Top Bus companies in Uganda

Kampala offers a variety of transportation modes. You can ride a boda boda (don't forget your helmet!), a matatu, your own car, or a private hire. However, if you want to explore the rest of the country beyond the city, buses are the best option. There are different bus services to choose from, and we will help you find the right one for you.

You should know that Matatus can take you almost anywhere. I have used them to travel to Kenya, Fort Portal, and Mbarara without much trouble. But they can also be crowded and uncomfortable. And unless you find an express one, you might have to stop too many times.

Fortunately, there are bus services that cover most of the country. But be careful; some of them are known for speeding, reckless driving, and occasional accidents. So let us show you the main bus options that you have.

A Glimpse into the Bus Experience

In Uganda, taking a bus is a unique experience. Buses loaded with people and cargo are a common sight; they frequently have bright décor and upbeat music playing. Due to the poor road conditions and frequent stops, the trip may take longer than anticipated, but it provides a rare chance to experience the local way of life.

Bus operators and routes

Numerous bus companies, including Elgon Flyer, Link, and Gaa Gaa Buses, provide services throughout the nation. These operators oversee fleets that include larger coaches for long-distance travel as well as minibuses, also referred to as "matatus" locally. The buses have planned day and night journeys that often begin early in the morning, and their terminals are situated in strategic locations throughout Kampal.

Buses travelling north

If you are travelling to Gulu, Kitgum, or any of the places along the way, you should try the Post Bus. It leaves from the main post office in town twice a day, and it is usually the best option you can find. The buses are comfortable, clean, and have some entertainment (like Nigerian comedy shows) (for four hours?). They are also very safe. Before leaving, all the luggage and the bus itself are checked by dogs for drugs and explosives. There are only one or two breaks for food and toilets, so the trip is fast and smooth.

Uganda Post Bus.

Address: 35 Kampala Road, Kampala

Tel: +256 414 255511-5

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.ugapost.co.ug

If you are going to Arua or Lira, you can take buses from companies like GaaGaa. They have reasonable prices and decent quality. Many expats use them, and they say they are "not horrible," which is a good enough compliment here. They depart from Arua Park in Kampala several times a day.

GaaGa buses (West Nile)

Johnson Street, Kampala

Mobile: +256 774 331500 or +256 757 500820

Email: [email protected]

Bases Travelling East

Why not travel to Mombasa in addition to Nairobi if you are considering a weekend getaway? Modern Coast buses will take you there; I'm not sure what they mean when they say they provide an 'oxygenated' journey for added comfort, if that's even a thing. There are single or double seats in the VIP areas if you prefer more seclusion and room. This is particularly useful for women who are travelling alone. But keep in mind that the driver may play loud music during the overnight trip, so you might want to stay away from them if that bothers you. The Modern Coast leaves from the city centre's Dewinton Road.

Modern coast

Address: De Winton Road, Kampala

Mobile: +256 779 557089; +256 701 699712; +256 776 800910

YY Coaches (mbale - soroti)

Email: [email protected]

or find us on social media.

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/yycoaches/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/YyCoaches

Booking station at

Block 9: Plot 152, Rashid Khamis Road; Plot 147, Sir Appolo Kagwa Road

Easy Coach, a company renowned for providing exceptional customer service, is an additional alternative for travelling to Kenya. They do, however, also stop frequently, which might add a considerable amount of time to your journey. They leave from the Pioneer Building or Oasis Mall (be sure to verify). It was my first trip to Kampala, and Queens Coach is a dependable and respectable option. The coaches offer competent service and drivers; however, they are of ordinary size and lack special frills. Oasis Mall is where Queen's Coach departs from.

Easy Coaches (Mbale and the East to Kenya)

Yusuf Lule Road, Oasis Mall (Nakumatt Basement).

