Best 5 Spots on the Wild and Tranquil Ugandan waters
It is a honeymoon? Is it love you want to celebrate? What better way to express this than by taking a boat cruise? Uganda’s lakes and rivers are more than just waters, they come with sceneries to die for. Tranquility takes center, the breeze is soothing, the beauty simply out of this world and the experience sticks to mind. But the wild is magical too.
1. A dreamy Lake Albert awaits
When the boat docks, we guarantee you will be smiling. For emphasis, we shall repeat: By the end of this two-hour trip, the memories you would have collected will leave you smiling. It starts with encountering of plenty wildlife whilst still ashore; reptiles, birds, you name them, exciting! But that you will soon learn is just a teaser; this entire experience is capped with thought-inducing sunsets and pure relief. A tangle with nature, a sun so soothing you wander into the what-ifs of life. You live and let live whilst on the waters of Lake Albert.
It remains one of the most informative sightseeing tours in Western Uganda. Offering a relaxing way to learn about puzzling tectonic earth movements that led to the formation of the Albertine rift valley. It takes place aboard a wooden boat powered by twin-turbo engines. What a gentle experience this boat, managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority, provides. Arguably the most stable boats on Ugandan waters that boast of comfort so fulfilling it allows for dreams.
The adventure is fun and exciting, but also informative. The guides on site know so much about the area. You will be impressed by how they value the environment, and the special role that each animal in Semuliki National Park has in sustaining its eco-system.
The cruise unfolds at a gentle pace, allowing you to see all types of birds that prey on fish possible. The biggest highlight is spotting Uganda’s most sought-after species, the shoebill. Imagine encountering a pre-historic bird that has defied odds and outlived extinction since the time dinosaurs still walked the earth.
The longevity of the tour is perfect. It is long enough to allow you to see all the animals on your bucket list but also short enough not to make you bored.
Cost: The tour costs roughly 50,000 UGX and can be booked through the luxury lodges in the park. One such lodge is Ntoroko Game Lodge.
It continues tomorrow… who wants to go Sports Fishing on Lake Victoria
2. Canoe cruise on Lake Mulehe, so picturesque!
It captures your heart with intriguing sights and sounds of Lake Mulehe. Found in Kisoro District(South-Western Uganda), it is a scenic crater lake that has a healing effect on the mind, body, and soul.
You will have a calm paddle aboard a dug-out canoe that is small and made for an intimate connection. Be prepared to get award-winning pictures of green hilly landscapes with plantations of Irish potatoes on their faces. The bonus is a mix of dormant and active volcanoes that perfected the beauty of the Virunga region with their sky-hugging summits. In their shadows are well-organized villages of locals, most of whom hail from the Bafumbira tribe.
As the sun rises gloriously, it creates clear blue skies which are beautifully reflected in this lake. This creates a powerful and energizing environment for adventure and re-discovery of one another.
As you ride on, you will encounter lots of birds with soothing music for your soul, like the malachite kingfisher. But that’s half the story. The trip is just what you need to cool off and reflect on how far your relationship has come. Why? As opposed to being powered by a motorized engine which would disturb your peace, the canoe is steered by paddles.
The Kayaking option is equally so much fun, a great physical workout too! There is enough paddling to do. Throughout, you will be in the company of an extremely enthusiastic guide who is knowledgeable about the area.
If you love swimming, you can take advantage of the lake’s bilharzia free state and jump in for a refreshing dip. The fish are quite curious and swim right up to you- so cute! You’ll have absolute peace of mind considering lake Mulehe doesn’t have any hippo or crocodile.
Cost: The adventure costs roughly 50,000UGX per person and can be booked through the various safari lodges in Kisoro.
3. The wild Murchison Falls National Park boat ride
Take a boat cruise in Murchison falls National Park, we dare you! Not that it is a bad dare, the thing is, this is more of an exploration of the wildlife of this park, and thus more than just a tour. It is no wonder it attracts over 200,000 tourists annually! The cruise takes place on River Nile aboard a big boat with a lower and upper deck. Imagine how electrifying it would be to cruise on the world’s longest river? Yes, a wonder that that started flowing even before Moses freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Imagine that!
This beautiful biodiversity hot spot is home to tons of birds, reptiles, aquatic species, and mammals like buffaloes, elephants, Uganda kobs, and giraffes. All these can be easily spotted this a sightseeing boat cruise destined for the mouth of the river. During this two-hour experience, you will ride past small swamps systems with schools of hippos cooling of the heat with a swim.
Should you look keenly into the water, you will see gigantic crocodiles camouflaging with surrounding rocks. Their eyes are glued to the shoreline to stalk prey that has come to quench its thirst. The guide who will be entrusted with looking after you speaks so much about conservation and sustainable tourism. Their love for the park will make you want to stay there forever.
Like a true climax, the best part of this boat ride is watching the majesty of the Murchison Falls unveiling ever so thunderously in your eyes. This, on top of experiencing wildlife in its habitat, is what makes this boat ride one die for.
Cost: In short, the tour is good value for money and thus highly recommendable. Costs between Shs30,000 -120,000 depending on whether you are an East African, Foreign Resident, or Foreign tourist.
4. Time to go fishing on Lake Victoria
First of all, safety is germane! The entire excursion is a tale of a well-organized and executed affair, complete with attention to safety. Before we delve into it, not that Lake Victoria is one of the very few freshwater bodies in the world that are still lonely save for a lone canoe in a distance. This should allow you to rediscover what you like about each other without feeling like your privacy is compromised.
It helps that the temperature in and around the lake is friendly all year round. Listening to the calm waves gently splashing the side of the boat will heal your mind and soul of whatsoever is troubling it. If sportfishing with Wild Frontiers, your trip will be guided by a two-man team that had done this over 200 times now. They will make sure you are well taken care of from start to finish. Even better, the boat is well suited for deep lake trolling.
