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HomeRoad TripsAfricaEast AfricaKenyaVictoria Lake Loop
Victoria Lake

Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip

Nairobi - Eldoret - Kampala - Fort Portal - Queen Elizabeth N.P. - Kabale - Bwindi N.P. - Gisenyi - Kigali - Mwanza - Musoma - Kisii - Narok

Expect on your itinerary

Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Landscape Landscape
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Beach Beach
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Comfort Comfort
Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages13 km2,979 h/stage5.1

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip in Kenya?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,160EUR drive & more 400EUR sleep & more 792EUR eat & more 960EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,312EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,500EUR drive & more 538EUR sleep & more 2,112EUR eat & more 1,440EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,090EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,590EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 7,200EUR drive & more 725EUR sleep & more 3,960EUR eat & more 1,920EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 6,605EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 13,805EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,500EUR drive & more 800EUR sleep & more 1,100EUR eat & more 960EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,860EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 7,360EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip Itinerary

The Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip is an amazing journey through some of Kenya's most beautiful landscapes. Starting in Nairobi, the route passes through Eldoret, Fort Portal, Kabale, Gisenyi, and Mwanza, covering a distance of approximately 3010km. It is recommended that this trip be completed in 20 days, although the exact time will depend on the driver's preferences. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the dry season, when the roads are in their best condition and the scenery is at its most stunning. Along the way, there are numerous attractions to explore, from the forests of Fort Portal to the renowned Lake Victoria in Mwanza. There are also several UNESCO World Heritage Monuments to visit, making this road trip a unique and educational experience. Due to the overall poor condition of the roads, this road trip is not for the faint of heart. Drivers should be aware that there are border crossings along the route, and that these can be unpredictable. However, the experience and memories gained from this trip will be worth the effort. The Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip is suitable for any driver, and can be managed on a moderate budget. With its incredible sights and experiences, this road trip is sure to provide a lifetime of memories.
number of days 20 number of days
route length 2,979 km route length
budget fair budget
good for adventurer good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level high accident level

START Nairobi

Distance 2,979 km Driving time 66.0 h Pace: modest 774.5 kWh Airports NBO
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Nairobi is the starting point of the Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip, a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in Kenya. Located in the Central Highlands of East Africa, Nairobi is the capital of Kenya and the most populous city in the country. The city has many attractions to offer to visitors, with some of the most popular sights being the Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, and the National Museum of Kenya. The National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and many more, making it a great place to spot these beautiful animals in their natural habitat. The Giraffe Centre is also a great place to observe these majestic creatures and even feed them. The National Museum of Kenya is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of the country. For those traveling by air, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is the closest international airport to Nairobi. The airport has many car rental companies, making it easy to get around the city and start the Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip. Nairobi is an ideal starting point for the Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip and is sure to be a memorable experience for all who visit.

1 Nairobi - Eldoret

Distance 329 km Driving time 6.5 h Pace: modest 85.5 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape interesting cultural site accommodation options interesting  historic site camping sites
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Are you looking for an adventurous road trip in Kenya? Then you should take the 330 km route from Nairobi to Eldoret, passing through Nakuru. This trip can be completed in less than 7 hours, but you will want to take your time to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and visit some of the most interesting places along the way. Start your journey in Nairobi, the capital and largest city in Kenya, and make sure to visit the Nairobi National Park. In Nakuru, you should visit the Lake Nakuru National Park, which is known for its large population of flamingos. Finally, in Eldoret, don't miss the Kipchoge Keino Stadium and the nearby Eldoret National Museum. As you drive, you will be surrounded by stunning views of the Kenyan countryside, so don't forget to take plenty of pictures. And remember, more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

