi | Travoo 

The game drive ended around 10:00am and headed to one of the campsites for site seeing and photo moments. And returned back to the bandas for breakfast at 11am and later lunch at 1:00pm

At 4pm we headed for Lorokol Community, a neighboring community adjusting the park. This community supports conservation and works together with UWA to conserve and protect the park. We had a wonderful cultural experience with the Karamojong community. Their cultural dance known as Edonga Dance is really amazing. This dance is involving jumping high in the air from the ground repeatedly.  And we headed to the camp for an overnight stay. We participated in the dance because it's participatory. As visitors, you must fully engage in the dance. After the amazing cultural dance, a team handed over a few items and money collected from travelers. This money is used in improving the social services and facilities in the Village. 

Photo: A Local Tourist participating in Edonga Dance during the Community Visit in Lorokol Village Karenga District 

Photo: A team from Travoo with a ranger guide (In UWA uniform) handing over items to the community leaders that they carried during the community visit in Lorokol Village. Photo by Travoo 

DAY 5 TUESDAY 08^th MARCH 2022 - TRAVELLING BACK TO KAMPALA ENROUTE ARUU FALLS 

This was our last day of the 5 Days in the East and we had to say bye-bye to the True African Wilderness as it is normally referred and we headed for Aruu Falls. We had breakfast as early as 6:30am before we left for Aruu falls in Pader District. A journey of approximately 3hr30mins without any disturbances on the road. On arrival, we were shocked by the water levels, not the usual Aruu Falls that flows rapidly, with much volumes of water, this time the water was scant, as some of us who have been there during the rainy seasons we couldn’t believe our eyes. We visited the falls during the dry season, the sun was scorching and there was no better way of cooling our body temperatures except by diving in the water. We dived in the waters and one of the pools at Aruu Falls to cool our body temperatures. We couldn't have any best feeling after walking through the scorching sun. Our bodies needed to cool down. However not all that swam. Just a few of us who were interested and had swimming wear that did

Photo: Me at Aruu Falls cooling off. 

Photo: Travelers having a wonderful time in the pool at Aruu Falls. Photo by Derrick Ssenyonyi | Travoo 

This was the climax of our trip after here we couldn't demand anything more all we need was food now to seal off the day. We drove to Gulu for Lunch and thereafter headed back for Kampala. 

 

 

DARING THE DEVIL IN THE TURBULENT COURSE OF THE RIVER

After conquering Bungee Jumping on 23^rd October 2021 with a group of friends, we felt like taking on another challenge for the year 2021 before it ended to conquer our fears again and White Water Rafting was next on our bucket list to be ticked off. We agreed to discuss it further on the WhatsApp we had created to disseminate information. Dates were set and we agreed on the fee as well, this was earlier in November and we agreed to do it on 11^th December 2021, to be specific.

On brighter dawn of 11^th December, we set off for Jinja, excited that at last of our dreams have come true and we were going rafting. As usual, the journey is always exciting. We traveled with two Kenyan ladies who were traveling to Jinja for the first time, and they were amused by the Roadside vendors in Namawojjolo and Najjembe. “Immediately the car stops there’re like 50 pieces of Chicken in your face.” One of them said; It was their first time to experience such and they enjoyed the roadside roasted chicken and liver.

ARRIVING AT RAFT UGANDA

At 10:45am we arrived in Jinja at Tulina Riverside Treat, near the Haven River Eco Lodge, home of Raft Uganda; the company that rafted us. We were warmly welcomed by Juma alas Big J who was our Raft Guide of the day. Upon arrival, we were told to change immediately because we were behind schedule, to more comfortable clothes for rafting and remove our shoes as well, sign on the indemnity forms and wear the safety gear. These included the Helmets and Life Jackets and we were good to go.  

A rescue guide helping one of the ladies to wear her life jacket well.  

GETTING READY

After wearing the safety equipment we were briefed by Juma our raft guide of the day. He started by asking if there was anyone of us who had done rafting before. “Yes, I have done rafting before, but in Greece” Alex a white guy said, one of the rafters we rafted with. In his briefing I noted majorly 3 things;

1.      You don’t need to know how to swim to do rafting

2.      You don’t need to panic after meeting the Rapids, or while you fall into the river.

3.      The rescue team was available and is always available to rescue you in case of anything.

This was enough to calm down my anxiety and terror. I consider myself a brave, heroic, and fearless guy but at some point, I was frightened by trying to imagine what will happen when the boat flips in the rapids, lol. 

