What Is the Cost of Renting a Car in Uganda
Uganda is a beautiful country with extraordinary sceneries marked by vast savannah plains, lush and dense rainforests, Lakes and Rivers, terraced rolling hills, stunning winding roads, magnificent tea and banana plantations, swamps and others. These spectacular sceneries combined with the good roads and more affordable rates of hiring Cars make Uganda a perfect safari destination for self-drive tours. While public transportation is easily accessible in Urban Centers, we can’t say the same with remote areas that lack public transport in almost every form.
When compared (in terms of costs), public transportation is considered relatively cheaper way to discover the beauty of Uganda but one thing you have to keep in mind is that they mainly operate in Urban Centers. For instance, if you are planning to travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park by bus, you will most likely stop at Kabale or Kisoro Town then require another means to get to the Park. Given the roads, motor-bike transportation is the most viable option but considering the distance, most riders will not be willing to take you. This is where Uganda car hire comes in. Surprisingly, it is not as costly as some people make it seem. Therefore, we bring you a break-down of the cost of renting a Car in Uganda.
Is it really worth Renting a Car in Uganda?
Given the freedom and privacy you enjoy while exploring Uganda in a Rental Car, convenience and the fact that you will be taken to your final destination, we can say it is really worth renting a Car in Uganda. Yes, public transport is cheaper but the fact that they don’t operate in remote areas makes them most costly in the long run.
Types of Cars available for renting in Uganda
We operate a remarkable fleet with different models and types of Cars, that are well suited for certain purposes, number of passengers and certain destinations/places. However, the good news is that most of our Cars are 4WD, except for the ones we always rent out for City excursions, Airport transfers and weddings in areas with wonderful road networks. Our fleet includes Toyota RAV4s, Toyota Super customs, Land Cruiser V8, safari Vans, Coaster buses, Land Cruiser TZ and TX and the Safari Land Cruisers among others.
What factors will affect the cost of renting a Car in Uganda?
A number of factors will determine the overall cost of renting the Car and these include;
- The type of Car
For instance, you will not hire a Safari Land Cruiser at the same price as a safari Van. The former is more costly because of the comfort it provides, its durability and strength to go off-road while exploring remote areas, its strong engine, and many others.
- Number of passengers
The more passengers, the lesser the amount you will pay. As a single traveler, you will cover the entire cost of hiring the Car while if you are more than one, costs will be shared amongst you, and thus end up paying less.
- Number of days you are renting the Car
Longer Car rentals usually attract discounts compared to shorter Car rentals.
- Whether it is a self-drive or chauffeur-driven trip
Hiring a driver increases the overall cost of hiring the Car. In addition to the money you are paying for the Car, you will need to add $50-$100 per day for hiring a driver.
Season
Expect to pay more when renting a Car during the peak season (December to February and June to September) than in the low season (May to May and October to November), considering the high demand for Car rental services.
How much does it cost to rent a car for a day in Uganda?
You can rent our Toyota Rav4 at 40$ per day, the Super Custom at $70 per day, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado TX at $70 per day, The Land Cruiser V8 at $100 per day, the Toyota Safari Van at $75 per day, Safari Land Cruiser at $130 per day, and the Coaster Buses at $100 per day. However, these rates don’t include fuel and the driver.
How to pay for Car Rental in Uganda
Payment for our Car Rental is by cash, Mobile Money, Bank Wire Transfer to the Company’s Bank Account, and Credit Card on the Company’s PesaPal account. For the last three options, you will incur some charges when making payment.
Read MoreA Practical Guide to Hiring a Car in Uganda
Navigating Uganda’s beautiful landscapes and bustling cities is often most enjoyable with the flexibility of a personal vehicle. Whether you are planning a safari trip to see the famed mountain gorillas, or simply exploring the urban sights in Kampala, hiring a car in Uganda can be an advantageous decision. Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate the process.
Pre-Trip Research
Before your trip, conduct in-depth research on the various car hire services available in Uganda. Many websites offer information on the types of cars available, rental prices, and other pertinent details. Consider your specific needs – will you need a 4×4 for rough terrain? Or a more fuel-efficient vehicle for long Uganda road trips? Understanding these needs will guide your choice.
Moreover, read customer reviews of various car hire services. This can help you understand the service quality, reliability, and customer experience of each provider. Remember to cross-check prices from different companies to ensure you’re getting a good deal.
Check the Rental Requirements
In Uganda, car rental companies generally require drivers to be at least 23 years old with a valid driving license. If you’re a foreigner, an international driving permit (IDP) alongside your home country’s license is mandatory. Additionally, some companies may require a copy of your passport and proof of your flight return ticket.
