A cheap car rental in Kigali is the easiest way to see Rwanda and Uganda in just six days. With your own 4×4, you set the pace, stop where you like and keep costs under control. This guide walks you through a practical 6-day Rwanda Uganda tour, day by day, with drive times and money-saving tips.
Why Choose a Cheap Car Rental in Kigali for This Tour?
A self-drive tour gives you real freedom to explore varied landscapes, lively cultures and incredible wildlife. You avoid fixed group schedules, so you can linger at a viewpoint or leave early to beat the crowds. In addition, one vehicle shared by two to four people often costs less than a scheduled tour.
Kigali is also a great starting point. The city is clean, safe and well connected, and the Uganda border at Gatuna/Katuna is only about 1.5 hours away.
Which Vehicle Should You Pick?
- Toyota RAV4: the most budget-friendly 4×4, ideal for couples on mostly paved roads.
- Land Cruiser Prado: more comfort and clearance for the murram roads around Bwindi.
- Land Cruiser Safari: best for game drives, with a pop-up roof and room for four to six people.
Day 1: Arrival and Kigali City Tour
Your adventure begins at Kigali International Airport. Collect your vehicle on arrival through our Kigali airport service, and then head into town. Kigali is known for its cleanliness, safety and creative arts scene.
Spend the afternoon at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which gives important context for your visit. Afterwards, browse fabrics and crafts at Kimironko Market and drop into a local art gallery. In the evening, try a Rwandan buffet or a rooftop restaurant.
For the best car hire deals in Kigali, 4×4 Car Rental Rwanda offers economy SUVs, luxury vehicles and rugged 4x4s. Whether you need a car for city driving or rough tracks, we’ll match the vehicle to your route.
Day 2: Journey to Akagera National Park
On day two, drive east to Akagera National Park, about 2.5 hours from Kigali. The park is home to the Big Five, including lions, elephants and rhinos. You can enjoy a self-drive safari or hire a park guide to ride along with you.
Start early, because animals are most active in the cool morning hours. The southern lakes are great for hippos and birds, while the northern plains hold giraffes and big herds. Stay overnight near the park or drive back to Kigali in the evening.
Before you leave Rwanda, check your border paperwork. Our cross-border car hire includes the vehicle documents and insurance cover you need for Uganda. One-way rentals are also possible if you plan to drop the car in Uganda.
Day 3: Cross into Uganda and Visit Lake Mburo National Park
Today you drive north to the Gatuna/Katuna border and cross into Uganda. Once through, continue to Lake Mburo National Park, which takes roughly 3 to 4 more hours. Expect the border to take an hour or more, so leave early.
Lake Mburo is a haven for bird watchers. You can also see zebras, hippos, impalas and giraffes on a short game drive. Because the park is compact, it works perfectly as a half-day visit.
If you love the outdoors, our car rental with camping gear lets you sleep under the stars at park campsites. It is also one of the best ways to cut accommodation costs.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The highlight of most Rwanda Uganda tours is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site protects a large share of the world’s mountain gorillas. Trekking through its steep forest to find a gorilla family is truly unforgettable.
From Lake Mburo, the drive to Bwindi’s southern sectors takes several hours on winding roads. Therefore, most travellers drive the evening before and trek the next morning. Ugandan gorilla permits are set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and change, so check current rates and book early.
The final roads into Bwindi can be steep and muddy. For that reason, a Prado or Land Cruiser is the best choice here. If you prefer more comfort, our VIP car hire offers premium vehicles with professional drivers.
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park Game Drives and Boat Safari
Next, head north to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular savannah park. Many travellers enter through the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Then continue to the Kasenyi plains for elephants, buffaloes and Uganda kob.
Don’t miss the Kazinga Channel boat safari. It gives you close-up views of hippos, crocodiles and huge numbers of water birds. Afternoon trips usually have the best light for photos.
Travelling as a larger group? We offer vehicles that seat more people comfortably, such as the Toyota Hiace. Coaster buses are also available for big family trips and group tours.
Day 6: Return to Kigali for Culture and Departure
On your final day, drive back to Kigali through southwestern Uganda. This is a long day of eight hours or more, so start at sunrise. If you have a flight, consider adding a night in Kabale or Lake Bunyonyi to break the journey.
Once in Kigali, visit a craft village or enjoy the city’s lively nightlife. Finally, return your vehicle at the airport before you check in for your flight. Our airport team makes the handover quick and easy.
Tips for a Successful 6-Day Rwanda Uganda Self-Drive Tour
- Book early: reserve your car and gorilla permits well in advance for the best rates and availability.
- Pack wisely: bring binoculars, a camera, comfortable clothes, rain gear and enough water.
- Stay informed: check the weather and park rules each day before you set out.
- Carry documents: keep your passport, licence, International Driving Permit and car papers together.
- Avoid night driving: plan each leg so you arrive before dark.
- Carry cash: US dollars and Ugandan shillings help at parks, fuel stations and markets.
Want a Slower Pace?
Six days is tight for both countries. If you have more time, our 15 days Uganda and Rwanda safari covers the same highlights with shorter driving days.
Book Your Cheap Car Rental in Kigali Today
A six-day tour through Rwanda and Uganda shows you the best of East Africa’s landscapes and wildlife. With an affordable, reliable vehicle from 4×4 Car Rental Rwanda, the journey stays simple from start to finish. Message us on WhatsApp at +250 725 074659 or email info@4x4carrentalrwanda.com to get your quote.