Car Rental in Uganda - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Uganda offers excellent flexibility for exploring the country's national parks, rural areas, and scenic routes where public transport is limited or non-existent. It's particularly recommended for safari trips to destinations like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, or Murchison Falls, where having your own vehicle provides freedom to move at your own pace. However, avoid renting for city travel in Kampala, where traffic congestion is severe and navigating can be stressful for visitors unfamiliar with local driving patterns. Uganda drives on the left side of the road, which may require adjustment for some tourists. Road conditions vary significantly—main highways connecting major cities are generally decent, but rural and park access roads can be rough, potholed, or unpaved, often requiring a 4WD vehicle, especially during rainy seasons. Driving can be challenging due to aggressive local driving styles, poorly marked roads, and occasional livestock on highways. Many tourists opt for car rental with a driver, which eliminates navigation stress and provides local knowledge. If self-driving, ensure comprehensive insurance coverage and verify current road conditions for your intended routes.

International Driving Permit

An IDP is typically required for foreign visitors driving in Uganda. Obtain this from your home country's automobile association before traveling.

Minimum Age

Most rental agencies in Uganda require drivers to be at least 23-25 years old, though this varies by company and vehicle type.

Valid Home Country License

You must present a valid driver's license from your home country along with your IDP. The license should be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.

Insurance Coverage

Third-party liability insurance is mandatory in Uganda. Comprehensive coverage is strongly recommended due to road conditions and verify what's included in your rental agreement.

Credit Card for Deposit

A valid credit card in the driver's name is generally required for the security deposit. Check specific requirements with your rental agency.

Temporary Ugandan Permit

Some sources indicate a temporary Ugandan driving permit may be needed for extended stays. Verify current requirements with rental agencies or local authorities.

Rent from established agencies at Entebbe International Airport or Kampala city center - international brands offer standardized service while local agencies may provide better rates, but verify insurance coverage and vehicle condition thoroughly before choosing.

Before driving off, document all existing damage with photos, check spare tire and jack, verify insurance documents, and ensure you have emergency contact numbers - road conditions vary significantly outside major cities.

Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me work in Uganda) before traveling as mobile data can be unreliable in rural areas, and consider hiring a local driver if unfamiliar with driving conditions and navigation in East Africa.

Fuel stations are common in cities but sparse in rural areas so fill up before long journeys - parking in Kampala requires vigilance, use guarded lots when available, and expect informal parking attendants in most areas.

Return the car with the agreed fuel level and allow extra time for the return inspection - keep all fuel receipts and document the vehicle's condition with timestamped photos to avoid disputes over damage claims.

Road conditions vary significantly in Uganda, with potholes and unpaved sections common outside major cities - drive cautiously and avoid night driving when visibility of road hazards is reduced.

Kampala experiences heavy traffic congestion during morning (7-9 AM) and evening (5-8 PM) rush hours - allow extra travel time and expect slow-moving traffic on major routes.

Boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) and matatus (minibuses) often make unpredictable maneuvers and may not follow standard traffic rules - maintain defensive driving and extra following distance.

Police and military checkpoints are common on highways and at city entry points - always carry your driving license, vehicle documents, and be prepared to stop when signaled by authorities.