Rent a car of your choice and travel the country effortlessly with Self Drive Rental Uganda, offering well-maintained and reliable vehicles fit to tackle rough terrains. On a sure deal, you will enjoy the rich biodiversity of Uganda venturing to different places at your pace capturing the best of your soul.

Read and choose the places to visit, activities to do, and lodges to stay on your self-drive adventure in Uganda:

Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:

This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Gorilla lovers can drive to the park, and from there, join guided treks to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Trekking exercise can last from a few hours to a full day, depending on the gorillas’ location. However, Trekkers are divided into small groups, usually with a maximum of 8 people each group led by a jungle guide leading them through the entire exercise.
Spend time with these amazing gorillas, and engage in a lovely conversation with them as you learn more about their natural being and their lifestyle.

Gorilla permits in Uganda.

Unlike the previous year where trekking permits cost $700, as of now the Uganda World Life Authority (UWA), made changes and added an extra $100 to each gorilla permit. This means each permit calls for a total of $800.
When it comes to picking seasons, (June to September, December to February), gorilla permits become limited, it’s wise to book your trekking gorilla permit in advance to avoid inconveniences and far as getting enough time to prepare for your adventure.

What to Expect.

Our professional guides and trackers lead the trek, ensuring safety and providing information about the gorillas and the forest. They know where gorilla families can be found, and they will keep on teaching, briefing, and telling you about the viable background of the forest.

Once gorillas are located, you will spend up to one hour observing them. This is where your camera functions at its best, record your close-up short videos, capturing yourself with gorillas enjoying your adventure in Bwindi.

Besides gorillas trekking safaris, Bwindi is a rich home to other primates, birds, and unique plant species. Within the Bwindi forests, you have a chance to listen to different bird species singing, Eastern Chimpanzees are some of the world’s endangered Apes scientifically, they are known as “Pan Troglodyte’s schweinfurthi.” Bwindi also inhabits nocturnal Ape species like potatoes (Perodicticus potto).

Preparation For Gorilla Tracking

• Level of Fitness. Good physical fitness is recommended due to the challenging terrain.
• Wears/Clothing. Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing, sturdy hiking boots, long sleeves, and trousers to protect against stinging nettles and rain gear.
• Gadgets/equipment. Bring a daypack, water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a camera with a good zoom lens or high megapixels that will capture good pictures and high-quality videos.

Accommodation in Bwindi

Ranging from budget to luxury lodges. Popular choices here include Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs, and Gorilla Forest. Accommodations are available near the four main sectors of Bwindi: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo it’s your choice to book your favorite lodge.

Best Time to Visit Bwindi on a Self-Drive Adventure Safari

Dry Seasons June to September and December to February are the best times due to lower rainfall, making trekking easier.
March to May and October to November are less crowded but trails can be muddy and slippery.

Additional Tips.

• Ensure you have all necessary vaccinations and carry anti-malarial medication.
• Maintain a safe distance from the gorillas, avoid making loud noises, and do not eat or drink near them.
• Support conservation efforts by respecting park rules and minimizing your environmental footprint.
• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a lifetime experience giving you a chance to spend time with these unique gorillas in their natural habitats and as well discover new, realizing why it was named the pearl of Africa (Uganda).

Wildlife Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a premier self-drive adventure safari destination in Uganda. With your vehicle, you can explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including savannas, forests, and wetlands. Highlights include game drives to spot elephants, lions, leopards, and the famous tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.

Game Drives.

We have a good number of 4×4 self-drive car rentals such as Land Cruiser Prado, Land Cruiser V8, Safari Land Cruiser extended, and many more to conduct game drives in the Northern Sector (Mweya Peninsula). Offers sightings of elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, and a variety of antelope species to observe on a self-drive safari adventure.
Kasenyi Plains. This is known for its lion pride and large herds of Uganda kobs. Best for early morning or late afternoon game drives.
Ishasha Sector. Famous for its tree-climbing lions, unique scenery, and fresh air within the park that offers a breath-taking and fresh environment best to relax.

Boat Safaris on the Kazinga Channel.

A boat cruise on this 32 km channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George, offers excellent opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and numerous bird species at the same time while sailing majestically.

Chimpanzee Tracking.

Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes,” is a prime spot for tracking chimpanzees.
The activity involves guided treks into the gorge to locate and observe the chimpanzees. It’s an Engaging experience that allows visitors to see these primates up close in their natural environment.
You will be accompanied by trained guides to ensure safety and provide correct information about the chimpanzees and the ecosystem of the gorge.

Costs and Permits.

To track chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge, you need to obtain a trekking permit. As of the latest update from the Uganda World Life Authority (UWA), these permits cost around $90 per person all together with the park entrance.

What to Expect.

Chimpanzee tracking exercise usually takes a few hours, with the actual time spent observing the chimpanzees depending on their walking movements.

The trekking exercise can be physically demanding due to the steep and unequal terrain of the gorge, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

While tracking is available year-round, the dry seasons (December to February and June to September) are often the best times for easier trekking conditions

Preparation Tips.

