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Source of the Nile Bridge
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The Source of the Nile Bridge, also known as the New Nile Bridge, is a cable-stayed bridge located in Jinja, Uganda. Officially opened on October 17, 2018, it spans the Victoria Nile, connecting the towns of Njeru and Jinja. The bridge is a vital component of the Northern Corridor, a key transport route that links the seaport of Mombasa in Kenya to the landlocked countries of Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and the eastern DRC. Measuring 525 metres in length and 22.9 metres in width, it is the first large-scale cable-stayed bridge in the East African region. The project was primarily funded by a US$112 million loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The bridge was designed to relieve traffic from the ageing Nalubaale Bridge (Owen Falls Dam), built in 1954, and has a projected lifespan of 120 years. Its iconic, fan-shaped cables and 70-metre-high pylon have made it a modern landmark for Jinja.
- Location: Uganda
- Top sights: River View stp · nile anchor palace · The nile
- Nearby: Lugazi (29 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 76 | 72 | 162 | 216 | 162 | 67 | 59 | 89 | 119 | 166 | 183 | 131 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Source of the Nile Bridge is a modern cable-stayed bridge spanning the Victoria Nile in Jinja. It can be crossed on foot or by vehicle; pedestrian walkways offer great views of the river.
Typical hours
The bridge is open to traffic at all times, with no special visiting hours. The spectacular LED lighting is visible after sunset, creating a special atmosphere for evening walks.
Photography
Photography is excellent from the bridge's walkways and from viewpoints along the banks. For night shots of the illuminated bridge, a tripod is recommended due to low ambient light.
Time needed
A walk across the bridge takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Allow 30 to 45 minutes if you also explore the surrounding viewpoints and take photos.
Combine with
Combine the bridge visit with a tour to the actual source of the Nile in Jinja, just a few kilometers away. The Jinja sport fishing center and old railway tracks along the shore are also interesting stops.
Getting there
The bridge is on the main road between Jinja and eastern Uganda. The best way to reach it is by taxi or boda-boda from Jinja town center. Parking is available at either end of the bridge.
Insider tip
Visit the bridge at sunset when the LED lighting gradually turns on and the sky changes color. Bring a flashlight as the walkway can be dark at night.
Geography
Facts
- Officially opened on October 17, 2018.
- The bridge's total length is 525 meters.
- Funded by a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
- It has a projected lifespan of 120 years.
- The bridge's pylon is 70 meters high.
- The first large-scale cable-stayed bridge in East Africa.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Source of the Nile Bridge (7)
John Speke Monument
Cruise to the Source of Nile
CULTURAL REASEARCH CENTRE MUSEUM🏛 museum
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to the Source-of-the-Nile-Brücke take?
Plan for about 30 to 60 minutes for photos and enjoying the view.
Is the bridge accessible for pedestrians?
Yes, there are pathways from which you can get a good view of the Nile source.
What is the best time of day for photos?
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light.
Are there parking options nearby?
There is limited street parking available in the vicinity.
Is the bridge wheelchair accessible?
Partially, but the pathways can be uneven.
Source of the Nile Bridge: where is it located?
Source of the Nile Bridge is located in Uganda.
Source of the Nile Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include River View stp, nile anchor palace, The nile.
Source of the Nile Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Source of the Nile Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The Source of the Nile Bridge, also known as the New Nile Bridge, is a cable-stayed bridge located in Jinja, Uganda.
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History & landmarks
🗺️
Jinja Railway Bridge
An old steel truss railway bridge that spans the Nile River in Jinja, historically significant for the Uganda Railway.
Nalubaale Dam (Owen Falls Dam)
A major hydroelectric power station situated at the source of the White Nile near Jinja, instrumental in powering Uganda's economy.
Namilyango College Chapel
An iconic historical chapel within Uganda's oldest boarding secondary school, featuring classical missionary architecture.
Baha'i House of Worship
The only Baha'i temple on the African continent, situated on Kikaya Hill, noted for its unique domed architecture and serene gardens.
Kibuli Mosque
A historically significant and visibly striking white mosque situated atop Kibuli Hill, bordered by palm trees.
Uganda National Museum Building
A classic mid-20th century building that houses Uganda's oldest museum, displaying ethnological and historical artifacts.
Independence Monument
A symbolic sculpture located in the heart of Kampala, depicting a man unbinding his hands and raising a child towards the sky to celebrat…
Makerere University Main Building
The iconic ivory tower and administrative heart of Makerere University, characterized by its distinctive British colonial architecture.
More places
🗺️
Isimba Hydroelectric Power Station
An important run-of-the-river hydroelectric power station on the Nile, providing clean energy to Uganda's national grid.
Jinja Sugar Cane Plantations
Extensive sugar cane fields near Jinja.
Jinja Pier
A historic pier in Jinja that was once a hub for freight traffic on Lake Victoria and is being rehabilitated.
Bujagali Hydroelectric Power Station
A large hydroelectric power station on the Victoria Nile, providing an essential source of electricity for Uganda.
Kakira Sugar Works
The largest sugar production company in Uganda, which also generates renewable energy from bagasse.
Jinja Wildlife Sanctuary
A small sanctuary on the banks of the Nile.
Lugazi Sugar Factory
One of the oldest sugar factories in the country, operated by the Sugar Corporation of Uganda Limited.
Ssezibwa Falls (Cultural Site)
The Ssezibwa Falls are not only a natural wonder but also a significant traditional and spiritual site for the Buganda.