Your African Adventure Awaits
Explore our premier destinations across the continent: Uganda Kenya Tanzania Rwanda Burundi South Sudan DR Congo Botswana
Experience the wild your way with reliable 4×4 self-drive safari vehicles, expertly guided wildlife safaris, thrilling camping adventures, breathtaking gorilla trekking tours, and unforgettable African road trips.
Drive Your Own
African Narrative
Expertly prepared 4×4 vehicles for cross-border expeditions through East Africa’s savannahs and Botswana’s pristine delta waterways.
Why Combine These Regions?
A self-drive safari across East Africa and Botswana offers the ultimate contrast: from the sheer volume of the Great Migration to the exclusive, untouched tranquility of the Okavango.
Iconic Mega-Fauna
Access the highest density of ‘Big Five’ sightings globally across Serengeti and Chobe ecosystems.
Total Sovereignty
No fixed schedules. If you find a pride of lions at sunrise, you stay as long as you wish. Our 4x4s are your mobile base camp.
Primate Encounters
Seamlessly pivot from the dry savannahs to the misty forests of Uganda and Rwanda for Gorilla trekking.
Botswana: The Wild Heart
The gold standard for exclusive safaris. Remote, rugged, and remarkably beautiful.
The Delta & Moremi
Navigate the world’s largest inland delta. A labyrinth of lagoons and hidden islands.
- Mokoro (Canoe) Expeditions
- High-density Leopard sightings
- Birding Paradise
The Elephant Empire
Chobe National Park hosts over 70,000 elephants. Further south, the Kalahari offers desert solitude.
- Sunset River Cruises
- San Bushmen Culture
- Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
East Africa: The Birthplace of Safari
From the plains of the Serengeti to the peaks of the Virungas.
Tanzania & Kenya
The stage for the Great Migration. Vast open plains and the unique Ngorongoro Crater.
Uganda & Rwanda
The “Pearl of Africa.” Where the savannah meets the rainforest. Home of the Mountain Gorilla.
Frontier Expeditions
For the true explorer: We facilitate heavy-duty 4×4 rentals for DR Congo and South Sudan.
When to Embark?
Timing is everything in Africa. Depending on your goals—whether it’s the Migration river crossings or Delta floodwaters—we help you time your journey perfectly.
- Dry Season: (June – Oct) Best for wildlife viewing as animals congregate.
- Green Season: (Nov – April) Stunning photography, birding, and lower rates.
- Calving: (Jan – Feb) Witness thousands of newborns in the Serengeti.
Essential Resources
Prepare for your journey with our expert guides.
Engineered for the Terrain
Land Cruiser 70 Series
The undisputed king of the bush. Manual, rugged, and unstoppable.
Hilux Double Cab
Equipped with Rooftop Tents and full camping kits for the ultimate freedom.
Custom Safari Vans
Pop-up roofs and reinforced suspension for photography-focused groups.
Start Your Expedition
Our team provides 24/7 support, satellite tracking, and comprehensive insurance so you can explore with confidence.
Seeking a guided experience? Visit our partner: Apes & Wildlife Safaris
Drive YourOwn Safari.
Trusted 4×4 hire, safari vans and chauffeur expeditions across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DR Congo and Botswana — from $40/day.
Every Vehicle. Every Terrain.
From the mud tracks of Bwindi to Botswana’s Kalahari salt pans — our full fleet is GPS-fitted, serviced before every hire and ready for Africa’s toughest roads. Self-drive or add an experienced driver-guide for $20–25/day extra.
Land Cruiser TX (Prado)
Commanding road presence with pop-up roof for game drives. Ideal for couples, solo travellers and business trips. Available with cooler box, child seat and rooftop tent on request. Best for gorilla trekking and national park safaris.
Book via WhatsAppLand Cruiser GX
Old school durability with modern touches. Exceptional off-road capability across Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania national parks. Spacious interior with generous head and leg room. Rooftop tent available on request.
Book via WhatsAppLand Cruiser V8
Premium suspension, dual-zone A/C and LED lighting. The finest daily driver in our fleet for long-distance overland through DR Congo, South Sudan and Botswana. Discounted monthly rates available for long-term hire.
Book via WhatsAppLand Cruiser Hardtop / J76
Built for safari enthusiasts demanding a luxurious yet rugged experience. Easy-to-use infotainment system, pop-up roof for game drives and full camping gear on request. The choice for serious East Africa expeditions.
Book via WhatsAppToyota RAV4
The most affordable 4×4 in the fleet. Perfect for solo travellers and couples on a budget. Handles Uganda’s park tracks and Rwanda’s rolling hills with ease. Fuel-efficient and easy in city traffic. Monthly rates available.
Book via WhatsAppToyota Hilux 4×4
Performance with flair for diplomatic travel and business road trips. Modern comfort and tech with a large cargo bed for equipment and supplies. Versatile and prestigious — equally at home in Kampala or the Kalahari.
Book via WhatsAppToyota Hiace Safari Van
Premier choice for gorilla trekking groups and family safaris. Pop-up roof gives unobstructed 360-degree game viewing. Spacious reclining seats, ample luggage space and USB charging points throughout the cabin.