At the genesis of this adventure, a briefing about the rules and regulations must be held. This is to ensure that all are versed in the safety and operations of the boat and only then will you get into the nuts and bolts of your mission. To go fishing! The activity is easy as there are not many Dos and Don’ts. The artificial lures are designed in the shape of prey that is a delicacy for giant tilapias and Nile perch.
The ever-so-patient instructors make the activity doable even for a novice. Throughout the excursion, there is no rush to get you back to shore, you will fish until you are were happy to pull in the lines. The crew’s knowledge of the lake is hard to beat. They know where, when, and how to hook the biggest catch. It might take lots of minutes before landing on a good catch, this makes the victory worth a huge celebration like a lottery win. Luckily, there is lots of beer on board. Did I say there was lunch too? Well, you bet there is. The day will end with a brief visit to one of the many islands on the lake whereof the Equator passes. Imagine that!
Costs: An average of $125 with Wild Frontiers, a sports fishing agency based in Entebbe
5. An adrenaline dose from Rafting River Nile
Are you feeling plain old? Did plain stick maybe? If you are just bored of the relationship, then this adventure is exactly what you need. In fact, put it on your bucket list for valentine, you will not regret it! It entails overriding 8 major rapids of the river that are well spaced over a scenic 24-kilometer stretch. Imagine that!
This pushes you to the limits and enables you re-discover your strength, or just how good you are at maneuvering through challenges. All that initially seemed impossible will fizzle off. And dare we add, this could go a long way in trivializing all the hurdles that seemed unmovable. And oh, this is regardless of whether you chose the half-day or full-day excursion, you will leave with both physical and emotional rewards.
Over 1,000 who don’t know how to swim have successfully and safely rocked the adventure since its inception over 20 years back. This is partly because safety is the main concern of the rafting agencies and standards of their equipment are second to none.
Before the experience, a breakfast to fill you with sufficient energy ahead of your expedition is served. You will then be split into groups of six people each with similar appetites for adrenaline. Each will be led by a coach who has been rafting for over 10 years. He will ensure you are comfortable but most of all confident to rock the day. Shortly after boarding the raft boat at a calm stretch of the river, he will give you a safety briefing—purposed to enlighten you on how to have a trip that is free of regret and fear.
Having rafted countless times before, the safety crew knows the river very well and will keep you safe throughout. You will swiftly come to your rescue just in case you fall out of your boat after it has hit a high wave. The rapids you will counter are on the bigger side but prior to confronting each, the raft will be consulted to determine which line to pass.
This will limit the number of times your boat flips upside down. The beauty of rafting the Nile unlike an ocean or sea is that its water is not salty, it is fresh. As such, neither your eyes nor skin will be damaged. On the contrary, they will look exquisite and renewed in the end due to the healing effect of the mineral-rich water.
A photography crew will be stationed at different strategic parts of the river to get highlights of your excursion. Halfway into your adventure, you will have a lunch stopover at one of the islands surrounded by exhilarating rapids and a rich concentration of beautiful birds
Costs: The average cost for a full day raft is $125
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Mount Mufumbira Ranges
Have you ever visited Muhabura ranges in South Western Uganda? Do you know of any tourist attractions in this area? On this page, we will show you all you must know about mount Mufumbira ranges in Southwestern Uganda.
Mufumbira Ranges stand tall and dominate the horizon like islands in the cloud-shrouded sky. Everywhere you turn; your eyes cannot resist but look at them.
Their chilling effect can be felt everywhere, even within the confines of your bedroom. Those mountains; Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo form the Mufumbira ranges.
Formed as a result of volcanic activity, the mountains are a major attraction in the Kisoro District and a great influence on the way of life of the local people.
For the first-time traveler, however, the chilly breeze from these mountains is enough to confine you to your bed for days on end, and yet the locals go about their daily chores unbothered, as long as it does not rain.
Kisoro is home to Mgahinga, the smallest of Uganda’s national parks well known for gorilla tours. The park lies on the northern slopes of Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo.
According to the natives, these peaks are three of the six that make up the Virunga ranges which mark the southern limit of the Albertine rift valley, divided between Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo.
The Virunga ranges are home to more than half of the world’s population of endangered mountain gorillas. It is 6:00 pm; I am seated on the porch of Golden Monkey Guesthouse, my home for the few days I will be in Kisoro. Sheeba Hanyurwa, the proprietor of the guesthouse, is giving me a crash course on how to survive in this cold part of the country.
Muhavura in Kifumbira, the local dialect, means guide. It is believed that if you are lost and happen to see Muhavura, it will help you get your bearings hence guiding you to your destination. On the other hand, Gahinga means a heap of stones. Locals say a superior being put the stones in one place to create land for the people to farm and Sabinyo, shaped like a molar tooth, is named after an old man’s tooth.
A story goes that a man who fled from his people with only one tooth left in his mouth took refuge on one of the hills. One day, lightning struck and he fell losing his only molar.
The molar is said to have created a dent on the hill, hence the name Sabinyo, owing to its shape. Sabinyo offers a breathtaking view of Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Standing on top of it, As Hanyurwa continued to tell me about the spectacular place, I started longing for extra clothing just to keep warm.
From my seat, I could see clouds moving as the skies darkened; mist descending, birds flying and hills adjacent to mountains with terraces that can be compared to a neatly patched quilt. The fusion of the terrain and the surrounding beauty captivated me.
Down one of the roads, I was privileged to see women with babies strapped on their backs, balancing baskets on their heads, while men transporting foodstuffs on the bicycles cycled home.
Following closely behind them were children returning home from school. Kisoro has two seasons — wet and dry.
July to September is considered the peak of the dry season and the rest of the year is wet. The weather favors the growing of Irish potatoes and beans. “Every three months, locals harvest Irish potatoes and sort them according to size. The small potatoes are kept as seeds for the next planting season, while the big ones find their way to the markets.
During the Irish potato harvesting season, some shops close, while others are turned into stores for Irish potatoes,” Hanyurwa says. A sack of Irish potatoes now costs sh80,000 in Kisoro, up from sh20,000 less than a year ago. This Irish potato region in southwestern Uganda is approximately 540km from Kampala city and about 80km from Kabale town. It was carved out of Rwanda in 1910 by the colonialists.
