Self Drive Safaris in Uganda. Embarking on a self-drive safari in Uganda is an unforgettable way to experience the country’s breathtaking wildlife, landscapes, and culture at your own pace. With a sturdy 4×4 vehicle and a spirit of adventure, travelers can explore renowned national parks like Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley, encountering elephants, lions, giraffes, and even gorillas in their natural habitat. For those seeking both freedom and local expertise, companies like Kenlink Tours offer reliable vehicle rentals, itinerary support, and 24/7 assistance, helping travelers navigate Uganda’s sometimes challenging roads with confidence. Whether you prefer camping under the stars or staying in comfortable lodges, a self-drive safari through Uganda promises a remarkable journey through the Pearl of Africa.

Top Safari Destinations

Uganda offers several outstanding national parks for self-drive safaris. Murchison Falls National Park is a must-see, with dramatic waterfalls on the Nile and abundant wildlife like elephants, lions, giraffes, and crocodiles. Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector and boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, where hippos and buffalo gather. Kidepo Valley National Park in the remote northeast is a hidden gem, known for its rugged beauty and large herds of buffalo, along with lions and cheetahs. Lake Mburo National Park is smaller but easily accessible and offers zebras, impalas, and hippos, making it a great stopover. For a truly unique experience, visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for gorilla trekking, though this activity requires guided permits.

Best Time to Go for self drive safari in Uganda

The best time for a self-drive safari in Uganda is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. During these months, roads are in better condition, and wildlife gathers near water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The wet seasons, from March to May and October to November, bring lush landscapes and fewer crowds, but some roads—especially in remote parks—can become muddy and difficult to navigate. Kenlink Tours offers advice on seasonal travel, helping you choose the best time and route for your safari depending on your interests and comfort level.

10-Day Self-Drive Safari Itinerary in Uganda (with Kenlink Tours)

Day 1–2: Arrival in Entebbe + Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where Kenlink Tours can arrange to deliver your fully equipped 4×4 rental with GPS, maps, and all paperwork. Spend the first night in Entebbe to rest or explore the town’s botanical gardens and lakeside atmosphere. The next morning, begin your journey north to Murchison Falls National Park (about 6–7 hours’ drive). Along the way, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track Uganda’s only wild rhinos on foot—a great start to your safari. Overnight near the park gate or inside the park at lodges like Paraa Safari Lodge or Red Chilli Rest Camp.

Day 3–4: Explore Murchison Falls National Park

Spend two days discovering Murchison’s stunning savannah, riverbanks, and the dramatic falls where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge. Do early morning and late afternoon game drives to spot lions, giraffes, elephants, buffalo, and leopards. Take a boat safari up the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls for incredible hippo and crocodile viewing. Kenlink Tours can help pre-arrange park entry fees and recommend the best game tracks based on recent wildlife sightings.

Day 5–6: Queen Elizabeth National Park (via Hoima or Fort Portal)

Drive south through Hoima or Fort Portal (7–9 hours) toward Queen Elizabeth National Park. This scenic route takes you through tea plantations, crater lakes, and the Rift Valley escarpment. Once at Queen Elizabeth, enjoy game drives on Kasenyi Plains to see lions, elephants, and Uganda kobs. Don’t miss the Kazinga Channel boat cruise, where huge herds of hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, and water birds congregate. Stay at midrange options like Bush Lodge or splurge at Mweya Safari Lodge.

Day 7: Ishasha Sector (Tree-Climbing Lions)

Spend a day exploring the Ishasha sector in southern Queen Elizabeth, famous for its tree-climbing lions—one of the rarest lion behaviors in Africa. Drive slowly through fig trees and savannah, watching for lions lounging in the branches. Ishasha is also great for spotting topis, buffalo, and elephants. Kenlink Tours can suggest nearby lodges or campsites, like Enjojo Lodge or Ishasha Jungle Lodge, so you stay close to the action.