Book via WhatsAppToyota Hiace 4WD
All the space of the standard Hiace with added 4WD traction for rough national park roads. Excellent for groups needing a combination of passenger comfort and genuine off-road capability on challenging routes.
Book via WhatsAppToyota Super Custom
Luxury executive van for large groups, corporate transfers and premium airport runs. Leather interior, full climate control and tinted windows. Ideal for Kampala–Entebbe, Nairobi and Kigali executive connections.
Book via WhatsAppToyota Quantum
Spacious and reliable for group wildlife photography tours. The Quantum’s high roof and wide interior provide outstanding comfort and camera space for professional film crews and photography groups on extended safari circuits.
Book via WhatsAppToyota Fortuner
The most stylish SUV in the fleet. The Fortuner combines prestige interior finish with genuine 4WD capability for national parks and mixed terrain. Excellent choice for executives, honeymoon couples and premium self-drive safaris.
Book via WhatsAppLand Rover Defender
Designed for performance and practicality in the world’s toughest conditions. Tow bar fitted, robust diesel engine, and dependable in rain, mud and sunshine. A favourite for NGO field teams and serious overland expeditions.
Book via WhatsAppNissan Patrol
High ground clearance conquering Uganda’s roughest terrain roads. Built for occasional heavy off-road travel and long-distance road trips. Reliable diesel engine that handles the demands of multi-country overland expeditions.
Book via WhatsAppCampervan / Rooftop Tent
Fully self-contained for multi-week camping expeditions across Uganda, Tanzania and Botswana. Rooftop tent, two-burner camp stove, cooking equipment, 50L fridge, jerry cans, recovery tracks and first aid kit all included.
Book via WhatsAppOverland Safari Truck
The ultimate vehicle for large group overland expeditions. Full cooking galley, sleeping setup, fridge, power inverter and 4WD capability for the most remote destinations across East and Central Africa. Film crews and expedition groups welcome.
Book via WhatsAppIneos Grenadier Safari
The newest and most capable vehicle in the fleet. The Ineos Grenadier is engineered from the ground up for serious off-road work with a premium modern interior. The choice for discerning travellers who demand the very best.
Book via WhatsAppEight Countries. One Team.
Full in-country logistics, border crossing support, route planning and park permits — across all eight destinations we cover. For fully guided safari packages including accommodation and gorilla permits, visit our partner Apes & Wildlife Safaris.
Uganda
The Pearl of Africa — Gorillas, Chimps, Nile & Savanna
Uganda self-drive 4×4 hire opens the most biodiverse country in East Africa. All key national parks are accessible within a single overland circuit from Kampala.
Kenya
Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo & the Great Rift Valley
Kenya 4×4 self-drive safari puts the world’s most iconic wildlife landscapes within reach. Kenya’s good roads and year-round wildlife make it one of Africa’s most rewarding self-drive destinations.
Tanzania
Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro & Zanzibar
Tanzania self-drive safari offers the full spectrum of Africa in one country — endless plains, volcanic craters, primate forests, tropical islands and Kilimanjaro.
Rwanda
Land of a Thousand Hills — Gorillas, Golden Monkeys & Volcanoes
Rwanda 4×4 hire from Kigali is the most accessible gateway to mountain gorilla trekking. Rwanda’s clean roads and compact size make it East Africa’s most self-drive-friendly destination.
Burundi
Africa’s Best-Kept Secret — Lake Tanganyika & Ancient Rainforest
Burundi 4×4 hire serves adventurous travellers going beyond the well-worn East Africa trail. Almost entirely undiscovered by international tourism — genuine frontier Africa.
South Sudan
The Sudd, Africa’s Hidden Migration & the World’s Newest Nation
South Sudan 4×4 hire from Juba is for serious expedition travellers. This is raw, undiscovered frontier Africa — requiring reliable vehicles, professional driver-guides and careful preparation.
DR Congo
Virunga, Nyiragongo, Lowland Gorillas & the Congo Basin
DR Congo 4×4 hire is the ultimate African adventure. We manage all DRC entry logistics and border crossings from Rwanda and Uganda, with experienced driver-guides who know the terrain.
Botswana
Okavango Delta, Chobe, Kalahari — The World’s Finest Self-Drive
Botswana self-drive safari is widely the benchmark for African wilderness travel. Low-density tourism, exceptional wildlife and extraordinary landscapes deliver an experience unlike anywhere else on the continent.
What Travellers Say About Us
Absolutely incredible service from start to finish. The Land Cruiser was immaculate and perfectly equipped for our Bwindi gorilla trek. Solomon and the team responded instantly to every question. Cannot recommend highly enough.
We did a 14-day self-drive circuit through Uganda and Rwanda. The vehicle was in perfect condition throughout — no mechanical issues on any of the rough park roads. The GPS and pre-loaded maps were a lifesaver. Will book again for Tanzania.
Car Hire Africa arranged our DR Congo Virunga expedition logistics — border crossing, permits and a knowledgeable driver-guide. The Nyiragongo summit was a life-changing experience made possible by their expert local knowledge.
Our NGO has used Car Hire Africa for field vehicle hire across Uganda, South Sudan and DR Congo for three years. Consistently reliable, competitively priced and the team understands the demands of serious field operations.
