FAQs

Is Grade 5 Rafting Safe?

As with all adventure activities there is an element of risk, otherwise it would not really be an adventure, but when you raft with Nile River Explorers you’re rafting with a company that has more than 20 years experience as an industry leader. Nile River Explorers employs more year round professionals than any other rafting company in Africa. Our highly trained guides, excellent safety record and well maintained rafting equipment give you the security of knowing you are in expert hands on a Nile River Explorers adventure.

What is the best time of the year to go rafting?

Apart from Xmas Day and New Years Day we raft everyday as the flow is dam controlled and not seasonal or affected by rains.

Do I need to book this trip in advance?

The rafting is very flexible, however to ensure our service to you is as efficient as we like, we would recommend that you book at least the day before particularly if you require transport or accommodation. Please be aware that on weekends, especially in high season our accommodation can fill very quickly.

Will I get wet and/or cold?

You will certainly get wet but the water is always warm. You might get cold if it gets windy, in which case spray jackets will be provided.

What happens if it is raining?

We raft everyday rain or shine, as you are going to get wet anyway. As we are on the equator most rains in Uganda are tropical rains, intense but for only a short period of time. Should you encounter a storm on the river, the guides will find a safe haven until it has passed.

What is the possibility of falling out of the boat?

There is a very high chance of falling out of the boat, but this is often the highlight of the day and our safety kayakers are always close by.

What is a safety kayaker?

A safety kayaker will fetch you if you do fall out of the raft. They are there for your safety, because they are quicker and easier to manoeuvre than a raft.

What if I am vegetarian or have other dietary needs?

No problem, we cater for vegetarians every day but your trip leader will confirm numbers of anyone with special dietary needs at the briefing on the morning of rafting.

What if I can't see without my glasses?

If you have disposable contact lenses then we recommend you wear them, otherwise your glasses need to be securely tied to your head and helmet, however you take them at your own risk.

Can I go if I have a medical condition?

Please let us know in the morning if you have any medical condition you think we should be aware of particularly previous injuries, and take any medicines with you for the day. We DO NOT recommend pregnant women go rafting.

Can I go if I have a disability?

We like to help everyone experience the Nile and specialize in helping those with disabilities. If you do have a disability and would like to go rafting please contact us and we will do our best to make it possible.

What do I do with my valuables to keep them safe?

Valuables can be left at our office at check in, or at the Adventure Centre at Explorers River Camp, they will be given a security tag and stored in a safe place. Do not take any valuables on the river!

What about my bags?

We recommend you take a small bag with something dry to change into at the end of the day, this will be kept on our vehicle and meet you at the finish point. Any other bags will be tagged and either, remain in our office or be transferred to our River Camp during the day for collection there.

What happens if I don't like it and want to leave the trip?

For many of our clients the Nile will be their first experience of rafting. 98% of our clients have a fantastic experience but we realize that rafting is not everybody’s idea of a good time. The first couple of kilometres of the river give you give you a taste of what is to come. Should you feel apprehensive you can always transfer to our safety boat until we reach a suitable take-out point. If you decide to leave the trip once it has started a partial refund may be made depending on the circumstances.

What about crocs and hippos?

In 20 years of operation there have been no crocodile related incidents as they do not like populated areas so are rarely seen. There are no hippos on this stretch of river.