Wildwaters Lodge

Located on roughly six hectares on Kalagala Island, Wildwaters Lodge lies on a unique private island mid-stream within the mighty River Nile in Uganda: around 25km downstream from Jinja in eastern Uganda.

It’s in a sublime location and only reached by boat which makes it a very adventurous place to stay. It is uniquely perched on granite rocks with dramatic and exciting rapids roaring all around.

Activities on the river for guests in the nearby adventure hub of the Jinja area including heart-pounding white-water rafting or bungee jumping and gentler horse riding or fishing.

Additionally, Wildwaters is a perfect platform for viewing some of the more than 1000 bird species that Uganda is so famous for – from turacos and cuckoos to hawks and eagles – and you might also spot giant otters and monitor lizards in the water.

After an adventurous day Wildwaters Lodge also offers a relaxing and intimate location for honeymooners and couples looking for some quiet time. Especially for those taking advantage of the spa nestled over this ancient river.

The sounds on the mighty Nile are quite hypnotic and calming so Wildwaters offers an experience for all the senses. And for posting on Facebook or Instagram, nothing beats these views. Wildwaters Lodge is open year-round affording guests the opportunity to enjoy this piece of paradise during all seasons.

RIVER NILE
Famous as the historic source of the Nile River, Jinja is now the adrenaline capital of East Africa. Activities on the River Nile include heart-pounding white-water rafting, bungee jumping or kayaking or more gentle horse riding or fishing.

Whitewater rafters and kayakers can tackle ‘wild or mild’ courses, taking class 5 rapids or more relaxed family-friendly affairs.

ACCOMMODATION
The ten stand-alone elevated timber-floor and super-spacious luxury suites are nestled in the rainforest with amazing river views.

Each are linked by raised wooden walkways to the restaurant, bar and library, and feature glass-fronted windows, locally handmade furniture, stylish bathrooms with rain showers, and secluded wooden decks with daybeds and romantic free-standing open-air bathtubs.

There are also delicious sunrise breakfasts and candle-lit three-course dinners and a lovely swimming pool cantilevered above the river in the attractive main communal lodge area.

• 9 deluxe suites and 1 family suite make up the total compliment of accommodation on the island.
• All suites are private and exclusive and can be made into a double or triple or twin configuration. A day bed is standard in all suites.
• The suites enjoy private balconies with freestanding baths and mosquito nets.
• Additionally, a room safe, en-suite private bathroom with great rain showers and complimentary toiletries are available.
• All meals are included in your stay. Meals are taken in the main area by the poolside with magnificent views of the River Nile. Private dinners can be catered for in your room or at the poolside on request.
• Our dishes are made from the freshest ingredients and we are able to accommodate most dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free amongst others. All dietary preferences must be advised at the time of booking.
• The lodge power is supplied 24hrs by the national grid, with a generator back up. Power is 220v and the plugs are 3-pin square UK standard. Adapters are available from the reception on request.
• Transfers to the island from Entebbe, Kampala or Jinja can be arranged directly with the lodge. The transfers are charged per vehicle one-way.
• Whilst children are most welcome, parents must understand that Wildwaters Lodge is situated on an island surrounded by grade 5 plus rapids. They must be supervised at all times and will not be allowed to roam free on the island without being accompanied by a parent. They must also remain under adult supervision at all times.

HORSE RIDING
Horse Riding is offered at both Lemala Hamerkop House and Lemala Wildwaters Lodge. Horse Riding at Hamerkop House takes place on Dolly Estate and whether you are a complete beginner or an advanced rider, there is an opportunity and experience for all abilities.

Those with little riding experience can enjoy a gentle hack along dusty tracks where wildebeest and antelopes graze contentedly. Led by experienced guides, one can explore the meandering paths, spotting a rich array of wildlife along your way.

Regularly seen on Dolly Estate is one of the most elegant mammals found in Tanzania, the Gerenuk. The ride at Wildwaters Lodge is perfect for groups of friends and family with a range of abilities who want to ride together.

