Taking the bus between Kampala and Nairobi? Try MASH! Bus travel tips and visa info.
The brilliant East Africa Tourist Visa and Interstate Pass mean that travel between Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda is easier than ever for nationals and has become easier and cheaper for tourists and expats too. Cue: a lot more travel around the three countries for this Muzungu! I’ve taken the MASH bus between Kampala and Nairobi a few times now, and can recommend it. [NOTE this blog post was updated in February 2023. We tried calling various advertised numbers, but failed to get through].
Overall, the Kampala / Nairobi MASH bus service has been excellent. I hardly felt the dreaded bump, bump, bump of the ‘rumble strips’ and managed to sleep most of the journey. Or shall I say, I fell asleep / woke up / fell asleep / woke up… over and over again.
We liked the idea of having a toilet on the bus. If it had been working, that would have been even better! According to the driver, “it is women’s fault that the toilets do not work.” Hmmm… surely they could have fixed it though?
The MASH system is well organised and departs – on time – from the relative calm of the National Theatre, making it a far less hectic experience than going to downtown Kampala bus parks with all their congestion and pickpockets. In Nairobi, however, the bus departs from the equally crazy River Road. Have your wits about you here, as lots of guys will come running at you trying to sell you a cab fair / give you unwanted directions, etc. It can be a bit overwhelming if you’ve just woken up! Don’t rush to get off the bus; pace yourself and check you have all your belongings first.
Back outside the National Theatre in Kampala, an hour before the agreed departure time, a lady called us over to a table in front of our bus where she checked our tickets and passports. Next to her, a very friendly guy checked the contents of all our bags. Another three men in bright orange overalls loaded bags and boxes into the bus. I was asked to remove the padlock from my bag, which obviously I did not want to do. I was told that it was necessary for the security check at the border. I removed a couple of valuables that I’d put in my big bag, and just hoped that everything else would be safe. It was.
The MASH bus was clean. The seatbelt worked, as did the single power socket on the wall next to me. I chose to sit in the second class ‘executive’ section, just a few seats from the front. It had a decent amount of legroom and a reclining seat. My friends in the VIP seats, directly behind the driver, had even more legroom, plus they were allowed to have their big bags with them.
Every bus passenger was handed a small packet of biscuits and a packet of sugary ‘juice.’ My experience of cross-border bus journeys in East Africa is to avoid drinking at all costs, as you can never be sure the driver will stop when you need him to! However, on the MASH bus, we had three ‘comfort breaks’ before we arrived in Nairobi. It’s a “short break for a short call” and these guys do not hang around, believe me.
The driver put on some loud music for our uneventful drive to the border.
Entering Kenya later that night, one of the immigration officials growled a demand to see my Yellow Fever certificate. Luckily I had a photograph of it on my phone.
My friend Julia complained that she hardly slept for the whole journey between Kampala and Nairobi. She only fell asleep for the most interesting part: passing through a private wildlife reserve, where I spotted zebra and antelope from my window seat! “You snooze, you lose” as she likes to tell me… Lol.
According to Wikipedia, “Elmenteita is derived from the Masaai word muteita, meaning “dust place”, a reference to the dryness and dustiness of the area, especially between January and March. In the south-to-north sequence of Rift Valley lakes, Elmenteita is between Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru. The major Nairobi – Nakuru highway (A104 road) runs along the nearby escarpment affording motorists a spectacular vista towards the lake. Today the lake is a protected area due to its birdlife. Elementeita – together with Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria – has been named a heritage site by UNESCO.” (In 2019 I finally went on safari in Lake Elmenteita – I am still thrilled at the large numbers of flamingos I saw that weekend! The horse ride along the lakeshore was spectacular).
Travel tips for taking the bus between Kampala and Nairobi
NOTE: I don’t guarantee all info is correct. You should check prices, departure times yourself. This is a personal account based on my own experience.
- MASH buses leave on time.
- The MASH booking office in Kampala is in Dewinton Road opposite the National Theatre.
- In Uganda, you can use MTN mobile money to purchase your ticket. Tel +256 (0)774 082853 is the MTN Mobile Money number registered to Mash Bus Services. I used this myself. I first called the booking office to reserve my seat numbers; confirmed my payment using mobile money; then made a second phone call to check they had seen my payment.
- The MASH booking office in Nairobi is in River Road. Their official number is +254 733 623260. In Kenya, you can also book your bus tickets and reserve your seat online and pay by Safaricom’s M-Pesa. (Paybill number 857988). This worked well too.
- To double check ticket prices and times, check out the MASH East Africa website or visit one of their offices.
- Please don’t message me – I don’t work for Mash, I’m just a customer like you 😎
Bus departure times from Kampala and Nairobi
(Please get there early: we’ve called several times to check timings and prices and the info given is inconsistent). Ticket classes are: VIP, business class and ordinary (availability depends on whether you get MASH POA or MASH COOL).
Kampala to Nairobi
At 4 pm and 6 pm MASH bus departs from the National Theatre.
Nairobi to Kampala
At 4 pm and 6 pm MASH bus departs from the MASH office in River Road.
MASH Cool is the air-conditioned bus. (MASH POA can get a bit sweaty!) I liked MASH Cool but you will need a blanket (or shuka) if you take the overnight bus. The MASH Cool bus has curtains too.
- Make sure you have your Yellow Fever and COVID-19 vaccination certificates (or a negative PCR test).
- Keep photographs of your passport and other important travel documents (bus ticket and Yellow Fever Certificate) on your phone.
- Although the bus does have power sockets, in my experience, they don’t always work. Take a spare battery pack for long journeys so you can access digital documents any time.
- Nationals of Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya just have to show a passport or national ID and are given a temporary Interstate Pass. Ugandans who do not have passports are advised to get a temporary travel document. Cost 10k UGX. If you’re in Kampala, you can get one issued at Port Bell (or you can buy it at the border).
