Car Rental in Kampala - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Kampala requires careful consideration of local conditions. The city drives on the left side of the road, which may challenge tourists from right-hand driving countries. Kampala's congested traffic, particularly during peak hours, makes self-driving stressful for visitors unfamiliar with aggressive local driving styles and informal road rules. Within the city center, ride-hailing apps and taxis often prove more practical than navigating chaotic roundabouts and limited parking. However, car rental becomes worthwhile for exploring Uganda's countryside, national parks, and attractions outside Kampala where public transport is limited. Road quality varies significantly—main highways connecting major towns are generally decent, while rural routes can be poorly maintained with potholes. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for upcountry travel, especially during rainy seasons. If you do rent, ensure comprehensive insurance coverage and familiarize yourself with local driving customs. Many tourists opt for hiring a car with a driver, which eliminates navigation stress while providing local knowledge. This option typically costs only moderately more than self-drive rental and proves valuable for first-time visitors to Uganda.

International Driving Permit

Generally required for foreign visitors renting cars in Uganda. Obtain an IDP from your home country's automobile association before traveling to Kampala.

Valid Home Country License

You must present a valid driver's license from your home country along with your IDP. The license should be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.

Minimum Age

Most rental agencies in Kampala require drivers to be at least 23-25 years old. Some companies may charge additional fees for drivers under 25.

Credit Card for Deposit

A valid credit card in the driver's name is typically required for the security deposit. Debit cards may not be accepted by most rental companies.

Comprehensive Insurance

Basic insurance is typically included, but comprehensive coverage with collision damage waiver (CDW) is strongly recommended due to local road conditions and traffic patterns.

Passport

A valid passport is required for identification and to complete rental documentation. Keep a copy with you while driving as additional identification.

International car rental agencies at Entebbe International Airport offer the most reliable vehicles and insurance coverage, though local agencies in Kampala city center may provide more competitive rates - inspect the vehicle thoroughly for existing damage and ensure all documentation is complete before driving off.

Download offline maps for Kampala before your trip as GPS signal can be unreliable in some areas, and familiarize yourself with major landmarks since street signage is often limited - local SIM cards with data are inexpensive and helpful for navigation apps.

Fuel stations are widely available in Kampala but less common in rural areas, so fill up before leaving the city - parking in the city center can be challenging, look for guarded parking lots rather than street parking for security.

Check the vehicle's condition including spare tire, jack, and warning triangle as road conditions vary significantly, and confirm whether the rental includes insurance coverage for damage and third-party liability - take photos of the car from all angles before departure.

Allow extra time when returning your rental car as Kampala traffic can be unpredictable, especially during morning and evening rush hours - confirm the exact return location and operating hours with your rental agency, as airport and city locations may have different schedules.

Kampala's roads often have potholes, unmarked speed bumps, and unpredictable pedestrian crossings - drive defensively and maintain lower speeds than posted limits, especially during rainy seasons when road conditions deteriorate significantly.

Traffic congestion in Kampala is severe during morning (7-10 AM) and evening (5-8 PM) rush hours, particularly on major routes - journey times can triple during peak periods, so plan accordingly and allow extra time.

Local driving customs include aggressive lane changes, boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) weaving through traffic, and minimal use of turn signals - expect the unexpected and maintain safe following distances at all times.

Police checkpoints are common throughout Kampala, particularly on main roads - always carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents, as officers may request these for inspection.