A self drive safari is one of the best overland road trips Kibale can offer in Uganda and the cheapest, most private and flexible way to explore this park is by self driving at your own terms. Abandoning the premade safari plans and doing all the planning yourself is no easy task. Planning doesn’t just stop once you have decided where you want to go and which rental car you will be driving, there are a variety of exciting attractions, activities Kibale national park has to offer for every type of traveller on a self-drive adventure, that is.
What is the Best Time to Go on Self Drive?
The time is between the two dry seasons of December to February and June to August. Other good months to explore the Park include September and October while March and April are rainy seasons that make traversing to the national park and remote destinations a lot harder especially if you are not driving a 4×4 vehicle.
What is the Best Vehicle to Hire for Self Drive?
Some of the top cars we recommend for Kibale forest trips are Safari land cruisers, Land cruiser LX series, Toyota RAV4 and Mini Vans for group trips feel free to reach out to 4X4AFRICA rental services for a trusted and reliable cars for your self drive trips.
How to Book a Car on Self Drive?
One of the most important items when planning Kibale self drive adventure is the type of car you will be driving. There are a variety of Uganda car rental options ideal for self drive trips but you have to be careful and choose one that can easily fit your travel budget but also comfortably seat passengers along with their cargo. A 4×4 car is the perfect choice if you are planning to explore this park and remote villages while a simple SUV will also do the job when driving through the city. So be careful and get the right car to save money and time.
Routes for Self Driving to Kibale
The most popular mode of transportation for tourists visiting the park is taking a road trip or self drive, there are 3 routes that one can take to go to Kibale National Park that is,
- Kampala-Mubende-Fort Portal Highway is the quickest and shortest route getting to Kibale National Park. It’s about 309km and takes about 5-6 hour’s drive on a good surface road. From Fort Portal town to Kibale park headquarters (Kanyanchu Visitor’s Centre) it’s about 26km, taking about a 30–45-minute drive.
- Kampala-Hoima-Fort Portal Route, travelers on primate tours in Kibaale and Uganda wild life safaris in Murchison Falls Park also the frequently take this route.
- Kampala-Mbarara-Kasese-Fort portal route, is the most beautiful and also longest to kibale forest national park taking more than eight hours, this route typically permits a stop at the Uganda equator in kayabwe masaka, a break in Lake Mburo national park this path begs visitors to at least spend a night in the park.
Where to Pitch Your Tent or Overland?
Camping in Kibale National Park offers a unique and a wonderful experience amidst the park’s natural beauty. Here are some great spots to pitch your tent while in the park,
- Kanyanchu Camp it is located near the Kanyanchu Visitor Center, this site is perfect for those planning to go chimpanzee trekking. It has basic facilities like toilets and showers
- Sebitoli Camp situated in the northern part of the park, this site offers a quieter experience with opportunities for bird watching and nature walks1.
- Little Monkey Camp is a smaller, more intimate campsite that provides a closer connection to nature.
- Kibale Forest Camp, just outside the southern part of the park, this camp offers both self-contained and non-self-contained tents. It’s a great base for exploring the park and nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.
- Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve and Community Campsite, although not within the park, it’s nearby and offers beautiful views of a crater lake and ancient forest.
Always remember:
To pay the park entrance fees, vehicle entrance which can be paid using mobile money or card at the gate and obtain a camping permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in advance and follow all park rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.