According to the Uganda Districts Information Handbook, 2022, Kisoro used to be part of the Kigezi District. In 1980, when South Kigezi was renamed Kabale District, Kisoro became a sub-district and also doubled as Bufumbira County. Covering 662 square kilometers, the mountainous sub-district has a population of over 386,681 people.
Although agriculture is carried out on a small scale due to limited land and the hilly terrain, the district ranks among the top food baskets in Uganda. Farmers sell some of their produce to middlemen who in turn sell them to consumers in urban areas.
The district is also famous as a tourist destination. It’s a treasured item, the park, is 14km from Kisoro town. You need a Four-Wheel-Drive to conquer the hilly terrain that takes you to the park. Along the way, you get to see farmers tending their terraced gardens, the numerous hills habituated by families in either tin roofs or grass-thatched houses, and children running up and down the rugged terrain.
But as you draw closer to the park, you soon forget about the bad road as the refreshing cool breeze from the evergreen forest blows in your direction as though to welcome you. The sound of River Ntebeko as it flows can best be described as hypnotizing. Philip Sebagenzi, the manager of Amajembere Iwacu Community camp, says Ntebeko originates from Mount Mgahinga. From its source, it flows 50km downhill and spreads into small channels that supply the community with water.
If you visit the park intending to stay for just a day, then think again. Though gorilla trekking is the park’s most popular activity, a day’s visit is not enough for one to enjoy all the allures of the park. However, like trekking, they come at a fee. From forest walks that can last eight hours, if you went up Mt. Muhavura and back, to enjoying the view on community walks and reading about the way of life of gorillas, the 12 hours in a day are certainly not enough.
By interacting with community guides, you will learn how to differentiate one gorilla from the other. “Through the palm, nose, and fingerprints, one can identify a gorilla. And it is by looking at them that they give them names like Mark, Beijing, and Nshuti,” he says.
The Guide adds that when a silverback (adult male gorilla) thumps its chest, the sound can be heard 500m away. This is one of the ways it demonstrates its strength. Kisoro has two market days that feed its population with items ranging from fresh food to clothing. On Monday or Thursday, residents will be seen flocking to the designated market area.
Some traders get to these markets aboard Fuso trucks, dangerously packed like merchandise. As these trucks navigate the hilly terrain, outsiders can only at best hold their breath, because the whole experience is scary.
The main market, which is now located in the town, used to be situated in the Uganda-DR Congo. However, it was relocated owing to the tense political situation in the 1990s which culminated in the 1994 Rwanda genocide and the subsequent unrest in DR Congo, which led to the overthrow of the Mobutu Sese Seko regime. Nevertheless, the market still attracts traders from Rwanda and DR Congo.
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Amabeere Ga Nyinamwiru: The ‘breasts’ of a Beautiful Girl
The African Language and names are quite dramatic. Never shying away from saying it as is seen. So, if you are searching for historical attractions with legendary stories that are reminiscent of Roman mythology, narrow down your search to Mabere Ga Nyina Mwiru. It is a cultural and Eco-tourism gem found at one of the most impressive waterfalls of Fort Portal. You can think of Fort Portal as one of Uganda’s most scenic towns, lying in the shadows of Mountain Rwenzori.
In the thick of this tour, one must follow underground trails that lead into chambers of ancient caves made of solid lava ash. Created as a result of volcanic eruptions that rocked the Virunga region over 500 years ago, these natural caves are well preserved, with zero interference from humans. And as such, they still boast beautiful rock formations. This includes a thriving system of bristling stalactites hanging from the rocks overhead, and stalagmites surging up from the ground.
Scientists maintain that they were formed when calcium carbonate reacted with water from an adjacent waterfall that flows from Uganda’s highest Mountain, Rwenzori. The bi-product of this reaction is a milky substance that drips from the “tits” of rock formations that resemble breasts. “That is how locals came to call it: Amebere Ga Nyina Mwiru, meaning the breasts of Nyinamwiru,” one Ignatius, a guide at the site notes.
Interestingly though, historic stories beg to differ; legend passed on from generations among the Batooro insist that the “breasts” were cut off from the chest of a beautiful Mutooro girl called Nyinamwiru. This followed the orders of her father King Bukuku of Toro, a decision based on a prophecy that she would one day get married and have a son, Ndahura, who would kill the king and take over his throne.
A hike through Mabere Ga Nyina Mwiru will enable you to absorb the area’s extraordinary wildlife and the fascinating history of the Bachwezi dynasty. This heroic tribe of Bantu cattle keepers lived here prior to their mysterious disappearance prior to the 19th century. As you stand by the permanent waterfall, the fascinating steaming sound and cold breeze engulf all and sundry.
Throughout this family-friendly tour, the guide will help you safely navigate through a labyrinth of caves and appreciate all their unique features. You can crown your guided visit here with a hike to the neighboring Kalyango hills and Kyenganywa hill. From their summits, you will see some of the most scenic crater lakes of Africa.
Such a gentle hike; it often jokes that even patients recovering from a hip surgery could take it on. The beauty about this is that it is also easy on the little ones and can be explored as a family.
What to Know
If traveling in peak and rainy months like, bring a pair of waterproof shoes like gumboots. The trail gets quite messy with a lot of water and mud during this time. If you get wet, they will give you a chance to shower and change afterward at the cottage here. The tour costs Shs7.500Ugx for locals and Shs10.000 for non-Ugandans.
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The Great Acholi Chiefdom
The Acholi people are a Luo-Nilotic tribe in northern Uganda. They occupy the current Acholi sub-region according to the geographic division of Uganda.
The sub-region comprises the districts of Agago, Amuru, Gulu, Kitgum, Lamwo, Nwoya, and Pader. Although other Acholis are found in Magwe County in South Sudan, they are often excluded from the political meaning of the term “Acholi land”. In fact, the Acholi from South Sudan refers to themselves as ‘Acoli’ not ‘Acholi’. The Acholi speak a western Nilotic language, classified as Luoor Lwo.
