Ripon Falls Uganda : Everything To Know About These Stunning Waterfalls : Originally thought to be the source of the Nile, Ribbon Falls is situated in Uganda near the northern end of Lake Victoria. John Hanning Speke was the first European to map the downstream course of the Nile between 1862 and 1863. This came following his visitation of the falls. It meant to him that these were the Nile’s origins.
The falls bear the name George Robinson, 1st Marquess of Ripon, thanks to Speke. In 1859–1860, he presided over the Royal Geographical Society as its president. Up until the Owen Falls Dam’s construction was completed in 1954, the Ripon Falls functioned as Lake Victoria’s natural outflow. In essence, this drowned the Ripon Falls and expanded Lake Victoria. These falls are still one of Uganda’s most captivating sights. It is imperative that you visit these falls while in Uganda, preferably in the Jinja region.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT RIPON FALLS
The Ripon Falls Formerly, Uganda was thought to be the source of the Nile River. In 1862, John Hanning Speke became the first European to follow the Nile downstream, which led him to the discovery of the falls.
Up until 1954, when the Owen Falls Dam was built, it served as Lake Victoria’s natural exit, widening the lake and swallowing Ripon Fall. When the Owen Falls dam was finished in 1968, eight additional units were added.
The Owen Falls Dam, which the locals refer to as Nalubaale Dam, is made of concrete and has an intake powerhouse unit that is near the dam. The dam’s six sluices and ten turbines are used to regulate Lake Victoria’s outflows.
Six sluices, initially outfitted with two 15-unit units, have a spill capacity of roughly 1200 cumecs when the dam is fully opened.
George Robinson, the Royal Geographic Society’s president in 1859, is honored by the lake’s name.
About 900 feet (275 meters) in width and 900 feet (5 meters) in height made up the lake. Some people think that this tiny gap where the waterfalls are located is where the Nile River begins.
ACTIVITIES FOR VISITORS AT RIPON FALLS
One of the most unforgettable experiences of your life is taking a trip to see the Ripon Falls in Uganda. Here are some of the attractions and activities in Ripon Falls:
Bungee jumping
Adrift is one of the company Renowned for providing the safest bungee jumping experiences on the Nile. Only individuals who have a strong need for excitement can participate in this thrilling sport. If so, you can anticipate making the greatest leap of your life from a bungee jump tower. The purest display of fun is, by far, this one.
Quad Biking
Quad biking is one of the best ways to see the Ripon Falls on the Nile River. There are already designated bike routes in existence. To participate, not much experience is necessary. Quad bikes are almost accessible to anyone.
Sport fishing
Sport fishing is a delightful and soothing pastime. It is open to tourists who would like to catch the renowned Ugandan tilapia fish. However, as catching fish that are underweight is forbidden on the lake, everyone participating in this activity needs to have the proper fishing equipment.
Canoeing
Kayaking is exclusively accessible to travelers who have a passion for aquatic sports. You can also conduct this exercise near the falls on the Nile River.
White Water Rafting
Participants in whitewater rafting must use their whole body. The fun part of everything is fighting to remain afloat and navigate the many rapids. It goes without saying that everyone will either be wet or submerged in the sea. Every participant receives a helmet and life jacket for safety purposes.
Nature Photography
Taking pictures of the Ripon Falls and the landscape around them serves as documentation of your previous visit. Through the stunning pictures you captured, you can even journey back in time when you’re not in Uganda. The location appears to be charming, which is what sets these nature images apart. It resembles a location from a motion picture. You had to go and observe with your own eyes.
IN SUMMARY: RIPON FALLS
Ripon Falls is worth a visit during your Uganda Safari tour. You could stop at the Speke monument while traveling through the region. This is the location where explorer John Speke stood and observed the Ripon Falls. It’s also a fantastic location for taking pictures for memories and future use. Having said that, don’t hesitate to travel to Jinja in order to see even more breathtaking tourist attractions, such as the Itanda Falls, Bujagali Falls, and Jinja hotels and beaches.