2 Eldoret - Kampala

Distance 348 km Driving time 8.7 h Pace: slow 80.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site camping sites border crossing
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Eldoret, Kenya to Kampala, Uganda and discover the beauty of East Africa! Your journey will start in Eldoret, a vibrant city with a lot of cultural attractions. From there, you will drive through Jinja, the adventure capital of Uganda. Here, you can go white water rafting, bungee jumping, and much more! After Jinja, your journey will continue to Kampala, the bustling capital of Uganda. This 348 km drive will take you fewer than 8 hours. During your journey, you can explore the stunning scenery and take in the unique culture of East Africa. Be sure to visit the Source of the Nile in Jinja, the world’s longest river. Here, you can take a boat tour, or even go kayaking. In Kampala, you can explore the historical sites, such as the Kasubi Tombs, or the Uganda Museum. At the end of the day, you can visit the vibrant nightlife of Kampala, or simply relax in the city's many parks. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an incredible journey!

3 Kampala - Fort Portal

Distance 296 km Driving time 6.6 h Pace: modest 77.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape accommodation options interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site camping sites
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip experience? Kampala to Fort Portal is a 298 km journey that takes less than 5 hours, and it is one of the most beautiful stages of your tour. As you drive through the lush hills and valleys of Uganda, you will be captivated by the picturesque landscapes. Start your journey in Kampala and make a stop at the Uganda National Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of the country. Then, take a short trip to the source of the Nile, the longest river in the world, and marvel at the breathtaking views. Continue your journey to Fort Portal, located in the shadow of the Rwenzori Mountains. Here, explore the beautiful Semuliki National Park and its diverse wildlife. Spend a day in the park, trekking through the lush rainforest and spotting some of the rare species of birds and animals. As you drive through the countryside, keep an eye out for the breathtaking views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the crater lakes of the region. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

4 Fort Portal - Queen Elizabeth N.P.

Distance 116 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: modest 30.1 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Fort Portal to Queen Elizabeth National Park? This 116 km journey will take you less than two hours, and you'll get to visit some of the most interesting places in the area. Start your trip in Fort Portal, where you can explore the Amabere Caves, the Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve, and the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. You can also visit the local markets and learn about the culture of the people living here. As you drive towards Queen Elizabeth National Park, you'll pass through the Kyambura Game Reserve and the Maramagambo Forest. Here you can spot elephants, chimpanzees, and other wild animals. Once you reach the Queen Elizabeth National Park, you'll be able to explore the Kazinga Channel, the Ishasha River, and the Katwe Salt Lake. You can also take a boat ride on the Kazinga Channel and observe the wildlife from the water. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

5 Queen Elizabeth N.P. - Kabale

Distance 181 km Driving time 3.7 h Pace: modest 47.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site attractive landscape accommodation options camping sites
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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda to Kabale. This road trip is an amazing 205km drive, taking less than 5 hours. Along the way you will be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, so make sure to take plenty of pictures! You will also get to experience some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites that are located along the route. This is one stage of a larger tour, so make sure to check out the "Itinerary" for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. With so much to explore, this road trip will be an unforgettable experience!

6 Kabale - Bwindi N.P.

Distance 52 km Driving time 1.8 h Pace: slow 12.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options attractive landscape camping sites
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Kabale to Bwindi National Park, a journey of only 52km that will take you less than 2 hours! This is one of the most exciting stages of your journey, as you will be able to explore some of Uganda's most beautiful and interesting places. Start your journey in Kabale, a city known for its rolling hills and picturesque views. Take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the many local cafes, or take a stroll around the city's vibrant markets. Your next stop is the breathtaking Lake Bunyonyi, renowned for its stunning beauty and abundance of wildlife. Take a boat ride, or simply admire the views from the shore. Finally, you will arrive at Bwindi National Park. Here, you can explore the lush forests and spot some of the park's native wildlife, such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and elephants. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

7 Bwindi N.P. - Gisenyi

Distance 174 km Driving time 5.3 h Pace: slow 40.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips border crossing attractive landscape accommodation options camping sites
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Bwindi National Park in Uganda to Gisenyi, Rwanda! This 168km journey will take you less than 5 hours, and you will cross the international border between the two countries. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting places in both countries. In Bwindi, you can take a guided safari tour to explore the park's incredible biodiversity, including the endangered mountain gorillas. You can also visit the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to over 200 species of birds and 350 species of trees. Once you have crossed the border, you will reach Gisenyi. Here, you can take a boat tour on Lake Kivu and explore the local villages. You can also visit the nearby Nyungwe National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and many more. This is just a brief overview of the sights and attractions you can visit on this road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Bwindi to Gisenyi!