Origin
The Acholi were originally inhabitants of the Bahr-el-Ghazal Region in South Sudan before they migrated and settled in northern and eastern Uganda and others in western Kenya. Legends also assert that the Acholi are a product of intermarriages between the Luo and the Madi of West Nile.
Although researchers say the word ‘Acholi’ is a term that became adopted for convenience over the years, there are many theories that show how the famous name came into existence.One of the theories states that prior to colonialism, the Acholi referred to themselves as ‘An-loco-li’, which means “I am a human being”, or “black”.
An-loco-li did not have any ethnic definition of geographical boundaries initially. Another theory says during the second half of the 19th Century, Arabic-speaking traders from the north referred to Acholi people as ‘school, a term which was later transformed into ‘Acholi’.
Forming the chiefdom
In the late 17th Century, a new socio-political order developed among the Luo who had settled in northern Uganda, mainly characterized by the formation of chiefdoms headed by chiefs known as Rwodi or Rwoti in Luo. By the mid-19th Century, about 60 small chiefdoms existed in eastern Acholi land all ruled by Rwodis or chiefs.
Although many chiefs were ruling smaller clans within the Acholi sub-region, it was not until the British colonial era when Rwot Awich of the Payira clan became the Acholi Paramount Chief in the 1900s.Payira clan is one of the biggest clans in the Acholi sub-region.
It is the clan from which the paramount chief is chosen from the patrilineal family line. The Rwot/chief was a central figure and he had executive, judicial and legislative powers. In addition, he was the link between the living and the dead. It was his duty to offer sacrifices to ancestors on behalf of his subjects. The chiefdom currently has 57 sub-clans which are all headed by Rwodis.
Choosing the chiefs
Traditionally, chiefs were chosen from one clan, and each chiefdom had several villages made up of different patrilineal clans.Since 1900, more than 20 Paramount Chiefs have ruled the Acholi Chiefdom most notably RwotAwich (deceased), Rwot Ali Aliker (deceased), Rwot Yona Odida(deceased) and Rwot Justine Acana I (deceased),
among others. The current Acholi Paramount Chief is Rwot David Onen Acana II who ascended the throne after the death of his father Rwot AcanaI in2005. He is the 25thparamount chief and currently, he over sees 54 smaller chiefdoms locally known as ‘ker’. Members of the royal lineage ‘kaka pa rwot’ are known as the ‘people of the court’ or ‘jokal’ or lobito or the‘people of power’.
Batandrateating
The Acholi are unique in certain practices, foods and rituals. Notable among them is bat and rat eating. This is done most especially among the Lamogi people in Amuru District. Strange as it may seem, the Lamogi have enjoyed the delicacies since time immemorial.
They trap the bats from caves at the famous Guru-Guru hills using thorny tree branches.Once trapped, the bats are cooked in various forms to suit one’s taste. Some are skewed and roasted and cooked in a mixture of groundnut paste and served with Kwon Kal (millet bread) or boiled cassava. Other people trap the bats for sale. A bat in a market in Lamogiis sold at Shs1,000. As for the rats, they are hunted in the bushes near homestead sand are also prepared in various ways.
Traditional rituals
Matooput is one of the important rituals in the chiefdom. It is performed in case somebody has been murdered. The ceremony involves two clans (the deceased’s and the murderers) bringing together the perpetrator and the victim in a quest for restoring social harmony. Matooput begins by separating the affected clans, mediation to establish the ‘truth’, and payment of compensation according to by-laws.The final ritual, ‘drinking the bitter root’ is a day-long ceremony involving symbolic acts all designed to reunite the warring clans.
Marriage
The Acholi attach so much significance to the marriage institution (nyom) that failure to marry is considered a curse (or an abnormality). Childlessness is counted as one of the most serious misfortunes to befall a couple, with women typically taking all the blame. In such cases, the marriage could be dissolved or the husband allowed to take another wife, because to Acholi, children are the ultimate goal of any marriage. In fact, according to legends, an Acholi couple could not set up a home until their first child was born.
Traditional dances
The Acholi have several dances including the royal and courtship dances. Bwola dance was only considered a royal dance and would only be performed before the royal family or the chiefs. Laraka-raka dance is for courtship and it is the youth who used to take part in it mostly as a way to identify potential suitors. Other traditional dances include Otole, Dingi Dingi, and Ajere. The Acholi also used to tell African folktales to the children and some of the stories are still being told to date children, they included stories of Apwoyo (hare) and Obibi (the ogre).
Symbolic Animal
The Acholi uniqueness is also significant in some animals they hold dear. Elephants (Lyecor Lyeci in plural) are the most respected and symbolic animals. They are considered wise, brave, and energetic animals. Acholi considers themselves tall, brave, and energetic people. In fact, the Gulu District local government has adopted the elephants as its symbols on all administrative logos as well as a section of other institutions in the sub-region.
Tourism
Acholi chiefdom is also gifted by nature. It has a number of natural and historic sites that have become great tourist destinations. Notable among them are the Lamogi hills, the hills where the Lamogi clan people staged a partial resistance to the British Colonial rule in 1911. They are found in Amora Village, Lamogi Sub-county in Amuru District.
Another tourist site Acholi chiefdom can boast about is Fort Patiko in Gulu District. Located about 32 kilometers north of Gulu Town, the fort is enclosed by a 16 feet wide and 15 feet deep trench dug by slaves on the orders of the Arabs to avoid the escape of the abductees to be traded as slaves.
