Zip Lining in Mabira Forest Uganda

Hidden between Kampala and Jinja along the Kampala–Jinja Highway lies the lush, emerald canopy of Mabira Forest, one of Uganda’s last remaining rainforests. Beneath its dense foliage lives a symphony of birds, monkeys, and butterflies — and above it, adventure awaits. The Zip Lining in Mabira Forest, famously known as the “Griffin Falls Super Skyway,” offers one of the most thrilling and scenic canopy experiences in East Africa.

For adventure seekers, nature lovers, and eco-travelers, this is not just an adrenaline rush — it’s a breathtaking way to connect with Uganda’s wild side from an entirely new perspective.

The Experience – Flying Through the Forest Canopy

Zip lining in Mabira takes you deep into the heart of the forest, where you soar through towering trees, hear the calls of birds echoing below, and feel the wind rush past your face. The canopy walk is set up high among ancient mahogany and fig trees, with lines stretching between platforms built into the natural landscape.

The Griffin Falls Camp, which operates the activity, offers six zip lines that cover a total of approximately 250 meters, taking you from one treetop platform to another as you glide through the mid-level canopy.

The highlight is the final stretch — a breathtaking glide over the Griffin Falls themselves, where you can see monkeys playing in the treetops and the forest floor glistening below.

Every part of the experience is guided and secured by trained instructors, making it both safe and exciting for visitors of all ages.

What Makes Mabira Zip Lining Special

• Eco-Friendly Adventure: The activity is designed to minimize environmental impact, blending seamlessly into the forest without harming its trees or wildlife.

• Birdlife and Wildlife Encounters: As you zip through the trees, you may spot grey-cheeked mangabeys, red-tailed monkeys, and over 300 species of birds including the great blue turaco and African fish eagle.

• Cultural Connection: The zip line experience is managed by the Mabira Forest Integrated Community Organisation (MAFICO), meaning your visit directly supports local conservation and community projects.

• Accessible Location: Located only about 45 minutes from Kampala and 20 minutes from Jinja, Mabira is a perfect stop for travelers heading to or from the adventure capital of Uganda.

How the Zip Lining Works

Upon arrival at Griffin Falls Camp, visitors are welcomed with a safety briefing and fitted with a harness, helmet, and gloves. The experienced guides explain how to glide, brake, and balance on the zip lines.

You’ll then begin with a short forest walk to the starting platform, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. Once aloft, you’ll move from one line to the next, gradually gaining confidence as the forest unfolds beneath you.

The activity typically lasts 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on group size and pace.

Other Activities Around Mabira Forest

While the zip line is the star attraction, Mabira offers a variety of adventures for nature enthusiasts:

• Guided Forest Walks: Explore trails that lead to waterfalls, medicinal plants, and scenic viewpoints.

• Birdwatching: Over 315 bird species inhabit Mabira, including endemic forest birds.

• Mountain Biking: Ride along winding forest trails and local villages for a true eco-adventure.

• Camping and Picnicking: Spend a night under the forest canopy or relax by the tranquil Griffin Falls campsite.

• Cultural Visits: Meet local communities and learn about sustainable living projects around the forest.

When to Go

Zip lining in Mabira is open year-round, but the dry seasons offer the best conditions for adventure:

• December to February

• June to September

During these months, the forest trails are less muddy and easier to navigate, and the visibility from the canopy is clear. However, the rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) make the forest especially lush and vibrant — perfect for photographers.

What to Bring

• Comfortable outdoor clothing and closed shoes (no sandals)

• Rain jacket or poncho (the forest can be humid and wet)

• Small backpack for personal items

• Insect repellent and sunscreen

• Camera or GoPro for capturing the action

• Refillable water bottle

Getting There

• By Road: Mabira Forest is located about 60 kilometers (1.5 hours) from Kampala, along the Kampala–Jinja Highway.

• By Public Transport: Take a taxi or bus heading toward Jinja and stop at Najjembe trading center, then walk or hire a boda-boda (motorbike) for the short ride to Griffin Falls Camp.

• By Private Tour: Many safari companies include Mabira as a stopover en route to Jinja, Sipi Falls, or eastern Uganda.

Conservation and Community Impact

The zip line and Griffin Falls Camp are managed by local community members, ensuring that tourism revenue supports both forest conservation and livelihoods. Profits fund tree planting, eco-education, and health initiatives within nearby villages.

By choosing this adventure, travelers directly contribute to sustainable tourism and the protection of Uganda’s precious rainforests.

Accommodation Options

If you wish to spend the night in Mabira, you can stay at:

• Griffin Falls Camp: Offers comfortable tents and camping sites within the forest.

• Rainforest Lodge Mabira: A luxury eco-lodge hidden in the woods with spacious cottages and fine dining.

• Lynn’s Motel or Holland Park (Jinja side): Great nearby options for those continuing to Jinja after the adventure.

Final Thoughts

Zip lining in Mabira Forest is more than an adrenaline-filled activity — it’s a journey through one of Uganda’s most enchanting natural treasures. As you soar above ancient trees, feel the cool air of the forest, and hear the distant crash of waterfalls, you’ll realize that adventure and conservation can exist beautifully together.

It’s a must-do for anyone traveling between Kampala and Jinja, a refreshing stop that combines thrill, nature, and purpose in equal measure.