- Expats with work permits can get an Interstate Pass at the border as well. There is no form to fill in (just the standard arrivals form) and there is no cost. Yay!
- If you need a visa, you are supposed to apply online in advance, whether it’s for a single country visa or an East Africa Tourist Visa. However, all visas appear to be available in person at a border (except EATV, you’ll need to read my blog about that one).
Check out the blogs I’ve written about tourist visas
- Uganda – NOW LIVE: apply for Ugandan tourist visas online
- East Africa – What is the East Africa Tourist Visa? A definitive guide
- Rwanda – Rwanda announces all travelers can get #VisaOnArrival
- The set-up at the Kenya / Uganda border has changed and you now leave one country / enter another within the same building. Previously, you had to get your exit visa from one country and then walk across the border before getting your entry visa into the next country. I found the new system confusing and had apparently entered Kenya illegally! Apparently I did not have one of the required passport stamps, even though I had been processed by three different people at immigration.
- The MASH ticket says “Smoking, alcohol, chewing miraa is prohibited. Maximum luggage limit is 15 KG, any extra weight will be charged. Passengers are warned not to take any foodstuff offered by stranger.” In the past there were incidences of bus passengers being drugged and robbed (not on any particular route or with any particular bus company).
- In addition to the Uganda / Kenya route, MASH also operate to major towns across Kenya.
- Dreamline have also been recommended to me.
Nice pictures of your travel, thanks for giving us great tips for travelling i appreciate it. Iam also a Ugandan blogger who gives tips on living a successful life in Uganda, Relationships and other how to hacks in Uganda
You can as well check out my blog if you like.
BE PASSIONATE ABOUT UGANDA
# UGANDA MY COUNTRY
Hallbrain.blogspot.com
Tx for the appreciation! Nice day 🙂
I will be in Kenya from Sierra Leone and would like to visit Kampala.
What is the cost from Nairobi to Kampala in USD?
I paid 80,000 UGX (Uganda shillings) for single ticket Kampala to Nairobi. That was in March 2016. Approx cost $23. There are a number of coaches doing this route, all around the same price. Airfare is ridiculously expensive. Once known as the most expensive flight per kilometre!
Karibu East Africa! You will need the East Africa Tourist Visa.
Coming to Kenya anytime from now
I will be traveling to Nairobi on 15 of Jan hope to join u in Nairobi
Travelling to Kenya on Monday anyone to join me??
Hey, this is great information. I have tried just now calling on the two numbers above but no one is picking.vi intend to use this bus from Nairobi to Kampala tommorrow night. Their website is faulty, they say its under maintainance. Could you be having any other contact?
Karibu sana! Unfortunately I don’t have any more tel no.s but I’d try calling the Nairobi office. Their tel no.s are on the ticket, pictured above.
Am already craving for this but still have six months to my holiday. Would love to do Kampala to dar via Nairobi.thanx
Is it possible to obtain the East African tourist visa in person?
I asked your question to the East Africa Tourism Platform. The reply is:
Apply for just a visa for Kenya and next time apply for the Single Tourist Visa on arrival in any of the three countries.
The Single Tourist Visa should be available at any entry point (airport and borders).
But in this particular case, I am assuming the person has already paid a visa to enter Uganda for $50.
Why would he/she needs to pay $100 as an extra cost for just entering Kenya when it will be cost effective to just apply for $50 Kenya Visa. Even if they wanted to continue to Rwanda, their visa is still cheap $30.
NOTE: once you are in the EATV zone (UG, Kenya, Rwanda) you cannot get another one. You have to leave and reenter.
For Kenya, the STV can be applied online and on arrival, the same for Uganda.
Rwanda propose you apply for it online, but it can also be issued on arrival with the exception of a few nationalities like France, Belgium etc…. (check on the Rwanda immigration website).
Hi
I will be to Flying into Uganda around the 5th of August and also travelling to Nairobi and Zanzibar. I have nothing organised yet apart from my flight in and flight out. I was going to fly between these places because of safety factor ( 40+yo woman travelling alone) and also as I have not done too much travelling alone. Do you think the MASH is ok to do alone? Also any crucial tips on what I can do and see would be greatly appreciated
Hi Kel, I would say it is absolutely fine to travel with MASH between Nairobi and Kampala. I’ve taken many bus trips on my own, but since I live in the region I guess I have picked up a few do’s and don’ts along the way. It’s two days by road, plus a ferry, to travel from Kampala to Zanzibar so I’d suggest you fly at least some of the route. Please read my page about Kenya for some travel ideas. The country is vast, with an enormous amount to see and do! I would definitely visit Watamu. Click here to watch the video of my hot air balloon safari over the Maasai Mara.
In Zanzibar, you have to visit (stay in) Stone Town and hit the beach of course! I’ll email you some more ideas… safari njema ‘travel well’
Oh you’re a gem. Thank you so much.. I should have started planning this months ago but I didn’t realise there was so many amazing things to see and do
Karibu sana – you’re most welcome! – and don’t forget to apply for your East Africa Tourist Visa online in advance. Click on the link for full info.
Hallo,
i want to travel by bus from nairobi to kampala in july,what is required of me?
Passport, visa and cash for the fare!
Thanx lady appreciate for awesome work your doing.but need to ask where do we get yellow fever certificate from?and is it compulsory for every passenger to have?
Hey Philly, thanks for passing by 🙂
It is currently compulsory to have a Yellow Fever Certificate for Uganda (and Kenya and Rwanda and many other countries) although Uganda is officially Yellow Fever free. I’m not sure where you are messaging from so I can’t advise you where to get your vaccination. However, I know that in Kampala you can get the vaccination at KCCA clinics, The Surgery and Nordic Hospital, for example.
