Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Gorilla Safari in Uganda
Gorilla trekking is one of the highly demanded tourist activities in Uganda and the world at large. Many people yearn to go on a gorilla safari because it is regarded as a life time event however, there are common mistakes people do when booking a gorilla safari in Uganda. In this article, we are giving some of them below:
- Perceiving false information from internet – there are many false information circulating on social media and other forums on internet. If you land on such false information, you will be misled or conned thus failing to make it.
- Book wrong dates – because of many false information on the internet, you can be misleading and end up booking wrong dates for gorilla permit, accommodation, visa or flights and so on.
- Booking accommodation in wrong location from where you planned to trek gorillas from. If you are to trek in Buhoma and you book accommodation in Rushaga, that is wrong. Since gorilla trekking begins early in the morning at 7:30am, its wise to book you lodges, hotel near to the tracking centre.
- Flying into a wrong Airport – If you are to trek gorillas in Uganda, do not fly into the Airport far a way from Uganda. For that case, you can from to Kigali Airport or any airport in Kenya or Tanzania – then drive to Uganda but very important to fly to Entebbe Airport.
- Organizing wrong gorilla trekking gear – If you are to trek Gorillas seek proper guidance from experts/ local tour operator on ground to list for you proper gorilla trekking gear.
- Booking with a wrong tour operator- its malicious to book your life time safari with inexperienced or incompetent tour agency. Try to look for reputable tour operators whom many past travelers recommend – visit the Trip Advisor forum to get one.
- Selecting a wrong gorilla trekking sector – for all along, you wanted to trek in Buhoma sector but due to wrong guidance, you may end up being taken to Ruhija instead.
- Selecting unsuitable quotation – Choose a quotation which suits your budget, schedule and interest. Due to poor guidance, you may end up choosing luxury yet your budget suits budget option. You are therefore cautioned to be keen when choosing a quotation.
- Compacting your gorilla safari with many activities may be exhausting. Make your safari flexible to get time of relaxing and interrupting at leisure.
- Booking in a wrong season – too much rainy season is not recommended for gorilla trekking. Rain season makes gorilla trekking trails slipper and gorillas tend to be dormant because of coldness. Dry season is the best time for gorilla trekking though the activity is done all year round.
- Not willing to change – Some clients are too rigid and not willing to adjust in case a new change arise. For the trip to be successful, you need to accept changes for the good of the tour operator and you – the traveler.
In conclusion, the above mistakes should be avoided by making serious research before making final decision.
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Climbing the Snowy Peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains
Hiking Trails in Rwenzori Mountains-climbing the Mountains of the Moon provides hikers an exceptional on-foot-walk experience. There are several amazing hiking and nature walking trails worth hitting on Uganda safari in the Rwenzori Mountains. The trails usher climbers to the splendid snow-capped peaks, surrounding areas while on hiking safari.
For those who are ready to hike to the snowy peaks of the Rwenzoris, there are various trails that have been developed and run by mountaineering companies. The enthusiastic hikers or climbers on Rwenzori trekking safari and they need to challenge themselves with strenuous treks, the Margherita peak offers the most perfect option. Margherita is notably the 3rd highest peak in Africa and there are designated trails leading up to the peak.
The Rwenzori Central Circuit trail
The Rwenzori Central Circuit trail offers the most challenging Rwenzori Mountaineering adventure. This is Rwenzori’s oldest and most trekked trail by most climbers who travel to Rwenzori Mountains for hiking safaris.
The Bakonzo inhabitants adjacent to the Rwenzori Mountains National Park manage the Central Circuit trail. The central trail is incredibly less challenging and above all, it guarantees you exceptional views en-route including the primates, mammals, vegetation, peaks of Mount Speke, Mount Baker to mention but a few.
The Rwenzori Central Circuit trail is ideal for expert hikers on Uganda hiking tour. You hike starting from Nyakalengija office at elevation 1646m. Hiking this trail leads you via Nyabitaba Hut 2652m and this distance is about 10kms from the briefing area. From Nyabitaba Hut to John Matte Hut, it is 7kms and John Matte Hut is at elevation 3414m. Other Huts include Elena Hut 4420m, Bujuku Hut 3962m and trekking these trails may take from 4 days or more depending on your hiking speed. From Elena to Margherita it is 2kms and the 5th days can be used for hikers to make return journey from 5109m. Guy Yeoman Hut 3261m is 8kms from Elena and 6kms to Nyabitaba Hut. In total, about 7-8 days will be required to make a complete hike if you are taking the Rwenzori Central Circuit Trail.
