03/16/23

Top 5 Road Trips to Take in Uganda

Road-tripping creates everlasting memories, the perfect escape from the bustle and hustle of one’s ordinary life. Indeed, nothing beats the feeling of spending hours with your loved ones in a 4×4 safari vehicle, traveling all over Uganda, meeting amazing communities, and taking in breathtaking sites along the way.

With a perfect camera, you can immortalize the fantastic moments as you commit some of the memories to your diary for future reference. When it comes to thrill-inspiring road trips in Africa, Uganda boasts an abundance of those. Read on to uncover the top five road trips in Uganda that you should consider before hitting 60.

  1. Kampala to Bwindi Gorilla National Park

Distance: 490 kilometers

Duration: 8-10hrs

Routes: Kampala – Equator – Mbarara- Bwindi

Gorilla Trekking Uganda

Mountain Gorilla in Bwindi National Park

Uganda is popularly known to inhabit half of the world’s remaining population of endangered mountain gorillas, found in the impenetrable jungles of Bwindi National Park. Thousands of tourists from all over the world visit Uganda mainly for mountain gorilla tracking in Bwindi National Park, located in the southwestern part of the country. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi takes place in the 4 sectors of Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. Each sector has its own gorilla groups and accommodations (Lodges and campsites).

Brief Itinerary for a 3 Day Gorilla trip in Bwindi

Day 1: Kampala to Bwindi via Mbarara (8-10hrs), Overnight in Bwindi Jungle

Day 2: Gorilla trekking experience, evening community walk

Day 3: Drive back to Kampala with en route stopover at the equator for photographs.

Other things to do when you visit Bwindi Gorilla Park

Other tourist activities to do in Bwindi gorilla park include birding, community encounters, forest walks, gorilla habituation experience, and biking among others.

  1. Kampala – Jinja Road trip

Distance: 80km

Duration: 2hrs

Route: Kampala – Mabira Forest – Jinja

Jinja is one of Uganda’s most beautiful cities, visited and loved by many tourists. It is located in the Eastern part of the country, 80km (2hrs) from Kampala capital. The journey starts in Kampala with an en route stopover in Mabira forest for a nature walk, birding, or zip-lining. Proceed to Jinja for a boat cruise to the source of the mighty river Nile.

Other things to do on a road trip to Jinja include white water rafting, Bungee jumping, Quad biking, kayaking, Horseback Riding, and a fantastic boat cruise among others.

White water rafting activity takes almost a full day, therefore, taking part in this activity may not give you a chance to take part in other activities unless you stay for a night in Jinja.

White Water rafting in Jinja - Uganda

White Water rafting in Jinja – Uganda

  1. Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park

Duration: 2hrs

Distance: 240km

Route: Kampala – Masindi – Murchison Falls National Park

The journey to Murchison falls national park is one of the most popular road trips taken by most tourists on self-drive Uganda safaris. To fully explore this park, one requires at least 3 days and 2 nights. The main tour activities done in Murchison falls national park include;

  • Day and Night Game drives: Conducted in 4×4 vehicle with a pop-up roof for excellent game viewing and photographing, highly recommended to employ a park guide to assist you to look for the animals in the park. Among the animals to see include pride of Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Buffaloes, Giraffes, and several antelope species among others.
  • Boat Cruise: A road trip to Murchison Falls National park offers a great opportunity to take a fantastic boat cruise to the Nile Delta, and to the bottom of the magnificent Murchison falls. While on the boat cruise, herds of buffaloes and elephants are seen quenching their thirst, and huge Nile crocodiles as well as Hippos are also seen basking along the shores. This is also a birders’ paradise with other 400 species including migratory species.
  • Chimpanzee tracking and birding in Budongo forest
  • Adventurous hiking to the top of the falls
  • Local community tours
African Elephant - Murchison Falls National Park Uganda

African Elephant – Murchison Falls National Park Uganda

This short road trip allows you to see Africa’s Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Elephant, and Rhinos in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary).