If you’re finding it hard to get the vaccination before you come to Uganda, you can get it on arrival at Entebbe International Airport. I have heard you can also get it at the Kenyan border but I want to verify that.
Do I need a Visa if I am a Kenyan citizen?
No you do not need a visa. Just remember to carry your passport or national ID 🙂
Kenyans, Ugandans and Rwandans can travel in and out of the three countries without needing a visa or a passport. National ID is good enough.
You can read more on this East Africa tourist visa / Interstate Pass blog post.
Is it safe bussing from Kampala to Nairobi at night? Has anyone done the night bus trip and has some advice?
Yes done the bus many times by night, without incident. Booze is not allowed so people are quiet after a while, phones lose their charge and everyone dozes. Some people get on Sunday night bus in work clothes and jump straight off morning bus to head for work!
A few tips from my last journey from Nairobi to Kampala:
Seat 11 was perfect. I sat next to the window, a couple of rows from the front in Executive Class (slightly more legroom).
Next time I must remember to bring! My Smile Mi-Fi and a battery pack. (The power point by my seat did not work); a small bag for the overhead storage (I kept mine at my feet which was not ideal). Bigger bags get put in the hold.
Modern coast is ideally the most comfortable bus i know, try it out next time for cross boarders especially, nairobi to kampala would range between $23 and $34 depending on the seat class. I have used it from nairobi to Mwanza in Tz and i almost forgot its a bus trip.
Nice tip, thanks Angel!
Thanks for the tips. For the Kampala to Nairobi trip did you have to make the booking at the National Theatre office? How far in advance would you recommend booking to secure a VIP or executive seat?
Hi Tom. I booked one day in advance from the booking office in Dewinton Road, opposite the National Theatre. I suggest you call first so they can advise re booking times. Safari njema
Great story and review of the journey. I have used Mash along this route and Kigali too and I can say it’s great! The crew is awesome (At least the ones I have had interaction with). We once arrived at Katuna (Uganda/Rwanda border) and a friend of mine had left their passport in Kampala. The Bus officials made sure the passport was collected from the hotel and sent with the next bus to Katuna. That was very helpful of them given the hotels was a few kilometers from the Namayiba bus station.
I would also recommend MASH anytime!
Hi Leo, thanks for dropping by 🙂
Yes, Mash are great. Travelled with them a number of times now.
Ref the missing passport atKatuna, WOW, that was some kind of service!
I was planning to travel to Nairobi from Kampala next week but I have no yellow fever card.will I be allowed to go??
Hi Lucas, you need a Yellow Fever certificate to enter Uganda. If arriving at Entebbe, you can get vaccinations at airport for 100k UGX / 40 USD. However, as far as I know, you cannot get your Yellow Fever jab at any of the road borders. I recommend you organise it from Nairobi
Mash is definitely the best choice on the route.
Mash cool is really nice and comfortable I enjoyed the journey from Nairobi to Kampala.I recommend to others too.
I recently took MASH Cool from Kampala to Nairobi and then on to Mombasa. The driver from Mombasa was very helpful. He even arranged a tuk tuk for us when we got to Mombasa!
On our way back to Nairobi, we took the SGR train. Brief Encounter. Of romance & railways – Kenya’s SGR train ride is my guide to taking the SGR between Nairobi and Mombasa, based on my personal experience of the original Lunatic Express, the bus and the SGR train, branded ‘the Madaraka Express.’ I compare the new SGR train ride and the bus, describe Mombasa and Nairobi SGR stations and tell you what it is like on the train. I share tips for using the SGR train, the booking process and how to pay by M-Pesa. I also suggest a few ways the service could be developed for an even better traveling experience.
I am a kenyan citizen with a kenyan passport and going to kigali via kampala by bus.Do i need a visa? Thank you.
Hi Anthony
No you don’t need a visa. Kenyans can travel to Uganda and Rwanda on a passport or National ID without having to get any other visa or permit. Just go to the border(s) and show your passport. You will then be issued with an Interstate Pass (at no cost). The Interstate Pass comes under the East Africa Tourist Visa, that facilitates easy movement between Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. Read the blog about East Africa Tourist Visa here.
When you’re in Rwanda, I recommend trying their foods. You might enjoy this one How to eat like a Rwandan – 10 snacks (I bet you’ve never tried)
Safari njema!
I’m just back from another trip to Kenya. My friends and I took the 6 pm MASH COOL bus to Nairobi. We arrived in River Road at 9:30 AM, a little later than scheduled due to the length of time it took us to be processed at the border.
A couple of points to note:
If you have a passport, travel on that. My Ugandan friend travelled using her ID and Uganda immigration made her purchase a temporary travel document at the border. Additional cost of 10,000 Uganda shillings. Furthermore, she was interviewed by Interpol who thought she was being trafficked! (Again because she was travelling on her ID rather than her passport). It’s good to know that Interpol are actively looking to protect young people who are being trafficked but an unpleasant experience for our young friend who was travelling out of the country for the first time.
From Nairobi, we jumped on another bus, destination Mombasa! This left at 10 AM from outside the MASH office in River Road.
Bus prices from Nairobi to Mombasa range from 1,000 KES to 2,500 KES. Visit the MASH website for ticket details and departure times.
Our driver to Mombasa was a lovely Muhindi mzee called Bahore. It was like having one of my favourite uncles driving us to the coast! He even made sure that we had a tuk tuk when we arrived in Mombasa.
On the return leg of the journey, we decided to take the SGR (Standard Gauge Railway) train. You can read my blog all about the train journey here. It compares the bus versus the train: the costs, the length of the journey and the pros and cons of each one. The train was quite an adventure too!
Hello Muzungu. I intend to travel to Nairobi from Kampala on Thursday this week, but just learnt from you that i need a yellow fever certificate. How is it possible to get it in one-day.
