Vehicle Travellers
If you’re doing a vehicle trip through Uganda it is a good idea to carry a range of tools and essential spares with you. Two spare wheels and a couple of spare tubes are a must due to the condition of the roads. Spare jerry cans of fuel and water, a tow rope, compressor, winch and a spotlight are useful items to have. Many of the villages along the main routes offer tyre mending services at a very reasonable fee.
Safety
As far as personal safety is concerned, one could easily travel or even hitchhike alone throughout the country without a problem. Theft however is rife in the bigger towns and cities. Don’t walk around with things you can’t do without, like your passport or airline tickets. Carry minimum amounts of cash and keep it hidden or in a money belt and if possible, don’t leave your car unattended. This is less of a problem in the rural areas.
Road Conditions
Getting to the remotest area of Uganda is not only possible, but is usually uncomplicated. Our fast-growing network of over 2,000 km of tarred roads is supplemented by over 6,000 km of high quality murram (dirt) roads, and feeder routes. If driving yourself, it is recommended that drivers take local advice regarding the time a journey may take, and the possible need for four-wheel drive. Fuel stations are available in all main towns, and on many major routes. However, if driving long distances, or on safari, it is advisable to take spare fuel, and to confirm the location of fuel stations. A good road map is essential and these are available from the Tourist Board in Kimathi Ave, Kampala.
Uganda has an extensive road network, of sealed and unsealed roads. Traffic drives on the left side. The major highways are two lane class 6 roads. Driving in Uganda is quite an experience, and probably the best way to see the country. One however has to be cautious of Pedestrians, Cyclists, wildlife and Livestock on all roads. Good bitumen roads exist between all major towns. The speed limit is 80kmh.
The major entry point into Uganda by road is from Kenya via either Malaba, or Busia. The journey from Nairobi can be made by car, or bus and takes between 7 and 12 hours. The other frequently used entry point is at Kisoro at the Uganda / Rwanda Border.
While driving in Uganda the following documentation is required at all times: a) Vehicle registration book b) Vehicle certificate of Insurance (Heavy fines are imposed for driving an uninsured vehicle) c) International or Domestic drivers license Note: Commercial vehicles not registered in Uganda require a permit to operate in Uganda. See Motoring in Uganda
Road Rules
In Uganda, one drives on the left hand side of the road. The general speed limit on national highways is 100km/h and 65 km/h in urban built up areas, unless otherwise indicated.
On Safari
Always remember that while some animals have become accustomed to the presence of people they are still wild animals. Keep your distance. It is illegal to feed any animal, make excessive noise to attract their attention, or deviate from designated roads for that closer photograph. Never get out of your vehicle except at designated points. Close all windows and zippers when you leave your room or tent and spray it with insect repellant. Most of the hotels and lodges will spray your room for you each evening.
The best way to get the most out of your safari is to take an active interest in everything going on around you, not just the number of species you can see in the shortest possible time. Take reference books on not only wildlife but birds, insects and trees and read up about everything you see.
Supplies
Most food supplies and second hand spares can be obtained in Uganda. Medical supplies however are not readily found outside the major cities.
Petrol
Both diesel and petrol are available in all towns and intermittently in small villages. Always take extra jerry cans of fuel if driving to the more remote regions.