  1. Road Trip to Kibale Forest (Home to 13 Primate Species)

Duration: 7hrs

Distance: 340km

Route: Kampala –Fort Portal – Kibale National Park

The trip goes through the beautiful and amazing landscapes of Uganda’s countryside. Kibale National Park is known for the highest concentration of primates in Africa with 13 species which include chimpanzees, Black and white colobus monkeys, Grey Cheeked Mangabeys, L’Hoests Monkeys, vervets, and Galagoes among others.

Besides chimps and other primates tracking, Kibale National Park is famous for its excellent birding experience with our 350 species, night forest walk, butterfly watching, chimpanzee habituation experience, and Bigodi swamp exploration.

A road trip to Kibale National Park allows you to explore and experience the local communities living around the park, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the volcanic hills and crater lakes. On the edges of Fort Portal town, we find Tooro King’s Palace, as well as the historical site known as “Amabeere ga Nyina Mwiru”, one of the must-visit sites on your road trip to Kibale National Park.

Royal Palace - Tooro Kingdom

Tooro King’s palace – Fort Portal

  1. Kampala to Lake Mburo National Park

Duration: 3hrs

Distance: 220km

Route: Kampala – Equator – Lake Mburo

Lake Mburo is the smallest savannah Park in Uganda, a perfect destination for weekend getaways in Uganda, located in the western part of the country.  The park is popularly known for game drives where you can see a variety of wild animals in their natural habitats such as Zebras, Giraffes, buffaloes, and several antelope species such as Impalas, and Statungas among others.

Besides game viewing, other tourist activities conducted in Lake Mburo N.P include Quad biking, nature safari walking, horseback riding, and boat ride to see Hippos, birds, and crocodiles.Lake Mburo National Park

Vehicles Recommended for Road Tripping in Uganda

Access to all the destinations mentioned above may require a strong 4×4 vehicle, especially in National Parks such as Murchison Falls, Lake Mburo, and Bwindi Jungle. First-time travelers to Uganda can rent a 4×4 in Kampala from a reliable car rental agency that can give a reliable 4×4 and proper guidance to operate a 4×4 for a fantastic and memorable adventure in Uganda. There is also an option to rent a 4×4 with a driver in Uganda for as low as USD30 per day. The driver acts as the tour guide while on the safari in Uganda.

 

03/15/23

Can I Self-drive with a baby in Uganda?

Is having a Baby on Self-Drive in Uganda Allowed? Does my Car come with a Baby Seat?

Renting a Car for Self-drive in Uganda with your baby is possible as the company provides a baby seat to enable you to transfer to any safari destination of your choice in Uganda.

Travelers can also transfer with their own baby seats so as to save money on renting a 4×4 with a baby seat. If you cannot, the company can purchase this baby seat at your expense. However, you are required to inform us prior to the date of arrival so that the company prepares a baby seat or informs you about the guidelines/ steps on which to follow if you want to have a bay seat and enjoy your safari in Uganda.

So when you are looking to rent a car with us, find out the cost of renting a car as well as the baby seat. After your rental you shall be required to pay an extra fee in case the baby seat is brought all dirty with food and soda drops.

When taking a baby seat make sure it fits well with the size of your baby for safety while driving to any destination of your choice in Uganda.

Top 3 Reasons to Carry a Baby seat on Car Rental in Uganda or Self-Drive in Uganda.

  1. They are compatible with the cars

Baby seats are compatible with most cars we offer for car rental in Uganda. These seats carry your baby comfortably throughout the safari to any safari destination in Uganda.

  1. They offer Safety

Baby seats enhance the safety of the babies as they seat comfortably in any safari place in Uganda. Note the confidence in your baby seats before transferring with your baby. Our company offers well-maintained baby seats although we advise travelers to carry their own baby seats to carry their babies comfortably as they transfer from one destination to another.

  1. They reduce Damage

When going for your self-drive in Uganda and Car Rental in Uganda, make sure the baby seat is in good condition so as to reduce damage that could happen to the car or the baby while on safari.

Other Self-drive tips in Uganda

Uganda is beautiful to explore on self-drive as you transfer from one safari destination to another. Below are the self-drive tips to follow so as to enjoy car rental safaris in Uganda.

  • Book your vehicle in advance

As you are planning to go on a self-drive safari in Uganda, we advise you to book your car in advance before the date of arrival to go on your self-drive safari around Uganda.