Hi Salome, you can get a yellow fever vaccination and certificate easily same day at many clinics across Kampala. Call any of the big clinics or hospitals. You will be able to get it before Thursday.
Am a Nigerian but presently at Uganda but I want to board to Kenya
How much will be paid for visa on my entry day and how many months will be given to me
Hi Kazeem, it costs $50 to get a tourist visa to enter Kenya. The maximum days immigration will give you is 90 days, but make sure you ask for that, otherwise they may give you less e.g. 30 days.
Here is the online portal for applying for Kenyan tourist visas. I’ve used this system. It was quick and easy to use.
You can also get on arrival in Kenya. According to Kenyan immigration ” the manual and online visa processing systems will run concurrently.”
You can read more info on the different types of Kenyan visas here.
Note that there may be additiontal fees to pay if you pay for your visa online or through a visa processing company.
Hello Muzungu. Just want to thank you for this information, it is realy very useful and helpful
Hello Winnie, very kind of you to take the time to give your feedback. I’ve tried hard to make sure it’s up to date. Safari njema!
Hi what’s yellow fever and how will I change currency from Kenya to Kampala, will be able to get a restaurant with my Kenyan ID? Is there any documents they as me as a Kenyan citizen to visit kampala ?
Hi John, when you travel to Uganda you need to carry proof that you have had the Yellow Fever vaccination. This is in the form of a ‘certificate’ or small yellow card that is issued by your health clinic after you have the vaccination. It is easy to obtain and not expensive.
See other comments here about currency. Best place to get currency is in Kampala at forex bureaus. (There are 100s of these).
You also need your National ID or your passport. Those are only official documents you need if you are Kenyan visiting UG. Safari njema.
Hey I want to travel to Kenya on 09th may
But I only have a national and Yellow fever card…. Will that help me out..
And what is the cost from Kampala to Nairobi apparently? Thanks.
Hi Yousef,
Assuming you are a Ugandan, then you can travel to Kenya (and Rwanda) using your national ID and you will be given (for free) what they call an Interstate Pass. Click here to read about the Interstate Pass and East Africa Tourist Visa. You don’t need a passport for this but you may be asked to purchase a temporary travel document at the border. (Cost 10k UGX). You can also get a temporary travel document in advance by going to immigration at Port Bell.
I updated the costs of Mash bus tickets here on the blog in March 2018 but you’re advised to contact their office as well, in case prices go up.
Safari njema!
Habari,
Thank you so much for your travel advice and stories. I am currently living in Tz and am planning some trips for friends and family these next few months as they come to experience this amazing part of the world. Your advice will surely make travelling much easier and I thank you so much for that! If you have any advice for shorter safaris/must see things around Nairobi and Lake Victoria it would be much appreciated!
Thanks in advance, asante sana,
Kristen
Hi Kristen, thanks for enjoying my diary 🙂
Here are my top 10 recommendations for things to do in Nairobi:
1 Explore the city’s origins at the Karen Blixen Museum
2 Experience wildlife – on safari Nairobi National Park
3 Explore dance and culture at Bomas
4 Eat! Head to Carnivore Restaurant for serious servings of ‘bush’ and other meats and rip-roaring entertainment (great for groups!)
5 See Kenya in the context of Africa. The Murumbi African Heritage Museum, Point Zero is my favourite museum in the world.
6 Get stuck in the city’s infamous traffic! Nairobi’s funkily painted matatus (buses) are the cheapest way to get around – and to experience urban culture. For a more sedate experience, use Uber!
7 Aerial view of Nairobi. Get the best views of the city from the 28th floor of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC)
8 Experience wildlife – up close. Watch the feeding of the baby elephants under the protection of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
9 Experience wildlife – but not too close! The Giraffe Centre. Definitely worth a visit – but beware the headbutts of hungry giraffes!
10 Escape to the coast. Take the SGR Standard Gauge Railway to Mombasa and the coast
My guess is you’ll be accessing Lake Victoria from Kenya? If so, Rusinga Island has been highly recommended to me many times.
Where to eat fish on Lake Victoria is a guide to Kampala’s shores of the lake.
I absolutely adore Uganda’s Ngamba Island – home to the chimpanzee sanctuary of the same name. You can visit for a few hours or stay overnight.
Where can I get the stage around Kampala
Mash bus leaves from outside National Theatre. Booking office is in Dewinton Road.
Planning to travel to Nairobi from Kampala alone. Have issue of dropping sugar levels hope they allow me to carry all the eats i want.
My other worry is how often will i get access to short call.
Thanks for the article
Hi Ivan. You can carry plenty of food and in Mash they give every passenger a soda drink and small packet of biscuits. You can buy snacks on the way but you don’t stop long enough any place to get an actual meal.
I drink very little, just a few sips. You stop three times usually – for the quickest short call ever! Safari njema
Helo muzungu,am Moses lumala from Uganda I want to travel in Kenya and participate in standard chartered bank marathon in Oct this year I need your advice what I should have helpful thank u dear
Hi Moses, to travel to Nairobi you need to carry your Yellow Fever Certificate and passport or national ID. You will be issued with an Interstate Pass (free of charge) which you must keep with your ID while in Kenya. The Interstate Pass allows visa-free travel between Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya for nationals and foreigners with work permits. Click here to read more about the Interstate Pass and East Africa Tourist Visa.
If you travel on a national ID, Immigration may ask you to buy a Temporary Travel Document. This costs 10k ugx. You can buy this at the border when you travel or you buy it in advance at Immigration in Port Bell, Kampala.
Hey, thank you for the information, do they have buses from Kampala direct to Tanzania, via Nairobi? I would like to travel to Dar es salaam.
