Uganda Self Drive and Rooftop Tent Camping Safari

Explore Uganda at Your Pace – Wild Roads, Rooftop Dreams

Destination

Uganda

Base Price

From $3266 Per person

Trip Duration

20 Days

Trip Overview

This 20 day safari with a mix of self-drive and guided tours will give you plenty of time to enjoy the very best of the Pearl of Africa at your own command. From the enchanting wilderness of the North, Gorilla tracking in the mountains to big five spotting in the savannahs; tree-swinging chimps to tree-climbing lions; the gentle source of the Nile its thundering descent through Murchison Falls, and a variety and beauty of its unique cultures and landscapes. You will truly get a sense of the variety that a Ugandan safari offers, and experience its African Massage roads.

Highlight Experiences

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Adventure at Sipi Falls
Experience three magnificent waterfalls where you can hike to the top, abseil down the cascades, or enjoy a traditional coffee tour in this hidden natural gem.
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Authentic Village Experience in Kiyebe
Visit the remote traditional village near Kikooko's founder's home, where you'll plant trees, collect honey, share beers with locals, and celebrate with singing and dancing.
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Explore Remote Kidepo Valley Wilderness
Discover one of Africa's best wilderness areas with three full days of game drives, nature walks, hiking, and village visits in this spectacular national park.
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Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Trek through misty mountain forests for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas—a 2-6 hour hike that ranks among Uganda's greatest travel experiences.
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Self-Drive Adventure Through Uganda
Take control of your African adventure with an epic self-drive journey across Uganda's diverse landscapes, from the source of the Nile to remote wilderness parks at your own pace.
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White Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Sanctuary
Get up close with highly endangered white rhinos and learn about conservation efforts at Uganda's premier rhino sanctuary.

Wildlife

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Chimpanzee Tracking
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Forest and Savanna Wildlife (Big Five)

Clients Testimonials

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What's Included

  • Roof tent with mattress
  • Camping table with camping chairs
  • Gas bottle, and stove
  • Storage Boxes
  • Pillows with pillow cover
  • Sheet, sleeping bag, blanket with blanket cover
  • Fridge, (maybe with independent second car battery)
  • Water tank or water canisters
  • Kitchen and cooking equipment (like cutlery, plates and bowls, cups and mugs, cutting board, cooler or ice box, food storage containers,) kitchen towels
  • Trash bags
  • Coffee plunger
  • Towels
  • Safety and Frist Aid Kit
  • Shade Canopy optionally not quite necessary
  • Barbeque tongs
  • Non-breakable Wineglasses
  • 4WD custom-built safari vehicle with a roof top tent

What's Not included

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Laundry services
  • Gratuities/tips
  • Optional activities not specified in the itinerary
  • park entry fees
  • Fuel
  • driver
  • meals
  • all activities except goilla tracking, chimpanzee and kiyebe

Pricing

People USD Room
2 people $6816 per person
4 People $4154 per person
6 People $3266 per person

Location Map

Itinerary

Day 1 :
Entebbe!

Upon arrival in Entebbe, you will be picked up by a driver and transferred to your accommodation nearby.

Day 2 :
Jinja!

Start yourself drive after breakfast, by driving to Jinja. In Jinja you can visit the source of the Nile! Take a boat cruise or walk along the shores of the great river.

Day 3 :
Sipi!

You can transfer to Sipi after breakfast, the home of Sipi falls, and a series of 3 magnificent waterfalls. Take some time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of this hidden gem. Depending on our arrival time, you can hike to the top of the falls or even abseil down them!

Or you can go out for a coffee experience!

Day 4 :
Moroto!

Transfer to Moroto today, to cut short your drive to Kidepo valley National Park. On your way, you can visit Pian Upe Game reserve for a game drive.

Enjoy your time in one of Africa’s best wildernesses, you can do game drives, nature walks, go hiking or even visit local villages depending on what you like.

Enjoy your time in one of Africa’s best wildernesses, you can do game drives, nature walks, go hiking or even visit local villages depending on what you like.

Enjoy more of Kidepo and its wilderness!

After breakfast drive to Murchison Falls National Park for overnight Stay. This drive will take you 4 to 5 hours to Gulu town from where we shall have lunch and after proceed for about 3 more hours to Murchison Falls National Park.

Today you can have an early morning game drive and a relaxing afternoon boat ride along the Victoria Nile River where you will encounter animals gathering on the riverbanks, and an abundance of crocodiles and hippos. You'll get to see the thundering falls from the bottom as the boat turns for the return journey.

After an early morning game drive, you can transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary where you will have an extraordinary experience observing and learning about the conservation of these highly endangered animals. Relax at the lodge in the afternoon.

Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park. After breakfast, enjoy the beautiful Ugandan countryside on our 6-hour drive to Kibale Forest National Park.

In the morning you will be hiking off the beaten track, through the jungle in search of chimpanzees. Once you find them, it will be a fascinating experience as you watch them play, feed and swing through the trees, which is highly entertaining. Primate and bird watching will be the highlights of the afternoon walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and later transfer to Queen Elizabeth reaching in time for a possible game drive.

