East Africa Overland: The Six-Month Budget Guide
Navigate East Africa overland by prioritizing local public transport like matatus and buses instead of private tours. Rely on the East Africa Tourist Visa to cross borders efficiently and stick to local markets and guesthouses to keep your daily burn rate low.
- Secure the East Africa Tourist Visa. Apply for the single-entry EATV online before you leave. It costs $100 and covers Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda for 90 days. It saves you from paying three separate visa fees.
- Master the 'Matatu' System. In Kenya and Uganda, use matatus (minibuses). They don't have set schedules; they leave when full. Always negotiate the price before boarding and pay the conductor directly.
- Use Official Long-Distance Bus Lines. For cross-border travel (e.g., Nairobi to Kampala or Kigali to Dar es Salaam), book directly with established companies like Modern Coast, Mash, or Tahmeed. Buy tickets at the bus office 24 hours in advance, never through street touts.
- Manage Border Crossings. Walk across land borders whenever possible. Have your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate and printed visa documentation ready. Avoid 'fixers' who offer to speed up the process—they are unnecessary and often predatory.
- Is it safe to travel alone overland?
- Yes, provided you travel during daylight hours and avoid border areas identified as high-risk by your embassy.
- How do I handle money?
- Use ATMs in major cities to withdraw local currency. Carry crisp, recent-year USD bills (post-2013) as a backup for emergency exchange at borders.