Hi Tinty, Mash operate between Uganda and across Kenya. You could go to Nairobi with Mash then find another bus company to travel onto Dar. All the big buses / coaches start/end their trips in River Road, central Nairobi so it will be easy to find the next bus.
Modern Coast have buses to Dar es Salaam but I have not taken them myself (and the reviews are terrible).
Easy Coach also service Kampala / Nairobi / Dar and other destinations.
If you have the budget, I highly recommend flying with Precision Air from Entebbe to Dar.
Hope that’s of some help?
You may have to go through Nairobi, in which case the best buses I have enjoyed using between Nairobi and Dar Es Salaam are DAR EXPRESS and DAR LUX. There are a host of other companies plying this route(Tahmeed and others) but these are by far the best in terms of time and comfort. It is however a very long journey, and this is aggravated by the fact that in some (actually most) of Tanzania the speed limit is 50 KPH. All the best
Am Catherine,planning to travel from Kenya to tororo Uganda what am I required to have am university student
Hi Catherine, you need to have a passport or your ID (I assume you are Kenyan) and then you will be issued with an Interstate Pass (which is free) when you enter Uganda. Read this blog for more info on the Interstate Pass.
You also need to show your Yellow Fever Certificate at the border.
God bless you Muzungu! You saving a lot of hustles for many travelers.
Thanks Frank – asante & safari njema!
Hello Muzungu..I am a volunteer.. have finished my Volunteering in Nairobi and will be traveling to Kampala to volunteer there as well. I plan to board a bus on Saturday July 21st in the morning before Noon(I haven’t purchased a ticket yet cause still figuring out which bus service I will use) because I’m scheduled to start Volunteering at a school on Monday July 23rd. I went to the Ugandan High Commission in downtown Nairobi to get a tourist visa and the woman said it is now done online and takes 2 to 5 business days to go through. She said I would get an email and to print out the email and bring it with me where I’ll be traveling (via bus, train, airport or car) so that I am able to receive the actual travel Visa at the border. BUT based on what you have said (and other internet info) I can get it at the border upon arrival. If this is true and you know of my who have been able to do it that way please let me know..from what I’ve read it cost 50 USD. When I traveled from Washington DC to Tanzania, I got my Visa at the Tanzanian Airport and when I traveled from Arusha Tanzania to Nairobi Kenya (by shuttle bus) I got my Visa at the border
Hi Gabriel
The info you have been given is mostly correct, however sometimes visa approval online is given in a few hours. Other times it takes longer.
You can still get visa on arrival at the border though. Many people are doing it. It is 50 usd. Read my Uganda visa blog for latest updates.
Safari njema
It’s always convenient, when you reach the boarder, tourist Visas are always their and not time consuming.
The process of getting visas is quicker than it was but there are still hassles e.g. if you are Ugandan travelling on an ID then a) you may be asked to buy a Temporary Travel Document and b) if you are young, you may get intercepted by Interpol if they are concerned you’re being trafficked. Both of the these happened to a UG friend of mine in 2017 at Busia border. Therefore, travel on a passport ideally.
Team,
I planning to Visit Nairobi from Rwanda and While coming back I want to take your bus from Nakuru upto Jinja(uganda); let me know whether you have bus on that way; if you have let me know the following.
1. Different timing post Midday from Nakuru.
2. Travel time from Nakuru to Jinja
3. Cost for various class.
Hi Ramakrishnan, please contact Mash directly with your info request. I have found Wilson at the Nairobi office to be very helpful. His WhatsApp tel is +254 792 819 820. Please say hi from the Muzungu! 🙂
Hi
I have plan to travel from sentence to Nairobi by bus . Can any one help me by providing information below:
1.What is best buses and fare in this route
2. Do I need visa . I am now working in UNITED NATIONS at South Sudan
Hi Shaheed. It’s not clear where you are traveling from exactly?
Also which nationality are you? That decides how much you pay for visa.
I am wondering About how many hours by bus from Uganda to other countries near by?
Hi Fernando, it depends where you start your journey but is a whole day (or night) by bus to Kenya, Rwanda or Tanzania from Kampala.
Each journey may take between 8 hours and 14, depending on where you start, traffic and time spent at the border.
South Sudan is closed to tourists currently.
Hello muzungu I intend to travel from Nairobi to kampala – Kigali. Am a ugandan what do I need to do.
Hi Mack’s Wilber
You can travel on your passport or your ID. You will be issued with an Interstate Pass (which is free) when you enter Rwanda from Uganda. Read this blog for more info on the Interstate Pass.
You also need to show your Yellow Fever Certificate at both borders.
Is that the info you are looking for?
I usually take the Jaguar Executive Coach to Kigali from Kampala.
Hi muzungu I appreciate your works
Am resty
It’s my first time traveling
I have been called for work in Kenya
What do I need?
M a Ugandan
TX please.
Hi Resty, thanks for dropping by 🙂
You’ll need either your passport OR national ID + temporary travel document. Temporary travel document costs 10k UGX and can be bought from Port Bell or at border.
I can’t advise on immigration but your new employer should be able to advise you.
You’ll also need your Yellow Fever Certificate.
Best of luck with your new job.
I LOVE WHAT AM SEEING
Are there buses that leave for Nairobi from Kampala in the morning?
Hi Aine. You need to contact the bus company directly.
Generally speaking, all long distance buses have early morning buses and evening / night buses.
Thanks for sharing, i happen to be a routine traveler between Kampala, Nairobi, Moyale, Mombasa, Arusha and Dar but work from Nairobi. But all of us have different travel experiences with different buses. I am thrilled again with Modern coast which is not only cheap but comfortable and always on time. Modern Coast journey from Nairobi- Moyale in the north at the boarder of Kenya and Ethiopia is always my best as the journey always equals to that from Kampala to Nairobi but only good during night hours.