However, when Sir Samuel Baker was commissioned in 1863 by the Queen of England to fight slavery in Uganda, they camped at Fort Patiko and abolished slave trade in the region.The place still possesses the house built with stones by Sir Samuel Baker sitting on top of the Patiko hills
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Packing List for Self Drive in Uganda
Planning to go self-drive in Uganda in 2021 but you are not certain about which essentials to carry/pack? Self-drive tours offer the most flexible road trips and undoubtedly the perfect option for solo travelers to discover Uganda their way. When you think of renting a car in Uganda for self-drive, you become entirely the sole manager of your trip. But, packing right is significant if you are to achieve a successful Uganda self-drive road trip in 2025. Here are a few that shouldn’t miss in your packing list for self-drive in Uganda 2025.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
A GPS is a must-have item on every solo traveler’s packing list for self-drive in Uganda 2021. It is an essential travel tool you must consider available before setting off to any part of Uganda to enjoy your self-drive tour holiday. Having a Global Positioning System can save you a lot when it comes to finding directions to your destinations. Carry one and avoid getting lost on your self-drive safari to Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale National Park or Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Google Maps
A self-drive to new tourist sites or destinations in Uganda can be challenging for new travelers. Finding directions to your tourist site won’t be easy but with Google Map, you can save much time and get there early. A Google Map can be downloaded or ask your car rental provider to offer you one. Alternatively, make use of available apps like My apps application and make yourself a map with highlights of stopover spots of your interests .
Passport & visas
Entry into Uganda via Entebbe Airport (EBB) is only for travelers with valid passports and visas. Don’t forget to carry one and make sure the passport you have carried is valid at least 6 months to its expiry date. On arrival, your passport will be needed at customs.
Valid Negative PCR test result/certificate
Before getting into your flight to Entebbe Airport to begin your self-drive in Uganda, a valid Negative PCR test certificate be among the items you have packed. The Negative PCR test certificate for COVID-19 will be required on arrival at Entebbe Airport and tests must be taken at least 72 hours before you travel. Another significant item you must have is a yellow fever vaccination card and your doctor should sign it.
Drivers license
A valid driver license isn’t only a requirement for renting a car in Uganda for self-drive but also saves you from being arrested on the way by traffic police which ruins your holiday experience. A driver license/international drivers permit is a proof that you are eligible driver and a car hire agency can accept you hire his or her car if you have one. Note, self-drive is solely managed by you and therefore, prepare adequately to avoid ruining your road trip experience.
First aid kit
First aid kit should be a must-have on your packing list for self-drive in Uganda 2021. Essentials that shouldn’t miss in your first aid kit include ointments, plasters, medication as prescribed by doctor especially for pains, cramps (for ladies), headaches etc.
Mechanic kit
A mechanic tool kit should be provided by the car hire agency/company. Ask for one before you hit the road to begin your self-drive in Uganda. This can be of great help when you encounter some mechanic issue which you can fix yourself.
Insect repellents
A self-drive in Uganda is best done in the remotest side of the country and such areas have biting insects. The best option to have yourself protected is by having the insect repellent. This is essential if your plan is to undertake nature or forest walk, gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trek, game drive and camping etc.
Good and clear camera
A self-drive or driver guided safari in Uganda, a camera shouldn’t be left out of your packing list. Don’t just carry any camera, find one that is good and clear in order for you to take clear pictures while on chimp tracking in Kibale National Park, game drive in Murchison Falls or Queen Elizabeth National Park, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. In case you plan to go self-drive in Uganda and your interest is primate tracking to see mountain gorillas or chimpanzees then a non-flashlight camera is essential.
Right clothing
Not any cloth should be carried for your self-drive in Uganda. Choose the right and environment friendly attire if you are to have the best of Uganda self-drive tour in Murchison Falls National Park or any Uganda safari park. Consider the following a must-have if you are planning for self-drive gorilla tour; a sweater, long sleeved shirt, trousers, hat, rain jacket or poncho, gardening gloves etc.
Other essentials to include on your packing list for self-drive in Uganda 2025 include sunscreen, camping gear, bottled mineral drinking water, snacks, toiletries, hiking or walking shoes day pack, prepared Sim Card & pair of binoculars etc.
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8 Popular Cars to Hire in Uganda
Car rentals in Uganda are currently one of the most sought after travel services by travelers. Usually, we get puzzled up while planning our safaris and at the end, we fail to fulfill our dreams. Do you need to rent a car for a safari in Uganda? Well, it is a high time you achieved your dreams in Africa. There are many affordable, reliable and authorized car rental services in Uganda that will help you get that comfortable car for your safari needs. Check out for a range of car hire agencies in Uganda and the rest of things will be for you to make the best choice that suits your travel needs. Our services range from 4 by 4 cars, Saloon cars up to Mini bus as well as Coaster Vans. Acquiring one for your safari in Uganda will reward you with a life time experiences. All our car rentals are well suited to transverse through Uganda’s bumpy roads. Basically, you only need to contact us and hire a car of your choice that will match with travel itinerary and budget. We mind about the global economic situation today that is why our prices may also include the insurance and any local taxes on unlimited mileage. Simply hit on our online reservation box and within 2 minutes time you will be sorted.
Below is a list of comfortable and famous cars that you can rent to help you enjoy the most exciting travel experiences in life.
Toyota Prado:
Preferably, this is one of the most famous 4 by 4 cars that you can rent for a safari in Uganda. Travelers who intend to take self drive safaris in Uganda’s remotest national parks or any corner in Uganda, a Toyota Prado is undoubtedly the best option for you to achieve your dreams. Toyota Prado car comes in the following types; the Prado TX, UG and 3 Liter Turbo. It accommodates about 5 persons and this includes the driver as well. You can hire a Toyota Prado in Uganda at a relatively cheaper cost. It is also spacious enough to accommodate travelers’ property and camping gear. It is preferably the best to get you through Uganda’s dusty roads that you will encounter while you are heading to enjoy Uganda’s remarkable wildlife in national parks like Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park and many others. Most interestingly, some of these incredible cars have a pop up roof which will get you a better glimpse of Uganda’s most spectacular wildlife and definitely you will have the best photo taking position.
Toyota RAV4:
This is another perfect car to get you the best self drive tours, city safaris, picnic holidays and events in Uganda. They come in both manual and automatic transmission with about 3 or 5 doors. The engine is 1990cc with tremendous atmospheres despite the weather conditions. It is less demanding in terms of maintenance and fueling. It is rear seats can also be folded down and you will have space to put many things. This type of car is only convenient for 2 travelers despite the fact that it’s licensed to transport about 5 people. It is can be accessed at a relatively affordable prices.