8 Gisenyi - Kigali

Distance 202 km Driving time 6.2 h Pace: slow 46.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options attractive landscape camping sites
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Gisenyi to Kigali? This 214 km drive will take you less than 6 hours and you will pass through some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Rwanda. Start your journey in Gisenyi, the gateway to Lake Kivu, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the lake. From there, you can drive to Kibuye, a small city on the shores of the lake, and visit the Kibuye Church, a beautiful historical site. Continue your journey to Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, and explore the city's vibrant culture and stunning architecture. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful reminder of the country's history, and the Inema Art Center, a creative hub for the city's emerging art scene. On your way back, make sure to stop in Nyamata, a small town known for its amazing traditional culture. Here, you can visit the Nyamata Genocide Memorial, a tribute to the victims of the genocide, and the local markets, where you can purchase unique crafts and souvenirs. Finally, you can end your journey in Kigali and explore its many attractions. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Happy travels!

9 Kigali - Mwanza

Distance 551 km Driving time 10.9 h Pace: modest 143.3 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options border crossing interesting  historic site camping sites
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Welcome to your road trip stage from Kigali, Rwanda to Mwanza! This stage of your journey is 552km long and should take you fewer than 11 hours to complete, crossing the state border from Rwanda to Tanzania. Your first stop is the town of Rusumo, located on the banks of the Kagera river and known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife. From here, you can take a boat ride to the nearby Rusumo Falls, a stunning waterfall that is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. Continue your journey to Mwanza, a city on the shores of Lake Victoria. Here you can explore the local markets and visit the nearby Nyamagana Island, home to a variety of bird species. You can also take a boat trip to the nearby Ukerewe Island and visit the local villages. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

10 Mwanza - Musoma

Distance 219 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: modest 57.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options camping sites
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Mwanza to Musoma? This 219 km journey will take you no more than 4 hours, but it will be worth your time. You will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes, the crystal-clear lakes, and the lush vegetation. Don't forget to take some pictures of the amazing views! Along the way, you will pass by the beautiful Lake Victoria and the impressive Nyegezi Forest. You will also have the chance to visit the historic Mwanza City and the vibrant Musoma City. Make sure to explore the local markets and enjoy the local cuisine. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to keep your eyes open for more attractions. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

11 Musoma - Kisii

Distance 187 km Driving time 3.6 h Pace: modest 48.5 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options border crossing camping sites
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Welcome, fellow road-trippers! Let us embark on a journey from Musoma, Tanzania to Kisii. This 186 km journey will take less than 4 hours to complete. We will pass through Isebania, crossing the state border, so make sure to have all your documents in order. As we travel, we will be able to enjoy the scenery and take in the sights of the places we visit. In Musoma, you can explore the local markets and get a taste of the culture. In Isebania, you can visit the Isebania Golf Course, a challenging course with stunning views. Finally, in Kisii, you can take a tour of the Kisii Stone Carvings, a unique and fascinating experience. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, let’s get ready and hit the road!

12 Kisii - Narok

Distance 166 km Driving time 3.1 h Pace: modest 43.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Kisii to Narok? This 165 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in these two Kenyan cities. In Kisii, you can visit the Kisii National Polytechnic, a popular educational institution, or the Kisii Stone Carvings Centre, where you can find some of the most beautiful stone carvings in the country. If you are looking for a more cultural experience, visit the Kisii Cultural Centre, where you can learn about the culture and history of the local people. Once you reach Narok, you can explore the Narok Museum, which is home to some of the most important artifacts of the Maasai people. You can also visit the Narok National Park, where you can observe some of the most beautiful wildlife in Kenya. And don't forget to check out the Narok County Stadium, where you can watch some of the best football matches in the country. These are just some of the attractions you can visit on your road trip from Kisii to Narok. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and let the adventure begin!