There are various opportunities for cantering, and the ride takes in the local village and a stretch along the banks of the historic Nile. For more experienced riders we arrange adventurous overnight safaris designed to explore areas that vehicles cannot reach.

RAFTING
Adrift has an unparalleled safety record that is both unrivalled and admired for over our 28 years in operation. Over 58,000 customers have safely rafted the Nile with Adrift, including Prince William, Ginger Spice, Mikka Hakkinen, Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman, to name just a few.

NILE RAPIDS
A truly memorable full-day experience for a slightly less strenuous day. Drift amidst the breathtaking scenery of Wildwaters Reserve on the world’s most famous river. Marvel at the birdlife and raft through the breaking waves.

FAMILY RAFTING
Our family white water rafting trips let you sit back and relax as our guides take over entertaining your kids! Adrift specialises in white water rafting for kids. We’ll ensure that your kids are having the time of their lives, but also make sure they are learning about the river and taking safety seriously.

KAYAKING – FULL DAY
Warm water, sunshine, tropical islands and the perfect introductory rapids make the Nile the perfect place to learn how to whitewater kayak. Our Introduction to Whitewater day is conducted directly from WWL and is sure to give you a memorable experience off the tourist trail.

The day is designed to teach the skills you need to run a fun white water section on your first day. One of our highly qualified guides will be with you every step of the way. This is our most popular option.

KAYAKING – HALF DAY
This experience is offered on the smaller whitewater at the base of the Wild Waters Lodge island. Done on our more stable Sit On Top Kayaks this is a taster as to what white water kayaking is, it gives you the opportunity to interact with the river around you and get a feel for the rapids.

You will be guided through some mild white water and might end up for a quick swim in the river, but there will be safety kayakers to help you back into the kayak. A fun, safe and exciting activity for the whole family.

WILDWATERS KAYAK CRUISE
Take a relaxing Kayak Cruise on a flatwater section of the famous White Nile and its tropical islands . This slow-paced activity is suitable for a variety of ages and no prior paddling experience is needed.

Our guide will entertain you with local stories and share his knowledge of the abundant birdlife found in this paradise. A scenic and peaceful experience awaits you. Kayak cruises start directly from Wildwaters Lodge.

FISHING
If you have your own gear, there are some “worth a try” fishing spots around the island at Wildwaters Lodge that we are happy to guide you to.

For some reason, local guys with basic kit do a lot better than we do! They’re always delighted to asked for a few pointers on how to land that tilapia or Nile perch you’ve always wanted.

DISCOVER RIVER NILE
Wildwaters Lodge lies on a unique private island mid-stream within the mighty River Nile in Uganda: about 25km downstream from Jinja in eastern Uganda. Famous as the historic source of the Nile River, Jinja is now the adrenaline capital of East Africa.

Activities on the River Nile,, include heart-pounding white-water rafting, bungee jumping and gentler horse riding or fishing. Whitewater rafters can tackle ‘wild or mild’ courses, taking class 5 rapids or more relaxed family-friendly affairs where you sit back and relax as our guides take over entertaining your kids.

Kayakers can choose between an exciting full-day white water rapids tour or a gentler cruise where you drift among the tropical islands on a flatwater section of the famous White Nile.

As you enjoy the fresh waters of the Nile, keep an eye out for fellow water babies like otters or monitor lizards. Or the more than 1000 bird species that Uganda is famous for – from turacos and cuckoos to hawks and eagles.

Jinja is one of two birthplaces of the mighty River Nile, where the water spills out of Lake Victoria on its journey to the Mediterranean flowing fast from the get-go.

It is estimated no more than 5% of water here will end up in Egypt. There’s a landmark commemorating the source of the world’s most famous river- the perfect place for a sunset beer.

Rooms: 10

Price: from 642 EUR per night

Source: www.lemalacamps.com