Uganda, a beautiful country located in the heart of Africa known as The Pearl of Africa, is an ideal destination for road trippers. Blessed with diverse landscapes, abundant natural beauty, and welcoming local people, Uganda offers a unique & memorable road trip experience. By following these special Ugandan Road trip routes and tips, you’ll be well on your way to an epic Ugandan adventure. Therefore, get ready, pack your bags, fill up on gas, and let us help you hit the road for an ultimate Ugandan road trip whether on a self drive Uganda or guided adventure.
The Best Routes for a memorable Ugandan Road Trip
Route 1: The Kampala to Murchison Falls
Distance: 300 km (186 miles)
Drive time: 4-5 hours
Highlights: Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Karuma Falls
Activities: Rhino Tracking, Game drives, boat cruises, hiking
This route takes you from Kampala to the Great Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s most visited destinations. It includes a stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track rhinos and a visit to the Karuma Falls for a picnic en-route meal. While in Murchison Falls National Park, you can take a game drive to spot at least 4 of the big five animals, enjoy a boat cruise and a hike to the top of the falls.
Route 2: The Kampala to Queen Elizabeth
Distance: 400 km (249 miles)
Drive Time: 7-8 hours
Highlights: Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest National Park and Lake George
Activities: Game drives, chimpanzee trekking, boat cruises, birdwatching
The route takes you from Uganda’s Capital to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular National Park, known for diverse ecosystems and its unique wildlife. On your way, you can stop over at Kibale Forest National Park for a memorable chimpanzee trekking and visit Lake George for a boat cruise. In Queen Elizabeth National Park, take several game drives to spot elephants, Hippos, lions, leopards among others, and enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
Route 3: The Kampala to Kidepo Valley
Distance: 600 km (372 miles)
Drive time: 11-12 hours
Highlights: Kidepo Valley National Park, Sipi Falls, Moroto, Kitgum
Activities: Game drives, hiking, birdwatching, cultural tours
This route takes you from Kampala, Uganda’s Capital City to Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Uganda’s most remote and least-visited tourist destinations. Along the way, you can stop at Sipi Falls, Moroto and Gulu for cultural tours and visit the park for game drives and hiking. Kidepo Valley is known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, such as lions, leopards, and elephants.
Route 4: The Kampala to Lake Bunyonyi
Distance: 450 km (279 miles)
Drive time: 8 to 9 hours
Highlights: Lake Bunyonyi, Kabale, Kisoro
Activities: Boat cruises, swimming, hiking, birdwatching
This route takes you from Kampala to Lake Bunyonyi, a beautiful lake surrounded by rolling hills. On your way, stop at Kabale and Kisoro for cultural visits and continue to the lake for boat cruises and swimming. Lake Bunyonyi is also a great spot for hiking and birdwatching.
d medication for malaria
Essential tips for Your Ugandan Road Trip
- Vehicle: Rent a reliable 4×4 vehicle, suitable for Uganda’s rough roads.
- Fuel: Fill up on fuel whenever possible, as fuel stations can be scarce in rural areas.
- Accommodation: Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Safety: Drive defensively, wear seatbelts, and avoid driving at night.
- Health: Take necessary health precautions, including vaccinations and medication for malaria