Understanding the Cost
Most car hire services in Uganda offer a daily rate, which typically includes unlimited mileage. However, this rate might not include fuel, so budget for this separately. It’s also worth noting that prices may vary depending on the vehicle’s size, brand, or whether it’s a 4×4 or not.
Moreover, confirm if there are any hidden charges like booking fees, insurance, taxes, or additional driver fees. Some rental companies might also require a refundable deposit at the start of the rental period. Always ask for a comprehensive quote covering all costs to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Insurance
Car hire companies in Uganda usually provide basic insurance coverage in their rental cost. This can include collision damage waiver (CDW), theft protection, and third-party liability. However, there might be an excess (deductible) you’ll have to cover in case of an accident or theft. It’s worth considering excess insurance to cover this cost.
Do check with the company about what their insurance covers and clarify any doubts. Some damages like windscreen, tires, or underbody may not be included. Also, check your travel insurance to see if it provides any additional coverage.
Inspecting the Car
Before you take off, thoroughly inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and ensure they are recorded by the company. Check the functionality of everything from the lights, windscreen wipers, air conditioning, to the brakes. Also, ask for a demonstration of any unfamiliar features.
Know the Traffic Rules and Road Conditions
Uganda’s road network is generally in good condition, but some rural areas can have rough, unpaved roads requiring a 4×4.
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road in Uganda. Be aware of local traffic rules and speed limits (usually 50km/h in built-up areas and 100km/h on highways). Seat belts are compulsory, and using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless with a hands-free device.
Road signs are international, but road discipline can be lax, with erratic maneuvers, overloaded vehicles, and pedestrians on the roadway. Stay alert, especially when driving at night.
Car Breakdowns and Emergencies
In case of a breakdown or accident, it’s important to have your car hire company’s emergency number. They can provide immediate assistance or guidance on what to do next.
It’s also a good idea to have the numbers of local emergency services. The general emergency number in Uganda is 112 or 999.
Return the Car
Return the car on time to avoid any extra charges. Make sure it’s clean and the fuel level matches the company’s policy – some require a full tank upon return. Also, ensure all damages, if any, are documented to avoid disputes.
Be Aware of the Scams
Scams are not common, but it’s good to be aware. Some scams may include being charged for damages you didn’t cause or fuel levels not being accurately reported. Stick with reputable car hire services, review all documentation carefully, and insist on clear terms to avoid these pitfalls.
Remember, hiring a car in Uganda is an exciting opportunity to explore this beautiful country at your own pace. With a bit of planning and consideration, it can be a smooth and hassle-free experience. Happy travels!
Read MoreWhy a Hired Car is better than a Taxi while Traveling in Uganda
The idea of using taxis (whether public or private/special hire) is one of the most popular means of getting around Uganda but travelers who desire exceptional experiences are opting for Car Rentals for self-drive tours. Since the outbreak of Covid-19, public transport means have slowly been avoided for purposes of following Standard Operating Procedures especially maintaining the 2-meter distance from other travelers. However, for this article, we bring you the reasons why a Car Rental is far better than a taxi in Uganda;
Privacy
It is difficult to discuss personal or business issues when traveling by taxi but easier to talk about different aspects of your World (business, relationship, family, and even crack jokes) when traveling with your friends or family by a Rental Car. Conversations are the most interesting things done during road trips and you wouldn’t want to ruin the spirit of the drive-by having another person/driver chipping in your conversations, smirking at your dilemmas, or laughing at your jokes. Therefore if you wish for privacy during your road trips in Uganda, opt for a self-drive Car Rental.
Car Hygiene
Given the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic ravaging the World, you can never be sure whether the taxi you are traveling with is even properly sanitized or not. This is not the case with self-drive Car Rental that you can make certain that it is properly sanitized (in your presence) before you even embark on the self-drive trip.
Limit to duration
Another reason why a Car Rental is better than a taxi in Uganda is the limit to duration, whereby taxis can be used for a shorter period. You can use a taxi for a day or maximum of a week yet for self-drive Car Rentals you can enjoy services for months and can interestingly extend the period of use as long as you book with the Company in advance.
Freedom while driving
If you hop into a taxi, you don’t have a say on anything but instead entirely depend on the driver. You will agree that it is even difficult or embarrassing to request the driver to make a stop for meals or even answer nature calls. This is different when you are on your self-drive Car Rental where you are guaranteed of relishing the Road trip at your own pace and way, make stops when required, and even choose what music you desire to listen to without bothering anyone (especially any driver). Similarly, there is flexibility for Self-drive Car rentals given the fact that you are your own boss and can change plans if you so wish. You can leave home earlier or later than earlier planned, make as many stops as possible to take photos without fear of a running meter or being charged extra for spending more time at a particular destination.