Hi Paul, good to read your experiences. Not taken Modern Coast but heard positive things. Safari njema!
Hey Mzungu, i want to travel to Kampala from Nairobi, using my ID. Will i be required to get a temporary pass?
Hi Irene, sorry but I’m not so familiar with travel documents for Kenyans.
According to the rules of the East Africa Tourist Visa you should be able to travel to UG or Rwanda using your ID. You then get issued with a free Interstate Pass. If I were you, I would try and contact Kenya Immigration directly to check or ask friends what they have done. I would e very interested to hear how you get on. Sfari njema
Hello
Am from Uganda I want to travel to kenya will use my because I have no passport
And I wanted to know how much in Ugandan shillings to travel
Hi Jackson. All the information you want is written here on this page. The prices in ugx are here – you can also contact Mash directly to check (in case they have altered their prices).
You can travel using your ID but sometimes Uganda Immigration make you buy a temporary travel document. That costs 10k ugx. Buy it at border or in advance at Port Bell. Safe travels.
Hello! I am planning on riding the night bus from Kampala to Nairobi, but I won’t be able to leave Kampala at 7 pm. Are there later buses, that leave Kampala at 8, 9 or even 10 pm? Do you know about that? Thank you in advance!
Hi Fernanda, I’m sure there are other bus companies that leave at later times. You will find most of them downtown. Companies to look out for include Kampala Coaches and Modern Coast.
Hello,Plaaning to visit Kampala..any recommendation on awesome beaches?
Hi. I highly recommend eating fish on the edge of Lake Victoria. It’s a great day out and there are various places / style of venue to choose from.
Read all the options here
If you want to swim in Lake Vic, it’s best to head to the beaches in Entebbe. Look out for live concerts over the holidays 🙂
Hello am John from Kenya,I want to travel from Nairobi to Kampala,pliz help me where to obtain yellow fever certificate,and if the bus departures from 5pm,what is the arrival time due to security issues,it will be my first time,then where can I change ksh into ug shillings?Thank you.
Hey, you passed through my home town Busia Kenya. Its fun living in Busia. A place with over 70 different languages spoken here.
You should I should visit Busia PROPERLY one day – I can’t say I’ve visited when I’ve only crossed the border. What and where do you recommend I go?
Hi all, I have decided to travel from Kisumu to Nairobi by night bus. Since the travel ban at night was abolished, can you recommend me to do the journey at night? I am mostly concerned about safety such as accidents or robbery. Did it already some years ago without any issues but would like to hear your current opinion on that.
Btw: I am mzungu.
Thanks
Hi. I frequently travel long bus distances, such as Kampala to Nairobi, at night. Mostly I travel on my own and without incident. One time someone threw a brick at the bus window and it smashed. Perhaps for that reason, most buses will have all the interior lights off when they drive at night. It has not deterred me taking the buses but I do always take the most expensive operator I can afford because they have the best safety standards. Safari njema.
Hello Muzugu,
Am from Nigeria and in Uganda and my visa got expired three weeks ago but due to the distance of the island i was and my schedule i couldn’t renew and am planning to travel to Kenya by road,will this have any effect at the boarder even when am still going to acquire Kenya visa at the boarder?
Please advise.
Hi Akeem
If I were you I would first address the expired visa issue at immigration in Jinja Road before crossing into Kenya. They may want to charge you for every day you have overstayed. I believe that is $30 a day but may be negotiable.
You can contact them via their Facebook page. Link within the blog above.
Best of luck
Hey guys has anyone used the Dreamline buses to Nairobi and back? What was your experience? How important is my Kiswahili if I want to use matatus?
Hi Jorge, I haven’t personally used the Dreamline buses. I’ve used Mash and Kampala Coach between KLA and Nairobi.
As for the matatus, that’s a good question. I’m sure speaking Kiswahili would be a big advantage – do you have a phrasebook?
hi muzungu.planning to travel to nairobi from kampala for the first time.how much laggage can i move with though. would love to take a few things with me to kenya.
Hi Diane, people take a lot of stuff on the bus! Put big items (like suitcases) underneath in the hold and take small bags with you and put above your seat. Not seen notices re ‘excess baggage.’ You’d need to contact Mash directly. Safari njema
Hi Mzungu, I’m traveling to Nairobi on the 19 of this month.
What is,the appropriate time to book a bus if i want to be in Nairobi by 2pm the next day.thanks
Hi Dalliane, you need to contact MASH directly please for timetable information.
Im looking to travel to Nairobi by buss and this is very helpful. However i was wondering do this busses have working wifi and phone charging pots?
Hi Olemasa, glad the blog is useful 🙂
In my experience, buses don’t tend to have working power sockets or Wi-Fi, even if they advertise that it is there. I have not travelled with Mash for one year so I suggest you telephone them to ask how the situation is now.
Can you can take a battery pack and then use data to access the Internet?
Hy. I just wanted to enquire how many buses leaving Kampala to Nairobi in a day and their estimated time of departure . Thank you.
Hi you need to contact the bus companies directly please. There are many buses leaving throughout the day.
are you single İ like you
Really…. [rolls eyes]
I would wish to fly to Kenya with .my friend next year in Jan around 12th how .much will it cost us by bus to and from
Hi Vanlov, your message is a bit confusing – do you want to fly or get the bus?
Either way, please contact Jambojet or Mash directly.
For Jambojet, it’s best to go to their website, details on this blog. For Mash, contact Wilson on WhatsApp tel +254 792 819820. Please say hello from me 🙂
I would like to visit Nairobi during my vacation when am back to Uganda but what are the most important features which can attract someone there?
And how about to get the hotel
Hi Moses
Firstly, to book Mash please contact them directly using the numbers I have shared.
