International travelers going from Uganda to Kenya, or vice versa, can make the journey either by air or by land, crossing the border at a designated checkpoint. Many people cross the Kenya-Uganda border each day, from Ugandan and Kenyan citizens, to backpackers touring around Africa.
There are a number of Kenya-Uganda border crossing points that land-based travelers may use to pass between the 2 East African states. However, not all of them may be crossed with a Kenya eTA.
This quick guide has everything you need to know about crossing the land border between Kenya and Uganda.
Border Posts Between Kenya and Uganda
There are a total of 5 Kenya-Uganda border points where travelers may cross from one country into the other. These are as follows:
- Busia
- Lokitanyala
- Lwakhakha
- Malaba
- Suam
Looking at a map of the Kenya-Uganda border, all of these towns, apart from Lokitanyala, are found along the southern half of the frontier.
The main checkpoints are the Busia and Malaba border crossings. They both lie on main roads between Uganda and Kenya, and there is also a train crossing at Malaba, which is operated by Rift Valley Railways.
Busia and Malaba are also the only land border crossing points between the 2 countries that are fully equipped to deal with large volumes of travelers and process digital documents. They are the only locations where you can cross the land border with a Kenya eTA.
What Is the Border Between Uganda and Kenya Like?
The Kenya-Uganda border stretches for 772 km, with 5 crossing points. Of these, 3 are in small towns that provide access mainly for locals crossing the border for work or to see family.
The other 2 crossings are in the sizable towns of Busia and Malaba. These are the 2 main crossing points for goods and passengers. As such, thousands of trucks pass through the towns every day and stop at the border while customs checks take place.
Various bus routes also pass through the towns, taking passengers across the border.
Crossing the Kenya-Uganda border at Busia
The Busia border crossing is the main land checkpoint for goods and travelers passing between Kenya and Uganda.
The facilities were upgraded in recent years to make it a one-stop border crossing between Busia, Kenya and Busia, Uganda.
The town of Busia (Kenya) is the capital of Busia County and lies on the direct route between Kampala and Nairobi via Kimisu.
Many travelers take a direct bus between the 2 capital cities, which takes 12-13 hours. Some bus companies include a meal in the price of the journey.
The Malaba Kenya-Uganda border point
The Kenya-Uganda border town of Malaba is the second-busiest border crossing between the 2 countries. North of Busia and east of Tororo, Uganda, it is the most convenient checkpoint for those traveling from Uganda to Eldoret.
The border itself is quite wide, with around 1 km between the Kenyan and Ugandan border posts. Travelers crossing can cover this distance on foot or by boda-boda (bicycle taxi).
Regular buses run from Kampala to Eldoret, crossing the border at Malaba.
Matatus (minibuses) also run between Malaba and Nairobi on the Kenyan side and to Kampala on the Ugandan side.
How to Cross from Uganda to Kenya
Crossing the land border from Uganda to Kenya is relatively simple, providing you have the correct documentation and permission to enter the country.
It is possible to cross by driving or by taking one of the various bus services that pass between the 2 countries.
Upon arrival at the border, all bus passengers are required to disembark and cross the border on foot (or by boda-boda) while the bus is inspected by officials.
Passports and eTAs or visas must be shown to border control officers, along with other necessary travel documents.
Is the Kenya Uganda border open on Sunday?
The Kenya-Uganda border crossing points at Busia and Malaba are open 24/7 to allow travelers to cross in normal circumstances.
The only times these checkpoints are closed are during emergencies and crises, such as for periods during the 2019-2021 coronavirus pandemic. In times of uncertainty like this, it is important to check whether the border is closed and, if so, when the Kenya-Uganda border is opening.
Documentation Needed at Kenyan-Uganda Ports of Entry
Individuals crossing the Kenyan-Uganda border will need certain documents to do so, including the following:
- Passport (or national ID for East Africans)
- eTA or visa (if applicable)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
International visitors who meet the Kenyan eTA requirements can take the convenient option of applying for their travel permit online, which skips any unnecessary trips to an embassy.
Nationals of East African Community (EAC) member states do not need an eTA or visa to enter Kenya or Uganda and may also enter using a national ID card in place of their passport.
The EAC countries are:
- Burundi
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Kenya
- Rwanda
- South Sudan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
Travelers should also check the vaccinations required for Kenya and ensure they are up-to-date.
Recommendations for Kenya-Uganda Border Crossings
Buses are a handy way to get from Kampala to Nairobi and can be a comfortable way to travel, especially by booking a VIP seat. Prices vary from around 2300 to 3400 Kenyan shillings (~USD $20-30).
Travelers should double-check that they have brought all the necessary documentation, including their passport, eTA/visa, and yellow fever vaccination certificate. Without these, they may be turned away at the border.
It is also important to ensure that you have all the necessary visas or travel authorizations for any other countries you plan to visit, as an eTA for Kenya may not cover entry to Tanzania, for example.
When leaving the bus to cross the border, it is advisable to take all valuables and keep them on your person, rather than leave them on the bus.