Cost-effectiveness
Taxi services in Uganda charge per hour or according to the meter. You will be shocked to pay more money during rush hours associated with heavy traffic jams hence the more time spent in traffic, the higher the amount you are likely to be charged. This is interestingly not the case with Car Rentals where you pay at once and regardless of the traffic, you will not be charged extra.
Safety
It is difficult to know whether your taxi Driver in Uganda is a professional and experienced or a novice, how long he/she has possessed the License. It is not safe to take chances while driving along the tricky and hilly terrain roads hence choose the option of Self-drive Car Rental where you are very sure of your skills and experience of driving through Ugandan roads. Additionally, drivers are one of the most overworked yet least paid people in Uganda, hence sometimes have to work harder to earn a living which sometimes brings about exhaustion. It becomes cumbersome to keep reminding the driver “not to rush” than ensuring your own safety in your self-drive Rental Car in Uganda since you will have the freedom to stop and rest whenever you feel exhausted.
Read MoreGuided Uganda: Rent a Car with a Driver
This trends for travelers who wish to handle their travel itinerary and decide to rent a car with a driver to cruise like a boss. Maybe this may not be the case to reflect just want to fix in the budget, and whatever case it may be. The matter of renting a car hyper on the trends of traveling, globally travelers have preferred to enjoy privacy as they explore various parts of the world. Though the privacy still it’s possible to rent a car with a driver in Uganda.
Nothing can stop anyone from enjoying what they want most when they travel to any part of the world. Uganda has countless number indigenous car rental agencies operating legally and are reliable to provide any kind of vehicle needed and recommending a wonderful experienced driver for hire. It doesn’t matter which kind of trip is it safari trip, business trip, or charity trip just name the kind of the vehicle you would prefer to rent. Variety of fleets available for selection which range from 4×4 station wagons, saloon cars, minibuses and coaster, vans and 4×4 Land Cruiser.
What is the cost to rent a car with a driver?
There is no fixed price one for one to procure a Uganda car rental with a driver, firstly the cost of the vehicle depends on which kind of vehicle is to be taken. Making a random inquiry from various car rental agencies you find out that there is no fixed cost for any vehicle, with a rough estimate from the cheapest fleet the rates can range from US $45 to the luxury which can go up to US $250. And to have a car with a driver have to consider adding an extra dollars of about US $40 per day.
Why should rent a car with a driver?
Very convenient
This reduces time wastage and makes traveling easier as the case of car rental delivery is resolved. When rent a car with a driver, the driver can deliver a vehicle to any part of the country and you are not burdened with returning the vehicle. Car rental drivers are always knowledgeable about all parts of the country and can advise accordingly. This reduces on the deferments which may occur if you take a car for self-drive. When for to rent a car with a driver then have to cruise like a boss relaxed at your back seat. This is a recommendable idea especially when you taking a longer journey, it lessens fears of time faults, in case of any mechanical challenge can easily be fixed.
Relatively cheaper
In comparison to using a tour operator deciding to go rent a car with a driver is relatively cheaper. On your car rental bill just need to add an extra charge of US $ 50 for the driver in most of the time rewards a faultless cruise. It saves you from wasting time with GPS, Google map and tourist guide maps which can be time consuming.
Some of the vehicles for hire can be given out without the company driver. This mainly seen with safari hard top land cruiser. If opting to rent a 4×4 land cruiser, Benz cross country, range rovers are only available with their driver. This makes it necessary and the only one to have them is renting a car with driver.
When don’t have necessary documents needed for one to drive, this takes you to have a hire a car with a driver. Firstly car rental agencies can’t let you go with their vehicles when you don’t have a valid driving license.
Read MoreUltimate Guide to Driving in Uganda
Driving in Uganda is interesting but a bit more challenging than other East Africa and Southern Africa countries. If you are looking to a self driven tour through Uganda, you need to be cautious in planning your next adventure! By East African standards, Uganda major roads are generally in good condition. Surfaced roads radiate out from Kampala, running east to bigger towns like Jinja, Busia, Mbarara Tororo, Mbale and Soroti, south to Entebbe, southwest to Masaka, northwest.
Be in the Know
- Despite the above, Uganda’s unsurfaced roads tend to be very variable from one season to the other with conditions likely to be most hard during the rain. You definitely need to be a defensive driver in circumstances when buses and minibus-taxis are around as their drivers are crazy. You will be overtaken by big buses carrying over 70 passengers travelling at excessive speeds.