Booked a camping Land Cruiser for a Botswana circuit — Chobe, Moremi and the Central Kalahari. The vehicle was flawlessly equipped. Woke up to lions outside the tent in Savuti. This company makes extraordinary experiences possible.
As a travel agent I have sent over 20 clients to Car Hire Africa in the past two years. Every single one has come back raving about the service and the quality of the vehicles. The group discount rates are excellent. A true partner.
The Reasons We Stand Apart
Start Your Safari.
Fill in your details and we will send a personalised quote within 2 hours via WhatsApp or email. No payment required.
Car Hire Africa — East & Central Africa’s Leading 4×4 Self-Drive Specialists
Car Hire Africa is a Kampala-based vehicle rental and safari company with 14 years of experience providing 4×4 self-drive hire, chauffeur-driven safaris and multi-country overland expeditions across eight African nations. Our fleet of Toyota Land Cruisers, Hiace Safari Vans, Hilux, Fortuner, Land Rover Defenders and Overland Trucks has carried over 2,000 clients through some of the most spectacular landscapes on the continent.
Uganda Self-Drive 4×4 Car Hire — From $40/Day
Uganda self-drive safari is our flagship service. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to almost half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Queen Elizabeth National Park’s tree-climbing lions, Murchison Falls’ thundering Nile and Kibale Forest’s 1,500 chimpanzees are all accessible within a single overland circuit from Kampala/Entebbe. Our Land Cruiser TX at $70/day is the most popular choice.
Kenya Self-Drive Safaris — Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo
Kenya 4×4 car hire opens up the Masai Mara’s Great Wildebeest Migration, Amboseli’s Kilimanjaro elephant photography and Tsavo’s red-dust elephants. Vehicles available from Nairobi JKIA with cross-border options connecting Uganda and Tanzania on seamless multi-country itineraries.
Tanzania Self-Drive — Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Zanzibar
The Tanzania self-drive northern circuit — Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro — is one of Africa’s great road trip experiences. Our camping Land Cruiser package includes all equipment for a fully self-sufficient Serengeti expedition. Southern Tanzania’s Ruaha and Selous offer outstanding wilderness with far fewer tourists.
Rwanda 4×4 Hire Kigali — Gorilla Trekking & Big Five
Rwanda self-drive from Kigali is the most accessible route to mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Rwanda’s clean roads and compact size make it East Africa’s most driver-friendly destination. Nyungwe’s chimpanzees and canopy walkway, and Akagera’s Big Five complete a outstanding Rwanda circuit.
Botswana Self-Drive Safari 2026 — Okavango, Chobe, Kalahari
Botswana self-drive 2026 with Car Hire Africa. Our fully kitted camping Land Cruiser packages include GPS maps, rooftop tent, 50L fridge, recovery gear and a pre-departure vehicle briefing. Chobe’s 130,000 elephants, the Okavango Delta’s mokoro channels and the Central Kalahari’s black-maned lions await.
Explore by Destination
Select a country to explore parks, highlights and self-drive details
Uganda
The most biodiverse country in East Africa. All major national parks are reachable within a single overland loop from Kampala/Entebbe. Half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas live here — along with 1,500 chimpanzees, tree-climbing lions and the world’s most powerful waterfall.
- Gorilla Trekking
- Chimp Tracking
- Tree-Climbing Lions
- Murchison Falls
- Shoebill Stork
- Great Rift Valley
Top Parks & Sites
- Bwindi Impenetrable NP Gorilla trekking
- Queen Elizabeth NP Tree-climbing lions
- Murchison Falls NP Nile & Big 5
- Kibale Forest NP Chimp tracking
- Kidepo Valley NP Remote wilderness
- Lake Mburo NP Zebra & hippo
Good main roads; park tracks can be rough. Bwindi routes require 4WD.
Kenya
Home to the Masai Mara — the most iconic wildlife reserve on earth. Year-round Big Five viewing, the world-famous Mara River crossings from July–October, and Amboseli’s elephants framed against Kilimanjaro make Kenya a bucket-list self-drive destination.
- Great Migration
- Big Five
- Amboseli Elephants
- Samburu Specials
- Flamingo Lakes
- Kilimanjaro Views
Top Parks & Sites
- Masai Mara NR Migration & lions
- Amboseli NP Elephants & Kilimanjaro
- Tsavo East & West Red elephants
- Lake Nakuru NP Rhino sanctuary
- Samburu NR Special Five
- Hell’s Gate NP Cycling safaris
Good tarmac roads, clear signage. Most parks accessible in a RAV4 or Prado.
Tanzania
The Serengeti hosts Africa’s largest resident lion prides and the largest animal migration on earth. Ngorongoro Crater encloses 25,000 animals in one caldera. Add Zanzibar’s Indian Ocean beaches and you have Africa’s most complete single-country safari experience.
- Serengeti Migration
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Zanzibar Island
- Kilimanjaro
- Wild Dogs — Ruaha
- Chimpanzees
Top Parks & Sites
- Serengeti NP Migration & predators
- Ngorongoro Crater Big Five caldera
- Tarangire NP Elephant & baobab
- Ruaha NP Lions & wild dogs
- Zanzibar Island Beach & culture
- Gombe Stream NP Chimpanzees
Northern circuit roads are good. Southern parks (Ruaha, Selous) require an experienced driver and proper 4WD.
