Arriving at Entebbe International Airport and planning to explore Uganda by car? Renting a vehicle offers fantastic freedom, but it’s good to know what to expect with the pickup process, potential costs, and the local driving conditions. This guide will walk you through everything you need to arrange a rental car smoothly.
Rental car desks are generally located within the main arrivals area of the airport. You’ll likely find representatives from several companies readily available. Common rental companies operating at Entebbe International Airport include well-known international providers and several local businesses. It’s a good idea to compare options and pre-book, especially during peak season.
The best vehicle for you depends on your travel plans. For city driving and shorter trips, an economy or compact car is often sufficient. If you’re heading into more rural areas or plan on some off-road exploration, a 4x4 SUV is highly recommended. Here’s a general idea of what’s typically available:
| Car Class | Typical Daily Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Economy | $30 - $50 |
| Compact | $40 - $60 |
| Intermediate | $50 - $70 |
| SUV (Small) | $70 - $100 |
| SUV (Large) | $100 - $150+ |
| Luxury | $150+ |
Prices change by season and availability.
Generally, you’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is often recommended, and sometimes required, especially if your license isn’t in English. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, but some companies may have higher age restrictions, particularly for certain vehicle classes. Be prepared to present your passport and a major credit card in the renter’s name. Deposits are standard, and the amount will be held on your credit card for the duration of the rental. Payment methods are typically major credit cards; debit cards are sometimes accepted, but often with restrictions.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental vehicle itself. Theft Protection covers loss or damage due to theft. Pay attention to the ‘excess’ – this is the amount you’d still be responsible for in the event of damage or theft. You can often reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this adds to the cost. Carefully review what your existing travel insurance or credit card benefits already cover before accepting additional insurance at the rental desk. Don’t hesitate to ask the agent to clearly explain the terms of each insurance option.
Driving in Uganda requires a bit of awareness. Roads vary significantly, from well-maintained highways to unpaved rural tracks. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on highways, but they aren’t always clearly marked. Parking can be found in most towns and cities, but it’s often unorganized and you may be asked to pay a small fee to a local attendant. Toll roads are not common. Be prepared for traffic, especially in and around Kampala, and always drive defensively. It’s also wise to avoid driving at night outside of major towns.
An IDP is often recommended, and sometimes required, especially if your driver’s license isn’t in English. Check with the rental company beforehand.
Major credit cards are typically accepted. Debit cards may be accepted with restrictions.
The excess is the amount you’re still responsible for if the car is damaged or stolen, even with insurance.
If you plan to explore outside of major cities or on unpaved roads, a 4x4 is highly recommended.
Road conditions vary greatly. Expect a mix of paved highways and unpaved rural roads.
It’s generally best to avoid driving at night outside of major towns and cities.
Carefully inspect the car for any existing damage and document it with the rental company before driving away.
A deposit will be held on your credit card for the duration of the rental and released upon the car’s safe return.
Yes, but you’ll usually need to pay an additional fee and the extra driver must meet the rental requirements.
Parking is often unorganized, and you may be asked to pay a small fee to a local attendant.
Toll roads are not common in Uganda.
Report the accident to the police and the rental company immediately. Get a police report for insurance purposes.