A group Photo after being briefed

Briefing Point; Being brief by Juma aka Big J (in Green) who was our rafting guide of the Day. 

GETTING TO THE RIVER

So after the briefing at the camp, it was time for us to head into the river. All was prepared; the rescue team, the photographer who took these amazing shots that you’re able to see in this blog, the gentleman in the rowing boat, that is used to carry the safety box and other equipment plus the Inflatable Rafting Boat that we used was set as well. So we moved to the river shores where the Inflatable Rafting Boat was docked, just a few meters from the Campsite

Taking a walk to the river 

“Get into the boat, one by one, and sit at the edge of the boat” Juma said. We did exactly what he said to all the six of us. I and Catherine were leading the team. We sat in front. More Instructions were given while we sat in the Boat. “Get a paddle everyone, one hand at the top of the paddle and another in the middle of the paddle.” Juma the raft guide said. We did exactly what he said. Since all of us were first-time rafters except Alex, we had to follow instructions extremely carefully.

“When I say front paddle, put the paddle in front and pull backward. Okay?” He said. “Okay” we all replied in agreement 

At the Docking Area listening attentively to more instructions before we began rafting 

SETTING OFF FROM THE DOCKING POINT 

 

After listening, to more instructions from Big J whose name I'm sure that you're familiar with, we started our 10kms journey of rafting on the Nile. These 10kms took us roughly 5 hours of rafting, which I never expected, by the way, I thought it would be done in 2 hours and we would be done but the longer the fun. Anyways we started it off with a simple practice of what we would do if the boat flips or if some of us fall off from the boat in the rapids. "Now we're  going to do some practice, each of us, dive into the water, let's see what will happen when the boat, flips." Big J said "Huh!" 😳😲We replied in shock, and wondered what would happen! I could read from people's faces "This is not what we paid for" Lol. 

I seriously don't know why we were we were flabbergasted because this was to prepare us in advance and it was for our own benefit that we practice in calm water before we meet the rapids. Long and Short we all dived in the river one by one all of us including Big J himself. "Swim, leave the boat," Big J said. Now, not all of us were swimmers, some of us were just floating with the help of the life Jackets and flapping our legs and arms to show that we were swimming, yet in the actual sense, we were not swimming. "Enough, come back in the boat." Big J said. "So how do you get back in the boat?" he asked. Now it's easy to get back in the boat, it's a real struggle especially for the first-time rafters. "Hold that rope and lift yourself up." Big J said. But it wasn't easy the way he said it. We all tried but failed to get back in the boat by ourselves. He and the rescue team which we will talk about much later helped us get back into the boat.

After that simple practice, we were now ready to face off the rapids and we were convinced in our minds that we were now experts of sorts in rafting. Lol😊.  

FACING THE RAPIDS 

This was the most exciting moment for most of us if not all of us. Of course, it's frightening just by imagining it and facing the rapids in reality. The first rapids we met were at Busowoko Falls, however, we didn't cross through these turbulent rapids. Busowoko Rapids are Grade 6 Rapids, the strongest rapids on the Nile, you can't risk crossing through them with Inflatable Boats. These rapids are actually called "The Dead Dutchman." The story behind this detrimental name is that; a dutchman one time died from those rapids while trying to raft in them, hence the name; The Dead Dutchman.

We got on the boat again, below where the strongest Busowoko Falls Rapids culminate. Just after the grade 6 rapids at Busowoko falls, there's a grade 5 rapid that we met and this was the beginning of us to have a feel of rafting. Just a few meters to hit the rapid, Big J would shout out loud giving instructions, "Paddle harder." The reason for paddling harder was the more you paddle the stronger the rapid that hits your boat and the more the "fun" (when the boat flips). 😀😀 When we approached the first rapid, a grade 5 rapid, which was just a few meters from us Big J commanded, Stop! Hold the Rope and Get into the Boat." And that's the rule, we applied this every time we met the rapids, but we would wait for him to command us. At this very rapid, something magical happened.  We met a strong rapid, it hit hard our boat and the two of us who were seated on the left-hand side (I and Tiffany) fell off the boat into the river.