- Keep an eye in the rear-view driving mirror and if necessary pull off the road in advance to let the closing loony pass. You have to know that most roads encounter a lot of traffic jam especially in the rash hours like morning and evening hours so balance your driving time to do away with this.
- You must have the following documents when driving in Uganda. This will make you have a soft and smooth drive while on the Ugandan roads. The vehicle registration book (a photocopy is acceptable, ensure it’s a recent one with the most recent vehicle license entry recorded at the back page), A minimum statutory Third Party Insurance Coverage Certificate, sticker and a driving license.
- For foreigners intending to travel to East Africa, your own domestic license is acceptable for up to three months. After three months of your stay in Uganda, you should get Ugandan license. The speed of 80k/h in the open road would be comfortable without being over cautious, and it’s not a bad idea to slow down and cover the brake in the face of oncoming traffic.
- In town especially Kampala, you are just centimeters from other vehicles, traffic laws exist. Please be aware that on busy streets, people and Boda Boda come from any direction of the road. These can pose a big challenge to new drivers on the road. Therefore keep enough distance.
- Driving is on the left hand side in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania while in Rwanda and Burundi, we drive on the right had side. If you are to pass a slower moving car, indicate to the right and the car in front will typically move in when possible.
- A GPS is very important. You can come with one from your home country, loaded with East Africa maps, or you can obtain one with your Uganda car rental. Most car rental agencies hire a GPS at US$3/day. A GPS will help you with road directions and speed limits. Road Maps are very important so make sure you get updated travel road maps. These are sometimes offered with the car, or you can buy from shopping malls and Bookshops. Always double check your route before you begin your journey and get a general picture of the route especially in south western part of the country.
- Because most Ugandan roads are hilly, climbing lanes are often available and there are many large trucks and Lorries moving slowly. Use climbing lanes to pass trucks and slow-moving cars when going uphill. Likewise, If your car moves slowly than the traffic, move into the left lane to let traffic overtake. Once you pass another driver on highways, a flash of the hazard lights suffices as a thank you. Ugandan drivers are very friendly and you will usually be greeted by a friendly flash of their headlights. It’s a friendly sign so don’t be afraid when it first happens.
What to Avoid
The number one rule is to avoid driving at night whenever possible. In Uganda, there are no street lights on highways and sometime visibility is poor with only head lamps. More so, some Uganda roads, including major highways have no fluorescent line markings, thus making driving after dark very difficult because it is difficult to see the road. Some places are not safe at night, with highway robbers and outside Kampala, there are lots of people walking and running on hard shoulders after dark.
Read More12 Benefits of Booking a Fully Inclusive Uganda Safari
Planning a trip and implementing it may sound easy but it isn’t really as simple as it sounds. During the planning stage of a holiday in Uganda, one has to consider a lot of things and put in a lot of effort to make sure all goes well after booking a fully inclusive safari.
1. Savings on cost
This is probably the biggest advantage with an all-inclusive package for a holiday in Uganda. If you go ahead and individually book your air tickets, hotel accommodation and transport, you might end up spending much more than needed. Adding the individual costs may result in a much higher total cost compared to choosing Uganda all inclusive packages.
2. No stress whatsoever
By opting for Uganda’s holidays all inclusive packages, you have absolutely nothing to worry about. Whether it is the reservation of flight tickets, checking availability for hotels, making hotel reservations, allocating vehicles for transportation, and other such services will all be handled by your travel agent. All you have to do is select your preferred package and inform the tour operator about your dates of travel and number of passengers travelling. The rest will be taken care of by them.
3. Uganda round tour
When you are visiting a new country, regardless of how much research you have done, there could be a few important tourist spots that you don’t know about. Or you may know about these spots but may wonder if you will have enough time to cover everything while on your tour. All inclusive packages in uganda are designed in such a manner that all the most popular tourist attractions are covered in order to ensure customers get the most value for the money invested in these tour packages.
4. Avail maximum services
All-inclusive packages usually allow travellers to avail maximum services from hotels and tour companies. From the time you are picked up at the airport, taken on tour, and dropped back to the airport, you may not have to spend any money apart from your tour package cost unless you want to tip workers or want to do any personal shopping. Even at hotels, you do not have to pay separately for your meals or for using the swimming pool and gym. These extra services are all part of your Uganda all inclusive packages.