Kilembe Trails
While on Rwenzori Mountaineering, Kilembe trails are one trail worth spending time and energies hiking through. This is the southern trail of Rwenzori Mountains. Treks begin from Kilembe, which is near Kasese Town, and the trail takes you via Nyamwamba Valley. The trail offers uninterrupted views of sceneries, glacial lakes and as you navigate through, the trail links to Rwenzori Central Circuit at Lake Kitandara point. The Kilembe trail guarantees remarkable views of Mt. Baker.
Best time to visit
Hitting the trails of Rwenzori Mountains is best done during the drier months of the year. This is from June to August, December to February-amazing months of the year when the park records the least or no rains. All trails remain drier and hikers enjoy a smooth hike through different trails in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park.
Where to stay
There are luxury, midrange and budget accommodations readily available for booking by all nature loving visitors on Uganda safari. The top hotels or lodges and camps/huts to expect to spend a night include Ruboni Community Camp, Mihunga Safari Lodge, Trekkers Hostels, Equator Snow Lodge, Elena Hut, Guy Yeoman Hut etc.
How to access the Rwenzori Mountains
The Rwenzori Mountains/National Park is 5-6 hours’ drive from Kampala if you take Kampala through Mubende-Fort Portal City route. From Kampala-Kasese, it is a journey of about 6 hours. While by air, flights can be arranged and visitors fly starting from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi airfield to Kasese airstrip. For all road transportation to and from Rwenzori Mountains National Park, a 4×4 rental car should be a must to use.
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Simple Tips To Maintain The Proper Driving Posture
Driving comprises of very many skills and one of the most vital techniques of driving is posture but this is underlooked by many drivers. The proper driving posture is not only important for the better movement of the car and road safety but also for your body’s health. With a proper driving posture, you will never have back, bum, and leg aches, and also it enhances quick reflexes to avoid knocking something on the road or any kind of accident.
Therefore, don’t sideline the driving posture, always put it into consideration to have a better driving experience and also keep good health. The simple tips to maintain the proper driving posture are very vital to travellers engaging in Uganda self-drive.
Ensure a good sitting position
This is the first step of a proper driving posture since the car is driven while seated. The best height for driving is when the eye level is about 8cm about the steering and the dashboard. While the sight above the steering and the dashboard, the driver is able to clearly see the road wide, far, and near. This position enables the driver to see what is coming from all sides front, left, right.
The position of the driving seat is also essential. This should be slightly bent at an angle of bout 1000. The seat position enables the driver to easily look at both the side and driving mirrors. The driver is also advised not to lean against the seat for the good of the neck.
The leg and knee placing
The position of the legs and knee helps for the proper use of the driving pedals. The knees must be on the same level as the hips and at an upward posture of about 25 degrees. This gives the driver full grip and control of the driving pedal system. More to that the legs should be slightly apart the right foot must be the one to control the pedals and left rested away from the pedals and for the manual car, the left foot is required for the clutch pedal and the right foot does the rest of the job. The seat should also be adjusted to ensure that the feet reach the pedal system.
Head restraint
The headrest must be at least 27.6 inches above the seating reference point. It is commendable that the driver must place the head in the middle of the head restraint. It always regulates your head from being so upfront at the steering wheel. The head restraints also limit the backward movement of the heads of the driver and other occupants in a collision and this prevents injury to the cervical vertebrate.
Mirror Position
The driving and side mirrors are integral features while driving. These mirrors help the driver to see what is coming from behind from the right, left, and in the middle. The side mirrors should be placed where the driver can see the vacuum of the side and also some far hind part of the car. The position of the mirror also helps in the parking of the car.
Lumbar Support
Some cars come with this sitting support cushion. Lumbar support helps the driver and the passengers improve their sitting posture while in the car. It is always placed where the back of the traveller rests while driving.