The experience is here was sweet-sour. The first 10 secs were terrible, I felt like being shocked by Hydro-Electric Power. It's at this point that I realized why water generates electricity. I panicked in those 10 secs, swallowed some water, saw myself literally dying in the rapids, asked myself "Naye Nfa Ki?" a Luganda word that literally means What am I dying for?😂. Quite a number of things ran into my mind in that short time. Until I saw the rescuer come to rescue my life in a kayak boat that's when a felt a big relief. Shortly after that, we got back on the boat and we proceeded. But even after being rescued, I was still completely in total bewilderment. At some point felt like quitting the activity but there was no way to run away 😂. 

After the hullabaloo in the rapids, we reached the calm waters and it was time for us to reenergize. We carried along with some fruits that we ate along the way. We had a light moment there and we proceed after gaining some energy. By the way, the activity is tiresome and takes a lot of energy, it needs you to have eaten something to have some energy to paddle. 

WOULD I RECOMMEND THE ACTIVITY?

Absolutely, 100+10% I would recommend the activity, especially to the adventure and adrenaline rush seekers. It's fun and thrilling. The experience is unexplainable but just awesome. Full of excitement and anxiety at the same time. All in one package. 

WHERE CAN I DO WHITE WATER RAFTING FROM IN UGANDA?

In Uganda, White Water Rafting is only done in Jinja on River Nile and there are a number of companies that do White Water Rafting. These include Raft Uganda, Adrift Uganda, Nalubale Rafters, Nile River Explorer, and Kiira Rafting. All these are trusted and licensed Rafting companies  to raft on the Nile 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

The activity costs only Ugx 200,000/= Ugandans, $100 EAC Residents, and $140 for Foreigners. This is all year round and it's a full-day activity. And trust me it's worth every penny. Give it a try you will let me know how it goes. 

The joy after we had conquered our fears. The faces would tell how excited we were. 

 

BUNGEE JUMPING IS BACK ON THE NILE - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BUNGEE JUMPING

Bungee Jumping Tower at Bungee Uganda just above the Nile. Photo by Dominic Tugume 

I know most people have Acrophobia; an excessive fear of heights and this manifests as severe anxiety. A person could have an attack just walking upstairs or climbing a ladder. Sometimes the fear is so great a person can't move. Acrophobia can create a dangerous situation for someone who has it. But I hope it won’t attack you while reading this blog or while having a look at the photos in this blog. Hahaha. 

Anyways fear of heights aside, so, the long-awaited adrenaline rush activity; Bungee Jumping is back again!! This should excite most of you reading this especially adventure seekers like me. So let me take you back a bit. Some of you might be remembering that we had Bungee Jumping in Jinja before, this is like 3-4years back and was being managed by Adrift. But the activity was halted due to some technical issues that needed to be worked on for the safety of the clients and yes I confirm to you that it's back again under the new management of Bungee Uganda, and we were privileged to launch it on 23^rd October 2021. And the waiting is no more. Most people have long waited for this activity to be back again including me, and I’m super excited for it to be back again.

GETTING TO KNOW ABOUT IT

So, early this year 2021, news started circulating that Bungee Jumping was going to be launched soon towards the end of April 2021 and we kept our hopes high. I kept in touch with Sasha N Babito the Manager at Bungee Uganda, to keep posted when Bungee Jumping officially is back, to which she agreed. But April ended and the activity wasn’t launched, we were a bit disappointed with a few friends who were really interested in the activity. But we kept our hopes high and they informed us the activity will be launched in August and we got excited again, August also ended and nothing happened and this was because the equipment delayed a bit to arrive here in Uganda and you remember we went into another lockdown in June and that slowed down everything. Long story short we get information in late September that it was going to be officially opened in October and we get excited. At this moment we knew the long waiting was no more. We ask if there would be a fam trip and we didn’t get feedback immediately. On 29^th September 2021, Rob Davies sent a WhatsApp message in one of the Tour Operators groups that read; and I quote “Calling all tour operators. If anyone would like to experience Bungee Jumping at the Famous Nile High Bungee in October please let us know so you can try before we open commercially. Call or email info@bungeeuganda.com” Guess What! This was an answered prayer. Immediately I sent in an email as if that wasn’t enough I followed up with a phone call and it was an automatic yes. I got so excited and the rest is now history.