5. Guaranteed safety while on tour
We will advise travellers in case there is a safety risk of visiting a particular tourist attraction in Uganda to try booking all inclusive packages. Our drivers are well informed on the safest routes to take to get customers from one place to another. If you decide to do all the planning for your trip, you will not know about the safety situation in a new country. Hence by trusting tour operators in this field, you are guaranteed a safe holiday.
6. Travel Agents Are Pushy – Any good travel agency knows it’s not about making the sale; it’s about creating happy clients. Happy clients become fans of your company, come back to you every year and recommend your company to others. We rejoice when we can save our clients money with a great deal. We make our recommendations based on the specific needs and requests of our clients. We don’t base our recommendations on industry sales incentives or bonus gifts. If we know of a better room or experience that will enhance our client’s family vacation, we’ll suggest it but that’s all. No pushing involved, we just do right by our families.
7. Travel Agents Match Online Prices – We do our best to find you the best deals available. If we cannot beat it, we’ll tell you why it’s probably a scam and not a deal. You benefit by getting the best price and our great service.
8. Travel Agent Will Help You Save – Travel agents are privy to special flight prices, special hotel and cruise cabin rates that consumers will never find online themselves. This feature alone will save you money. You must be a licensed travel agency or belong to a specific insider group. Beyond pricing, travel agents can often get special amenities like ship board credits or insider tours that can enhance your family’s vacation.
9. Travel Agents Save You Time – Busy parents recognize how valuable their time is to them. Parents can easily spend HOURS researching family vacation options online. With the amount of conflicting information available online, it’s easy to quickly get overwhelmed and confused. Many times, the questions perplexing many parents we agents can often answer right off the top of our heads thanks to our years of experience. If you have detailed questions or need to plan a complicated itinerary, we do all the work for you. We can make the international phone calls to get your questions answered. We know who and how to reach out to in order to get the job done, saving you hours of frustration.
10. Travel Agents have contacts
Having these face to face meetings and knowing the right contacts truly benefits the vacation experience for our clients. We know exactly who to speak to in order to make special requests for our families. This could mean things like adjoining rooms, welcome bottles of campaign or advanced restaurant reservations and in case you need help, they know who to contact.
11. Travel Agents have specialized expertise – Firsthand experience and expertise are what will change a typical vacation into a real memorable experience. Not every Travel Agent can humanly know every destination in the world. As travel agents we too have favourite spots and types of family vacations that we’re passionate about selling.
12. Travel Agents Have Priceless Advice – Visiting the National parks, resorts and places we recommend means we have firsthand experience to pass along to our guests. We can help you choose the best rooms, eat at the best restaurants and find the best places to shop, all while saving you money. No two kids clubs are ever the same. Often you can’t tell from the website or brochure photos. Our agents are available to you to help answer all of your questions directly from how to get your first passports to what you need to pack for your holiday.
Read MoreThings to Avoid on Self Drive in Uganda
Self drive tours have become more popular in Uganda than ever before due to an ever increasing tourism sector. Hiring a car for self drive with Self Drive Uganda offers tourists the most flexible and pocket friendly travel safaris at your convenience. For the last period that we have been in business, visitors who have used car rental service in Uganda enjoy the best travel experiences on the remotest destinations of Uganda. When it comes to customer care, we are ever on top and we always put our clients first.
Below are some of the tips on what things you need to avoid while on self drive tour in Uganda;
Avoid too much driving
Most often, travelers plan to drive for long distant routes within a day. Long distant journeys can be hectic and demand you to have stopovers so that you refresh after a long hour drive. Though other travelers are physically well to drive for long hours, you need to understand your strength rather than following bandwagons and you end up with given the most boring trip. Stopovers are
necessary for self drive as it allows you to chill and relax.
Avoid being over excited/adventurous
Whereas Uganda’s roads are a bit tarmac, you need to know most remote destinations still have gravel back roads. Gravel roads differ from being pretty good but still more tiring to drive than tarmac roads. In case you do not have enough driving experience on gravel roads, then do not be over ambitious. However, we provide exceptional message to enable you travel on bumpy roads of Uganda.
In case of break down in remotest areas, chances are you will not receive assistance very fast. The car that gets broken down may require to be replaced from the nearest depot and this can take some hours. Feel free to drive another vehicle that will be brought for you to drive. It is also advisable that you have some food or water just in case you become stranded for some time in the scorching sunshine.
Avoid choosing an unsuitable rental car simply because of its cheap price
We have a variety of cars that you can choose to drive for your safari other than landing into a wrong choice. You can choose Toyota Corona which is good for tarmac and better for simple
safaris. For self drive trip holiday in Uganda, tourists can rent a 4 by 4 safari vehicle for instance a Toyota Rav4, Toyota Land Cruiser and Safari Land Cruiser that will help you navigate through the steep terrains. For wet season, you will need a 4 by 4 for extra peace of mind.