  • Thoroughly check your vehicle before driving

Before starting your self-drive Uganda Safari/ journey, we advise you to thoroughly check your vehicle before setting off. Check the water levels, radiator, oil, fuel, and pressure so as to be ready for your adventure.

  • Rent a car with camping gears

When going for a self-drive Uganda safari, we advise you to book and rent a car with camping gear to make your stay in the wilderness very incredible and unique. The camping gear makes it possible for you to sleep in the wilderness as well as cook and do other activities at your ease and comfort.

  • Respect and follow the Traffic rules

As you are going on your self-drive Uganda safari, we advise you to follow the traffic rules as well as the road signs located along the highways. While driving in the City Centres, look out for motorbikes, locally known as Boda bodas, taxi drivers that crowd the various places in the City.

  • Make sure to fuel your car

When setting off for self-drive in Uganda, make sure to fuel your car so as to avoid breaks along your road trip. Fuel stations are located along the main roads in Kampala as well as the outskirts

We fuel cars with only Total and Shell fuel stations and fuel as other types of fuel could damage the car engines.

When going to remote regions on your self-drive Uganda safari, we advise you to fill your tank so as to avoid inconveniences.

  • Carry a Spare kit

When transferring on self-drive in Uganda, we advise you to carry a spare kit that contains spare tires, jerk, and spanners. This is useful since the roads are unpredictable and anything can happen.

  • Make sure to wear your seat belt

While on self-drive in Uganda, we advise you to always wear your seat belt so that it protects in case of any road accidents that could happen due to uncertainties. These will also hold you tight when there are unexpected breakings and reckless driving among others.

03/2/21

Gorilla Tour cost inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions in a gorilla safari cost

It’s wise to understand the inclusions and exclusions in a gorilla tour cost before confirming any trip.  What is excluded and included in a gorilla tour quite is one of the frequently asked questions by most travelers booking gorilla safaris in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. Upon any confirmation of any gorilla safari package, a traveler is given a quote by the contacted travel operator. With no doubt, a gorilla tour quote is often expensive compared to other wildlife experiences.  In most cases, the total cost of a gorilla safari is normally huge compared to other wildlife experiences but the thrilling feeling that comes with a close encounter with gorillas is worth the penny. African Jungle Adventures brings you detailed inclusions and exclusions of gorilla tour cost in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo,

Gorilla safari in Mgahinga National park Uganda

Gorilla safari in Mgahinga National park Uganda

  • Mountain gorilla permit

The number one inclusion in your gorilla safari cost is the gorilla permit. Depending on which country you will be trekking gorillas from, you must have a gorilla permit to allow you visit and interact with these endangered species. In Rwanda, a single gorilla permit cots $1500 paid by all travelers while in Congo, a gorilla permit costs $450 for foreigners and $400 for nationals. In Uganda, a single gorilla permit costs $700 for foreign nonresidents, $600 for foreign residents and UGX 250,000 for Ugandans and east African citizens. Upon booking, travel operators must ensure gorilla permits are available on a travelers desired date.

  • Park Entrance Fees

More so, your gorilla safari quite entails park entrance fee to the respective gorilla park. Unlike in savannah parks where travelers are asked to pay park entrance fees, clients visiting gorilla parks are not asked to pay entrance fees. The entrance fees to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks is inclusive in the gorilla safari quote.

  • Conservation fee

Your gorilla safari quote will also entail conservation fee in the respective gorilla national park. The conservation fee is majorly to facilitate personnel who ensure the well-being of the endangered mountain gorillas in the jungle. These people include the gorilla doctors, conservationists, park rangers, tourism police and park wardens who together ensure safety and well-being of the endangered mountain gorillas hence promoting sustainable gorilla safaris in Africa.

  • Full-time English speaking guide

Upon your arrival, you will be welcomed by a professional driver guide from African Jungle Adventures. A traveler will not pay the driver guide unless if he or she wants to tip. Therefore, the driver guide will be paid by the company part of the money paid by a client. A driver guide is given a daily allowance depending on the number of days on a trip. The amount of a driver guide’s allowance varies between companies.