(+256) 776 727270

(+256) 757 727273

+256 702 963117

Busscar

Address: Namayuba bus park, Kampala

Mobile: +256 772 656227 or +256 772 407930

Queens Coach (Uganda, Kenya)

Kampala Office:

Oasis Malla, Lower Ground, FB4 Yusuf Lule Road, Kampala

Mobile: +256 773 002010; +256 759 002010; +256 713 002010

Buses Travelling South

You have a few excellent options. whether you're going to Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, or even Masaka.

In Rwanda and Burundi, Jaguar is a well-liked choice, particularly the daytime VIP bus. Some claim that wifi is available on board. The Jaguar buses leave from Namirembe Road, are spacious and spotless, and offer convenient scheduling.

Jaguar executive coaches

Address: Plot 30/32 Namirembe Road, Kampala

Tel: +256 414 425855 Fax: +256 414 231414

Email: [email protected]

The quality of Horizon buses varies, but they also travel south. I've used these and have had no issues. However, I have also heard a lot of concerns regarding their careless driving, so they might not be that trustworthy. They do, however, cover practically all locations and periods. Arua Bus Park is where they depart.

Horizon and Swift Safaris

Address: 1 Barclay Road, off Namirembe Road, near the Agakhan Mosque in Kampala.

Tel: +256 772 828138 or +256 772 586777

Email: [email protected]

Kampala coaches can transport you to Kigali and Dar es Salaam if you are travelling to Tanzania. However, others could believe that Kampala coaches move slowly and don't stop often. Thus, this might not be ideal for you if you need to use the toilet frequently. Usually, they depart from Arua Park, but you should confirm ahead of time.

Kampala Coach

Address: Jinja Road, opposite Shell Kampala.

Tel: +256 312 370307

Mobile: +256 784 573867 or +256 772 384906

Email: [email protected]

Buses Travelling West

If you’re off to Kasese, Mbarara, or Kisoro, there are a few options. The PostBus is available for routes to Mbarara, Kisoro, and Kabale. Horizon also offers routes to Kabale, Fort Portal, and Mbarara.

Link Buses. Link operates seemingly well-maintained buses capable of terrifying speeds.

Address: Kisenyi bus terminal

Kampala Terminal Booking Lines.

+256751206424

+256782099992

Kalita (Fort Portal)

Kalita Bus Offices and Contacts for Booking and Enquiry

Kampala office: +256(0)756897909, +256(0)756897907

Challenges and Adventures of bus travel

Although Uganda's bus system is effective in and of itself, there are certain difficulties with it. There may be a big difference between comfort and a foreign sense of personal space. Prepare yourself for limited toilet breaks and the potential of sitting with more people than just other passengers. In spite of these difficulties, travelling by bus in Uganda can be an exciting and unique experience.

The Future of Bus Transportation: Innovations and Upcoming Developments in Uganda

The future of bus transportation in Uganda is set to be transformed by technological advancements and upcoming developments. As the demand for efficient and sustainable public transportation continues to grow, innovative solutions are being implemented to improve the bus systems in the country.

One of the key areas of focus is the integration of technology into bus operations. This includes the use of smart ticketing systems, real-time tracking and monitoring, and digital payment options. These advancements not only enhance the passenger experience but also enable more efficient route planning and scheduling.

In addition to technological advancements, there are plans for significant infrastructure improvements in Uganda's bus transportation sector. This involves upgrading existing bus terminals, building new interchanges, and expanding road networks to accommodate increased traffic flow.

Furthermore, there is a push towards adopting greener technologies in buses. This includes exploring electric or hybrid buses that can reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Conclusion

The bus system in Uganda is more than just transportation; it’s a cultural experience that reflects the resilience and resourcefulness of its people. Whether you’re a local commuting to work or a traveller exploring the country, the buses of Uganda offer a unique perspective on the nation’s heartbeat.

For those planning to navigate the Ugandan roads, understanding the bus system and embracing the ‘This is Africa’ mindset will ensure a journey filled with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

Happy Travels!