Super custom:
This may also include Hiace Van or Mini-bus; it is mostly convenient for bigger groups and especially for family safaris in Uganda and beyond. They carry approximately fourteen people but the space for your property is based on the number people traveling and length of a safari. For long tours, travelers will need much luggage to carry unlike the short tours. They are also found in automatic and manual transmissions and they have a sun roof.
Safari Land Cruiser:
This is also a 4 by 4 type that is popularly used by tourists who are interested in guided safaris and camping experiences in Uganda. This car carries up to eight tourists and it has a sun roof to allow you have wide range of glance at Uganda wildlife while on game drive.
Toyota Corona:
This is of small size and best suited for 2 to 5 travelers. It is more convenient for self drive safaris, city safaris, conference meetings and events.
Coaster Bus:
This car can be hired for people who travel in larger numbers of about 35 and it is convenient for school students, conference travelers, business travelers and bigger families. You can also hire 25 seater and 29 seater mini-buses or coasters.
Nissan Patrol:
This is another bigger 4 wheel drive car which well suited for safaris and tough roads and this is best for Uganda roads. It carries about 3 to 5 travelers and it has enough space to accommodate your property.
Salon car:
For budget travelers, getting a salon car can be the best option for you to take a safari in Uganda.
In conclusion, there are very many car rentals in Uganda that offer you opportunity to make the best choice for your safari. For new travelers, they can hire a car together with a qualified driver in case they are not familiar with driving techniques on Uganda roads or any country in Africa. Enjoy your safari with us and have a memorable experience in life.
Read MoreCan I Travel Around Uganda As a Vegetarian Or Vegan?
Traveling around Uganda presents visitors with flexible opportunities, including vegetarian/vegan travelers, as they explore their destinations. Uganda is a vegetarian paradise, thus providing tourists multiple choices of a vegan diet. While there are abundant options to choose from for vegetarians on a Uganda safari, it is essential to inform your local tour operator in advance such that proper planning can be done.
Informing your local tour operator in advance can enable him/her to let the accommodation management know about the special arrangement you require when it comes to meals. The meal plans often come in varying options and are served depending on the visitor’s order. With advance information, the lodge management can be in a position to secure the kind of vegetables to suit your dietary meal plan.
Useful Tips for vegetarians and vegans on Uganda tour
Initiate and ask for what you want in advance
When planning to travel to Uganda as a vegetarian or vegan, the first step you must take is to ensure that you communicate your dietary needs in advance. Do not wait till the last minute. The local tour operator may organize a trip, and the meal plan covered may not favor you completely. When you communicate in advance, it enables the lodge or hotel management to also plan for the kind of vegetables to prepare for you.
Take note that not all local safari companies/tour operators understand what vegetarians and vegans mean or desire. It is through your early communication that they can be guided and you have something better. Do not assume everyone knows otherwise such can result in last-minute disappointment.
In some places, you shouldn’t expect the staff to anticipate what you need. Some lodges provide breakfast for vegans and vegetarians and are often restricted to fruit, coffee, and bread. To some guests, this can work for them, but in case you are interested in something else, please be open to the manager or the nearby staff.
Be specific
When making any order, try to be specific to avoid being served what you do not need. When you place the order, the lodge staff provides exactly what you ordered. Often, some visitors do not require certain fruits to be mixed in their breakfast or lunch menus. To avoid the whole scenario at the end of it, you should be specific about your order.
Inform the lodge
When reserving a trip to Uganda, whether on self-drive or guided safaris, you should let your tour operator, who is on the ground, know of your travel needs as a vegetarian or vegan. The tour operator is usually more in touch with the safari lodges or hotels where you will be staying for a night during the entire safari in the particular destination in Uganda. On arrival at the respective lodge or hotel, your safari guide can provide last-minute advice to the kitchen staff concerning your meals.
Expect a combo
Depending on the destinations you have visited before, in Uganda, usually some vegetarian dishes may come along with animal-based products. But you can be as specific as possible to avoid any mix that can ruin your day.
Food enhancers
Be aware of the food enhancers that may contain MSG-based additives, often found in salts like Aromat. Try as much as you can to avoid such enhancers and also communicate your meal preference to the management in advance, specifying the exclusion of MSG or any food additives.
How to survive as a vegetarian/vegan in Uganda
When you decide to visit Uganda as a vegetarian or vegan, expect a lot. Uganda is a vegetarian hub, and usually, breakfast options come with a fruit platter. Some clients enjoy this combo while others do not.
Luckily, Uganda has everyone covered thanks to a variety of delicious and juicy fruits often harvested freshly from the gardens. Even as you connect to your destinations, you can come across fruit stalls in the markets as they sell pineapples, mangoes, bananas, and more.
What is remarkable about Uganda is that the quality of its fruits is outstanding. With abundant fruit options, surviving as a vegetarian/vegan is possible. You can walk in some of the local markets with a guide and purchase your preferred fruits and vegetables at a friendly rate.
Take your snacks.
Be aware that dairy products in Uganda are a big deal, and if you are not a fan, you may feel out of place. But well, you can embark on a journey when fully set with a pack of your snacks.
Go camping with a mobile chef.
If you are not comfortable with the lodge/hotel provisions, hire a car with camping gear in Uganda, and you can go on a camping trip together with your professional chef. There are campsites for guests who desire to go on a camping safari in Uganda. Book a safari through the local tour operator and be guided to suitable camping destinations in Uganda.
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Akampene Punishment Island – Kabale
Picture this; you are a young girl expecting your first child conceived out of wedlock. You are woken up in the middle of the night, tied up and carried by the strongest men in the village.
You have no idea where you are being taken and to add to your confusion you get on a boat, disembark on an island, given just a pole for your own defense, and left to your means. Oh, and lest we forget, you have no phone because this was way back before technological advancement. One would hope that a smitten boyfriend would follow and rescue his girl but the circumstances were different. At that time, the no-nonsense Bakiga would also shove pregnant girls off a cliff. Therefore, if your sweetheart disappeared in the night, you would have no idea whether she had been drowned or abandoned on this small island, tied to a tree, and left to die of hunger.