  • Accommodation and meals

Unless you are doing a private tour or self drive in Uganda, your safari quote also entails accommodation and meals throughout the trip. Various budget, midrange and luxury lodges and hotels have been established in all gorilla national parks in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. If you book through African Jungle Adventures, we reserve the best accommodation services for you at negotiated prices. The cost of accommodation services depends on the standard on the lodge and the quality of services offered. However, travelers are assured that both categories of gorilla lodges in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo offer excellent food and sleeping services.

Bisate Lodge Rwanda

Bisate Lodge – Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

  • Transport to and from the airport

Your gorilla safari quote also entails transport to and from the airport or the hotel. The driver guide will pick you up on the starting day and drop you off at the end of the tour without asking you for transport money. We guarantee you safe and comfortable transfers in our 4X4 safari vehicle.

Other inclusions in a gorilla safari quote include miscellaneous, bottled drinking water and government taxes.

Exclusions in a gorilla tour cost

The following are exclusions in your gorilla safari cost in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These include:

  • International flights and Visa fees

The cost of your international flight to your desired gorilla country is not inclusive in the permit cost. You will therefore pay for your flight separately in addition to your gorilla sari quote. Similarly, travelers pay for their Visa fees in the respective countries. If you are visiting East Africa, applying for an East African Visa which allow you to move freely in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo is best option.

  • Alcoholic beverages

Premium and alcoholic beverages are also not inclusive in your gorilla safari quote. Travelers are only served with soft drinks free of charge to accompany food in all lodges and hotels. Travelers are therefore reminded to bring extra income for the alcoholic beverages in case they want to take some.

  • Driver/guide tip

Tips are also not inclusive in your gorilla safari quote. Whereas its not mandatory, tipping on a safari is highly recommended. The amount to tip is the choice of a traveler depending on the quality of services he/she will have received from the driver guide. Tipping is a sign of appreciation which encourage service providers in this case driver guide to work harder and better.

  • Porter’s fee

If you hire a porter, you will pay him/her separate from the gorilla tour quote. Porters are local people who help to carry traveler’s baggage to and from gorilla trekking, Hiring a porter costs between $15 to $20 dollars for a full day.

  • Extra activities not in the itinerary

A traveler will also pay for any extra activity he/she adds in the itinerary.

Conclusively therefore, in-depth understanding of gorilla safari inclusions and exclusions is advisable for all travelers visiting for gorilla safaris in Africa.

06/4/20

Top 6 East African Adventures

Top 6 Things to Do in East Africa in 2021

The combined East African safari adventure including Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania offer plenty of activities and attractions for a lifetime adventure experience. Safaris to East Africa are basically designed to make your encounter in the region of Africa memorable.

East Africa is part of the African continent which comprises of 5 countries including Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi and each country with different activities and attractions that you can enjoy on your adventure holiday.

East Africa’s destinations offer a variety of safari attractions including wild places, physical features, water bodies, birds, primates like mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, Golden Monkeys and Vervet monkeys among others depending on what the traveller wants to enjoy in East Africa.

6. Climb Mountain Rwenzori to Margarita peak

Mountain Rwenzori is the highest block mountain in Uganda and third highest in Africa after Mountain Kilimanjaro and Mountain Kenya. Mountain Rwenzori is located in western Uganda on the Uganda -Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border spanning the districts of Kasese, Kabarole and Bundibugyo.

Mountain Rwenzori is a UNESCO heritage protected by mountain Rwenzori National park managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority, it is also known as “the mountains of the moon” due to the 6 mountain ranges on it including mountain Stanley with the highest peak Margarita, mountain Baker, mountain Gessi, mountain Emin, Mountain Speke and mountain Luigi di savoia.

Rwenzori trekking is an ideal safari activity during your adventure safari in East Africa, as you move up to snowcapped margarita peak the highest peak of 5,109 meters above sea level which offers you the ultimate hiking adventure.

Over 7500 travellers each year visit mountain Rwenzori to explore the highest peak margarita, which can be done either in the shortest hiking trip of 4 days mountaineering or longest hiking trip of 7 days mountaineering which can be complemented with gorilla trekking, wildlife tours, birding among others.

Rwenzori Mountain is a world heritage site that heritage that offers the opportunity to see nature at its best. The plants vary from tropical rain forests, bamboo forest, montane vegetation and the scenery is truly fascinating. Snow and glaciers and the special and breathtaking experience when you go higher to the mountain.

