Renting a car in Arusha and dropping off in Uganda Entebbe
It is possible to rent a car in Arusha, Tanzania and drop it off in Entebbe, Uganda (“one‐way, cross‐border”), but you’ll need to plan in advance. There are a number of extra fees / permits / insurance to consider. Here are the main things to check approximate costs, plus tips to make it smoother. Contact Us at info@arushacarrental.com
| Requirement | What to do |
|---|---|
| Rental Company allows cross-border one-way drop-off | Many car rental companies require that you inform them in advance if you intend to cross country borders. Some will not allow it; others will allow it only under certain conditions (long rental period, certain vehicle types, etc.). |
| Cross-border insurance (COMESA Yellow Card) | You’ll need insurance that covers driving in all countries you’ll traverse. For East Africa, that usually means a COMESA cross-border / yellow card type insurance. |
| Customs / importation permits / vehicle documentation | The car must have valid registration, logbook, possibly a letter of authorization from the rental company allowing cross-border travel. Some borders require a temporary import permit. |
| Visas / passport requirements | You’ll need valid travel documents for all countries crossed. Depending on your nationality you may need visas; ensure you check requirements ahead of time. |
| One-way drop-off fee | Because the rental company needs to get the car back (or will account for it in their costs), there is often a significant fee for dropping off in a different country. |
| Duration of rental | Some companies require a minimum number of days for cross-border hires, or have stricter terms. For example, “short term” rentals may not allow border crossings. |
| Vehicle condition / type | Choose a car that’s suitable for roads you’ll traverse (may include rough roads). You may prefer a 4×4. Make sure it’s well maintained. Also check fuel policy, etc. |
| Costs: fuel, tolls, border fees | Fuel will be a big portion; also allow time & money at border crossings. Tolls, road permits, etc. Don’t forget possible costs for vehicle importation at border, etc. |
| Time & planning | Border crossings may take time, paperwork could be slow. It’s best to start the process (insurance, permissions, etc.) well ahead of your travel date. |
Possible route issues & border posts
If you’re driving from Arusha to Entebbe, you’ll cross from Tanzania into Uganda (likely via the border at Mutukula or Namanga Boarder via Nairobi to Busia Uganda
- The car rental company allows border crossing at that specific border.
- The roads are passable especially in rainy season.
- That customs/border posts are open, and you have all required permits.