Start the day with an early morning game drive while many animals are still on the move during the cool part of the day. Stay alert and you could see lions, buffalo, elephants, antelopes, the elusive bush pig and you might even be lucky to spot a leopard! Hippos, buffalo, crocodiles and many species of birds can be spotted during the afternoon boat trip on the Kazinga Channel.

Enjoy a leisurely drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park, which brings you to Ishasha, one of the few regions in Africa where lions can be spotted climbing trees and lounging on branches. Therefore, make sure that during the game drive you are not only looking out over the savannah but also have your eyes focused up in the trees! Proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Put your boots on and grab a sturdy walking stick, today is a once in a lifetime experience: It is one of the best Ugandan travel experiences you can have. You will be hiking up in the mountains which can take between 2 to 6 hours depending on how far the Gorillas are.

As a remote, traditional village, Kiyebe is one of the most special places in our country. Since it is near the home of Kikooko’s founder, Kikooko travelers have the unique opportunity to be guided to this untouched land.
We’ll travel an adventurous mountainous road through a small trading center called Mukyogo, a name meaning the only community elephant pond in Uganda. There, you can plant your own tree, collect honey from beehives, and more. Then we’ll take time to enjoy local and national beers with the villagers.
That’s just the beginning of your Kiyebe visit. From a meal made with the freshest local, organic foods to the community’s singing, dancing, and celebrating, this is the day you’ll remember for the rest of your trip. Later transfer to Lake Bunyonyi.

After breakfast, drive 4-5 hours to Lake Mburo National Park. The park has a variety of animals, such as leopards, zebras, impalas, buffalo, and over 300 bird species, many of which you can see on the afternoon game drive. Horseback safaris and boat trips on the lake are also available.

You can enjoy a game drive in the morning and come for a relaxed breakfast. You have the option of just relaxing at this lodge and going back for the afternoon game drive to this small but incredible national park with many chances to just be with animals.

Day 20 :
Entebbe!

You can choose to do an optional morning walking safari to get closer to the animals, and it is the best way to spot the birds. When leaving the park, you get a final chance to view the animals, before heading back to Entebbe. You will be dropped off at the airport in time for your scheduled flight back home.

Accommodations

Take a look at some of the beautiful places you’ll be staying at during your trip.

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Camping
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Frequently Asked Questions – Uganda Self Drive and Rooftop Tent Camping Safari

What is a Uganda self drive safari, and how does this itinerary work for independent travelers?

This 20-day self-drive itinerary is built for adventurous travelers who want to explore Uganda at their own pace. You’ll be provided with a fully equipped 4x4 vehicle with a rooftop tent, detailed maps, and pre-booked campsites in Uganda’s top national parks. You’ll drive yourself from Entebbe to remote gems like Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, Bwindi, and Lake Bunyonyi, giving you the freedom to stop where you like and immerse yourself in wild Uganda without a group or guide.

Is it safe and practical to do a self-drive camping safari in Uganda?

Yes — especially with this tour's design. The route is thoughtfully planned, accommodations are pre-booked, and you’ll receive 24/7 support throughout your journey. Roads to major parks are accessible, and your vehicle is equipped for rougher tracks. You'll also meet up with a guide in key locations like Kibale for chimpanzee tracking. It’s a popular option for confident, self-reliant travelers who want a bit more independence than guided tours allow.

What equipment is provided for the rooftop tent camping experience?

Your vehicle includes a rooftop tent, sleeping gear, camp kitchen, table and chairs, and other essentials for overland camping. This makes it easy to enjoy nature directly in national parks like Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls while staying mobile and self-sufficient. You’ll camp in designated, safe sites within or near the parks — often with stunning views and wildlife all around.

What kind of wildlife can I see on a self-drive safari in Uganda?

You’ll drive through some of Uganda’s best wildlife areas, with chances to see elephants, lions (including tree-climbing lions in Ishasha), giraffes, hippos, leopards, zebras, buffalo, and antelope. In addition to classic safari game drives, the itinerary includes chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, gorilla trekking in Bwindi, and opportunities for birdwatching (including the elusive shoebill in Mabamba Swamp).

Who is this Uganda self-drive itinerary best suited for, and what level of experience do I need?

This tour is perfect for independent travelers, couples, overlanders, or experienced road-trippers who enjoy off-the-grid travel. While no prior African driving experience is required, basic navigation skills, confidence behind the wheel, and a flexible mindset are helpful. If you’ve dreamed of a self-guided safari through East Africa, this is one of the best ways to see Uganda’s landscapes, people, and wildlife on your own terms.

Have questions about this itinerary? We’re here to help.

All of our itineraries can be adapted to suit your personal interests and preferences. Please feel free to discuss these with us so we can personalize your tour for your maximum enjoyment.

Uganda Self Drive and Rooftop Tent Camping Safari

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