Not having a clear sense of where you are traveling
For visitors who are planning for more adventurous self drive safaris in Uganda, you need to be well prepared. You GPS coverage on your car rental may not help you in some remotest places or it may just assume. This requires you to have a good road atlas or direction and this doesn’t necessarily mean the company atlas and understand where you are heading to. Avoid replying on messages using GPS in Uganda because it can get flawed but alternatively, you can ask from the local residents more about the route that you are taking and approximate distance.
Avoid driving during dark hour
Usually, self drive tours in Uganda are organized in such away that you reach in the destination in the afternoon to have your night. Driving during the dark is risky for you in case of thieves and even when you get lost at night which may prolong your hours of driving. It is difficult to detect road signs during the dark and even hotels or lodges. Travelers are advised to communicate to hotel or lodge where they are supposed to spend a night on the time you are to reach.
travelers who wish to par take self drive safaris in Uganda should plan appropriately and most importantly, contact us for further explanation and assistance.
Read MoreHow to Travel to Uganda on Low Budget
For many tourists from the world over, whenever they think of going on an African Safari, one of the major factors considered is the high cost associated with such a safari with much cost going on the flights and ground logistics.
Africa has great potential for tourism but Uganda in particular is the greatest tourist destination in Africa since it combines all that other African countries have to offer on top of those attractions that can only be found in Uganda or neighboring countries.
Uganda is very rich in cultural tourism which includes the Kasubi tombs, visit to the traditional kingdoms, the diverse cultural set ups with over 17 tribes which all have different behavioral set ups, religious sites including Bahai temple, the only temple in Africa for Bahai faith, Namugongo Matrys shrine which is a religious site where the Uganda matters were burnt by the Kabaka due to their reception of Christianity, and other cultural set ups.
Uganda is a greatest destination for mountaineering with Mt.Rwenzori, a UNESCO world heritage site that has Africa’s 3rd highest peak. This is the only point in Uganda that has glacier at the top. There is also Mt.Elgon which has the world’s largest volcanic base. In addition, there is Mt.Muhabura and Mt.Sabinyo which are located in Virunga Mountain Ranges that extends to Rwanda and Democratic republic of Congo.
Uganda has also many wildlife national parks where one will see the African Big Five that can be seen elsewhere in Africa. There is Murchison Falls in Murchison Falls national park which is the most powerful falls in Africa.
Uganda has a destination has the most primate parks which includes Kibale Forest National park which has the highest concentration of chimpanzees and other 12 primate species. There is also Bwindi impenetrable national park which is a home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas with the other half living in Virunga Mountain ranges which is divided between Mgahinga national park in Uganda, Volcanoes National park in Rwanda and Virunga national Park in Democratic republic of Congo.
If you need to have a budget safari in Uganda, there are several tips on how to reduce the cost.
First and foremost, you contact a locally based tour company. The advantage with local tour company is that they get services at local discount rate and procure services directly without urgency commission compared to booking through foreign based tour agencies who will add their own margin on top of the margin added by the ground handlers.
Also, you need to book the trip in advance so that you get services at the low cost before the prices are hiked due to high demand due to competition. The high seasons June, July, August, September, December, January and February always require early booking.
Take use of promos. Have you ever heard that there are promos for some safaris in Uganda? Even the Uganda Wildlife Authority always puts gorilla permits on promos for the past three years. You can book a gorilla safari in Bwindi Forest or Mgahinga National Park and save off USD150 dollars per gorilla permit if you take use of these deals available for April, May and November!
You also need to look at group travels. Most of the tour operators offer tailor made private safaris. It is always better to travel as a group of more than one person which helps in sharing some of the constant costs like transport, guides’ allowances, and accommodation sharing. This helps brings the cost per person down.
The local tour operator will also help in advising on how based to reduce the cost by selecting the affordable accommodations yet with better services. Also, will also advise on the best vehicles to use at a cheaper cost yet very comfortable. Minibuses are always cheaper yet comfortable compared to land Cruisers which are expensive yet less comfortable than the minibuses.
You can always consider the low season period for travel. During low season, there is discount on permits and accommodations and yet you will be able to see all that you would see during the high season.
If you intend to visit other East African Countries Rwanda or Kenya, you need to apply for East African Tourist Visa which costs the same amount as the Ugandan single visa and yet you will be able to enter all the three countries with same Visa.