Rwanda
The most self-drive-friendly country in East Africa. Immaculate tarmac roads, compact distances and excellent infrastructure. Volcanoes National Park is the world’s premier mountain gorilla trekking destination — and Akagera now has all Big Five after successful lion and rhino reintroduction.
- Mountain Gorillas
- Golden Monkeys
- Big Five — Akagera
- Canopy Walkway
- Lake Kivu
- Kigali City
Top Parks & Sites
- Volcanoes NP Gorilla trekking
- Akagera NP Big Five safari
- Nyungwe Forest NP Chimp & canopy walk
- Lake Kivu Scenic lakeside
- Kigali Genocide Memorial History & culture
Best roads in East Africa. Ideal for first-time self-drivers. A RAV4 handles most routes.
Burundi
Almost entirely undiscovered by international tourism. Lake Tanganyika — the world’s second deepest lake — offers crystal-clear freshwater swimming and 250+ endemic fish species. For the traveller who wants genuine frontier Africa without the crowds.
- Lake Tanganyika
- Chimpanzees
- Endemic Cichlids
- Kibira Rainforest
- Karera Waterfalls
- No Tourist Crowds
Top Parks & Sites
- Lake Tanganyika Swimming & kayaking
- Kibira NP Chimp & rainforest
- Rusizi NP Hippo & crocodile
- Karera Waterfalls Scenic gorges
- Bujumbura City Culture & cuisine
Main roads are paved; park tracks rough. Driver-guide strongly recommended for first visits.
South Sudan
The world’s newest nation and one of Africa’s last true wildlife frontiers. Boma National Park hosts a little-known migration that rivals the Serengeti in scale — witnessed by only a handful of visitors each year. For serious expedition travellers only.
- Boma Migration
- The Sudd Wetlands
- Shoebill Stork
- Nile Fola Rapids
- Frontier Exploration
- Nile Lechwe
Top Parks & Sites
- Boma NP Hidden migration
- The Sudd Ramsar wetland
- Nimule NP Nile & elephants
- Bandingilo NP Antelope migration
- Juba Gateway city
Remote terrain, limited infrastructure. Professional driver-guide and full expedition prep required.
DR Congo
Virunga National Park — Africa’s oldest park — holds more species than any other protected area on the continent. Nyiragongo’s lava lake summit is one of the world’s most extraordinary overnight experiences. We manage all DRC entry logistics and border crossings from Rwanda and Uganda.
- Nyiragongo Volcano
- Mountain Gorillas
- Lowland Gorillas
- Forest Elephants
- Congo Basin
- Okapi
Top Parks & Sites
- Virunga NP Gorillas & volcanoes
- Nyiragongo Volcano Lava lake summit
- Kahuzi-Biega NP Lowland gorillas
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve Congo basin
- Lake Kivu (DRC side) Goma & Bukavu
We handle all logistics, permits and border crossings. Experienced driver-guide included in all DRC packages.
Botswana
The benchmark for exclusive African wilderness travel. Low-density tourism, pristine ecosystems and extraordinary wildlife across the Okavango Delta, Chobe’s 130,000 elephants and the Central Kalahari’s vast silence. Our fully kitted camping Land Cruiser packages include everything you need.
- Okavango Delta
- 130,000 Elephants
- Wild Dogs
- Black-Maned Lions
- Kalahari Desert
- Mokoro Canoe Trips
Top Parks & Sites
- Chobe NP Highest elephant density
- Okavango Delta UNESCO World Heritage
- Moremi GR Wild dogs & leopard
- Central Kalahari GR Desert wilderness
- Makgadikgadi Pans Salt flats & flamingo
Good main roads; Delta and Kalahari tracks require a proper 4WD with recovery gear. Fully equipped Land Cruiser essential.
