White Water Rafting & Jungle Floating Near Bwindi
SANA Gorilla Rafting offers white water rafting in Western Uganda on the Birira River, close to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ishasha, Kabale, and Lake Bunyonyi. It is designed for travelers who want a real Uganda rafting experience without driving 8–10 hours back to Jinja.
Planning Your Itinerary?
add these activities!
Pick the pace that suits your group. Not sure? Send us your ages, travel date and route, we’ll recommend the best fit.
Family Rafting / Floating
Would you like to take your kids rafting in Uganda? Enjoy a safe family rafting trip with gentle rapids and beautiful river scenery.
White Water Rafting
Looking for the best white water rafting in Uganda? Paddle exciting Class III-IV rapids on the scenic Birira River near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Overnight Rafting to Ishasha
Experience a unique overnight rafting adventure from the Birira River to Ishasha, combining rafting, camping, and unforgettable safari scenery.
Waterfall Hike
Explore one of Uganda's most beautiful waterfall hikes, surrounded by a rainforest, scenic trails, and breathtaking views in Western Uganda.
Discover Uganda by it’s waters!
Do you want to visit Uganda? Do you want to combine the safari and great apes with outdoor sports and rafting? You’re at the right address!
Rivers, Ridges and Rainforests
Are you the type of traveler looking for the ultimate challenge? Would you like to mountainbike, hike and paddle your way through the Ugandan Jungle? Then this itinerary is for you!
Check other exciting activities and itenaries
Why Choose Birira River Rafting Over Jinja?
Jinja Rafting (Eastern Uganda)
- 8–10 hour drive from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Requires returning back towards Kampala
- Dam modifications affected traditional rapids
- Adds extra lodging and transport expense
Birira River Rafting (SANA Base)
- Only 1.5 to 2 hours drive from Bwindi & Queen Elizabeth
- Seamless integration into western gorilla safari circuits
- Wild, untamed Class III–IV rapids in lush rainforest gorge
- Saves 2 full travel days on your Uganda itinerary
about us
We are Sadat and Nathalie - SANA!
We started SANA to help travellers experience the Western Uganda we love—not only through a window, but on the water, on the trail and with the people who live here.
- Rafting, floating and waterfall hikes in Western Uganda
- Family-friendly experiences from age six
- Custom Uganda itineraries built around nature and outdoor adventure
- Reviewed as a bigger highlight than the gorillas!
why choose us?
we want you to get out of your car!
From a recent guest
“Forget Jinja, this is the place to be!”
Koen Dolphen · Google review
“More than a fun rafting experience.”
This was an amazing experience clearly worth the travel for.
The scenery is amazing, the team is extremely professional and make the experience very fun. Thanks again to Juma, John, Akili and Singa for the great service. Surely one of the best rafting experience I ever did! – Marc DESLONDES
Questions before you raft?
Message us if your question is not answered here. Someone from the SANA team will reply. Email us or message us on WhatsApp.
Where are you based?
We are based in Rukungiri in Western Uganda. This makes SANA a natural addition to trips that include Bwindi or Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Do you offer accommodation?
Yes. SANA Bed & Breakfast in Rukungiri offers comfortable double, twin and single rooms—ideal for staying before or after your adventure. Double or twin rooms are $50 per night including breakfast for two, while single rooms are $30 per night including breakfast. Guests can also enjoy the restaurant and local bar, with dinner available when booked in advance. View accommodation details.
Do I need rafting experience?
No previous experience is needed for the activities shown here. We’ll help you choose the right trip for your age, confidence and group.
Can children join?
Yes. Family rafting and floating, as well as the waterfall hike, are available from age six. Main rafting and overnight rafting are from age twelve.
What should I send when I enquire?
Your preferred date, number of guests, children’s ages and where you will be staying are enough to start. We’ll confirm availability and next steps.
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