TRAVELING TO JINJA

A week to the event me and a friend Faith Mwihaki aka Bush Gal, started looking for tour operators who were going to Jinja so that we can travel as a group; first to save on transport but secondly, it’s more fun to travel in a group than just an individual or 2, that’s according to me anyway, some prefer traveling soles, 3 days to the event we hadn’t found out how we were actually going. So we start doing ground mobilization and asking a few friends that we knew wouldn’t miss, to find out if they were actually going. Some responded in agreement, while others this was a new song in their ears. Long story short we finally teamed up 8 with us and we got a van to take us. We agreed on the price to be paid for transportation and the meeting point. So, Saturday 23^rd October 2021, was the day of the event and we gathered at Total Opposite Uganda house at 7am at dawn. We left at 7:30am and by 11am we were in Jinja, only to be told the activity will start at 3pm. This meant we had to wait till 3pm. We relaxed a bit at the restaurant and later drove to Bujjagali and Jinja town and we came back at 2:30pm

Photo Moment at IGAR Petro Station in Jinja. L-R, Dominic, Cathrine, Allen Tetsi, Patricia, Brendah and Pius. Photo By Dixon Newman 

GETTING SET

Immediately we arrived at Bungee Uganda we signed an indemnity form, literally consenting that in case anything happens to your 100% responsible! Hahaha! Luckily nothing wrong happened. Hihihi. Anyways, measurements were taken as well, just to help the jump masters know which cord to use while jumping. For your information, different cords are used for different weights for example a cord used by a person who weighs 70+ Kgs is not the same cord used by a person of 50kgs or less. They’re different. Key to note while taking your measurements, they do not allow you to carry anything like phones, bags, watch, etc on you because it might increase your weight and a wrong measurement will be taken.

So after the measurements, it was time for the first six jumpers to climb the tower. Luckily I was among the first 6 Jumpers of the day and the 3^rd Jumper in my group the way we traveled. Upon reaching the pinnacle of the tower, we were briefed by the Jumpmasters and told us generally about Bungee Jumping plus the dos and don’ts.

After the briefing, we were helped to wear the Bungee harnesses. These are the main wear and tear components of Bungee Jumping.  50% of the Jumper depends on the harness. And before they wear you any harness you’re asked which style of Jump do the jumping. Now for your information, there’re so many types of Jumps i.e Swallow Dive which is the most commonly used, Back dive, Bat drop (Not so common), Railing Jump, and Pogo Jump. However, at Bungee Uganda, only two are mainly used for the clients the Swallow Dive, which you may call Ankle diving with your head first, and the Back Dive/Body.

Now, these two Jumps are different and they have different harnesses. For the Swallow dive, you are given an ankle harness and for the Back dive, you’re given a body harness.

I asked, “Which one is more fun?” “Ankle is more fun!” The jumpmaster replied! “Give me the ankle harness then,” I said! At the time my confidence and my excitement were way up in the clouds. The first 3 jumpers went and jumped and I was the 4^th to Jump.

MY TURN TO TAKE THE PLUNGE

After the 3^rd person took the plunge, I was called, confidently I walked the bungee tower aisle. They double-checked, if the harnesses were well fitted, crossed-checked my weight again, I measured 64.2 with the harnesses on me. “Blue cord,” the jumpmaster said. This meant they were to change the cord for me, to use the blue cord other than the red one which is for 70+ Kg people.

“What’s your name?” One of the jump masters asked. “Dominic is my name” I replied! “I’m Nick. Nice to meet you Dominic” He added. “Nice to meet you too Nick,” I said! “Are you ready to jump?” Yes, I am” I replied. “Alright, this is what is going to happen, Dominic, you’re going to come over here, on a count of 5 to 1 you jump. When you hear go, stretch your hands up and dive. When you dive, spread your arms and bounce, Okay?” Loudly he said!