Sample Self-Drive Itineraries
Starting point routes — customise any itinerary via WhatsApp
Gorillas, Chimps & Queen Elizabeth
- D1Entebbe → Kibale — Arrive, collect vehicle, drive to Fort Portal (4hrs)
- D2Kibale Forest — Morning chimp tracking, afternoon nature walk
- D3Kibale → Queen Elizabeth NP — Afternoon game drive, Kazinga Channel cruise
- D4Queen Elizabeth — Full day: Ishasha sector tree-climbing lions
- D5QENP → Bwindi — Drive to Bwindi, briefing for gorilla trek
- D6Bwindi — Morning gorilla trekking (permit required)
- D7Bwindi → Entebbe — Scenic drive back, vehicle return
Full Uganda Circuit — North & South
- D1Entebbe → Murchison Falls — Drive north (5hrs), sunset boat cruise
- D2–3Murchison Falls NP — Game drives, Nile boat to falls base, shoebill search
- D4Murchison → Kibale — Drive south through Kampala (6hrs)
- D5Kibale — Chimp tracking, optional Big Swamp walk
- D6–7Queen Elizabeth NP — Game drives AM/PM, Kazinga cruise, Ishasha lions
- D8–9Bwindi — Gorilla trek Day 1, optional habituation experience Day 2
- D10Return Entebbe — Full day drive, vehicle return by 6pm
Masai Mara & Amboseli Classic
- D1Nairobi → Masai Mara — Collect vehicle, drive to Mara (5hrs)
- D2–3Masai Mara — Full-day game drives, Big Five, lion prides
- D4Mara → Lake Nakuru — Drive through Narok, afternoon flamingo viewing
- D5Nakuru → Amboseli — Drive via Nairobi, arrive Amboseli late afternoon
- D6Amboseli NP — Full day: elephant herds with Kilimanjaro backdrop
- D7Amboseli → Nairobi — Morning game drive, drive to Nairobi, vehicle return
Northern Circuit — Serengeti & Crater
- D1Arusha → Tarangire — Collect vehicle, afternoon game drive
- D2Tarangire — Full day: elephants, baobab forests, dry river wildlife
- D3Tarangire → Serengeti — Drive through Ngorongoro highlands (5hrs)
- D4–5Serengeti NP — Two full days: migration, lion prides, cheetah & leopard
- D6Ngorongoro Crater — Full crater descent: Big Five in one caldera
- D7Ngorongoro → Arusha — Scenic highland drive, Maasai boma visit
- D8Fly to Zanzibar — Optional beach extension (3–5 nights)
Gorillas, Big Five & Lake Kivu
- D1Kigali → Musanze — Collect vehicle, drive to Volcanoes NP area (2.5hrs)
- D2Volcanoes NP — Morning gorilla trekking, afternoon golden monkeys
- D3Musanze → Akagera NP — Drive across Rwanda (3hrs)
- D4Akagera NP — Full day Big Five game drives, Lake Ihema boat safari
- D5Akagera → Kigali — Morning game drive, return vehicle, depart
Chobe, Moremi & the Kalahari
- D1Kasane → Chobe NP — Collect vehicle, afternoon Chobe River boat cruise
- D2–3Chobe NP — Game drives: 130,000 elephants, lions, wild dogs
- D4Chobe → Moremi — Drive into Okavango, Moremi GR entry
- D5–6Moremi GR — Wild dog territory, mokoro canoe option, leopard & lion
- D7Moremi → Maun — Depart Delta, resupply, optional scenic flight
- D8–9Central Kalahari GR — Black-maned lions, meerkats, vast silence
- D10Kalahari → Gaborone — Full day drive, vehicle return
Permits & Entry Requirements
Everything you need before you cross the border — updated for 2026
| Requirement | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | $50 | Available on arrival or via e-visa at evisa.go.ug. East African Tourist Visa covers Uganda, Kenya & Rwanda for $100 — best value if visiting multiple countries. |
| Gorilla Trekking Permit Bwindi & Mgahinga |
$800
FNR (Foreign Non-Resident)
$700 · Foreign Resident (FR)
UGX 300,000 · East African (EAC)
|
Per person per trek at Bwindi Impenetrable NP or Mgahinga Gorilla NP. Valid for 1 hour with the gorilla family. Book 3–6 months ahead for peak season (Jun–Oct).
✅ Permit covers: park entry for trekking day · ranger guide fees · conservation fees · trekking activity. No separate park entry fee required.
We assist all clients with permit booking.
|
| Chimp Permit — Kibale NP |
$250
FNR · $200 FR · UGX 150,000 EAC
|
Most popular chimp tracking site — highest chimpanzee density in Africa. Half-day morning or afternoon sessions.
✅ No separate park entry fee required when holding a chimp permit.
|
| Chimp Permit — Budongo Forest Murchison Falls area |
$130
FNR · $120 FR · UGX 85,000 EAC
|
Located inside Murchison Falls NP. Can be combined with game drives and Nile boat cruise on the same trip. Great value chimp experience. |
| Chimp Permit — Kyambura Gorge Queen Elizabeth NP |
$100–$200
Seasonal pricing
|
Known as the “Valley of Apes.” Dramatic gorge setting inside Queen Elizabeth NP. Combine with Ishasha tree-climbing lions on the same circuit. |
| Chimp Permit — Kalinzu Forest |
$50
FNR · $40 FR · UGX 30,000 EAC
|
Most affordable chimp experience in Uganda. Community-managed forest near Queen Elizabeth NP. Ideal add-on for budget travellers. |
| Murchison Falls NP Entry | $45/day | Per non-resident adult per day. Vehicle entry fee: $30/entry. Nile boat cruise to falls base: approx. $30/person extra. Shoebill stork search by boat available. |
| Queen Elizabeth NP Entry | $45/day | Per non-resident adult per day. Kazinga Channel boat cruise: approx. $30/person extra. Ishasha sector (tree-climbing lions) same entry fee. |
| Lake Mburo NP Entry | $45/day | Per non-resident adult. Closest park to Kampala (3hrs). Zebra, hippo, impala — no malaria prophylaxis typically required in this area. |
| Kidepo Valley NP Entry | $45/day | Per non-resident adult. Most remote park in Uganda — 9hrs from Kampala. Exceptional lion and cheetah sightings. 4WD essential. |
| International Driving Permit | Required | Issued by your national motoring association before travel. Uganda accepts most national licences alongside a valid IDP. |
| COMESA Insurance | Included | Third-party insurance covering 22 COMESA member states. Included with all Car Hire Africa vehicles at no extra cost. |
Need gorilla or chimp permits? We handle booking for all Uganda clients.
