Cheapest Way to Travel from Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Traveling cheaply from Kampala to Bwindi requires a bit of planning but can be done easily using local transport. You need to balance cost, comfort, and travel time.
Traveling by Public Bus to Kabale, Then Taxi or Boda to Bwindi
You can take a public bus or matatu from Kampala to Kabale. The journey takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic. Buses leave regularly from Kampala’s main bus parks such as the New Taxi Park or Kisenyi. Tickets usually cost between 25,000 and 40,000 Ugandan shillings (about $7 to $11). Reputable companies like Kigezi Coaches or Willy’s Tours offer safer rides.
Once you arrive in Kabale, you can catch a shared taxi or a boda boda to Bwindi. Shared taxis cost around 10,000 to 15,000 shillings ($3 to $4), while boda bodas charge a bit more, roughly 15,000 to 20,000 shillings ($4 to $5). Boda bodas move faster and can handle rough roads better.
Traveling via Kisoro with Taxi to Bwindi
Another option is to take a bus from Kampala directly to Kisoro, which is closer to Bwindi’s southern sectors. The trip takes about 9 to 11 hours. Bus fares range from 30,000 to 50,000 shillings ($8 to $14). After reaching Kisoro, you can get a taxi or boda boda to Bwindi park gates like Nkuringo or Rushaga. Expect to pay between 15,000 and 25,000 shillings ($4 to $7) for this leg.
Combining Bus and Shared Vehicle Hire
Some travelers prefer to take a bus to Kabale or Kisoro and then hire a private vehicle, sharing the cost with others. This option costs more but is faster and more comfortable. The cost per person usually falls between 60,000 and 100,000 shillings ($16 to $27), depending on how many people share the ride.
Tips for Saving Money on the Journey
Buy your bus tickets directly at the stations to avoid extra fees. Travel light to avoid extra charges on buses and taxis. Always agree on taxi or boda boda prices before starting your trip. Traveling during daylight helps with safety and makes road conditions easier to manage. Carry snacks and water for the long journey to stay comfortable.
Summary of Approximate One-Way Costs
From Kampala to Kabale by bus, you pay about 25,000 to 40,000 shillings ($7 to $11). A taxi from Kabale to Bwindi costs around 10,000 to 15,000 shillings ($3 to $4). The bus to Kisoro ranges from 30,000 to 50,000 shillings ($8 to $14), and taxis from Kisoro to Bwindi cost about 15,000 to 25,000 shillings ($4 to $7).
Final Thoughts
Taking public buses to Kabale or Kisoro followed by a taxi or boda boda to Bwindi remains the cheapest travel option. This route requires patience due to long travel times and rough roads but lets you experience local culture and save money for other parts of your trip.
If you want assistance with more comfortable travel or budget lodging near Bwindi, I’m here to help.