• Wear comfortable hiking boots and long-sleeved clothing to protect your body against insects and vegetation. Bring a rain jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable.
• Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent. A camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing the chimpanzees without disturbing your focus, zoom from a distance and capture the best.

Bird Watching.

Over 600 bird species have been recorded in the park, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Key species include the African fish eagle, shoebill stork, and flamingos. Besides that, the park has crater lakes which can also attract your attention.

The park is surrounded by picturesque crater lakes, such as Lake Katwe, known for salt mining, and Lake Munyanyange, a seasonal home to flamingos.

The visit to Kyambura Gorge offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and contribute to the conservation of these incredible primates. It’s an adventure that combines physical activity, wildlife observation, and the best natural sceneries which are rewarding.

Murchison Falls National Park.

Self-driving to Murchison Falls National Park offers an opportunity to witness Africa’s and the world’s most powerful waterfall. The park is also a great spot for game viewing, with a variety of wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, and crocodiles. Don’t miss a boat cruise on the Nile to see the falls up close.

Hiking to the Top of Murchison Falls. For the adventurous souls, a hike to the top of Murchison Falls is a must-do activity. This hike provides breathtaking views of the falls as the Nile River flows through a narrow 7-meter-wide space, making a loud noise and an amazing view.

Nile Boat Cruise. One of the highlights of visiting Murchison Falls is taking a boat safari along the Nile River. This allows you to get up close to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The boat trip ends excitingly as it nears the bottom of Murchison Falls. Here, the Nile River pushes through a narrow passage, making a strong waterfall.

Scenic Landscape. Beyond the wildlife, Murchison Falls boasts stunning landscapes, including vast savannah plains, dense forests, and the amazing Murchison Falls themselves. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this remarkable national park.

Exploring the Source of the Nile in Jinja.

Jinja is the starting point of the Nile River. Self-driving to Jinja allows you to engage in a range of activities, including white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and kayaking. The drive along the river provides beautiful views and a pick of local life.
Source of the Nile.

The source of the Nile is located at the northern end of Lake Victoria, near Jinja. This spot is marked by a memorial tablet of John Hanning Speke, the British explorer who first identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile in 1858.

Water Activities.

A range of water activities such as white-water rafting, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. The turbulent waters of the Nile provide an amazing experience for adventure enthusiasts.

Bujagali Falls.

Just downstream from the source of the Nile lies Bujagali Falls, a series of rapids and cascades. While the construction of a dam has altered the landscape, Bujagali remains a popular spot for relaxation and enjoying the beauty of the Nile.

Jinja has several historical sites worth visiting, including the Jinja Railway Station, which played a crucial role in Uganda’s colonial history, and the nearby town of Iganga, known for its traditional architecture and cultural heritage.

Additionally, to its natural attractions, Jinja offers opportunities to immerse yourself in Ugandan culture. You can visit local markets, interact with communities, and learn about the traditions and customs of the region.

Rwenzori Mountains.

The Rwenzori Mountains, commonly as the “Mountains of the Moon, display unforgettable experiences. A Self-drive adventure safari  gives you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. Treks can range from short hikes to multi-day expeditions to the snow-capped peaks.

Highlights.

The Rwenzori Mountains are famous for their challenging yet rewarding trekking routes. The Central Circuit and Kilembe Trail are popular options, offering trekkers the chance to reach the Margherita Peak, the highest point at 5,109 meters (16,762 feet).

Home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including several endemic species. You’ll encounter diverse landscapes ranging from dense tropical rainforests to alpine meadows and glaciers.

While trekking, you have a chance to see various wildlife species such as forest elephants, chimpanzees, Rwenzori colobus monkeys, and a variety of bird species.

The Rwenzori Mountains offer spectacular scenery with their rugged peaks, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation. The ever-changing weather adds to the amazing landscape.

Lake Bunyonyi.

Known as the “Place of Many Little Birds,” Lake Bunyonyi is one of Africa’s deepest lakes. It’s a serene destination perfect for relaxation and light adventure. You can drive to the lake and enjoy activities such as canoeing, bird watching, and hiking the surrounding hills.

What to do.

Visitors can explore the lake’s islands and enjoy the serene waters by dugout canoe or motorboat enjoying and as well spending their holiday in breath-taking atmospheres.

The lake’s clean, bilharzia-free waters make it safe for swimming. Free for swimmers and safe to cool your body temperature.
The surrounding hills and islands offer numerous trails with breathtaking views. For hikers, it’s a good activity that you can get a special panorama, capturing the best-ever camera shots.

Interacting with the local Bakiga and Batwa (Pygmy) communities provides insights into their traditional ways of life. Engaging in traditional works, such as weaving, traditional dances among other activities.

Accommodations.

