Is it easy to get around Uganda? Uganda is a beautiful and diverse country filled with stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and incredible wildlife experiences. While traveling around Uganda can be an exciting adventure, the ease of getting from one place to another depends on your mode of transport, your budget, and your level of flexibility. In this guide, we explore the main ways to travel within Uganda, what to expect, and tips for making your journey smoother.

1. Road Travel – The Most Common Option

The majority of travel in Uganda happens on the road. The country has a network of tarmac highways connecting major cities like Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja, Gulu, and Mbarara. However, once you move off the main roads into rural areas, you will encounter gravel or dirt roads, which can become muddy and challenging during the rainy season.

Self-Drive

If you are comfortable driving in unfamiliar conditions, renting a car is an option. Many visitors hire 4×4 vehicles, especially if they plan to visit national parks or remote areas. Road signs are limited, so using a GPS or hiring a driver is advisable. Traffic in Kampala can be congested, and road etiquette may differ from what you’re used to.

Private Driver or Tour Company

For most tourists, hiring a private driver through a tour company is the easiest way to get around. The driver knows the routes, local language, and best stops along the way. It also saves you from the stress of navigating busy traffic and rough terrain.

2. Public Transport – Affordable but Less Comfortable

If you’re traveling on a budget or want to experience Uganda like a local, public transport is an option. However, it comes with a trade-off in comfort and reliability.

Matatus (Minibuses)

Matatus are shared minivans that operate between towns and cities. They are cheap but often crowded, with no strict departure times—they leave when full. For short distances, they are manageable, but for long trips, they can be tiring.

Boda Bodas (Motorcycle Taxis)

Boda bodas are a quick way to move within towns and cities. They can weave through traffic and save time, but they can be risky if the rider is reckless. Always wear a helmet, and choose licensed riders where possible.

Coaches and Long-Distance Buses

For intercity travel, larger bus companies like Link, YY Coaches, or Modern Coast offer a more comfortable alternative to matatus. They have fixed departure times, larger seats, and more luggage space.

3. Domestic Flights – Quick but Costly

Uganda has a few domestic flight options, ideal for travelers who want to save time when visiting distant regions like Kidepo Valley National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Aerolink Uganda and Bar Aviation operate scheduled and charter flights from Entebbe to airstrips in national parks.

Flying reduces travel time significantly—what would be a 10-hour road trip could take just over an hour. However, flights are more expensive and may not run daily, so booking in advance is essential.

4. Getting Around Cities

Kampala

Uganda’s capital is busy, with heavy traffic during rush hours. Besides boda bodas, ride-hailing apps like SafeBoda, Bolt, and Uber make it easier to book safe and fairly priced rides.

Entebbe

Entebbe is smaller and calmer, with taxis and boda bodas as the main forms of transport. Walking is also pleasant for short distances, especially along the shores of Lake Victoria.

Other Towns

In towns like Jinja, Gulu, and Mbarara, you can move around by boda boda, shared taxis, or on foot for shorter distances.

5. Travel Times and Distances

Uganda is not a huge country, but travel times can be longer than expected due to road conditions, traffic, and speed limits. For example:

• Kampala to Jinja: 2–3 hours (about 80 km)

• Kampala to Murchison Falls NP: 5–6 hours

• Kampala to Bwindi: 8–10 hours
  Always plan extra time in your itinerary for delays or stops along the way.

6. Safety and Travel Tips

• Plan Ahead: Research your routes and know the estimated travel times.

• Travel During Daylight: Roads are less safe at night due to poor lighting and the risk of encountering animals or broken-down vehicles.

• Use Reliable Transport Providers: Especially for long journeys or airport transfers.

• Carry Cash: Mobile money is common, but cash is still necessary in many rural areas.

• Check the Weather: Heavy rain can make some roads, especially in remote areas, temporarily impassable.

7. Pros and Cons of Getting Around Uganda

Pros

• Multiple transport options for different budgets.

• Scenic road journeys with opportunities to see landscapes and wildlife.

• Friendly locals who are often willing to help with directions.

Cons

• Roads outside cities can be rough.

• Public transport can be overcrowded and unpredictable.

• Travel times can be long, even for short distances.