As you are aware, there an ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic Of Congo which borders Uganda in the west which has greatly affected Uganda with some of the cases imported from the DRC now being treated in Uganda.
This has led to a number of international media speculating and spreading false alarm that Uganda has registered more than 10 cases of this infectious Ebola disease. As Best Car Rental Uganda Ltd, the safety of our clients whether on a self drive or guided trip is paramount- a reason as to why we are offering this travel update for clients who are planning a holiday in Uganda soon but quite unsure of how safe it is.
The Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) are actively managing a localized outbreak of the Ebola Bundibugyo strain in the region.
Here is everything you need to know about Ebola outbreak in DRC and how it’s affecting Uganda
What is the Actual Situation?
The outbreak is heavily concentrated along the western border region, leading to a temporary closure of the land border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for. All our cross border car rental Uganda between Uganda and the DRC are strictly suspended until further notice.
However, Uganda’s national parks, and major towns remain fully operational under strict standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Tourism and National Parks: The situation remains calm and usual
Planning to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to track mountain gorillas or go on a game drive in Murchison Falls National Park or Queen Elizabeth National Park, your routes are still open and you can explore these destinations hassle free. Major tourism tracks—including the Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Murchison Falls—are far from the risky zones and remain completely safe and open to visitors.
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) park rangers and lodge staffs have reinstated standard health-screening protocols (temperature checks and hand sanitizing stations) at park gates and briefing points to ensure both travelers and primates remain protected.
Fleet Safety & car rental Uganda protocols
To ensure you get the best out of your self drive or guided road trip, we have stepped up our services to priotize your safety while with our rental car.
Deep Vehicle Sanitization: Every 4×4 vehicle, rooftop tent, and camping gear undergoes thorough chemical decontamination process before it is handed over to a new client. Much attention is paid to high-touch surfaces like steering wheel, gear shifts, seat belts, door handles, and 4×4 levers.
Driver-Guide Health Monitoring: If you opt for car rental Uganda with driver instead of a self drive in Uganda, our professional drivers/guides undergo routine health screenings and temperature checks before hitting the road.
Guide for Your Road Trip in Uganda
Stick to Major Highway Routes: When driving west part of the country, stick to major paved highways (like the Kampala -Mbarara-Kabale route) and avoid unnecessary detours into remote villages bordering the DRC.
Practice Standard Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Avoid touching your face, and stay clear of anyone showing clear signs of illness (such as high fever).
Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Save the Ministry of Health’s toll-free alert line (0800 100 066) in your local phone or WhatsApp just in case of any medical emergencies on the road. We also have emergency hotline numbers you can call in case of a medical or any other emergency
Uganda remains an incredibly rewarding destination. By taking simple, common-sense health precautions and booking through a trusted local operator, you can confidently navigate the Pearl of Africa on an unforgettable road trip.
