There is a number of ways to explore Uganda as a family and one of the best can be through a rooftop camping vacation. This adventure offers a family the opportunity to explore the pearl of Africa in a way that is flexible, adventurous, and fun.
Though considered a budget option, travelers can rent a car with either two rooftop tents each for 2 people or one large family size tent that can accommodate up to 5 people.
When embarking on a vacation of rooftop camping in Uganda, the first step is choosing the right vehicle. Let’s take an example of a family of 2 parents with their 2 or 3 children, it’s essential to opt for a car that offers comfort and enough space for everyone. Based on such a common family size, here are some great vehicle options that work perfectly for a self-drive family adventure.
Land Cruiser Prado
A Land Cruiser Prado Tx/Tz is an excellent choice for a family of four, especially if you’re planning to stay within Uganda or the farthest Rwanda. The Land cruiser Prados rented in Uganda offer comfortable seating of 3 – 4 passengers, 2 – 3 children in the back seats and the adults in the front. With its 4×4 capabilities, a Landcruiser Prado also handles rough terrains well, making it a reliable option for off-road adventures, which are common in Uganda’s national parks.
However, it’s the least recommended for two rooftop tents or with a family tent though its mostly preferred due to its friendly budget.
The prices for renting a Prado with double rooftop tents in Uganda ranges between $95 to $110 while with a family tent ranges between $90 to $100 per day with all other camping equipment.
Land Cruiser V8
If you prefer a more robust and powerful vehicle, the Land Cruiser V8 is an excellent option. The land cruiser V8 offers more strength and comfort, making it ideal for carrying two rooftop tents.
This automatically transmitted vehicle is perfect if you’re planning a longer stay or expect to drive across challenging terrains even for cross order rentals to Kenya or Tanzania. However, do keep in mind that the V8 is not as fuel-efficient as the Prado.
The prices for renting a Land cruiser V8 in Uganda with double rooftop tents ranges between $110 to $130 per day while with a family tent ranges between $95 to $110 per day with all other camping equipment.
Land Cruiser LX
This is the most reliable vehicle option among the three on top of being offered in a newer model. The land cruiser Lx has a great fuel efficiency and comes in a manual transmission. It’s engine power and hard body make makes it so reliable even if you are to drive to the roughest terrains of the Serengeti National Park of Tanzania.
Families considering cross border rentals from Uganda say round East African trips, this is the most recommended vehicle for you. Though the daily rates are a bit higher as compared to the Landcruiser Prado and the V8, its low consumption diesel engine makes it almost budget friendly as the Prado.
The prices for renting a Landcruiser LX in Uganda with double rooftop tents ranges between $120 to $140 per day while with a family tent ranges between $110 to $130 per day with all other camping equipment.
Although manual, the Land Cruiser LX is one of the best options for those who want a newer vehicle and an affordable solution for exploring Uganda.