Go to the Rwenzori mountaineering services headquarters where you will be briefed about the whole hike, start the hike from Nyakalengija through Bakonzo settlements on mountain Rwenzori National park gate where you get registered before entering the park. You start the trail trek through the thick tropical with dense bushes.

The bush is home to various animals like elephants, chimpanzees, monkeys like L’Hoests, black and white, duiker, three-horned chameleon among other that you watch on your way to climb mountain Rwenzori

5. Go gorilla trekking in Uganda

Uganda is the famous destination in the world for gorilla trekking in Africa and the whole because of the highest population of mountain gorillas. Mountain gorillas are found only in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic of Congo in the whole world.

In Uganda gorilla trekking is done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National park located in southwestern Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable National park is home to over 500 mountain gorillas half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas which attracts a big number of travellers each year to Uganda.

Gorilla trekking is done in the 4 sectors in Bwindi impenetrable National park with 18 gorilla families in Buhoma sector in the northern part, Ruhija in the eastern part, Rushaga and Nkuringo in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National park and Mgahinga National park with 1 gorilla family, making it 19 habituated gorilla families for trekking in Uganda.

Experience the breathtaking and memorable experience of gorilla trekking as you encounter the endangered species physically in their natural habitats. Enjoy 1 hour in the presence of the mountain gorillas for observations and photography then return back.

The gorilla trekking destinations of Bwindi impenetrable National park and Mgahinga National park can be accessed by air transport means from Entebbe airport to Kihihi airstrip and Kisoro airstrip then drive to the trekking sector. Bwindi and Mgahinga National parks can also be accessed by road transport in 4×4 wheel vehicle with a guide or on a self-drive for 8-9 hours drive and 9-19 hours drive respectively from Entebbe airport via Masaka-Mbarara Ntungamo Kabale to Kanungu and Kisoro.  Due to clear signage on the roads to Bwindi and Mgahinga gorilla parks, even travellers on self-drive safaris in Uganda can easily make it to the park without much hustle.

4. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is done in Volcanoes National park in the north-west of Rwanda in Musanze district formally known as Ruhengeri. It is approximately 2-3 hours drive from Kigali airport to Volcanoes National park.

Volcanoes National park covers an area of 160 square kilometres consisting of a tropical forest, bamboo forest, shrubs and so on that shelters mountain gorillas, many bird species and other wild animals. Volcanoes National park consists of 10 habituated gorilla families that are tracked throughout the year, though the most recommended time for trekking is in the months of January, February, June, July, August and December when there is little rainfall and the roads are less slippery.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda all starts with briefing in the morning by the ranger guides on the rules and regulations of trekking gorillas and group allocation then later head out to the forest to search for the gorillas in their natural habitats. A maximum of 1 hour is allowed in the presence of the mountain gorillas to learn about their characters, physical appearances and takes photos and videos with them.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda currently costs 600 US dollars for foreign nonresidents, 500 US dollars for foreign residents and 250,000 Ugandan shillings for East African residents but starting 1st July gorilla trekking will cost 700 and 600 US dollars for foreign non-residents and foreign residents respectively.

However, you can also check-in at Kigali airport and trek mountain gorillas in Uganda.

3. The great wilderness migration (Masai-Mara and Serengeti National parks)

The great wilderness migration is the largest mass movement of the wild mammals from the plains of Serengeti National park in Tanzania crossing through Mara River to Masai-Mara National park in Kenya. The major animals crossing here are the wildebeests, Zebras, Elands, Gazelle which are always stalked by the lions, crocodiles, hyenas which are ready to eat them.

The great wilderness migration is an amazing adventurous experience which allows you see hundreds and thousands of wildebeests accompanied by herds of zebras, buffaloes, impalas, giraffes to look for food and water during the dry seasons depending on where they are.

During this great journey, the wild animals walk over 1000 kilometres where they attempt to avoid predation from the lions, cheetahs, hyenas and crocodiles in the rivers, diseases among others but over 250,000 animals die during this yearly circle and thus referred to as the great migration to those that survive during the migration.

