Top things to pack on your self drive Uganda safari

Nothing frustrates like forgetting the most essential item, document as you head for a self drive in Uganda. However, the good news is that we have put together some of the most important things that you definitely don’t have to forget to include on your packing list for a memorable and Uganda self drive trip.

These have been grouped into essentials, clothing and rest that you are not so necessary but contribute to a rewarding safari in Uganda. Whether you are considering to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale or even to see the tree climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, our packing list will work for you.

For travelers who are planning to self drive through Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya or Tanzania, this packing list will as well work for you.

Travel essentials on self drive Uganda

• Valid passport and Visa: If you are coming into Uganda as a foreigner you are required to have got yourself a visa that allows you to be in the country legally. A passport is always required for identity purposes.
• Photo copy of passport and driving license: As a car rental company we always request you to present your driving license and passport before we go ahead to reserve your vehicle. This does act as proof that in deed you have the much needed experience on the road.
• Airline ticket: Of course, there various airlines that fly to Uganda and to be able to be among those flying into the country, you will need to have booked and paid for your flight ticket.
• International health card with immunizations (yellow fever): this is required from travelers who are visiting from high risk countries.
• US$ cash / travelers cheques/ credit card: This helps purchase anything magnificent that you may come across during your trip. Be it locally made clothings, food, or even a tip to your favorite driver or hotel staff, you can do so with the above.
• Small lock to lock zippers together
• Sleeping bag for adventure camping: For travelers planning to spend sometime in the wild(camping), worry not we have the best and clean sleeping bag and camping equipment to make your overall self drive in Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya unforgettable.
• Small diary and pen: you love journaling and documenting so much that you may come across on a roadtrip, pack your diary and pen to record these moments.

Clothing

Who wouldn’t pack clothes? Of course as you come for a safari in Uganda, you will need a few clothing and these and the types of clothings you need to put into consideration.

• Neutrally colored clothing: Bright colors tend to scare away wildlife animals or even radiate danger for these species. Black and white colors attract insects.
• 4 – 5 short sleeve t-shirts: Sometimes depending on the time of the year you have visited Uganda, the weather patterns seem to change but once it’s a chilly afternoon and hot, a short sleeved t-shirt will do much better.
• 2 – 3 pairs of shorts: Chill under a tree on a hot sunny day or even in the evening in a short and the whole experience will be truly memorable.
• 2 sweaters or sweatshirts: Night hours tend to get so cold thus you will need something quite heavy to keep you warm during that time. Even when it rains during day, these will do the magic for you.
• 2 pairs of casual trousers
• 2 long sleeve shirts: for travelers heading for gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking, we recommend making sure you have long sleeved shirts which may protect you from insect bites and thorns.
• Lightweight rain jacket: Uganda is located close to the equator and this means it can rain any day of the year, to be on a safe side, we recommend you pack a jacket to keep you dry during a rainy day.
• Fleece jacket
• Hiking shoes: to easily hike through the steep slopes and the muddy roads, we recommend packing hiking shoes for a hassle free experience.
• Lightweight shoes: for an evening walk, or a walk through the community, these shoes will do the magic for you.
• Swimsuit: planning to swim, having this is an essential
• Warm sleeping outfit for camping safaris:
• Wide-brimmed hat: to keep you away from the hot sun during your game drive or natural walk.

Accessories

• Toilet kit (soap, tooth brush, toilet articles, handy wipes, etc. It’s best to bring small trail size containers.)
• Towel
• Sun screen and lip protection (SPF 30)
• Ziploc bags to protect camera, binoculars and other such things from dust
• Money belt
• Insect repellant spray

First aid

• Aspirin
• Imodium
• Valoid
• Painkillers
• Bandages
• Throat lozenges
• Eye drops

Other accessories

• Camera, lenses and extra film, where applicable (ASA 200 film recommended)
• Binoculars
• Pocket knife
• Insect repellant
• Reading and writing material
• Snacks
• Sweets
• Nuts
• Video camera
• Video tapes (if applicable)
• Battery packs
• Tri-pod