 “Okay,” I replied. Now, it was time for me to dare the devil in a death game. “30 seconds, Are you ready?” “I’m ready” I replied. The countdown began “5, 4,3,2,1. Go!” Fear engulfed me after looking down where I was going and I hesitated to jump. “Wait! Wait! Wait!” I shouted! “Repeat the instructions” I requested.  He called me back. “Dominic, don’t try to imagine how you’re going to jump, Okay? When we count to 1 just jump we’re going to take care of everything, Okay?” “Okay” I replied in affirmation. “5, 4, 3, 2, 1, Go……..” And that was it.

Showing off on the Cord/Rope shortly after I jumped from the tower. Photo by Pius Muhamya 

TAKING THE PLUNGE

Now, this was followed by a 10-15 second silent moment after the word Go. My eyes were open but couldn’t see or imagine anything, I was literally dead. Everything my heart and mind just stopped functioning I was half dead, when you ask me what exactly happened in those seconds I can’t tell at all. The speed was so terrible, I think Newton’s law of gravity is best applied here. Until I reached a certain point the cord bounced me back, that’s when I smiled and I was shocked that I was still breathing. For your information the Bungee cord is elastic and this helps you to be able to bounce. I bounced thrice and that was the best moment more me though it was short. You bounce as the pulling cord swings you left and right, up and down before you finally descend to the rescue boat.

MY BUNGEE JUMPING EXPERIENCE

I have done now 3 adrenaline rush kinds of activities (Abseiling, Water Sliding, and Bungee Jumping) next is White Water Rafting and all are really amazing and thrilling, special in their own way, a bit scary and freaking-out by just imagining them and in reality but I think Bungee Jumping is my best so far. I’m even running out of words to best explain this but just to encourage you to take a leap of faith to do Bungee Jumping. The feeling, after taking the plunge is just enormous, fabulous, magical, phenomenal, overwhelming, Incredible, and unthinkable. I can compare this feeling to when you’re sentenced to death but you just find yourself alive and well.  

HOW SAFE IS THE ACTIVITY?

The activity is 100% safe. Before I did the activity I had all these erroneous and flawed thoughts about Bungee Jumping, just like some of you who're reading this are. I could imagine something going wrong and then boom, in the river. Just like many of you. Am I lying?

But, just to inform you, several safety measures are taken before you head up on the Bungee jumping tower, while on the Bungee Jumping tower and while you’re jumping until finally, you get into the rescue boat. These safety measures include:

To begin with, the activity was approved by the government as a safe activity and it is regulated, everything that is being used is known and has been tested and approved by the responsible authorities.

Secondly, the equipment being used; the Bungee Cord, Pulling Cord, Carabiner, Pulley, Bungee harnesses, etc are of world standard and have been fully approved to be safe, strong, and to be used.

Thirdly, the jumpmasters/Instructors are well trained and equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to help you do the activity.

As if that's not enough before you Jump, your weight is taken and recorded, this helps the jump masters to know which cord you use on a particular person.

The other thing is, you’re well briefed and asked questions in case you have any complications like Blood pressure, then you’re advised accordingly.

You’re doubled checked by 3 different senior instructors to ensure that the harnesses are well fitted onto your body to avoid anything wrong to happen

The rescue team with the rescue boat is also well located in the river waiting for any jumper to be rescued and they do that professionally.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

First and foremost expect fun and enjoyment while you’re jumping and bouncing. The first 10 seconds might be freaky but that’s okay and very normal for every human being.

Secondly, expect to come out alive and well. It’s not a death sentence it’s just an adventure and adrenaline rush kind of activity.

Thirdly expect joy and happiness after doing Bungee Jumping. You have no idea the overwhelming joy you feel after conquering your fears. Fear is awful, you need to face it.

Last but not least, beautiful lasting memories that you will cherish forever. This is a lifetime experience that you will never get elsewhere affordable as it is in Uganda.

WHERE TO DO BUNGEE JUMPING FROM IN UGANDA?

Bungee Jumping in Uganda is only done in Jinja at Bungee Uganda at the famous Nile River, 87.4Kms from the Capital Kampala, and 1.8kms from Amber Court Market Jinja. Bungee Uganda is Located in Jinja on Kimaka Road/Jinja Budondo Road, Behind Nile Jinja Resort (Mada Hotel).

HOW MUCH IS BUNGEE JUMPING?

