White Water Kayaking

One thing I didn't expect to gain from my experience in Uganda is a newfound appreciation and love for outdoor activities. I'm going to work to prioritize time outdoors when I'm home, especially once I'm back in California this fall. 

A friend from work mentioned his kayaking hobby the first week I was here. After I saw some of the photos on the Kayak the Nile website I knew I had to try it. Kayak the Nile is owned by a British couple, Sam and Emily Ward. Sam is Great Britain's Freestyle Team Coach, so I felt incredibly lucky that he coached my lesson this past Sunday. They've done a great job building well-paced but challenging lessons where you can really feel your own progression day by day. Compared to other rivers, you don't have to worry as much about rocks or shallow water. Also, most rapids will end in a deep, calm pool so if you flip or swim (fall out of your kayak), you can float down and just wait at the bottom. Just like the rafting, there's always a crew of safety kayakers who will help you out right away, so I've always felt really safe. 

After just four lessons, I'm able to roll and am starting to feel much more comfortable on the rapids. While I still have a lot to learn in terms of reading the water, I'm eager to find a way to get on some white water when I'm back stateside. 

Also...right outside the entrance to Kayak the Nile, you can get the best rolexes in the country. My recommendation is to get one with avocado, chips (freshly fried potatoes), and green peppers. You can't go wrong. Plus, I'm told it helps your rolling technique :)

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