Lake Bunyonyi offers a range of accommodations from budget-friendly campsites to luxury lodges.
Birdnest @ Bunyonyi Resort: A popular mid-range to luxury option known for its comfort and a better view.
Byoona Amagara: An eco-lodge on Itambira Island, emphasizing sustainable tourism practices within the area.
Bushara Island Camp: Known for its peaceful environment and eco-friendly cottages.

Nature of the place.

The lake is surrounded by terraced hills and lush vegetation, contributing to its picturesque landscape. It is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 bird species, including the African harrier-hawk, herons, and egrets.

Kidepo Valley National Park.

For those seeking a more remote and less-visited park, Kidepo Valley National Park in the northeastern part of Uganda is ideal. The drive to Kidepo is an adventure in itself, passing through stunning landscapes. The park is known for its rugged savanna, abundant wildlife, and cultural encounters with the Karamojong people.

Safari Options and Activities.

Game Drives: Morning and evening game drives are the most popular way to explore the park. You can see a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and several species.

Guided Nature Walks: These walks, often led by experienced rangers, provide an opportunity to experience the park’s flora and fauna up close with corrective security and a lead-through by these rangers providing you with viable information.

Cultural Visits: Visits to the local Karamojong villages offer a unique cultural experience where you can learn about the traditions and lifestyles of the local people. Storytelling, social activities, and traditional dances among other activities.

Birders: With over 475 bird species, Kidepo Valley is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The dry Season (December to February and June to August) is the best time for bird watching as the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot birds.

You have a chance to spot different bird species, Ostriches, Kori Bustard, African Swallow-tailed Kite, Pygmy Falcon, Purple Grenadier, Secretary Birds among other bird species.

Hiking and Mountain Climbing: The Morungole Mountains and other scenic natural spots provide excellent hiking opportunities for hikers.

Accommodation Options

Luxury Lodges: Several high-end lodges are offering luxurious accommodations, such as Apoka Safari Lodge, which provides all-inclusive packages.

Mid-range Lodges: These offer comfortable accommodations with fewer amenities compared to luxury lodges. They include places like Nga’Moru Wilderness Camp.

Budget Lodging: Basic accommodations and campsites are available for budget travelers. UWA Bandas (run by the Uganda Wildlife Authority) offer basic facilities for an affordable price.

Best Time to Visit.

June to September and December to February are the best times for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. March to May and October to November can make some roads Inaccessible but the park is lush and green, and bird watching is excellent.

Sipi Falls

Activities you can enjoy at Sipi Falls.

Hiking and Nature Walks: Sipi Falls consists of three main waterfalls, and you can take guided hikes to each of them. The trails vary in difficulty and offer breathtaking views of the waterfalls and the surrounding landscape. The atmosphere is worth for staying and brings a sense of relaxation in your mind.

Mount Elgon Treks: For more adventurous hikers, multi-day treks up Mount Elgon are available. These hikes let you see different plants and animals, like bamboo forests and heather moorlands.

Abseiling: Feel the excitement of abseiling down a 100-meter cliff next to one of the waterfalls. This adventure gives you a rush of adrenaline and amazing views of the falls and the valley below.

Rock Climbing: There are several rock climbing spots around Sipi Falls, suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. The activity offers challenging routes and spectacular views.

Photography: The stunning scenery around Sipi Falls makes it a perfect spot for photography. Whether you are a professional photographer or an amateur, you will find plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty of the area. You right free to capture selfies bonding with natural enthusiasts.

Join or learn about different community development projects: A right to visit schools, health centers, or other community projects. This gives you a look at local efforts to make life better.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

On your way to Murchison Falls or as a standalone trip, a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a must. It’s the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in the wild. The sanctuary offers guided walking tours to see the rhinos up close. About 3-4 hours’ drive north of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda.

Additional Activities.

Nature Walks: There are nature walks available where you will be exploring the sanctuary’s diverse flora and fauna under the guidance of experienced game rangers who will be giving you insights, throughout the entire trek.

Bird Watching: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to over 350 bird species, a special place best for birders, the sanctuary offers guided bird walks, led by knowledgeable guides who can help you spot and identify various bird species. These walks typically take you through different habitats within the sanctuary, including savannahs, swamps, and woodlands.

Explore the sanctuary at night with a guide to see animals like bush babies, porcupines, and nightjars. Get yourself a good torch that will help you visualize objects at night and as well helping you to secure your paths.
Navigate nearby villages to understand the local culture and community projects. These visits help you see how people live and contribute to protecting the environment.

Camping: You can stay overnight at the sanctuary and experience its sounds and sights after dark.
At Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you can go on walking safaris to see rhinos up close in their natural home. This lets you watch these amazing animals from a safe spot and take beautiful photos.

Witnessing these incredible creatures in person can create lasting memories for you. The sight of a rhino roaming freely in the sanctuary’s vast landscape is an awe-inspiring experience that many visitors cherish for years to come.

The visit to Ziwa comes with different options and many activities to take on, however, the renowned and famous one is the visit and spot on the rhinos, despite other factors as mentioned above, visitors have a range of options to choose where to go.

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