Make stoppages
Sitting for a long time is very dangerous because it can also lead to tiredness and back and neck aches. It is very crucial for one to take breaks from driving. Get out of the car and stretch your body and also take some refreshment especially while on a long-distance trip. The break should be about 10 minutes then get back to the road. At least after every 150kilometre drive, take a break and relax and stretch for the proper flow of blood. Being in one posture especially sitting can lead to paralysation due to the flow of blood around the body. The body is meant to be functioning to allow easy flow of blood.
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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 2021. Here are a few that shouldn’t miss in your packing list for self-drive in Uganda 2021.
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 2021 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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Top 7 Uganda’s Fairytale Destinations
Uganda is a rich destination in terms of culture! This East African country has several places that one can think that are rewarding with fairlytales. Though most tourists who go on Uganda safari want to spot wildlife, you can also enrich your experience by learning about the history and culture of people. Here are the best 7 destinations that you should consider adding into your travel plan;
Nakayima Tree
Nakayima Tree is an ancient historical site estimated to be 650 years old. History and folklore refer to Nakayima as a shrine for the Bachwezi people who were possessed with supernatural spirits and ruled western Uganda around the middle ages of 1100-1500 AD. Today, local people still believe in the spiritual powers that were passed down unto them by their ancestors and regularly visit the tree shrine to pray and receive what they pray for.
With the help of a guide, Nakayima tree provides a look back at the history and how traditional religious beliefs are still very important part of life. The walk up the hill takes in beautiful views of mubende town and plantations. While at the shrine tree you meet villagers and share some folks about the Nakayima, who was a wife of the Muchwezi king called Ndahura.
Nakayima Tree is located 15 minutes off the town of Mubende approximately 3 hours drive from Kampala. Tourists can access the shrine en route going to Kibale forest national park.
Punishment Island
Lake Bunyonyi with 19 islands located in southwestern Uganda is one of the popular destinations where tourists go to relax, swim enjoy breathtaking scenery and discover traditional culture and history. The lake is home to many little birds, otters and Cray fish and there’s a range of luxury and budget lodges.
Of the 19 islands, one is called the Punishment Island also known as Akampene in local language where girls who got pregnant before marriage would be dumped and left to starve and die.
A boat or canoe ride gives access to the island during which you’re told about the history of the punishment as well as explore other islands. There are also trails that explore the beautiful landscape for those who wish to spot birds and visit the BaTwa pygmies.
In the Kigezi region of southwestern Uganda people had traditional morals to guide their way of living. For example young girls were not allowed to have sex and get pregnant before marriage. Thus any girl who would defy the moral would be punishable by death because it would bring shame to the whole family and village at large.
When a girl would be noticed to have got pregnant before marriage action was taken by putting her in a canoe and dumps her on the island to die from hunger or drown in water.
Many girls would starve and die how there were few who survived after being rescued by strangers. The practice of punishing girls in southwestern Uganda dates back in the 17th century until it was prohibited in the 19th century after the coming of colonialists and Christianity.
Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest lake in Africa located in southwestern Uganda about 1 hour drive from Bwindi rain forest. Bunyonyi in local language means a place of many little birds.
The lake is famous for its breathtaking scenery of 19 islands encircled by rolling terraced hills. Taking a boat or canoe ride is highly recommended to experience the beautiful views. Along the lake, you’ll find pleasant villages, and hiking trails on the lakeside. Lake Bunyonyi also has historical islands such as Akampene the punishment island to visit while on the lake
The lake is perfect for a visit to Bwindi on a gorilla tracking safari because on there are lodges on the lakeside with nice beds, food and some offer swimming platforms and boat rides.
Bigo Bya Mugyenyi and Ntutsi mounds
Tourists who love to love to hear about ancient human history Bigo Bya Mugyenyi are a must visit archeological earth works dating back to the 13th and 16th centuries. The trench like systems are associated with the landscape traditions of Bachwezi kingdom. The trenches cover a distance of 10sqkm in Ntusi in Sembabule and runs along the Ridge of Akagera River.
The trenches were named after Mugyenyi one of the princes of the Bachwezi, a kingdom of people with supernatural powers that introduced the Ankole long horn cattle which now dominates the economy of the great lakes region.
