THE FUN OF TRAVELLING BY ROAD FROM KENYA TO RWANDA AND BURUNDI THROUGH UGANDA

This is an adventure that takes you through three different countries, each with its own unique feature. The trip offers an opportunity to experience the beautiful landscapes of East Africa.  Here's a guide to help you plan your journey and make the most out of your bus trip.

WHAT TO PACK

your passport, yellow fever card, a warm jacket and something to cover up yourself with in a bus at night in case it get cold . You will also need snacks and water, and don't forget your power bank or charger. you can easily charge your phone in the bus.

WHY  DID I   CHOOSE A BUS FROM KENYA , RWANDA AND BURUNDI

Taking a bus from Kenya to Rwanda offers several advantages. It's one of the most affordable ways to travel across the region and allows you to witness the scenic landscapes of East Africa in a more immersive way. The journey also provides an authentic travel experience, giving you the chance to interact with locals and fellow travelers. Its  also a good trip for those traveling on a budget.

PLANNING YOUR ROUTE: KENYA TO RWANDA VIA UGANDA

The bus ride from Kenya to Rwanda typically passes through Uganda, so you'll have the chance to explore three countries in one trip. Here’s a breakdown of the route and major stops. The journey starts in Kenya, and there are several bus companies such as Simba Coach , Modern Coast and Trinity bus. I used trinity bus which I highly recommend, they charge 7000ksh and its very comfortable, clean ,the seats are reclinable, have a television to watch and a charging port. They also keep time and before the bus take off, there's a pastor who prays . 

Note : Book your bus ticket in advance and keep time , be at the bust station at least 30 minutes before time. Their stage is in downtown Nairobi at a place called Duruma road. The bus typically leaves in the afternoon at 2 o'clock or in the evening.

CROSSING INTO UGANDA

The bus will head towards Uganda after leaving Kenya. The trip usually takes around 8-10 hours depending on the route and the number of stops. The first stop is in Nakuru town in Kenya for like 15min, the second one in Kisumu and the third one at Malaba town at the boarder as the bus cross into Uganda. 

AT THE BOARDER:

• Prepare for custom checks: you will need to show your passport and your yellow fever card which is a must here.
• Currency exchange you can change some Kenyan shillings for Ugandan shillings or Rwandan France as this will be the local currency.
•  Stretch your legs -Take a moment to stretch and relax before continuing your journey.

As you travel through Uganda, keep your camera handy for some amazing views. You will see beautiful landscapes with green hills and forests. Uganda has a natural beauty.

ENTERING RWANDA

After Uganda you will continue your journey towards Rwanda .The drive from Uganda to Rwanda in Gatuna boarder can take around 8-9 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. 

AT THE RWANDA BOARDER

•  Prepare for another boarder check- Have your passport ready, have a proof of accommodation in Rwanda (they are so strict about this), know how long you will be staying in Rwanda and also your itinerary incase your are travelling as a tourist . Make sure you don't have any polythene bag in your luggage.

From Gatuna boarder in Rwanda you will continue with your journey for 1 hour unto your Final destination in Kigali at the main bus station called Nyabugogo. Once you arrive in Rwanda you will notice the cleanliness and safety .Also there is a change in landscape, you will see rolling green hills everywhere which Rwanda is known for hence the term "Land of a thousand hills". 

A DAY TRIP TO BURUNDI

Rwanda is very close to Burundi, another beautiful country in East Africa. If you are interested you can take a quick day trip to Burundi from Rwanda. The trip is only about 1 to 2 hours away by taxi . You can get a taxi at the Nyabugogo bus station.

• Make sure you have your passport . It's visa free for Kenyans. The process is similar to the other boarders. We mainly went their to try some of their local foods.

TIPS FOR A SMOOTH JOURNEY IN THIS TRIP

• Travel Light- Long bus ride can be tiring , so pack right and make sure you have all the essentials : passport, money, snacks, water and a warm jacket.
• Keep your valuable safe-Always keep your money passport , laptop and important items in a small bag you can carry around and fit where you are sited.
• Be patient- This journey can be long and sometimes unpredictable depending on the bus you are using. Traffic jams, road conditions and boarder delays can add time to your trip so plan accordingly.

In conclusion this trip was an amazing adventure though East Africa and I had a wonderful time exploring these three countries. Remember to plan ahead, have your documents . Incase you have any questions or need more help concerning this trip let me know on the comment session.

safe Travels.