Birira River • Rukungiri District
River rafting
near Bwindi
Rafting, floating, hiking and itineraries in Western Uganda, all with a focus on nature.
What are you looking for?
Class II–IV
rapids
1.5–2 hours
from Bwindi & Queen Elizabeth
Ages 6+
family rafting & floating
Min 2
people per trip
Who are we?
We are Sadat and Nathalie - SANA!
We are a Ugandan-Dutch couple, living in Uganda. We started SANA out of our personal love for the outdoors, specifically our passion for water sports! Sadat is a renowned international freestyle kayak champion and Nathalie is a Dutch Medical Doctor. Together we provide fun, adrenaline and safety.
Watch Sadat’s Red Bull documentary · More about us
Meet the team
John
River Guide
Akili
River Guide and photographer
Juma Kawawa
Safety Kayaker and Guide
Badiru Singer
Driver
The activities we offer
Add these to your Uganda adventure!
Pick the pace that suits your group. River Birira has calm sections for families and wild sections for adrenaline seekers.
Stay with us · Rukungiri
SANA Bed & Breakfast
The perfect location to spend the night before rafting, floating or overnight rafting with us.
$50
double or twin · $30 single
Why choose us?
We want to get you out of your car into Uganda's nature
We at SANA Gorilla Rafting offer outdoor activities in Western Uganda on the Birira River! We do white water river rafting, floating and hiking. The scenery is amazing, you will go through lush green Jungle valley, close to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Safety First
Our experienced guides ensure you have a safe and unforgettable experience.
Family-Friendly Fun
Adventure can always be made family-friendly! Traveling with kids? Don’t hesitate to book our outdoor adventures. We take kids from 6 years.
Off the beaten track
Does it feel like all itineraries/activities you’ve seen are the same? We offer something truly unique!
Location of Birira River
Birira River Rafting (SANA Base)
If you are trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi or taking a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Birira River is right next door.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Gorilla trekking
1.5 to 2 hours drive
Birira River, Rukungiri
Rafting, floating & hiking with SANA
SANA Base
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Safari
1.5 to 2 hours drive
Itineraries
Let us plan your trip through Uganda
Multi-day trips that combine rafting and floating with gorilla trekking, safaris and hiking through Uganda’s nature.
Itinerary: Discover Uganda by its waters!
Do you want to travel through Uganda, combining the safaris and great apes with outdoor sports and rafting? You’re at the right address!
Itinerary: Rivers, Ridges and Rainforests
Are you the type of traveler looking for the ultimate physical challenge? Would you like to mountainbike, hike and paddle your way through the Ugandan Jungle without spending a minute in your car?
From the blog
Stories and guides from the river
Plan your rafting day and combine it with gorilla trekking in Bwindi or a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The Complete Guide to White Water Rafting in Uganda (2026)
Everything you need to know about white water rafting in Uganda: where to go, what to expect, what to bring, safety tips,…
Beginner’s Guide to Jungle Rafting in Uganda
At SANA Gorilla Rafting in Rukungiri, visitors can enjoy jungle rafting on the Birira River surrounded by forests, hills, and beautiful scenery.
Top Things to Do Near Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park
Western Uganda is one of the most beautiful and adventure-filled regions in East Africa. Most visitors come for gorilla trekking in Bwindi…
Ready for your adventure?
Not sure? Send us your ages, travel date and route, we’ll recommend the best fit.