However, the movement of the wildebeests is hard to understand because they cover huge areas but you can plan your trip to see them by finding out where they will be at each month of the year. Enjoy the great wildebeest migration that happens all year around and with each circle offering a unique wild life experience.

It is a great spectacular nature safari option to travellers who love nature and wild life that can be done on your adventure holiday in East Africa.

2. White water rafting in Uganda

White water rafting is one of the best things to do in Uganda, it is done on River Nile in Jinja on Kayunga road at Kalagala falls. Jinja is located in the south-east of Uganda approximately 87km from Kampala on the shores of Lake Victoria near to the source of the Nile.

White water rafting can also be done on Murchison falls in Murchison falls National park located in the north-west of Uganda.

The powerful volume of water creates horrible rapids that provide unforgettable rafting experience. There are over 4 companies offering day trips and then night camping and meals. White water rafting is done guided by the safety team just in case of an accident.

Each person is given a paddle and the guide keeps instructing you on how best to use it to enjoy the activity and to ensure you are safe. There is different grading of the rapids ranging from 1-5 where you choose to go in the middle of the falls up to the grade of your choice.

1. Ngorongoro crater exploration

The Ngorongoro crater is the world’s largest volcanic caldera with a diameter of about 18km covering an area of 260 square kilometres. Ngorongoro was once a mountain as high as Kilimanjaro Mountain and about many years ago it blew its self to bits covering Serengeti in ash and a crater formed in the mountain forming the Ngorongoro crater.

Ngorongoro crater in the Ngorongoro conservation area in north Tanzania is the most known and visited with the highest concentration of big five game including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, Rhinos and other wild animals like zebras, wildebeests, cheetahs, flamingos among others which are seen down on the plains of the crater.

There are over 400 bird species that are found here including water birds like storks, herons, cranes, savannah birds like ostrich and kori bustard, forest birds like turacos, hornbills and prey birds like eagles, vultures among others.

You can as well do game drives in the Ngorongoro crater while on your safari in Tanzania because it is allowed unlike walking safaris are not allowed in the crater. At the top of the crater, there is a terrace offering one of the most panoramic and breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro conservation area.

There is no recommended period to visit the crater because the animals do not leave the caldera and can be spotted at any time of the year.

Therefore East Africa safari on your adventure holidays in Uganda, Rwanda Kenya and Tanzania rewards you with breathtaking and memorable experiences.

06/10/18

F.A.Q: Self Drive Rentals In Uganda

The Frequently Asked Questions About Self Drive Rentals In Uganda

A self drive safari also famous as self guided safari is a remarkable road trip that involves some one to hire a vehicle to help him or her transverse through Uganda’s roads on own his or her own without any guide but with a GPS and  may be guide/travel books / Maps. The freedom and privacy the self drive safari gives visitors is exceptionally one of the remarkable adventures that come once in a lifetime. This gives opportunity for you catch a glimpse of abundant wildlife and indigenous tribes within a shortest time possible. They range from the rare mountain gorillas, the big five game to the stunning tropical rain forests, landscapes and several water bodies, and if you are adventure enthusiasts and nature lover, Uganda is such a remarkable destination that is worthy visiting. Prior planning a self drive tour in Uganda, we have listed a number of questions that commonly asked by various visitors in their initial planning states;

 How old do I need to be to hire a vehicle in Uganda?
Provided that you are above 20 years with a valid driving license /permit, you are free to rent a car for self drive trip in Uganda. At least have about four years driving experience in case you need to get on the road on self drive to catch a glimpse of many tourist attractions in the country.

How do I book a vehicle?
Booking a car in Uganda can be done through online by filling in the short form or simply send an email directly and the other alternative is for you to book by visiting the company’s office itself.

What is the cheapest vehicle for self drive in Uganda?

A self drive safari in Uganda is best when you take a 4×4 safari vehicle that can navigate through the terrains and all kind weather conditions in the remotest areas where most attractions are found in the country. You can make your choice along Land Cruiser Prado, Safari Land Cruiser, Toyota Rav4, Nissan Patrol, Super Custom and Safari Minivan.

Why go on self drive trip in Uganda?

A self drive tour in Uganda gives visitors that total freedom, flexibility and convenience to make any decision on where they want to visit and what they wish to view and explore at their own time.