📲 Get Permit Help| Requirement | Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (eTA) | $30 | Kenya now requires an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) for all visitors. Apply at etakenya.go.ke before travel. Approved within 72 hours typically. |
| Masai Mara NR Entry | $200/day | Non-resident fee per person per day. Vehicle fee applies separately. Peak season (Jul–Oct) may carry surcharges. |
| Amboseli NP Entry | $90/day | Per non-resident adult. Book via KWS online portal for guaranteed entry slots. |
| Tsavo East/West Entry | $52/day | Per non-resident adult. Vehicle entry fee additional. |
| Lake Nakuru NP Entry | $60/day | Per non-resident adult. KWS-managed booking advised. |
| Samburu NR Entry | $70/day | County council managed. Separate vehicle fee. |
| International Driving Permit | Required | Compulsory for foreign licence holders. Available from your national motoring association before travel. |
| Cross-Border Permit (from Uganda) | Included | Car Hire Africa provides cross-border documentation for Uganda–Kenya routes. 24–48hrs notice required. |
Crossing from Uganda into Kenya? We handle all border documentation.
📲 Book Kenya Vehicle| Requirement | Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | $50 | Available on arrival or via e-visa (tanzaniaimmigration.go.tz). Apply online 3+ weeks before travel for smooth entry. |
| Serengeti NP Entry | $82/day | Per non-resident adult. Vehicle fee: $40. Payments via TANAPA card or portal. |
| Ngorongoro Conservation Fee | $295/day | Per non-resident adult. Includes crater access. One of Africa’s most expensive parks — but worth every dollar. |
| Tarangire NP Entry | $58/day | Per non-resident adult. Vehicle fee additional. |
| Zanzibar Entry | Free | No separate visa required for most nationalities if valid Tanzania visa held. Zanzibar National Park fees apply for Jozani Forest ($8). |
| International Driving Permit | Required | Compulsory. Also required is a Tanzanian temporary driving licence ($10) at point of entry. |
| Vehicle Cross-Border | Included | Car Hire Africa provides full TZ cross-border documentation for vehicles originating from Uganda or Kenya. |
We pre-load park payment cards and handle all Tanzania entry paperwork.
📲 Book Tanzania Vehicle| Requirement | Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Free | Rwanda offers visa-free entry to nationals of 148 countries. Check irembo.gov.rw. East African Tourist Visa ($100) covers Uganda, Kenya & Rwanda. |
| Gorilla Trekking Permit | $1,500 | Per person per trek in Volcanoes NP. Most expensive gorilla permit in Africa — but Rwanda’s gorilla experience is unmatched. Book months in advance. We assist all clients with permit booking. |
| Golden Monkey Permit | $100 | Per person. Volcanoes NP. More accessible than gorilla trekking and equally magical. |
| Akagera NP Entry | $100/day | Per non-resident adult. Includes game drive access. Book via African Parks network. |
| Nyungwe Forest NP Entry | $50/day | Per person. Canopy walkway experience is an additional $60. |
| International Driving Permit | Required | Compulsory. Rwanda accepts permits from most countries with valid home licence. |
| Cross-Border (from Uganda) | Included | Kigali–Kabale border crossing. Car Hire Africa handles all documentation. Most popular cross-border route. |
Rwanda gorilla permits sell out fast. Book your vehicle and permit together.
📲 Book + Permit Help| Requirement | Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | ~$90 | Visa on arrival available at Bujumbura International Airport and major border posts. E-visa not widely available — apply at Burundi embassy in advance if possible. |
| Kibira NP Entry | ~$20/day | Fees payable at park gate. Guided walks recommended — trails not well-marked for self-guided visits. |
| Rusizi NP Entry | ~$10/day | Small wetland park. Boat trips on the Rusizi River available for approx. $15/person extra. |
| Cross-Border Permit | Included | Car Hire Africa arranges all Uganda–Burundi cross-border documentation. Entry via Gatumba/Kobero border crossings. |
| International Driving Permit | Required | Strongly recommended. French language documents helpful at checkpoints. |
| Yellow Fever Certificate | Required | Proof of yellow fever vaccination mandatory at entry. Ensure you carry the original certificate. |
Burundi is frontier territory. We strongly recommend a driver-guide for first visits.
📲 Enquire About Burundi| Requirement | Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | ~$100 | Must be obtained from a South Sudan embassy before arrival. No visa on arrival for most nationalities. Apply 4–6 weeks in advance minimum. |
| Media/Photography Permit | Varies | Required for professional photography and filming. Apply through Ministry of Information in Juba. |
| Park/Reserve Permits | TBC | Boma and Bandingilo NP access requires coordination with local wildlife authorities. We manage this for all clients. |
| Cross-Border Documentation | Included | Car Hire Africa manages all Uganda–South Sudan border crossings. Nimule border post most reliable route. |
| Yellow Fever Certificate | Required | Mandatory at entry. Carry the original card. |
| Security Advisory | Mandatory | Travel in convoy recommended. Our driver-guides are experienced in current conditions and local contacts. |
South Sudan requires full expedition planning. We handle everything — speak to our team first.
