This archive report was first published on 31 August 2019.
On a recent visit to Jinja, Uganda, I discovered a hidden gem that has captured my heart - the Nile River. As the source of the longest river in Africa and arguably the world, it offers a serene and scenic experience that is perfect for thrill-seekers and those looking for a relaxing getaway.
As an avid adventurer, I decided to try stand-up paddlingboarding (SUP) on the Nile River. With the calm waters and minimal wind, I was able to get comfortable and confident on my board. My ultimate goal was to be able to stand and paddle, but I started off seated, getting used to the sensation of being on the water.
After a few minutes, I was able to get on my knees and then, with some effort, I managed to stand up. The board was surprisingly stable, but standing on water is still a strange sensation, and I ended up falling into the water. Undeterred, I repeated the process, and with some practice, I was able to stand and even paddle.
One of the tips I learned was to look at the horizon for balance, and I also found that short strokes worked best for keeping the board moving in a straight line. The board was spacious enough to paddle with a friend, child, or dog, which would be quite fun.
After about 40 minutes of paddling, we decided to wind down with something relaxing and hired a SUP hammock. It was a thing of wonder - three SUPs rigged together with two hammocks tied to either end. We got comfortable, and a guide on a kayak gently pulled us along.
Time seemed to stand still as we floated along, watching the otters swim past and enjoying the sunset. If ever an activity deserved to be called blissful, it would be this.