13 Narok - Nairobi

Distance 157 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: modest 40.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape interesting cultural site accommodation options interesting  historic site camping sites
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Narok to Nairobi? This 157 km journey takes no more than 4 hours and is filled with beautiful landscapes. You can’t miss the stunning views of the Great Rift Valley and the wildlife of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Make sure to take lots of photos! There are also plenty of opportunities to sample the local cuisine and buy souvenirs. From Narok to Nairobi, you’ll find plenty of places to explore and enjoy. To make the most of your trip, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!

  Nairobi

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Nairobi is the last stop of the spectacular Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip. Located in Kenya, Nairobi is the largest city in East Africa and the capital city of Kenya. It is a vibrant, bustling city with a great deal to offer tourists. For those who enjoy sightseeing, Nairobi has many attractions. The Nairobi National Park is home to over 400 species of wildlife, including lions, leopards, and rhinos. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, located in the park, is a great place to learn about the conservation of African wildlife. The Giraffe Center is also a popular attraction in Nairobi, where visitors can learn about the conservation of the endangered Rothschild's Giraffe. For those who enjoy shopping, Nairobi has a variety of markets, including the Maasai Market, where you can find traditional African crafts, and the City Market, which sells everything from fruits and vegetables to clothing and jewelry. Finally, for those who have access to a car, a drive to the nearby Ngong Hills is a great way to experience the stunning scenery of the Kenyan countryside. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Nairobi is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (IATA: NBO). It is located about 20 miles from the city center. Nairobi is the perfect end to the Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip. With its vibrant culture, bustling markets, and stunning wildlife, it truly is a city like no other.

Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

The Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip is an enchanting journey that takes you through some of Kenya's most stunning landscapes and offers a unique perspective on East African culture and nature. Starting from Nairobi, the capital city known for its vibrant culture and historical sites such as the Nairobi National Museum, the Trip covers approximately 3010 km and is ideal for a 20-day itinerary. The route encircles the awe-inspiring Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa by area and the world's largest tropical lake, which is shared among three countries: Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

This Road Trip is a mosaic of experiences, connecting travelers with nature and culture across different cities and towns. In Eldoret, explore the Great Rift Valley and its stunning geographical features, while Fort Portal in Uganda is a gateway to the enchanted Kibale National Park, renowned for chimpanzee tracking. Kabale offers access to the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi, known for its terraced hillsides and 29 islands. Gisenyi, located in Rwanda, presents a chance to relax on the sandy beaches of Lake Kivu. Finally, Mwanza in Tanzania stuns with its rocky outcrops and the opportunity to visit Rubondo Island National Park in the southwest corner of Lake Victoria. Travelers can also explore the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage inscribed at several UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the way, such as the Serengeti National Park near Mwanza.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time for this Road Trip is during the dry seasons, which are from June to October and December to February. This period offers the best Road conditions and the most favorable weather for wildlife spotting and uninterrupted views of the landscapes.

Potential Risks:

Travelers should be prepared for rough patches of Road and variable conditions at border crossings. This journey is designed for those who have an adventurous spirit and are ready for the unexpected. It's advisable to check travel advisories, ensure your vehicle is well-equipped for the terrain, and carry necessary documentation for border crossings.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

The Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip is achievable on a moderate budget, with options for camping, hostels, and lodges along the way. It's suitable for any competent driver. The Road Trip is not just a drive but a cultural immersion, offering insights into the daily lives of the local communities and the opportunity to witness the rich wildlife of East Africa, including the Big Five.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the Victoria Lake Loop Road Trip is to discover the beating heart of East Africa. It's a journey that promises to leave you with a deeper understanding of the region’s natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural diversity. For the intrepid traveler, it's more than a Road Trip—it's an epic adventure that unfolds with every mile.

Facts for safer driving in Kenya

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 80 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 100 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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