📲 Plan South Sudan Expedition| Requirement | Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | ~$105 | Apply at DRC embassy before travel — not available on arrival for most nationalities. Kigali is the most practical gateway; Rwanda–DRC Petite Barrière crossing at Gisenyi/Goma. |
| Virunga NP Entry + Gorilla Permit | $400 | Mountain gorilla trekking permit in Virunga. Less expensive than Uganda or Rwanda, but access depends on current park security status. |
| Nyiragongo Volcano Hike | $300 | Per person overnight. Includes park entry, ranger escort and basic summit shelter. One of Africa’s greatest experiences. |
| Kahuzi-Biega (Lowland Gorillas) | ~$200 | Per person per trek. Eastern lowland gorilla — world’s largest gorilla subspecies. Near Bukavu. |
| Security Situation | Variable | Virunga access depends on current conditions in eastern DRC. We monitor daily and advise clients. Experienced driver-guide included in all DRC packages. |
| Yellow Fever Certificate | Required | Mandatory at entry. No exceptions. |
DRC logistics are complex. We manage everything — visas, permits, crossings and guides.
📲 Plan DRC Expedition| Requirement | Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Free | Botswana offers visa-free entry to nationals of most countries for up to 90 days. Passport valid 6+ months required. |
| Chobe NP Entry | $15/day | Per person. One of Africa’s most affordable major parks. Vehicle fee separate. |
| Moremi GR Entry | $20/day | Per person. Gate fees payable in USD or Pula. Limited campsites — book well in advance through DWNP portal. |
| Central Kalahari GR Entry | $20/day | Per person. Remote wilderness — self-sufficiency essential. Our camper package includes all equipment. |
| Makgadikgadi Pans NP | $15/day | Per person. Accessible year-round; spectacular after rains (Nov–Apr). |
| Cross-Border Documentation | Included | Car Hire Africa provides full Botswana cross-border vehicle documentation for Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa crossings. |
| International Driving Permit | Required | Compulsory. Botswana drives on the left. |
Botswana campsites sell out months ahead. Book early — especially July to October.
📲 Book Botswana SafariMulti-Country Route Combinations
One vehicle, multiple countries — we handle all border crossings and documentation
Uganda + Rwanda
The most popular East Africa primate circuit
Uganda gorilla trekking in Bwindi + Rwanda gorilla or golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes NP. Add Akagera Big Five on the way back. The ultimate primate + Big Five combo.
📲 Plan This RouteUganda + Kenya
Gorillas meets the Great Migration
Start with Uganda’s primates and Nile wildlife at Murchison Falls, cross into Kenya for the Masai Mara migration and Amboseli’s iconic Kilimanjaro elephant photography.
📲 Plan This RouteUganda + Rwanda + DR Congo
The triple volcano gorilla expedition
Three gorilla encounters across Uganda, Rwanda and DRC — culminating in the overnight Nyiragongo lava lake summit. One of the most extraordinary itineraries available in Africa.
📲 Plan This RouteKenya + Tanzania
The classic East Africa migration circuit
Follow the Great Wildebeest Migration from the Mara River crossings in Kenya down into the Serengeti. End with Ngorongoro Crater’s Big Five arena and a beach finish in Zanzibar.
📲 Plan This RouteThe Grand East Africa Loop
The ultimate self-drive across 4 countries
Gorillas in Bwindi, Rwanda’s Volcanoes, Kenya’s Mara River crossings and Tanzania’s Serengeti — finishing on Zanzibar’s beaches. Everything Africa has to offer in one epic overland trip.
📲 Plan This RouteUganda + Burundi
Off the beaten track — genuine frontier Africa
Uganda gorilla trekking followed by Burundi’s Lake Tanganyika — the world’s second deepest lake. Crystal-clear freshwater swimming, chimpanzees in Kibira and almost no other tourists.
📲 Plan This RouteSafari Budget Estimator
Get a rough cost estimate for your self-drive safari in under 30 seconds
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before booking your East Africa self-drive safari
We operate a fleet of 16+ vehicle models including Toyota Land Cruiser TX (Prado), Land Cruiser GX, Land Cruiser V8, Land Cruiser Hardtop (Troopy), Toyota RAV4, Toyota Hilux Double Cab, Toyota Hiace Safari Van, Toyota Super Custom, Land Rover Defender, Nissan Patrol, Ineos Grenadier, and a fully equipped Camper Land Cruiser. All vehicles are serviced before every hire and GPS-fitted with loaded maps.
The fastest way is WhatsApp — message us on +256 706 620 697 with your dates, pickup location, and preferred vehicle. We typically confirm availability and send a quote within 5 minutes during business hours. You can also submit a formal quote request online and we’ll respond within 2 hours.
All our vehicle hire rates include:
- Comprehensive vehicle insurance (COMESA third-party)
- GPS device with pre-loaded East Africa maps
- Spare tyre + jack + recovery gear
- First aid kit
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Unlimited kilometres on most bookings
Not included: fuel, park entry fees, driver/guide fees (if required), gorilla/chimp permits, and accommodation.
