Can I trust the border guards?

Yes, but they are bureaucratic. Keep your answers short, don't joke about security, and always have your yellow fever card visible.

Yes, major cross-border lines are generally safe. Avoid night travel if possible, as road conditions and visibility are significantly worse after dark.

Navigating East Africa by Public Transport

Crossing borders in East Africa is best done via cross-border shuttle buses like Mash Poa or Modern Coast, which handle the border logistics for you. Budget for 10-14 hours per transit day and carry at least $100 in crisp, clean USD bills for visas and border fees.

Book through established bus lines. Avoid 'local' unmarked minibuses for border crossings. Book your seat 48 hours in advance with reputable companies like Mash Poa, Tahmeed, or Modern Coast. They operate scheduled international routes between Nairobi, Kampala, Kigali, and Arusha.
Clear immigration on foot. When you reach the border (e.g., Busia or Malaba), the driver will instruct everyone to exit the bus. You must walk through the immigration building, get your exit stamp from the departure country, walk across the 'no-man's-land' strip, and get your entry stamp from the arrival country.
Keep your documents organized. Carry your passport, yellow fever vaccination card, and printed visa/e-visa documents in a waterproof folder. Do not keep these in your checked luggage under the bus.
Manage your luggage at the border. You are required to take all your hand luggage through the immigration office. Your main backpack will stay on the bus, but ensure it is locked. The bus will wait for all passengers to clear immigration before departing.

Can I trust the border guards?: Yes, but they are bureaucratic. Keep your answers short, don't joke about security, and always have your yellow fever card visible.
Are the buses safe?: Yes, major cross-border lines are generally safe. Avoid night travel if possible, as road conditions and visibility are significantly worse after dark.