It is always better to change the money into local currency while in the country to pay for some local services like in restaurants, tipping, and transport. The money should be exchanged from the Forex bureaus at a negotiated rate than exchanging from the main baking halls which always have a poor exchange rate.
You always ask your tour operator for tips on where to secure cheaper items. In Ugandan markets, prices are negotiable and it is always important to negotiate for the lower rates possible.
With the above tips, I hope you can be able to plan the trip accordingly and enjoy the best of Africa by travelling to Uganda.
Read MorePlanning a Honeymoon Holiday in Uganda
It’s only Uganda in Africa with the most charming culture, entertainment and Natural beauty which make it the only perfect destination for foreign honey moon holiday. Apart from the amazing islands, Uganda has a wide range of beautiful attractions including wildlife parks, lakes & rivers, mountains, stunning landscape and the most well facilitated luxury lodges just in line with the honeymoon rations. Are you planning to wed soon and Africa is your honey moon choice destination?
The Gifted land of nature “Uganda” has enough attractions to put together and make your stay very exceptional and memorable following its best cool weather in every corner of the country. Besides all the Islands and beaches are open year round with a lot of relaxing activities and water sports. Bunyonyi is one of the most desired a place you shouldn’t miss out on your honeymoon holiday in Africa. Also visiting some of the beautiful parks –Queen Elizabeth, Murchison falls, Bwindi etc are one of the most recommended honeymoon destinations in the pearl of Africa since all tour activities are full of fun and relaxation. Other fun things to do include gorilla tracking, boat rides at the first-rate Kazinga channel and game viewing keep travelers busy and happy in the wild as they explore the country’s beauty.
Make your honeymoon an event of a life time with a visit to Uganda’s top leisurely destination Ssese Island found in a 2 hour distance from Entebbe international airport, Murchison falls, Kibale forest, Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo & lake Bunyonyi. The island is accessed by a ferry which leaves Entebbe daily at 3.00pm arriving at the island at around 5.00pm but you have to be at the ferry stage or start point by 2.00pm-Nakiwogo Entebbe.
Spend two days around the island playing in sand and enjoying all the available water activities before traveling to Bwindi forest the land of Uganda’s prime attraction the Mountain Gorillas. Enjoy private walks around the lake, boat ride, sun bathing, have a fish meal together at pineapple bay a lodge which attends to detail. Swimming is a must either at the pool or lake followed the delicious meals meals served at the lodge in time. The lake side gardens offer the best relaxing environment to couples as they look at the island lake waters and beautiful landscape. The lodge rooms facing parade the island beauty to couples something you will also like through your stay at the island. No need to strain yourself walking distances in search of a perfect relaxing environment since your overnight lodge has it all.
In addition the stunning road drive journey to Uganda beautiful National park-Bwindi forest takes you to the Uganda Equator, opens a wide door for cultural displays and also a road side few minutes of wildlife viewing at Lake Mburo National park. Lunch pops in at a right time when you ready to break off for a journey chat with your spouse or driver and Igongo cultural Museum is a place to be in Mbarara. This quiet wildlife paradise has some of the most beautiful world class animals and the ever green forested landscape which extends to both Congo and Rwanda Boarder.
Staying in one of the most beautiful luxury lodges, Gorilla lodges-Mahogany springs, Gorilla forest camp, and Buhoma lodge sited just at the park entrance has always been the best option for couples to the park giving them ample time to wake up and prepare for the day’s main activity Gorilla tracking. The most exciting moment comes next morning which starts with a briefing from the park rangers and indeed it’s a moment to do and listen to what you truly waited for awhile, how to behave with Gorillas, what to do when you see them, how to marvel through the Jungle forest, who to go with, how long the trek takes, what you shouldn’t miss out during the trek etc. Next will be time for you to hit the jungle forest to search for the unique world class primates which are always found depending on their previous day movements, where they had their dinner & overnight. After the Gorilla encounter and photography couples prefer relaxing at the lodge and memorize the forest Magical beauty which they witnessed during the trek than taking on another afternoon forest walk.
Bunyonyi Island has always been the next couple choice after Bwindi forest sited in a one hour road distance and known for its unique environmental setting in the cool towns of Kabale. The island is another leisure top honeymoon spot in Uganda which give couples superb moments to cherish for a life time as they enjoy attractive views of different Islands, cool weather and relaxing environment. The sunrise in the morning can make every tree, grass, water look dazzling and amazing, changing the weather from cool to warm and breakfast in gardens becomes very tasty under the right setting. The Boat ride to visit different islands and short hikes keep couples busy and happy all day as the explore the island and nearby communities. Get a chance to visit the people of the forest the ‘Batwa’ during your stay and discover how true Africans still live in the ancient. Their grass thatched houses welcome you but the time spent with them is worthy looking at their way of life, culture and different family members.