For peak season (June–October) and popular vehicle models like the Land Cruiser TX, we recommend booking 4–8 weeks in advance. Gorilla trekking permits (Uganda and Rwanda) require advance planning of 3–6 months for peak season. Outside peak season, we can often accommodate bookings 1–2 weeks ahead.
It depends on your route and group size:
- Solo / couple, budget: Toyota RAV4 ($40–45/day) — handles Uganda and Rwanda park tracks well
- Couple / small group, most routes: Land Cruiser TX Prado ($75/day) — our most popular vehicle
- Rough terrain / DR Congo / Kidepo: Land Cruiser Hardtop or GX — proven diesel reliability
- Group of 6–9: Hiace Safari Van or Super Custom — pop-up roof for game drives
- Multi-week camping: Camper Land Cruiser ($180/day) — fully self-contained
Still unsure? Ask us on WhatsApp — we’ll recommend the right vehicle based on your exact itinerary.
Yes — for experienced drivers who prepare properly. Main highways between cities are generally good tarmac. National park tracks vary from well-graded murram to challenging rocky terrain, particularly in Kidepo Valley, Bwindi and parts of Tanzania’s southern circuit. Driving at night is not recommended in rural areas. Our GPS devices include offline East Africa maps and we provide a pre-departure route briefing for all clients.
Yes — an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required or strongly recommended for all countries we operate in. Obtain one from your national motoring association (AA, AAA, RAC, etc.) before travel. It must be carried alongside your original home licence. Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania all accept most national licences alongside an IDP.
All our primary destinations drive on the left (same as the UK, Australia and South Africa):
- Uganda — Left
- Kenya — Left
- Tanzania — Left
- Rwanda — Right ⚠️ (switched from left in 2009)
- Botswana — Left
- DR Congo — Right ⚠️
Rwanda and DRC drive on the right — factor this in when crossing from Uganda.
Self-drive gives you total freedom and is perfect for experienced travellers who enjoy independent road trips. A driver/guide ($20–25/day extra) is recommended for: first-time visitors to Uganda or Tanzania, routes that include Kidepo Valley, DR Congo or South Sudan, gorilla trekking (complex forest tracks), and anyone who wants local knowledge and wildlife spotting expertise. Most clients on 7+ day trips find a driver adds significant value.
Yes — cross-border travel is one of our specialities. We provide all documentation for Uganda–Rwanda, Uganda–Kenya, Uganda–Tanzania, Uganda–DRC, Uganda–Burundi, Uganda–South Sudan, and Botswana cross-border routes. Notify us at least 48 hours before your crossing so we can prepare the correct paperwork. COMESA insurance is included for all multi-country bookings.
At every East Africa border crossing you’ll need:
- Your passport (valid 6+ months)
- Valid visa for the destination country (or visa on arrival where applicable)
- Vehicle cross-border letter from Car Hire Africa (we provide this)
- Vehicle logbook/registration (we provide this)
- COMESA third-party insurance (included)
- International Driving Permit
- Yellow fever vaccination card (most East Africa borders)
Yes — if you’re visiting Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda in one trip, the East African Tourist Visa ($100) covers all three countries and saves you $100+ compared to buying individual visas. It’s valid for 90 days and you can enter via any of the three countries. Apply online before travel at evisa.go.ug or the Kenya eTa portal.
Uganda gorilla permits cost $800 per person and are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). They must be booked in advance — peak season (June–October) permits sell out months ahead. We assist all Car Hire Africa clients with permit booking. Contact us on WhatsApp and we’ll guide you through the process.
No — national park entry fees are not included in the vehicle hire rate. They are paid separately at each park gate (or online via the respective country’s wildlife authority portal). Park fees vary by country and park: Uganda parks are typically $45/person/day; Kenya’s Masai Mara is $200/person/day; Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater is $295/person/day. We provide a full fee schedule when you book.
We accept bank transfer, Western Union/MoneyGram, and cash (USD, EUR, GBP accepted). A deposit of 30% is required to confirm a booking. Balance is due on vehicle collection. We can also process payments in Ugandan Shillings, Kenyan Shillings or Rwandan Francs at the current exchange rate.
All our vehicles carry a full recovery kit (spare tyre, jack, tow rope, recovery tracks). In the event of a breakdown, call our 24/7 support line immediately — we’ll dispatch a mechanic or replacement vehicle. Our network of mechanics covers all major parks in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania. Response time for remote locations like Kidepo Valley is typically 4–6 hours.
Uganda is generally very safe for tourists, including solo travellers. The main national parks and tourist routes have a strong security presence. Kampala is a busy capital with standard city precautions required. We advise against night driving on rural roads. Solo travellers frequently self-drive Uganda without issues — and adding a driver/guide is an affordable option that significantly enhances safety and wildlife spotting.
Yes — all vehicles are GPS-fitted with pre-loaded offline maps of East Africa. This means navigation works without a data connection deep in national parks. We also provide our 24/7 WhatsApp support number for all clients. For DR Congo and South Sudan expeditions, satellite communication devices are available on request.
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory at most East Africa border crossings and you must carry the original certificate. We strongly recommend consulting a travel health clinic 4–6 weeks before travel. Common recommended vaccinations include typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and tetanus. Anti-malarial medication is recommended for all Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania travel. Consult your doctor for current advice.