Haven by the Nile, visa at the Kenyan border, Ngamba Island

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kipa
kipa

I'm planning a visit to Uganda from Nairobi early January 2010. The plan is to take a bus from Nairobi to Jinja, chill for a few days by the Nile, and then head to Ngamba Island Chimp Sanctuary for two nights/one day before returning back to Nairobi. I have a few open questions:

  • Is it possible to get a visa at the border? I hear this should be possible, but mostly I hear people talking about getting their visa at the airport. Anyone crossed the border lately without a visa and seen this work out?

  • I've looked at mid-range options for accommodation by the Nile, preferring a relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and a view over the river. LP recommends the Haven. Would any of you have any experiences to share of the Haven or other recommendations for accommodation in the area? Is it affected by the dam construction? And is it easy to organise a transport there from Jinja?

  • And finally, the Ngamba Island. I'd be interested in joining the caregiver programme, and have started organising the health checks required. However, I'd be interested in any experiences any of you might have on the programme and staying over night on the Island?

Many thanks in advance!

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smallmasterr
smallmasterr

  1. Visa at the border in 1-2-3. Except if yo are from Iraq, Yemen, Iran, North Korea and 1 or 2 more of these type of countries.

  2. I would definitely NOT stay at Haven on the Nile if you dont have your own transport. It's a great place, but it is on the "wrong" side of the Nile, and actually 20 km away from Jinja. Even the road that leads there from the main road is a problem. So you are stuck there. They also very aggressively keep out outsiders (no people go there for a drink, for example). So you really are lonely there as well. Instead, my strong recommendation is http://www.nileporch.com/ (the Nile Porch). Great view over the Nile (better than the Haven), accommodation in luxury tents, close to quads, backpacker bars, close to Jinja, and next to a good restaurant.

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kipa
kipa

thanks a lot for an informative answer. took your advice and i've now booked myself in the nile porch. :)

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