Can I pre book or book a car up on arrival?

By pre booking a vehicle for safari you stand to get some benefit of purchasing power. Rates for self drive car hires are minimal and fit within the visitors pocket range. It is better to pre-book in advance to avoid disappointments at the last day.

Do I need an international driving permit?

An international driving permit is a proof that you have a valid license in your home country at the date of issue of the IDP. This should come along domestic driver’s license.

Do I require any travel insurance?

You need to take travel insurance and it better for safari holidays in Uganda. This will cover issues of accidents or theft of the cars.

Where do I pick up the rental car?

Visitors can pick a car rental at agency offices, airport or any other specific place that will be agreed upon booking. A driver and representative from car hire company will deliver the vehicle within the shortest time possible and once you land in, you simply walk in and you will be handed over the keys to start your ride.

Can I drop off the vehicle at different location?

Yes, you can drop the car to another location but must be agreed on with the car rental company, and some times, this happens at a fee. For example, if you started your trip in Kampala and you want to drop the car in Mbarara, you will be charged for fuel and driver to return the car to Kampala. This fee is negotiable between the hirer and car rental agency.

What car hire fuel types are there?

We have petrol and diesel fueled vehicles and you choose the one which is best for you. The rates also differ based on the fuel type.

What is the fuel policy for hiring the vehicle in Uganda?

Most car rental agencies like 4×4 Uganda Ltd and Rental Cars Uganda Ltd offer quarter tank vehicles and expect it to be returned to us in the same way and if the vehicle is brought back when it is less than quater tank, you will incur an extra cost to repay for the missing fuel capacity. And there is no refund for unused fuel. Self drive cars offered depending on unlimited mileage meaning that you visit the area provided you incur the cost of fueling the car yourself.

What if I brought back the vehicle late?

In case you brought the vehicle some hours late on the last day, you won’t be charged by most car rental companies in Uganda but in case you make a mistake of bringing it a day after, then expect an extra cost for the similar amount that you paid each day. We encourage our visitors to always contact our reservations group and let them aware about your interest the number of car hire days as you may even get some discount on it.

In conclusion, when it comes to car hire services for self drive safaris in Uganda, we offer variety of cars within visitors travel interest and we able to respond to any other inquiries a visitors would like to get clarification. Enjoy your trip.

01/19/18

Tips to Book A 4×4 Safari Car in Uganda

Are you planning to go for a self drive or a guided safari in Uganda and you do not know where or how to get the best car to hire for your trips? Guided tours for long have become the most sought after experiences by most tourists on safari in Africa as most of them have a feeling that it is a safer and comfortable way to travel but due to changes in demand, self drive safaris have also picked up as it offers visitors with adequate freedom, privacy and flexibility while on safari to any destination.

Uganda features a number of Car Rental Agencies and they all offer variety of services and vehicles at varying prices. While planning your safari in Uganda, you will need that reliable and trust worthy Car Hire Company to help you get the best and comfortable car that suits within your pocket and travel needs.

There are many ways that you can rent a car and to help you get the best choice, below are some of the sources that you should consider if you plan to hire a car for a self drive or guided tour in Uganda

Online: Most car hire services in Uganda are accessible through online as most car rental companies have websites with details about variety of cars for hire. You will find a wide range of cars especially sedan, 4×4 safari jeeps, mini vans and luxury bridal vehicles as well as brief info and travel plan on national parks and any attractions that you may need to explore. Turn on the Wi-Fi or simply visit internet café and Google out more about car rental with reputation, reviews and reliability. Type any car services for instance self drive, airport transfer or car category especially the sedan, Rav4, Land Cruiser in Uganda. The website features most contact details including the agency email, mobile and telephone number and office address but the best feature is the contact form that gives you opportunity to send your inquiry directly to the agency email.

Social Media: This is another best source for you to rent a car in East Africa. The most famous social media platforms include twitter, facebook, instagram and many more. Many car hire agencies and clients advertise their products, services and up to date news via shared posts on these platforms which are views by millions of users beyond boundaries. Type in any vehicle that you need to rent or service you in need to use in Uganda in a search box of facebook, twitter or any other social media and you will get results of pages and accounts that can give you what you need.