Secondly, ref where to stay in Nairobi, I recommend using AirBnB. You can download the free app on your phone. It is very easy to use. I’m just back from Nairobi and used AirBnB to book accommodation in Lavington and in Parklands. It makes suggestions according to your budget (minimum cost $8 a night). You will need a Visa card to use AirBnB.
Ref things to do in Nairobi, here are some of my favourite places:
1. My favourite place in Nairobi is the Murumbi Collection / African Heritage Museum at Point Zero on the edge of the Central Business District (CBD). It has 100s of years of amazing crafts, jewellery and more
2. The Nairobi Serena Hotel is another excellent place for a tour of heritage artefacts from across Africa and is highly recommended
3. Nairobi National Park – read my blog all about a safari there
4. Karen Blixen Museum is Blixen’s former home. If you’re a fan of the book or film ‘Out of Africa’ you’ll love this!
5. The Bomas
6. Walk the streets of downtown Nairobi with Nai Nami, guided by former street kids. Nai Nami is a brilliant project that is Nairobi’s no. 1 activity on TripAdvisor! (Tell them the muzungu sent you)
7. Carnivore Restaurant
8. Take a matatu! Get one of those crazy super-custom ones with bellowing music and tell me all about the experience
9. Get the best views of Nairobi city from the 28th floor of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). There’s a (very small) charge
10. Watch the feeding of the baby elephants under the protection of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
11. The Giraffe Centre, Langata. It’s a lovely experience – but beware the headbutts of hungry giraffes!
12. The Railway Museum in CBD. Go back in time and learn all about the Lunatic Express. Read my blog about this epic train journey and its history
13. Uhuru Gardens. Very pretty in October when the jacaranda trees are in flower
14. Maasai Market – daily, at different locations across Nairobi
15. Donkey Sanctuary, Karen
16. If you like shopping head to Two Rivers (Africa’s second biggest mall), Westgate or Village Market
17. Don’t forget to try the nightlife – Kenyans love to party, drink beer and eat nyama choma!
Feel free to add more to this list!
Safari njema
Two rivers is my best
This is my review of Two Rivers Mall, Nairobi.
“Definitely needed more time to explore…
Excellent service at Levi’s and Woolworth’s and Art Caffe. Very clean and secure mall.
A few smart looking designer shops (and a few cheap stores that didn’t really fit the look and feel of centre). I wonder if / when upper floor shops will be filled?
Lots to do for kids on a Saturday. Huge Carrefour supermarket!”
Thank you Charlotee,
This is very invaluable information
Hey Shafiq. Thanks for dropping by and glad you find the info of use. Safari njema!
(And do let me know if there’s any info missing from this post. I like to update it every now and then).
Hello Muzungu, am Aisha and i would like to travel to Nairobi Next week. Is it a must i have to get yellow fever vaccination?
Hi Aisha, I suggest you call the bus company directly and check what the latest advice is.
I travelled to Nairobi recently and was not asked for my Yellow Fever certificate (going into Kenya / returning to Uganda) but I always travel with it, just in case.
This is very informative. Thanks for posting this. I’m travelling to Kampala from Nairobi next week for 6 days, could you recommend a budget accomodation near Mash Bus station. Also, any recommendations on what to see or visit outside Kampala. Thanks.
Hi Robert. Glad you found the information useful 🙂
The Mash bus will drop you in central Kampala, next to the National Theatre. You are a short boda boda ride away from Bushpig in Acacia Avenue or Fat Cat in Kisementi. Both are good, international-style backpackers. The Bushpig bar is popular. There is a big range of cheap local accommodation if you head towards the main bus park downtown. Someone can direct you there. We also have a AirBnB of course.
As for what to do outside Kampala, where to start? It really depends on your interest. There’s a lot of things to do in Jinja, in fact you could get off the bus there. Jinja is a base for white water rafting, kayaking, quad biking, fishing, birdwatching, horseriding, mountain biking and all kinds of other activities. There’s a good range of camping and hostel type accommodation there, for example at Basecamp in Jinja; Nile River Explorers and Nile River Camp at Bujagali and Overland Camp at Kalagala Falls. I recently stayed at all these places and recommend them.
My blog contains travel stories from across Uganda. If you go to the south west, you can canoe on Lake Mutanda with volcanoes overlooking the lake. Go to Fort Portal area and visit lots of crater lakes. I have hundreds of ideas, just tell me what your interest is.
Hi Mzungu,
I will be travelling from Uganda to Nairobi in a couple of weeks and the bus reaches River road at 4.30am. How safe is it? Any tips regarding how to move once there? Thank you!
Hi Chiara, that’s a good question.
River Road is hectic during the day and chancers and pickpockets abound but at night there are few people around. That said, I feel it’s fairly safe early morning because there are dozens of taxis and buses parked up so there are people there watching them.
What I’ve done in the past is to order an Uber (download the app before you travel). You might need a local SIM card or use roaming on your regular phone.
You can get a local special hire taxi easily but don’t accept the first price.
Don’t let anyone rush you when you get off the bus. Take your time to wake up (!) collect your things and double check you have everything. There will be lots of guys jostling for your attention, trying to sell you a taxi ride as you get off the bus.
The Mash bus station feels fairly secure and there’s a waiting room upstairs where you could stay for a while. There’s an ok toilet too.
If it’s open, head for the cafe on the opposite corner of the road. It’s cheap and has a great menu of local foods. ‘Heavy tea’ is the name that always makes me smile!
Safari njema
Hi I want to travel to kampala on 20th of August but I currently haven’t organized it yet must I have a work permit because am only going there for a project
Hi Leila
The borders are currently closed and Entebbe Airport will not be open until mid-September at the earliest (according to a good source). Read about the push to reopen Entebbe Airport here.
If you are coming here to work or volunteer, you will need a work permit. You would normally be able to enter the country on a single entry tourist visa and then apply for your work permit however, one case varies from another. Some people are advised they must have their work permit before they come to the country…
For info, read how to apply for your Uganda visa online.