Day 8–9: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorilla Trekking)

Continue your adventure with a drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (4–5 hours), where you’ll prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. Gorilla permits must be secured months in advance, and Kenlink Tours can assist with the booking process. On trekking day, join an official park guide as you hike through thick rainforest to spend one magical hour observing a gorilla family. In the afternoon, relax at a lodge like Gorilla Mist Camp or Buhoma Lodge, surrounded by misty forest.

Day 10: Return to Entebbe / Optional Lake Mburo Stop

Start the journey back to Entebbe (8–10 hours), or break up the trip with a night at Lake Mburo National Park, only 4–5 hours away. Lake Mburo is a small but beautiful park known for zebras, impalas, and hippos. It’s a great final stop before returning the car in Entebbe. Kenlink Tours will coordinate your vehicle drop-off at the airport or your hotel and help ensure a smooth end to your adventure.

🗺 Google Maps Route Plan: Uganda Self-Drive Safari (10 Days)

✅ Day 1: Entebbe → Murchison Falls National Park

• Route: Entebbe → Kampala → Luwero → Nakasongola → Masindi → Murchison Falls

• Distance: ~305 km

• Driving time: 6–7 hours

• Key stop: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (near Nakasongola)

✅ Day 3: Murchison Falls → Fort Portal (optional overnight)

• Route: Masindi → Hoima → Kagadi → Kyenjojo → Fort Portal

• Distance: ~320 km

• Driving time: 7–8 hours

• Note: You can split the trip with an overnight in Fort Portal

✅ Day 4: Fort Portal → Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Route: Fort Portal → Kasese → Queen Elizabeth NP (Kasese or Mweya sector)

• Distance: ~150 km

• Driving time: 3–4 hours

• Optional stop: Crater lakes near Fort Portal

✅ Day 7: Queen Elizabeth NP → Ishasha sector

• Route: Mweya → Katunguru → Ishasha

• Distance: ~100 km

• Driving time: 2–3 hours

• Note: Ishasha is inside Queen Elizabeth NP

✅ Day 8: Ishasha → Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• Route: Ishasha → Kihihi → Buhoma sector (or Rushaga depending on permit)

• Distance: ~70–100 km

• Driving time: 3–4 hours

• Road: Dirt/gravel; go slow, especially after rain

✅ Day 10: Bwindi → Lake Mburo NP (optional) → Entebbe

• Route: Bwindi → Kabale → Ntungamo → Mbarara → Lyantonde → Lake Mburo → Kampala → Entebbe

• Distance: Bwindi → Lake Mburo: ~220 km (~5–6 hours)

• Distance: Lake Mburo → Entebbe: ~240 km (~5–6 hours)

• Note: You can skip Lake Mburo and go directly to Entebbe (~8–10 hours)

Packing List Essentials

• Valid passport + Uganda tourist visa

• International driving permit + driver’s license

• Park permits (gorilla, chimp, park entry)

• Lightweight safari clothing in neutral colors

• Waterproof jacket (especially in Bwindi)

• Binoculars + camera with zoom lens

• Offline GPS/maps + local SIM card (Kenlink provides)

• Extra cash (fuel, tips, local purchases)

• Personal first aid kit + medications

Recommended Lodges and Campsites

• Murchison Falls: Paraa Safari Lodge, Red Chilli Rest Camp

• Queen Elizabeth: Bush Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge

• Ishasha: Enjojo Lodge, Ishasha Jungle Lodge

• Bwindi: Buhoma Lodge, Gorilla Mist Camp

• Lake Mburo (optional): Rwakobo Rock, Mihingo Lodge

Tips for self drive in Uganda

• Always fuel up before entering parks—stations can be far apart.

• Start drives early (6–7 a.m.) for the best wildlife viewing.

• Drive cautiously; some roads have potholes or rough patches.

• Respect wildlife and never approach animals on foot.

• Use Kenlink Tours’ 24/7 support line if you face mechanical or logistical issues.