Visiting Bigo Bya Mugyenyi in Ntutsi is a highlight of your Uganda safari a long with a visit to local villages.
Read MoreBest Things to Do on Eastern Uganda Road Trip
Looking to a total or best adventures on eastern Uganda road trip? Well, the eastern city of Jinja is described as “East Africa’s adventure capital” with the presence Nile River, arguably the longest river in the world, supports a range of adventure activities one shouldn’t miss out on a visit to Uganda. A trip to one of Uganda’s big city of Jinja is regarded as East Africa’s adventure highlight. The presence of remarkable water bodies such as the Nile River and a sea size Lake Victoria makes experiential adventures thrive. In today’s discussion, we look at the major attractions and activities one can take part while on the amazing best adventures on eastern Uganda road trip.
Ssezibwa Falls
Ssezibwa Falls found almost half way between Capital Kampala and Jinja city, is a natural wonder, on a river believed to have been human born. On top of the high roaring fall, the visit here is a combination of scenic sensation, Nature walk, Rock climbing, cultural tradition, and hike to the top of the fall. All this can be practically incorporated into your best adventures on eastern Uganda road trip.
Mabira Forest
Mabira locally means forest, (ideally a forest – forest!) the thick and biggest tropical rain forest in central Uganda, Located on the way to Jinja, one stands a chance for a guided nature walk that not only rewards with views of different colorful birds, but also mammals, primates and huge ancient trees. This can be your second stop on your way to or from Jinja. At Griffin falls in the middle of the forest is where magic happens, the grade five zip lining that allows one fly like a bird above the tree-tops of Mabira forest, it’s an adventure of a lifetime.
Cruise to the Source of the Nile River
At the source of River Nile, witness a point where 30% of Nile waters come from springs while 70%flow from Lake Victoria. The River is arguably the longest in the world. Originates right in Jinja where the waters start their 3 months journey to Mediterranean Sea in Egypt. Take a boat to Source of the Nile point and the ride crosses into Lake Victoria and back. The eco-system at the source is well kept with many flowering trees, plants, and shrubs attracting a variety of birds, reptiles and butterflies.
White Water Rafting
Go wild on the Nile, be thrilled with up to grade five Rafting through different rapids. This 1950s popular water sport rewards visitors to Jinja city with great experience. The powerful water rapids are likely to flip you off into the deep waters on a raft with a local guide on kayak along ensure your safety when you fall into the rapids. Most of different rafting companies provide family floating boats for you and your children to raft on this arguably the longest river in the world.
Horseback Riding Safaris
Horseback riding safari in the city of Jinja takes you along the Nile River visiting numerous villages of rural Uganda and homesteads along the journey to enjoy the area cultural tradition and stunning sights. The thrilling overnight horseback riding safari along the river banks is another special way to enjoy the Nile. This special advanced riding trip allows travelers to experience stunning views from the hills overlooking the Nile valley.
Quad Biking
Operated by All-Terrain adventures, Vehicle Quad Biking adventure is for travelers above 12years of age and takes you along the River Nile off the beaten tracks compelling in the sights and the local cultures as you ride through various villages in eastern Uganda. Guests to Jinja find this an exciting experience. However it is essential to pre-book your safari so that you find guides ready upon your arrival.
Mountain Biking
Bicycling along the Nile River at Jinja offers a very unique way to experience Uganda. the fun-packed experience is an incredibly the top most enjoyable for travelers to the Nile area, available for hire either half or full day basis where you can ride to approximately 60km, there are a number of places you can ride your bike such as riding along the Nile end to end various villages of rural Uganda.
Bungee Jumping
Leap over the Nile River from one of the most spectacular bungee jumping in the world. Diving into the Nile River offers one of the most fascinating and thrilling adventure activities of a lifetime to the pearl of Africa – Uganda while in Jinja for a road trip. This is a one-time experience is available for 13 years old and above, takes place at Jinja Nile resort and operated by Adrift Uganda.
Your best adventures on Eastern Uganda road trip is worth your penny and time as it rewards you with some of the stunning rare adventure activities that leaves you with memories of a lifetime. The eastern city of Jinja is one place you can never miss as you plan your visit to the Pearl of Africa – Uganda.