The punishment was meant to show the gravity of engaging in premarital sex. However, some girls would be saved by men who had no cows to pay the bride price who would literally go fishing for women on the island. In the first half of the 20th century, the practice got abandoned but it is still possible to find women who were picked up from Punishment Island today living with the men who rescued them. According to Steven Tiwangye, 50, a tour guide at Lake Bunyonyi, the men who would rescue the girls and marry them would also be banished from their homes. “If a man married a girl from Akampene, he would never return to his parents’ home. It was a taboo to marry a ‘fallen’ girl,” Tiwangye explains. In his documentary, ‘The Bakiga – How We Throw Away Our African Culture,’ Festo Karwemera, an elder in Kigezi and an activist for the promotion of the Bakiga culture talks about the Akampene tradition with remorse. Much as the practice was barbaric and inhuman, it served its purpose and it was a good day when the Bakiga decided to abandon it.
Born in 1925, Karwemera lived through the time the tradition was being practiced and says that the Bakiga were not necessarily murderous but had a strong sense of morality and tradition. Being but had a strong sense of morality and tradition. Being no-nonsense people, naturally, the elders expected everyone to heed the customs and traditions and whoever failed to do so, was expected to pay for it. Akempene Island is one of the 29 islands dotting Lake Bunyonyi the scenic crater Lake located in the highlands of South Western Uganda, in Bufuka village. Due to the vagaries of nature, the island keeps getting reclaimed by the lake, and most of its land is already submerged by the water making it one of the tiniest islands on the lake. There are motorboats and local canoes that take tourists from the mainland to the island.
Today, the terror of the past has been buried and forgotten and the island turned into a peaceful and tranquil place for the discerning tourist in search of rest a communion with nature. You can have a family picnic or enjoy a swim in bilharzia-free clear water. An overnight experience in this beautiful setting is nothing but memorable. Just like the rest of the area, the island boasts of a rich birdlife for the bird lover. Enjoy the rich everyday life and culture of the Batwa, and the Bakiga who make the largest numbers in the area. A walk on the island is no ordinary walk because of the birds mixed with the sound of waves and the cool fresh breeze a no-nonsense people, naturally, the elders expected everyone to heed the customs and traditions and whoever failed to do so, was expected to pay for it.
Akempene Island is one of the 29 islands dotting Lake Bunyonyi the scenic crater Lake located in the highlands of South Western Uganda, in Bufuka village. Due to the vagaries of nature, the island keeps getting reclaimed by the lake, and most of its land is already submerged by the water making it one of the tiniest islands on the lake. There are motorboats and local canoes that take tourists from the mainland to the island. Today, the terror of the past has been buried and forgotten and the island turned into a peaceful and tranquil place for the discerning tourist in search of rest and communion with nature. You can have a family picnic or enjoy a swim in bilharzia-free clear water. An overnight experience in this beautiful setting is nothing but memorable. Just like the rest of the area, the island boasts of a rich birdlife for the bird lover. Enjoy the rich everyday life and culture of the Batwa, and the Bakiga who make the largest numbers in the area.
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Choosing the Right Uganda Car Rental Company
Choosing the right provider can make the difference between costly delays, smooth trips, and it can play a pivotal role in keeping your company’s travel program efficient and stress-free. There many companies that offer cars for rental. Choosing the right Uganda car rental can significantly impact your travel experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and find the perfect fit for your needs.
Conduct research
The process of choosing a car rental company for your Uganda safari or can be cumbersome if you don’t have an idea of the right factors to consider. This is probably the real reason why you need to first undertake thorough research because there are thousands of car rental companies in the country. With enough homework, updated information, and details, you will make the right choice for a rental company.
Company reputation
Before choosing a particular car rental company, it is important to first consider its reputation, from online testimonies (Safari Bookings and TripAdvisor among others). The majority of the companies are notable for their reliability and good quality services offered to clients but online reviews and testimonies are paramount to making the final decision on the car rental company to choose, for safety and security on the road.
Insurance and policy varieties
A number of car rental companies offer clients with varying insurance covers at different rates thus depending on your individual needs and what you are ready to be responsible for, you will choose which company to make bookings with. The company with the best insurance deals/ or policies will be your final decision.
The booking process
Check out the process you have to follow to get access to a car from your car hire company. It’s true that these processes are there for safety purposes and to make things easier for everyone but you shouldn’t have to go through any extra hoops that you don’t need to go through.
Customer care services
When choosing a car rental company, it is paramount to take your time to physically visit the company before hiring it for your self-drive Uganda trip. The moment you get to the intended company and are satisfied with the good quality service delivered to clients, go ahead to make your reservation. A professional and reputable car rental company will make certain that it meets the personal needs of clients hence offering the best customer care service even before you confirm your rental. Ask for recommendations from family, travel forums and friends that have rented cars from particular service providers in the past for their personal experiences before you make the final decision.
Flexibility
Always go for car rental companies that are flexible, with several locations to drop off the vehicle. Honestly, it is a perfect idea to opt for service providers that are cheaper and clement in as far as drop-off locations are concerned.
Vehicle selection
Since your aim is getting the best car rental company, it is vital to take your time to check on the different kinds of vehicles that the company offers. For instance, if you are planning to travel as a family or group, the company should provide a wide range of choices to decide on for your trip. All in all, choose a car rental company with a wide array of vehicles that will suit your particular travel need. Most of the car rental companies have cars with pop up roofs for wildlife viewing, cars suitable for cooperate people and cars that can be used for camping.
The rental terms and conditions
Every car rental company has its own rental terms. These terms cover rental duration, mileage limits, fuel policy, and more. Carefully reading and understanding these terms will ensure you aren’t surprised by any hidden conditions.
Some rental companies impose a mileage limit and charge extra for exceeding that limit. Make sure you are clear about these terms.
