What is the exact distance from Nairobi to Kampala?

The driving distance from Nairobi to Kampala is 683 kilometers (424 miles). The straight-line distance is 504 km.

How long does it take to drive from Nairobi to Kampala?

The estimated driving time from Nairobi to Kampala is 15.3 hours under normal traffic conditions. This can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and your driving speed.

What is the fastest route from Nairobi to Kampala?

The fastest route is typically 683km and takes about 15.3 hours. This route is optimized for time and usually uses major highways and roads.

Are there alternative routes from Nairobi to Kampala?

Yes, we provide up to 2 different route options including the fastest route, shortest distance route, and alternative paths that may offer different scenery or avoid certain road types.

Does the route from Nairobi to Kampala include tolls?

Yes, some routes from Nairobi to Kampala may include toll roads. Check the detailed route information below for specific toll road indicators.

Can I get turn-by-turn directions from Nairobi to Kampala?

While we provide the route overview and key information, for detailed turn-by-turn directions, we recommend using the route data with your preferred GPS navigation app or mapping service.

Nairobi to Kampala Distance

424 miles•683 km•15.3 hours

Driving distance and route information from Nairobi, Kenyato Kampala, Uganda. Compare multiple routes and get detailed travel information.

⭐

FASTEST ROUTE

424.68 mi

(683.45 km)

⏱️15h 20m

Via Uhuru Highway, A8; R2

Uhuru Highway → A8; R2

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏

SHORTEST ROUTE

405.82 mi

(653.11 km)

⏱️15h 27m

Via Uhuru Highway, A8; R2

Uhuru Highway → A8; R2

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏 Straight-line distance: 313 miles (504 km)

See crow flies distance →

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Complete Driving Guide: Nairobi to Kampala

Essential Route Information

TOTAL DISTANCE

424 mi

683 kilometers

DRIVING TIME

15.3 hours

918 minutes

FUEL ESTIMATE

57 L

$85 cost

📍 Route Overview

Starting PointNairobi, Nairobi County

DestinationKampala, Central Region

Route Options2 available routes

Countries Crossed2+ countries

Time Zone ChangesCheck local times

🚗 Driving Details

Average Speed45 km/h

Straight-line Distance504 km

Route Efficiency74%

Toll RoadsYes - Budget required

Ferry CrossingsNo ferries

Compare All Routes from Nairobi to Kampala

Route Type	Distance	Drive Time	Avg Speed	Tolls
⭐ Fastest Route	425 mi (683 km)	15.3 hours	45 km/h	✅ Yes
Alternative 1	406 mi (653 km)	15.4 hours	42 km/h	✅ Yes

Complete Journey Overview: Nairobi to Kampala

The road journey from Nairobi to Kampala spans approximately 424 miles (683 kilometers), making it a long-distance drive that typically requires 15.3 hours of continuous driving under normal traffic conditions.

This route connects Nairobi County, Kenya with Central Region, Uganda, traversing across international borders between Kenya and Uganda. The journey offers 2 distinct routing options, each with unique advantages in terms of distance, time, or scenic value.

The most efficient route from Nairobi to Kampala follows major highways and arterial roads, maintaining an average speed of approximately 45 km/h. This route has been optimized for speed, though it includes toll roads that require payment.

🗺️ Travel Planning Essentials

✓

Fuel Planning: Expect to use approximately 17 gallons (57 liters) of fuel for this 424 mile journey. Plan fuel stops every 250-300 miles.

✓

Rest Stops: For safety, plan a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving. Total journey with breaks: 17.6 hours.

✓

Best Travel Times: Avoid peak traffic hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) in major cities along your route for optimal travel time.

✓

Weather Check: Monitor weather conditions along the entire route, especially during winter months or rainy seasons.

💰 Cost Estimation Guide

Fuel Cost (approximate)$59

Toll Costs$21

Vehicle Wear (per mile)$106

Total Trip Cost$187

* Costs are estimates based on average fuel prices and vehicle maintenance. Actual costs may vary.

Alternative Transportation Options

🚗

By Car

15.3 hours

424 miles

✈️

By Plane

0.6 hours flight

504 km direct

🚌

By Bus

19.9 hours

Multiple stops

🚂

By Train

Check availability

Scenic route