The current prices of Bungee Jumping as of 2021 are; depending on the nationality (prices are per person per jump. The second Jump is 50% off the initial price and the 3rd jump is absolutely free)

·         Ugandans Ugx 200,000/=

·         East Africa Community (EAC) $100

·         Foreigners $115

WHAT IS THE MINIMUM AGE, WEIGHT, AND MAXIMUM WEIGHT?

The minimum age doesn’t apply here but the minimum weight of a person is 35kgs below 35kgs you’re not allowed to do Bungee Jumping and the maximum weight is 300Kgs that combines Bungee Harnesses (Body and Ankle Harnesses) and Carabiners (Lock Buckles) and the Cord.  

DO YOU FEEL ANY KIND OF DIZZINESS OR PAIN AFTER JUMPING?

Personally, I didn’t feel any pain or dizziness after jumping, I was very okay. A few of my friends just felt some little pain in their arms but that takes a little time and the pain will be no more.

 

Thank you so much for reading my blog, hope you learned something. Please leave a comment, Question or Supplement below, or anything in regards to this blog.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MLINZA FARM

 

About The Farm

Mlinza farm is a mixed demo farm located in Zirobwe-Wabitungulu, Luwero District 60kms from the Capital of Kampala. The farm was started in 2018 and has been operating for 3 years now, started by Mr. Mulindwa Eric and Ms. Carol Zawadde where the name Mlinza is derived from. It's a combination of Mulindwa and Zawedde to make it Mlinza in short.

Mlinza Farms Ltd has two Farms; one in Kiruhura, and the other in Zirobwe, where we visited. The Farm in Kiruhura is basically for goat breeding whereas the farm in Zirobwe is a mixed demo farm. This farm seats on 15 acres and they rear different species of Birds, domesticated animals, and grow crops as well.

The birds they rear include; Ducks (Perkins Ducks, Kayuga Ducks, and the Local Ducks), Turkeys these are local ones majorly, Chicken; these are croilers and local chicken

Cocks Corner 

Perkin Ducks 

Animals are Goats (Boer crosses and Local Mubende Goats), Rabbits, and Guinea Pigs.

Boer Cross Goats and Local Mubende Goats in the Goats Pen 

Breeding Hutch for Rabbits

 

Rabbits in their Hutch 

Domestic Guinea Pigs 

Fish is the other thing they rear, and they have majorly 2 fish ponds and 1 that we left being dug. The fish species here at Mlinza is Catfish majorly.

The crops include; Pineapples, Bananas, Cassava, Potatoes, Yams, and Sweet Potatoes. Others include; Watermelon and Strawberries.

As a mixed demo farm, they do a couple of things and these include:

·   Production

·   Processing

·   Marketing of Agricultural produces

·   Agrotourism/Agritourism

·   Community Outreaches.

However, for this blog, we shall concentrate on Agro tourism which was our main visit to the farm as a tourism professional and a travel blogger.

For starters, Agro-tourism/Agritourism could be thought of as crossroads of tourism and agriculture. It is a form of commercial enterprise that links agricultural production and/or processing with tourism to attract visitors to the farm to entertain and/or educate the visitors and generating income for the farm because it's not charity. Hahaha, just a prank never mind. Agritourism should at least include the following;

·   Combining the essentials elements of tourism and agriculture

·   Attracting members of the public to visit agricultural operations and participate

·   Designed to increase farm income and,

·   Provides recreation, entertainment, and/or educational experience to the visitors

All the above-mentioned are at Mlinza Farm. This amazed and delighted me as well because agritourism isn't something that many have ventured into yet it has a very big potential for the growth of domestic tourism.

ACTIVITIES ON THE FARM

Whereas Mlinza farm in Zirobwe was started 3 years ago, Farm trips began in January 2020, when they first hosted a group of 250 farmers who had come for agricultural education purposes. Since then the farm has been receiving several visitors both for tourism purposes and agricultural purposes. And lately, it has been more of the tourism purposes. This has been mainly because of the amazing activities on the farm that amaze most of the visitors while on the farm. These include;

Farm Tours

These include School tours, Individual tours, and Group tours on the Farm for both education and tourism purposes. The Farm is big enough seated on 15 acres, Carol Zawedde the CEO of the farm was our tour guide on the farm. She gave us the full details about the farms and what exactly they do. The tour involves you walking around the different animal houses and gardens to see how crops are grown.

