East Africa by Road: A 3-Week Journey Through Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania - Self Drive

Have you ever wanted to see the rolling hills of Rwanda, the bustling streets of Uganda, or the endless savannas of Tanzania? I decided to take the plunge and embark on a 3-week road trip across these incredible countries—and let me tell you, it was as thrilling as it was enlightening!

The Prep Work: What You Need Before Hitting the Road.

Before you start dreaming of gorillas and safaris, let’s talk logistics. If you’re self-driving, here’s the holy grail of things you need:

• Yellow Fever Certificate: This tiny card is your passport to crossing borders. Note; if your yellow fever certificate is fake ( you did not really get the injection haha) the guys at Busia border will know. They will either ask you to pay a bribe for them to overlook that discrepancy or ask you to pay and get the jab.

• Car Documents: The original logbook or a copy with a bank’s consent letter if your car is financed.

  
  

  

  
  

• Driver’s License and COMESA Insurance: Valid across East Africa, this will save you from awkward roadside chats with officials.

• Cash and Cards: Change money at the border for better rates, but carry a Visa or Mastercard just in case.

• Your passport: Please carry your passport or an inter state pass.

  
  

  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  And here’s the kicker: Rwanda doesn’t charge customs fees. Yes, you heard me—completely free. Tanzania, on the other hand, tests your patience with slow border queues, so pack a book or a podcast. All countries should emulate Rwanda. More of that later in this post.

  
  
  
  

Week 1: Uganda - The Pearl of Africa

Crossing into Uganda through the Busia One-Stop Border was smoother than I expected. A friendly clearing agent guided me through the process (pro tip: tip them about $10—they’ll make your life easier).

The journey from Busia to Jinja offers roads that, while not perfectly marked, are manageable if you're familiar with Kenyan driving conditions. However, brace yourself for the stretch from Jinja to Kampala via a shortcut that dodges truck traffic—it's riddled with potholes and an absurd number of speed bumps. This road sees less traffic but demands caution, as the gaping holes can wreak havoc on your car if you're not careful. Once in Mukono, heading toward Kampala, be prepared for chaos: narrow two-way roads, relentless boda bodas, and gridlock that turned my drive into a four-hour ordeal.

Once in, Uganda’s charm unfolded with its bustling towns, serene Lake Victoria, and the breathtaking Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. A highlight? Gorilla trekking—an experience that’s worth every penny and bead of sweat.

While in Uganda, make time for a visit to the Kabaka’s Palace in Kampala, which offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the Buganda Kingdom.

The palace grounds include the chilling Idi Amin torture chambers, where dark moments of Uganda’s past are preserved as a reminder of resilience and the pursuit of justice. Walking through these chambers is a sobering experience, but it provides a deeper understanding of the country's complex history. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Kampala was vibrant and felt like a second Nairobi, complete with Mpesa and Kenyan banks like KCB, NCBA, and Equity.

Week 2: Rwanda - Land of a Thousand Hills

Rwanda welcomed me with its immaculate roads and stunning landscapes. Entering through the Kabale border was seamless, thanks to the efficient and polite officers. Did I mention customs is free here? Bless them. Commuting around Kigali is a breeze, use a boda boda, they will make you wear a helmet. No need to use uber cabs as they are 4 times more expensive and just not worth it, really.

Driving in Rwanda is a serene yet surprising experience. The country enforces a strict speed limit of 60 km/h across its impeccable roads—from the border to Kigali and beyond. For Kenyans used to zipping through highways, this might feel painfully slow, but there's no room for negotiation. Speed cameras are everywhere, and traffic police are highly efficient. If you over-speed, you'll face steep fines without any chance of "negotiation." The roads are world-class, and Kigali's cleanliness and organization are unmatched. Also, note: Rwanda drives on the right, so get ready to adjust!

Kigali, the capital, felt like a city from the future—clean, organized, and bursting with culture. Don’t miss the Kigali Genocide Memorial; it’s a sobering reminder of the nation’s resilience. And for the adrenaline junkies, Volcanoes National Park is a must.

Week 3: Tanzania - Endless Adventures

Ah, Tanzania. Crossing the border required Herculean patience, but the payoff was worth it. Endless plains, vibrant towns, and, of course, the Serengeti.

Driving through Tanzania is an adventure in itself. The stretch from the Rwandan border to Kahama is challenging, with gaping potholes and significant construction. This road demands careful navigation to avoid damaging your car. Tanzania’s vastness means long drives through remote villages, so always fuel up when you can, as petrol stations are few and far between. The route from Arusha to Namanga border, however, offers a stark contrast—well-maintained roads where speeds of 140–160 km/h are achievable. Watch out for traffic police, as speeding fines (or requests for bribes) are common. Drive safely and plan wisely!

If you’re a wildlife lover, prepare to be amazed. From Arusha to the Great Migration, every corner offered a postcard-worthy view. Fuel up your car and budget well—distances are vast, and costs can add up, but the experience is priceless.

Lessons Learned and Final Tips

• Plan for Fuel: Know your car’s kilometers per liter to budget effectively.

• Border Patience: Uganda and Rwanda? Quick and efficient. Tanzania? Pack snacks and good vibes.

• Stay Connected: Kenyan banks and Mpesa make payments easy, even abroad.

• Be Generous: Clearing agents at borders can be lifesavers—tip them well.

Final Thoughts

This road trip was more than just a journey—it was a deep dive into East Africa’s heart and soul. From Uganda’s vibrant culture to Rwanda’s serenity and Tanzania’s untamed beauty, each country left a mark on my soul.

Ready to hit the road? Let’s roll!