Read MoreChoosing the Best Rental Car For Self-Drive In Uganda
Choosing the best rental car for self-drive in Uganda is the wisest decision for anyone with a plan to go solo travel experience. Go on a self drive in Uganda with a rental car is a great opportunity to get around and travelers have ultimate freedom to make stopovers at the sites of their choice and you do everything at your own pace. Incredibly, this is an exceptional experience which guarantees you in-depth discovery about Uganda-East Africa’s premier Gorilla Trekking destination.
Driving yourself on Ugandan roads for the first time can be intimidating. But, with our best self-drive rental cars, be assured of a smooth road trip as you get behind the wheels well-equipped with essential items such as Global Positioning System (GPS), Google Maps, travel guide books and other essential gadgets.
Being a premier car hire service provider in Uganda, East Africa, visitors with plan to go self-drive are guaranteed of the best rental cars for a road trip. Solo travelers on Uganda self-drive can make their best choice from our fleet of rental cars ranging from Toyota Rav4-fulltime 4×4 rental car, Super Custom, 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser etc. Prior undertaking a self-drive tour in Uganda, check out a few amazing tips to guide you choose the best rental car for your road trip.
The destination routes
Before you think of setting of for your self-drive safari in Uganda, it is advisable to conduct a thorough research more on the routes leading to your destinations. This can help you get certain about the current route conditions since some routes in the remote areas have tough terrain, steep/muddy steep slopes. Once you get to know about the destination routes, it becomes easier to make the best choice on which rental car to use for your Uganda self-drive tour.
Size of rental car
A number of people you plan to go on Uganda self-drive trip should be known prior making reservation. Different rental cars in Uganda have specific capacity. If you are traveling in a group of 6pax, why rent a 4×4 Toyota Rav4 when a Mini Van could work best or a comfortable Land Cruiser/Super Custom rental. When renting a car in Uganda for self-drive tours, cargo space is also significant to put into consideration.
Thoroughly inspect your car
Before you begin your self-drive road trip to any part of Uganda, it is advisable that you carryout thorough inspection on the particular rental car you plan to use. Don’t be taken up by the beautiful pictures on the websites, it is important to be 100% sure about the conditions of the rental car. Cross-check for AC, mechanical issues or damages if any, record and let the your expert know, mechanical tool kits and if there is extra car tyre.
Car category
Car category is another significant tip to guide you choose the best rental car for self-drive in Uganda. Different car hire agencies/companies have different car categories but the common rental car categories for Uganda safaris include luxury rental cars, 4×4 rental cars, Mini Vans, Saloon cars and Mini or coaster buses. When choosing the best rental car in Uganda for self-drive tour, be keen on the category you choose for your road trip.
If you plan to go self-drive in Uganda National Parks like Murchison Falls National Park (MFNP) or Queen Elizabeth National Park, a 4×4 Land Cruiser rental with pop up roof can be the best option. Alternatively, you can rent a Safari Van with pop up, sun roof or hire Nissan Patrol. Toyota Rav4 most ideal for city tours in Kampala, Uganda.
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Go Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Home to mountain gorillas, Mgahinga National Park is one of the best places to go gorilla tracking in Africa. Located in South western Uganda, the park has a diverse collection of tourism activities, though gorilla tracking stands out as the most popular adventure. The park also offers incredible opportunities for bird watching and golden monkey tracking yet the nearby 3 volcanoes offer great opportunities for hiking.
With Uganda hosting about 400 mountain gorillas, half the world’s total population, Mgahinga National park is one of the two places where a visitor is guaranteed to have a glance at the endangered species. Though the gorillas of Mgahinga were known to be good nomads, at times moving to the Rwanda side, today the Nyakagezi gorilla group offers opportunities to adventure seekers to visit and the watch the endangered giants in the wild. For those looking for unique experiences on a Uganda Safari, a visit to Mgahinga National Park is a rewarding adventure that you should not miss.