Animal/Bird Feeding.

This activity involves, the visitors engaging in feeding the different birds and/or animals. For example the Turkey, Rabbits, Chicken, and the Goats. It's an amazing activity especially if you love spending some quality time with these domesticated birds and animals. While feeding you're taught about their behaviors, feeding habits, and how to take care of them. The activity can go as long as you want to be provided you have enough time.

Turkey Feeding 

Meat Tasting

This is everyone's favorite activity who visits the farm, including us, and of course, you know why. This should be Meat Feasting because it is not just tasting but feasting. With Meat tasting, you choose different types of meat you would love to eat and how you would love prepared depending on the number of people and the amount of money. For example Grilled, Pot-Boiled, Roasted, Pan-fried, or Deep-fried. This is served with either, Potato Wages, Cassava, Posho, Rice, Sweet Plantain, alongside fruit and vegetable salads. The Meat was plentiful, Mouth-watering, appetizing, Tasty, and Flavoursome. OMG, I don't know how to even explain this. Leave alone your usual chicken, have you tasted Pot-Boiled Chicken or Pan-fried Rabbit Meat before? OMG, this is as a sapid and worth every penny. Before we ate "I was at the edge of my seat". Lo, and behold I saw the beautiful wooden food boxes appear on the table. I couldn't hold my excitement. Hahaha. Of course, fruit salads were served first and everyone ate baby portions to have enough room for the meat. Haha. This is a worthwhile experience and highly recommended. 

Getting Set for a Mega Meal 

Food Set-Up 

Pan-fried Rabbit Meat 

Pot-Boiled Chicken 

L-R: French Beans, Duck, Turkey, Pan-Fried Rabbit Meat and Vegetable Salads 

Pineapple Hunting

Not the usual hunting of animals you know, hahaha, this is quite different and interesting, no hustle at all. Here you go to the Pineapple garden and pick as many Pineapples as you can carry in your hands. Quite interesting right? Oh yeah. It is really interesting. You only play 10,000/- for this activity.

Pineapple Garden where Pineapple Hunting is done from 

Fishing

This fishing isn't one of casting nets, no, please. Ponds aren't lakes but you're given a hook that is used in trapping the fish in from the pond and you take the size of the fish you catch with you. Yes! Mlinza Farm is really interesting.

One of the Fish Ponds where Fishing is Done. 

Camping

Just like any tourism destination, visitors may wish to spend a night and Mlinza farm has a small campsite with the requirements. They have tents but you can wish to carry your sleeping bags because these aren't available yet but in plans to procure some according to the CEO Carol. There's a campfire place just at the farm where you can camp at night and entertainment is provided as well while camping. The CEO has a plan of constructing cottages for the guests soon.

Games and Entertainment

Though for us we didn't have time for games, the farm has both indoor and outdoor games. Among the indoor games include; Cards, Chess, Ludo. And the outdoor games include; volleyball and Football. The farm has a volley Court and a football pitch near the farm where visitors can play football with the farm employees. The Volley Ball Court is right there at the farm entrance on the left. This is to give you company and not to feel bored while on the farm and trust me you cannot feel bored.

Future Prospects

Mlinza farm has plans of introducing new animals in addition to the few they have now to increase production on the farm

There's also a plan of constructing visitor cottages to improve on the visitors experience those who will be interested in spending a night at the farm.

How the whole experience was.

Generally, the whole experience was awesome and worthwhile, we spent roughly 5 hours on the farm and every minute on that farm was worth it. From the activities to the feasting time, everything was marvelous! The people on the farm are hospitable and the Carol the CEO is just amazing and so welcoming. We're going back to Mlinza farm on 16th October 2021 and if you're interested please let me know we have limited slots available. But we can always plan for you a farm trip to this amazing farm as Wildfriends Africa Safaris. Just let us know and we plan it for you any time with a minimum number of 4 people.

PICTORIAL OF HOW THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE WAS

A selfie Moment with Carol Zawedde CEO Mlinza Farm 

A Selfie Moment After of Meal with my mates Julie and Victoria