Accessible via a rutted track through a patch of forest several miles outside of Jinja, Kingfisher is a low-key resort on the bank of the Nile. Simple huts are strung out through the wild grounds, interspersed with plenty of areas for chilling out or enjoying nature. But don’t come expecting luxury; this resort offers a pared-down Jinja experience.
We stayed in a double hut, tucked behind a patch of wilderness and within sight of the swimming pool. Small and simple, the hut had a cottage feel, with a tiny window and a large concrete bed, topped with a soft mattress and a billowing mosquito net. A well-kept bathroom corner offered a basic shower. It’s worth noting that noise carries at night here – we could hear every word of the conversation happening next door – so if it’s privacy that you’re after, request a room without next-door neighbors.
Kingfisher is popular with tour groups, but thankfully the grounds are huge so there’s lots of space for those in search of peace and quiet. Wander down to the riverbank, where you can picnic on one of the wooden benches or spread a rug in the shade of the tall fever trees. The pool isn’t large enough to swim laps, but it’ll cool you off after a day outside in the heat.
We were pleasantly surprised by the food in the simple restaurant; the waiter served an enormous plate of Indian specialities, including chicken tikka masala, lentils and potato and onion bhajis. There is a small selection of beers, spirits and plenty of soft drinks behind the bar. If you need to get online, ask the helpful bar staff; they can bring the wifi router over from reception for you.
Although it looks a little rundown at first sight, Kingfisher makes a refreshing change from most of the places to sleep in Jinja. Its quiet, forested location is a real plus, and the staff will organize white water rafting and other activities at great value rates.
Expert Review
Accessible via a rutted track through a patch of forest several miles outside of Jinja, Kingfisher is a low-key resort...
Accessible via a rutted track through a patch of forest several miles outside of Jinja, Kingfisher is a low-key resort on the bank of the Nile. Simple huts are strung out through the wild grounds, interspersed with plenty of areas for chilling out or enjoying nature. But don’t come expecting luxury; this resort offers a pared-down Jinja experience.
We stayed in a double hut, tucked behind a patch of wilderness and within sight of the swimming pool. Small and simple, the hut had a cottage feel, with a tiny window and a large concrete bed, topped with a soft mattress and a billowing mosquito net. A well-kept bathroom corner offered a basic shower. It’s worth noting that noise carries at night here – we could hear every word of the conversation happening next door – so if it’s privacy that you’re after, request a room without next-door neighbors.
Kingfisher is popular with tour groups, but thankfully the grounds are huge so there’s lots of space for those in search of peace and quiet. Wander down to the riverbank, where you can picnic on one of the wooden benches or spread a rug in the shade of the tall fever trees. The pool isn’t large enough to swim laps, but it’ll cool you off after a day outside in the heat.
We were pleasantly surprised by the food in the simple restaurant; the waiter served an enormous plate of Indian specialities, including chicken tikka masala, lentils and potato and onion bhajis. There is a small selection of beers, spirits and plenty of soft drinks behind the bar. If you need to get online, ask the helpful bar staff; they can bring the wifi router over from reception for you.
Although it looks a little rundown at first sight, Kingfisher makes a refreshing change from most of the places to sleep in Jinja. Its quiet, forested location is a real plus, and the staff will organize white water rafting and other activities at great value rates.