The Nyakagezi Gorilla Group
Nyakagezi group size: 10 individuals including 1 silverback
The Nyakagezi Gorilla Group is the only habituated gorilla group in Mgahinga forest. The group is led by Mark, the dominant Silverback, who likes travelling and keeps on crossing borders between Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – therefore, Nyakagezi group keeps on rotating from Mgahinga forest to Volcanoes bamboo forest and to Virunga National park. Over the past few years however, the group has been stable and they are trying to settle on the Ugandan side since November 2012, and are likely to stay for a while. In May 2013 when a newborn baby gorilla arrived, increasing the group to 10 members- the number of gorillas goes on increasing as they go on multiplying. To that note therefore, Mgahinga forest National park is expected to get more Gorilla groups in near future- we expect splits from Nyakagezi group.
Despite the unpredictable behavior and movements, permits for this group can now be booked at the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The Mgahinga Gorilla National Park gives updated information about the availability or absence of Nyakagezi gorilla group in Uganda.
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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.
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Self Driving in Uganda: Important Things to Know
Self driving in Uganda or preferably self drive car hire is on crucial decision to make if you decide to travel to Uganda. A Self drive in Uganda requires you to hire a car from a local car rental agency and drive yourself un-guided. This is a more common practice done by return visitors to Uganda that feel they can do it as well. However there are many first time visitors to Uganda who know and affirm they can do it on their own.
Self drive destinations in Uganda are mainly the top tourist attraction scattered around the country. From tracking mountain gorillas in the southern part of Uganda to wildlife safaris in over 10 national game reserves east-west-north and south.
Self drive car hire requires you to have wide knowledge about Uganda by taking off months and reading each and every spot about Uganda before you decide to travel on a self drive car hire. There are a few things you actually need to know and affirm you can handle for the incredible experience.
The roads
Many of the roads in Uganda at the current situation are in perfect conditions. Most of the main roads heading upcountry are well paved and easily accessed. However the roads that branch off to main attractions are gravy and a little bumpy but absolutely passable. However others are being constructed to meet the requirements of road safety. Driving on the tarmac roads is 80km/hr as maximum speed and 50km/hr as minimum speed in towns and centres. A lot of traffic policemen are stationed on these roads with speed guns pointing at every car that comes their sight. So if you maintain averagely 50km/hr on your self drive car hire, you got a the first step to your self drive in Uganda a success. These traffic policemen/women are sometimes annoying. You really need to handle them so you go past them.
Driving in Kampala
Kampala is the capital city of Uganda and being a capital city of developing country, you will always expect a night mare of traffic in the rush hours. Drivers in Kampala are used to the bump-to-bump drive, only the clever survive. The normal basics of driving cars that you learn in driving schools do not apply here in Uganda Kampala drive. You need to apply friendly gesture to have way ahead. Kampala being a small city with many cars, infrastructure is over used calling for potholes in the city. You will bump into a pothole unnoticed. Traffic lights at some points do not work and drivers will not follow them unless there are traffic policemen. It rilly gets messy in the evenings where everyone is rushing home. You really need patience in you if you decide on a self drive car hire in Uganda
Self drive cars and the rental agencies
Different car rental agencies in Uganda offer different cars for self drive. Some other companies restrict on the kind of vehicle they give for a self drive in Uganda. The most common vehicle most companies will offer you for the self drive car hire in Uganda is the SUV Rav4 a full time 4wheel that is perfect for a max of 4 persons with enough luggage space. The Prado land cruisers are also a common offer for self drive car rental in Uganda but a little expensive than the Suv Rav4s. Other vehicles are also available for hire and given out for self drive but are more sophisticated vehicles that are always given out with drivers. With these cars like the safari land cruisers, its more than just start-engage gear-accelerate and direct. Its more than just you behind the wheels reason most car rental agencies in Uganda will provide these cars with drivers and in any cases with breakdown, the drivers always have an immediate solutions.
Insurance
Insurance in Uganda is not mandatory, but insurance in car rental is a must. Many of the car rental agencies in Uganda comprehensively insure their vehicles inclusive of third party. Always make sure you ask about the insurance policy or read the policies on the websites under the terms and conditions page. However the car rental comprehensive insurance does not cover the medical, injuries inflicted on the parties or on you fall under medical insurance from your own company. Please make sure you have medical insurance just before you make up your mind on traveling to Uganda on a self drive car hire in Uganda.
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