Living the ‘superman’ dream is undeniably a coveted feat, however, it is now more plausible than delusional, at least for those who dare to stand the heights, rush of the wind as they literally fly over River Nile head first – superman style – with Zip the Nile.
Zip the Nile – the longest zipline in Uganda spanning 620 meters – officially launched this adventure product on Friday August 16th at the Living Waters Resort gardens in Bukaya, Buikwe.
Another addition to this adventure recipe is the provision for two people to zipline at ago, beside each other.
Thrill seekers are now up for well-earned bragging rights; flying over the world’s longest river on Uganda’s longest Zipline in one of Marvel’s arguably most famous superhero moves – the legendary horizontal superman.
They also get to spice up the heroic tale with their proximity to the spot where the river waters exit Lake Victoria in a glistening, white gush – the Source of the Nile.
Speaking at the launch, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities who was the chief guest, noted that the zipline project speaks to what Jinja is renowned for, tourism, adventure and cultural immersion.
The Minister commended the development done by the facility proprietors – Dr. Joseph Okia and Hon. Joanne Okia noting that it complements the strategies of the Ministry in promoting tourism, particularly the Source of the Nile.
“The establishment we are commissioning today speaks directly to the Ministry’s effort to promote domestic tourism through the explore Uganda Campaign. Adventure tourism is one strand that is appealing more to the domestic tourists especially the youth and middle aged. It further fosters the ideals of Jinja City as the Adventure Capital of East Africa,” Hon. Mugarra said.
Responding to concerns raised by Dr. Okia as regards government’s plans to develop the Source of the Nile, a move that is feared to frustrate existing private investments around the site, the Minister noted that the government is seeking partnerships with the investors, not forceful interference.
“It would be illegal, first of all, for government to interfere with private business and in the case of acquiring land for further development, it would be through negotiation – a willing buyer and a willing seller,” he said.
The Minister also underscored the importance of more domestic investors injecting funds into tourism and employing youth-centric strategies to enable Uganda’s biggest population to be part of the dynamic and fast-growing industry.
“We are a very young population. Uganda’s travel statistics show that less than 3% of 50-year-olds and above are involved in active travel. We see a lot of interest for travel and adventure among the young people so if we start instilling this in the young population, the we will have the most sustainable tourism industry,” he added.
Other Attractions on Site
The serene Living Waters Resort sits atop a hill overlooking the Source of the Nile, a sight to die for.
Decades-old trees dominate the backside of the terrace and restaurant, a place for quiet, mindful relaxation. A picnic by the source of the Nile is one unforgettable experience.
Within this vast estate, a reddish-brown towering structure peeks – the Speke monument. This monument commemorates the findings of English explorer John Hanning Speke, whose series of expeditions paved way for the discovery of the Source of the Nile and documentation.
For reference, the monument can be seen on the left side of the 2,000 Uganda Shilling note and right in the middle, the view of Lake Victoria, the principal source of the Nile.
Tourists can also enjoy boat rides on the Nile, getting as close to the source for an unrivaled experience.
Development Plans
According to Dr. Okia, more recreational facilities are in the pipeline at the Resort including a swimming pool which will be constructed in the front yard of the Restaurant.
This will be overlooking the Nile and its Source, giving visitors the most scenic view.
The facility is also looking into expanding the accommodation section to be able to accommodate more visitors for longer stays.
Fares for Ziplining
The standard charge for ziplining is UGX 70,000 both for domestic and foreign visitors.
