Traveling independently/Self driving in Uganda?
Most visitors who come to Uganda travel around in a package safari tour, in small groups and with a local driver. This makes sense and offers a certain level of comfort but let us tell you: It’s definitely less of an experience! What most people don’t know.
Even though Uganda is not as developed in terms of tourism and infrastructure (as South Africa, for example) and there is no “backpacking trail” catering to the needs of independent travelers, you can definitely explore it on your own without a group, guide or driver. You can either rent your own car via specialized rental companies such as Roadtrip Uganda, or travel around using public transport.
Public transport vs. Self driving in Uganda.
Most Ugandans can’t afford a car so public transport is very important. The local means of transport are „matatus“ (mini buses that run frequently between towns and villages) and „boda-bodas“ (motorbike taxis, to be found almost anywhere). There are also some bigger buses (coaches) running regularly between Kampala and larger towns.
However, the matatus are often overcrowded with passengers and we often came across matatus that had broken down on the road. They tend to drive fast (quite dangerous on the washboard/dirt roads) and to pull over and stop at any moment (usually when there’s a passenger flagging it down at the side of the road or if someone wants to get off). The motor bike taxis are fun but also very bumpy and not very safe, either. (And you won’t be able to carry a lot of luggage on them).
Using public transport in Uganda is an interesting, fun experience but comparing the two, we recommend you travel around in your own rental car. Why, you may ask?