Is it possible to rent a car to Bwindi for a Gorilla trekking vacation?

Seeking for an ultimate gorilla tracking experience in the cheapest way possible? Try renting a car with a driver or driving yourself to the popular Bwindi Forest by any reliable 4×4 of your choice. Yes, it is possible!

You have often read about Bwindi Impenetrable National Park as a true gem of East Africa and one of the most visited safari destinations in Uganda. It is time to explore it now without worrying about your budget as long as you have secured the Gorilla permissions at $800.

This tropical rain forested national park harbors almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla species, and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site sitting on 321 square kilometers in the southwestern corner of Uganda, on the edge of the Albertine Rift Valley. Bwindi forest is also known for its rugged terrain, rich biodiversity and many refer to it as a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. It derives its name from the local term Mubwindi, which means “a dark place,” referencing its dense and impenetrable nature.

Is the gorilla permit beyond your budget? Bwindi offers so much more that will add more memories on your Uganda self drive adventure including birding, nature walks, and cultural experiences with indigenous communities. Let’s explore how best you can plan your car rental in Uganda for a trip to the majestic Bwindi impenetrable forest.

Driving to Bwindi

A road trip to Bwindi is an adventure in itself whether on self-drive or with a driver. You can choose to begin the journey in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, or opt for a shorter cross-border route starting from Kigali, Rwanda. Remember you can rent a car from Rwanda and cross to Uganda either through Rwanda local car rental agencies or cross border car rental services in Uganda.

If starting from Kampala, it’s important to allocate at least four days for the trip. This allows time for travel, gorilla trekking, and a bit of rest. The drive from Kampala to Bwindi takes approximately 7 to 10 hours depending on the trailhead, with the final stretch often involving narrow, winding, and unpaved roads. The nearest gorilla route is Buhoma and farthest Rushaga while Kamapala so you need to plan accordingly. A 4×4 vehicle is essential to handle these tough terrains at all times even though rainy seasons or not.

On the other hand, renting a car with a driver in Uganda adds a layer of ease and safety to your journey especially on such timely trips. Drivers are often experienced in navigating Uganda’s roadways and can provide valuable insights about the country’s wildlife, culture, and hidden gems. This is especially helpful for first-time visitors or those who simply want to sit back and enjoy the views.

Best Cars for Bwindi Roads

Given the mountainous terrain and the unpredictable weather conditions around Bwindi, only certain vehicle types are suitable for this journey and these are what exactly are offered on the bucket list of Uganda car rental services. Among the most recommended options for car hire Uganda are the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Land Cruiser V8, Land Cruiser LX, and the Toyota RAV4.

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

This is one of the most popular 4×4 rentals in Uganda. It’s well-suited for long-distance travel with its balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and off-road capabilities. It comfortably fits 4 to 5 people and is perfect for travelers who want a mid-range but reliable option.

It has a great ground clearance and extra four-wheel capabilities that make it ideal even in the worst condition of the roads forexample in Ruhija and Rushaga.

Land Cruiser V8

The might Landcruiser V8 is a step up to the Landcruiser Prado Tx in terms of power and luxury. This full-size SUV comes with a powerful engine, high ground clearance, and advanced suspension systems that make it ideal for handling Bwindi’s steep, muddy roads. It also offers excellent comfort for longer journeys, making it a great choice for families or small groups.

However, it’s not budget friendly in terms of both rental charges and fuel efficiency. Its powerful 4500 cc petrol engine make it more thirst on such long routes.

Land Cruiser LX

Also referred to as hardtop due to its hard body, the Lx is known for its rugged durability and performance under extreme road conditions of African roads. This vehicle is particularly popular among hardcore adventurers and overlanders. Its simple design and powerful 4×4 system make it perfect for those planning to explore not just Bwindi, but other remote destinations across Uganda.

This car option might be a bit expensive in terms of rental charges but may save you a lot on fuel. It’s diesel engine powered on a manual transmission is so efficient on fuel even compared to the Land cruiser V8 or Prado Tx.

Toyota RAV4

Though more compact, the Toyota Rav4 can still manage the roads to Bwindi especially in the dry season due to its full-time four-wheel capability. It’s a good option for couples or solo travelers and those on a tight budget but still want a dependable 4WD.

However, RAV4s may struggle in deep mud or very rough conditions, so it’s best to check weather forecasts and road reports before setting off.

Connecting from Kigali

You can still drive yourself to Bwindi connecting from Kigali, Rwanda. This cross-border route has become increasingly popular route among travelers on limited time in Africa. Kigali is just a 4-to-6-hour drive from the southern sectors of Bwindi, such as Rushaga and Nkuringo, making it a quicker gateway to the gorillas as compared from Kampala.

Many car rental companies now offer cross-border rentals in Uganda with the necessary paperwork, insurance (like COMESA), and clearance to drive into Rwanda or Uganda. This allows travelers to experience the best of both countries – combining the neat, hilly landscapes of Rwanda with the wild, lush terrains of Uganda.