The fuel policy is also important. Some companies provide the car with a full tank of fuel and require it to be returned with a full tank, while others may require it to be returned empty. Be clear about the fuel requirements.
Convenience
Convenience is another important factor to consider when choosing a car rental company for your Uganda safari. It is a known fact that Uganda has numerous service providers that provide online bookings which are undeniably more convenient and save visitors from wasting a lot of time and stress.
Additional drivers
A number of car rental companies will charge for additional drivers while others will not and therefore, you can choose a car rental company that doesn’t charge for additional drivers used during the Uganda safari.
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Guide to Self Drive in East Africa
Exploring East Africa on a self-drive adventure is one of the most exciting and flexible ways to discover the region’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and world-famous wildlife. From the open savannahs of the Serengeti and Maasai Mara to the lush forests of Uganda and the volcanic scenery of Rwanda, East Africa offers countless opportunities for independent travellers with a spirit of adventure. A self-drive trip allows you to travel at your own pace, create your own itinerary, and experience authentic local life beyond the typical tourist routes. However, driving in East Africa comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Road conditions can vary, traffic rules may differ from what you’re used to, and remote areas require good planning and preparation. This guide provides essential information for anyone considering a self-drive journey covering everything from car rental tips and border crossings to safety advice and driving etiquette so you can explore East Africa confidently and responsibly.
Car Options
The best self-drive 4×4 car hire options for self-drive tours in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania are the Toyota Land Cruiser (Prado or Hardtop), Land cruiser V8 & VX, Land cruiser LX. These cars have a great track record and are the most capable and enduring for a 4×4 self-drive in the wild.
Tips for self-drive
If you are looking for the best the destination to take a self-drive trip, look no further than the most East African countries Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda. There are very many car hire companies in these countries today that one can book a car for self-drive. Driving in a new destination like Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania is really challenging and there is need to be very careful while on the remotest routes of this landlocked country.
Visitors are strongly advised to review their personal safety and security posture, to remain vigilant and to be cautious by lowering their public profile when frequenting public places and landmarks.
Check the vehicle thoroughly
Before setting off, it is advisable that you check on the vehicle to be used thoroughly. Take a look at the tyres and find out if they are in better conditions and if there is a spare tyre in its better shape. For longer journeys, you will need at least two tyres and make sure that you have checked the water level, lights, oil, wiper blades and for any linkages.
For example Murchison falls national park takes 6-7 hours in Uganda, Serengeti national park takes 7 hours in Tanzania among others.
Driving after dark
We plan our self-drive safaris in East Africa so that you try to avoid driving at night because in the cities, the majority of carjacking take place after dark while rural roads are rarely lit by street lights, making people and free-ranging livestock difficult to spot. It becomes harder to find the hotel as road signs or landmarks are not so clearly visible. Darker areas are too challenging even when it comes to accessing any kind of help.
Use Road maps and GPS
While transferring to the various safari destinations of your choice ensure to carry a GPS to direct you along the different routes in the country as well as travel road atlas and maps or directions and know exactly where you are going but don’t just reply on the GPS in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania. It can be seriously flawed, especially in the safari regions.
Follow traffic Laws while on road
Like any destination, traffic laws are worth following if you are to stay out of dangers on the road. Make sure that you can read road signs, do not drink and drive and at all times, put on your seat belts.
Have breaks, eat and fuel the vehicle
Refreshing the mind after a long drive is very important factor when you are on self-drive holiday. Have adequate eats and fuel the vehicle. Never leave a big center without filling your gas tank, otherwise you may not find any fuel station in the next area especially the protected areas in East Africa.
Too much driving
Usually people plan to drive way too far in one day and sometimes they plan a hectic trip which has them driving too far and away too often. If you are feeling tired, it is advisable that you park aside and have a rest or give your colleague to also take up the wheel, provided he or she possess a valid driver’s license.
Close windows and doors
Keep your windows and doors locked when driving through urban areas, and especially when stopped at a traffic light. Never leave valuables in sight when parked, and try to park your car in a well-lit area that’s protected by car guards.
Mind about the rest of other road users
You need to be attentive and take note of other road users like, students, cyclists and cattle as most of them can be crossing the road.
For example, Uganda’s roads are narrow and there can be some pedestrian walks.
Driving license
Make sure that your driving license is valid written in English and if not, you’ll need to apply for an International Driver’s License ahead of your trip. To stay safe while on your trip, you need to follow the above listed tips and you will enjoy your tour in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda.
Speeding
Speed cameras operate in cities, towns and on high ways and if you are caught over speeding on camera, the fine will go straight to the hire car company, who will simply debit your credit card with the amount. A more common speeding trap is on the outskirts of towns, where traffic police wait for the unsuspecting driver to come racing out of the built up area.
If you are caught speeding by traffic police, the correct procedure is to give the traffic officer your details (name, car rental agency details and car registration number) and ask him to issue you with a speeding fine ticket. You also have the option of taking the speeding ticket to a local police station and paying it directly however, this may not be a feasible option as it may involve a long detour and eat into valuable holiday time.
Petrol stations
It is worth noting that none of the petrol stations in East African countries are self-service and when you pull into a petrol station, you will generally be waved to a free petrol pump by an enthusiastic attendant, who are all dressed in smart uniforms and will welcome you with a big smile. Do make sure that he waves you to the correct pump, as you do not want him putting petrol in your diesel car, while the car is being filled up, they will clean your windscreen for you and take great care in making sure even the smallest dirt mark is wiped away
The majority of the larger petrol stations will take overseas credit cards, but some of the smaller ones may not. You will generally find an ATM on site so that you can withdraw cash if necessary, but in the more remote places, even this facility may not be present. You should therefore always ensure that you have sufficient cash whenever you pull in to fill up with petrol just in case.
Conclusion
A self-drive trip in East Africa offers unmatched freedom, adventure, and personal discovery. With proper planning, respect for local rules, and the right vehicle, you will enjoy an unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultures. Embrace the open road East Africa is waiting to be explored on your own terms.
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