To contact Uganda Immigration directly, use their Facebook page. They do not reply to emails. Before the pandemic, immigration would normally reply within 24 hours but they have reduced staff on at the moment.
My feeling is that you will not be travelling on the 20th August but good luck and let me know how it goes! Safe journey.
Thanks a lot for the updates and all the helpful information you have offered. Am planning to travel to Kampala in November just for leisure. Can that be possible with this Corona issue at hand?Any new updates please?
Hi Monica, happy to hear you are finding my blog useful 🙂
Unfortunately it’s impossible to say what the situation is going to be like in November. Today August 23rd 2020 Entebbe Airport and Uganda’s borders all remain closed.
However – once you get here – public transport around Uganda is operating but taking fewer passengers (for a higher fee of course!)
The number of coronavirus infections hit a peak yesterday with 318 new cases reported and there are rumours Kampala may go into lockdown again. I spoke to several friends in Kampala today and they’ve all advised me to stay away longer as most people aren’t social distancing nor are they wearing masks properly, especially when you go downtown to the busiest areas. Let’s hope coronavirus peaks quickly and you are able to travel here in November.
I would advise you not to make any travel plans until you can be absolutely sure it’s safe – and convenient – to travel. You wouldn’t want to get here and then spend all your time in quarantine (at your expense!) Currently there is 14 days quarantine for those (very few) people who are coming into Uganda (on special repatriation flights etc).
You may also find these blogs helpful:
Bracing ourselves for Coronavirus in Uganda. Updated regularly with lots of health advice about COVID-19 / Coronavirus and useful links.
Advice from the US Embassy in Kampala:Now is the time to take precautions.
Uganda’s tourism private-sector demand airport reopening
Thank you a lot for the insight,I’ll stay put and wait for the opportune time.Thanks again.
Hi muzungu,
Thank you for answering my question on the East African visa on the EAV thread.
I thought it’s more appropriate to post this question on this thread. I have a question regarding MASH reservation and payment. From what I understand, payment with credit card for online booking is not possible? If I can’t pay with credit card online, is it possible for me to ask my hotel where I will be staying in Kampala to book it for me?
Another bus company recommended by Bradt Uganda is Easy Couch, which seems to allow credit card payment for online booking. Would like to ask if you have tried the service of this bus company?
Keep safe.
I plan to travel by bus from Kampala to Nairobi
… once the border reopens…. 🙂
I would like to travel from Kampala to Nairobi on 17th October and my ticket will be paid in Kenya in this very buns company ,is it possible ?
For me when they have paid from Kenya?
That should not be a problem.
Mash accept payment by MPesa, MTN mobile money and cash. In my experience you can pay in either country.
I organise tickets from Nairobi to Kampala with Wilson on WhatsApp. (His number is on this page). He will show you seat availability as well. Safari njema
Please note: although the Uganda / Kenya border is open, I contacted MASH office in River Road Nairobi today and they say “buses are yet to resume cross border services for passengers.”
They could not give me a date for when the services will restart. Sorry.
Hi Paolo
We don’t use credit cards much in Uganda but pay for almost everything using mobile money or cash. I have used MTN Mobile Money in Uganda and MPesa (Safaricom) in Kenya to pay for reservations with Mash. In fact in Nairobi, I reserved via WhatsApp and then just paid for my ticket in cash at Mash booking office on River Road. Contact Wilson on +254 792819820 (greet him from me please).
If you don’t have a local SIM card, you should be able to give the cash to your hotel to arrange for you or go to a mobile money vendor and ask them to do the transaction (for a very small fee). They are on every street.
I haven’t tried Easy Coach. The name may make you think of EasyJet, but there’s no connection with them. I have travelled with Mash many times and always been happy with the service.
Thanks for keeping your questions within the same topic, very useful for other readers 🙂
Hehe. Correct, once the border opens
Thank you again!
Three years down and counting. I love the conversation.
I love traveling on comfortable buses too.
Thanks Inno! Bus travel is very popular across East Africa.
We look forward to when cross-border services for passengers resume.
that phone contact is for an individual
Hi Francis, which phone number did you try? Let me know and I will remove it from this page. This is a personal blog and I am simply sharing information that Mash display in their offices… Unfortunately people don’t always update me. Thanks for the feedback.
It’s 2021 and mash cool is still the coolest bus to travel with. I am travelling from kpla to nrb as I type this and the experience is awesome and amazing. Professional crew and the passengers are quiet and peaceful. The bus is cool in the inside yet it’s way hot outside. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to travel by bus. Kudos mash cool
Hi Ruth, it’s great to read that the international buses are running again. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Can you tell us how it is with covid-19? What processes are in place? Are there empty seats between passengers? And do you have to have a covid test to cross the border? I assume you do.
Mash Cool are great. I look forward to travelling with them again soon.
Hello. One must have a covid 19 test done in a clinic or hospital and issued with a certificate that is valid. They are strict on this. Make sure you get your receipt of payment or let the hospital send you the results on phone to print. That way they scan and prove that its genuine. Mash has the social distancing profile well observed. The certificate is valid for only five days after which it expires. If you stay for more than five days in kpla you must undergo another test. Lastly make sure your certificate is genuine. Otherwise you will pay for one at the border and it’s not cheap. There is congestion inside the offices, no social distancing, no hand washing or sanitizers. All in all its hectic travelling during this time. We left kpla at 7 in the evening and reached nrb at 1pm. Mash cool has no daytime buses.
Thank you very much Ruth for sharing your travel experiences. It’s good to know that Mash are working to protect customers during the pandemic.
It’s a shame that the border offices are not being as careful. Thank you for the warning though, much appreciated. I’m sure many blog readers will find your feedback helpful