Office: In case you are within Kampala, Uganda, you would simply give yourself time and pay a visit to the Car Hire Company’s office after all the address, telephone contacts are all displayed on the website. The perfect thing with booking a car in person is that you can always be in position to negotiate with the staff and get the best rate, you don’t need to wait for an email reply and you deal directly with the agency that offers you more authority.

Friend/Relative: You can also book a car through some one; it can be a friend, family member or even absolutely unknown person. Get first hand information on a car hire agency and what is entailed in renting a vehicle in Uganda from the previous visitors as this will guide while making the best choice at a pocket friendly rates.

In conclusion, in case you have any plans of visiting Uganda for safari to the national park, city tours, business or leisure holiday and you wish to rent a vehicle with or with no driver; then you need to consider the above tips can guide you.

 

05/13/17

A fabulous Honeymoon – Queen Elizabeth National Park

At the beginning of this year, my longtime friends I and my husband took a honeymoon trip to a place we had never been before. This actually still remains my memorable day ever in my life. I had never been to an African country before and I did not know how beautiful Africa was but Uganda truly gave me a true portrait of Africa. It really proves that Africa is the most blessed continents on the globe.

On the day when our friends surprised us with the good news about the package, we really had to hit the internet to look for a good tour company in Uganda that would organize our trip at affordable prices and other benefits and also to hire a car in Uganda that we would use to travel to our destination.

As we were in Uganda, we took an expedition to Queen Elizabeth national park in Western Park the home of animals and birds. I had never seen such playful and friendly creatures like elephants, hippos as well as antelopes before. As which reached the Mweya sector, we went down through large expanse of savanna grassland in search of these animals and rare bird species. Hiking through the some of the rain forest was very tiresome but this was a thriller and adventurous as we spent 5 hours searching for the bird species. We were very excited to see birds like Bar-tailed Godwit, Black-rumped Buttonquail, Shoebill, African Skimmer, Lesser plus Greater Flamingo, Chapin’s Flycatcher, White-tailed Lark, Corncrake, Pinkbacked Pelican, Verreaux’s Eagle Owl, Papyrus Canary, White-winged Warbler, African Broadbill which are very rare in our home country.

After three days at Mweya, we proceeded to kyambula where we spent one hour with amazing elephants and red eyed monkeys but this was not all about looking at these animals, this went beyond as we learnt a lot of things about elephants as well as Uganda cobs. These are animals behave like humans in the way they associate with each other and the silver back is the leader and the protector of the family. Everything done within the family revolves around the silver back. It was a life time experience that I can never forget in my entire life. I saw things that I had never seen before an animal well organized like humans, having a head animal that directs them where to go and what to do.

After finishing a long conversation with these amazing animals, we headed to the most amazing part of Uganda with wonderful physical features. What amazing lake is Lake Nyungu! A lake that has a shape of map of Africa, Lake Kigere that has a human foot like shape, I really recall it was a fantastic experience one can never forget. I remember my husband confusing me with identical twin lakes around Lake Nyungu. Those lakes explain exactly how twins look like.

Later in the evening, Kichwamba cultural site where my husband participated in amazing culture dances with local people. We could even here amazing voices of hissing sounds of small insects and tinny reptiles while feeling warmth from the camp fire. In the following morning, we took a canoe ride Kazinga channel as we popped some champagne while on the ride. In my opinion, Queen Elizabeth National park Uganda is the best place for the lovers to spend their honeymoon due to its natural setup.

Ishasha Tree Climbing Lions

 

The Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National park is a home to tree climbing lions. Once you visit the is park, don’t ever miss out a game drive in Ishasha sector for tree climbing lions along side other animals like Elephants, Buffalo, Antelopes and many Savannah bird species. We stayed at Ishasha wilderness camp where we had a fantastic guided nature walk through the park.

The park can be accessed by road from Kampala via Masaka-Mbarara and this Journey takes 6-8 hrs drive. You can book an all-inclusive tour to the park through tour companies, or if you want to drive your own adventure, you will hire a car in Kampala or Entebbe. The park can also be accessed by air to Kihihi or Kasese airstip. It is about 50 minute flight.