Above all it’s more fun to combine island beach setting with Wildlife and water adventure activities in either Queen Elizabeth or Murchison falls National Park. You can choose to visit both or one and end your Africa honeymoon holiday in a romantic wildlife setting. People say both parks have similar activities but the experience isn’t the same. If time permits would recommend travellers to check out both parks and tell the difference .Morning & Evening game drives, Afternoon boat cruise, Chimpanzee tracking are the main park activities but a visit to the top of the falls and a forest walk excursion at Rhino sanctuary can only be experienced while in Murchison falls while viewing trees up close in trees is only possible at ishasha sector the reason to visit both parks. Spare some time and also enjoy some Uganda cultural treasures at Kampala National theatre, Ndere cultural centre, Kasubi Tombs, Sezibwa falls, Namugongo shrines and the Kabaka’s lake.
Read MoreReasons Why Booking Uganda Car Hire Online Is Cheaper
Are you planning your safari holiday to Uganda? Do you know the best way to book a car for your safari in Uganda? A trip to Uganda for gorilla and wildlife safaris is the most rewarding travel experience that anyone who is planning his or her vacation to Africa shouldn’t miss out. As you organize your tours, you are required to first sort out which ride or car to drive. With the improved road net work and challenging weather conditions in the Uganda, hiring a car from our reliable and affordable car rental Uganda company for you to drive is the only fastest way for you to get around this small country while exploring its abundant wildlife and enjoying the stunning sceneries. While most travelers like purchasing their personal vehicles, it is not a big idea unless you are living within the country for a long period of time. Most people are currently finding out the positive part of hiring a car in Uganda. It is perfect to hire a vehicle in Uganda than the personal car in case you don’t need the overheads. In case you are not planning to live in the country for long, you strongly encouraged to sign up the best service car hire company in Uganda for the time frame that you are going to be around. That is why we encourage you to contact us and we shall respond to you as soon as possible. Many travelers in the region usually go with the best car hire during their stay as it is much more pocket friendly than in their own states
Below are reasons why hiring a car is usually cheaper in Uganda
Opportunity to drive your dream car though you can not purchase
You may need to gift your dear one a ride of that dream machine she or he has always talked about. There is no need to think of purchasing a car like that for you can hire it without strings attached. A leisure drive of that kind to Uganda’s magnificent national parks can do. You do not want to wait all your life to save up money to feel the ride of classic vehicles. Not anymore. All it takes is a driving license for tourists.
Public transport is either too costly or too slow
Whereas taxis may tend to be convenient, they do bum a hole in traveler’s budget in case one wants to zip around a lot. It doesn’t matter how short the distance can be, but traveler can b e charged with the initial fixed amount as a minimum amount. And if you happen to travel a long a distance, a single ride can cost you as much as hiring a technology vehicle for the whole day.
Purchasing a vehicle is not usually the right decision
Owning a car bogs you down with a monthly car loans are not something you can run away and not some thing you may need when you do not want that vehicle. An example you become fed up of it or encounter an accident which the warranty may not fix for ever. Times like this the resale value of that vehicle may not be adequate to payback the rest of your loan amount.
No more overhead costs and parking woes when you leave
In case you own a vehicle, it is your responsibility to cover all maintenance and the charge of registration, insurance and many more. If you are in Uganda and traveled abroad many times, you would be paying way more just to get your vehicle parked in the lot. While hiring a car online permits visitors to have the vehicle delivered to them at the airport terminal as they arrive and picked up aligned with your departure time, the charge of maintaining a vehicle after a year can be extensive. While if you have a car hire, the rental car agency worries about the wear and tear of the car. They regularly get the vehicle serviced and maintain the paper work like insurance in check. All you do is pay the monthly charge of the rental and drive stress free.
You have the freedom to drive anywhere you need
With a car hire, you can get around to the place of your preference without any issues. Traveling to a distant destination using public means of transport is challenging and more or less illogical. Even if you have agreed to shell out the cost of the taxi ride, you might not be able to get a ride back without the extra cost of booking it through the phone that is to say when they can reach you at all. In case you live any where far from the main town, having a vehicle you can drive yourself is a bit essential.
In conclusion, tourists who are not able to drive, there is chauffeur driven option. You can hire a classic vehicle, make a stunning entrance and create an impressive whenever you go. For details on car hire and rental, please contact us and we shall be there to assist you realize you long awaited dream.
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