Affordable and Comfortable Bus Travel to Gulu and Northern Uganda | Routes, Prices & Booking
Discover bus travel to Gulu and Northern Uganda with our complete guide on operators, prices, schedules, and booking options via booking.ttta.co.ug or the TBA app.
Introduction
Bus travel to Gulu and other parts of Northern Uganda offers a reliable and affordable alternative to private vehicles or flights. Whether traveling for tourism, business, or visiting family, buses provide a convenient way to explore Northern Uganda’s rich culture and scenic landscapes. This guide covers everything you need to know about bus travel to Gulu and beyond—bus operators, ticket prices, schedules, booking methods, and payment options.
Why Choose Bus Travel to Gulu and Northern Uganda?
Traveling by bus offers several benefits:
- Cost-Effective: Tickets from Kampala to Gulu start as low as UGX 30,000.
- Comfortable Options: Many buses offer features such as extra legroom, air conditioning, and onboard Wi-Fi.
- Scenic Routes: Experience Northern Uganda’s landscapes, from the green hills of Karuma to the bustling markets of Bweyale and aswel the Murchsion KIdepo National Park route aswel as the Traveling via Eastern Uganda via Jinja, Iganga, Soroti, Lira to Gulu and other parts of Northern Uganda.
- Flexible Booking: Book online via platforms like booking.ttta.co.ug or the TBA app. Book online
Top Bus Operators Serving Gulu and Northern Uganda
Gateway Bus
- Routes: Kampala to Gulu via Karuma and Bweyale
- Schedule: Daily departures (morning and evening)
- Fare: UGX 35,000 – UGX 40,000
- Travel Time: 5-7 hours
- Features: Spacious seats, reliable departures
Crown Bus
- Route: Kampala to Gulu
- Fare: UGX 30,000
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours
- Booking: Available online via TBA, Ngonis and other platforms
- Service: Standard comfort with luggage allowance
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Friends Coach
- Route: Kampala to Gulu
- Fare: UGX 25,000
- Travel Time: 5 hours
- Departure: Daily, morning only
- Special Features: Reliable and popular with budget travelers
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Mega Bus
- Route: Kampala to Gulu via Karuma
- Fare: UGX 60,000 – 70,000
- Schedule: Two daily departures
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours using Karuma Route 8-10 Hours via Jinja Soroti Lira
- Service: Offers premium seats and extra luggage space.
Makome Bus
- Route: Kampala to Gulu and Kitgum
- Fare: UGX 60,000 – 70,000 (subject to seasonal changes)
- Services: Reliable for longer journeys and often used for transporting larger groups of travelers and goods.
- Terminal: Plot 32, Andrea Olal Road, Gulu
- Contact: 039 2000250
Opit Bus
- Route: Kampala to Gulu and Kitgum
- Fare: UGX 40,000 – 50,000
- Highlights: Offers frequent stops at smaller towns, making it convenient for local travelers.
Larem Safaris Bus
- Route: Kampala to Gulu via Karuma and Kigumba
- Fare: UGX 30,000 – 35,000
- Departure Time: Morning and evening
- Special Features: Known for comfortable seating and reliable schedules, ideal for tourists and business travelers.
- Contact: +256 788 432748
Booking Options: How to Reserve Your Seat
Booking through Your Website (booking.ttta.co.ug)
- Process: Visit booking.ttta.co.ug and TBA bookings to select your preferred bus and schedule.
- Features: Secure payments, e-ticket generation, and booking history management.
The TBA App
- How to Use: Download the TBA app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Perks: Instant booking, access to discounts, and easy cancellations.
Other Platforms: Ngonis and Tiketi.com
- Ngonis: Known for comprehensive bus schedules and cheap tickets across Uganda.
- Tiketi.com: Offers competitive prices with options to select seats online
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Prices and Schedules Overview
| Bus Operator | Route | Fare (UGX) | Departure Time | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gateway Bus | Kampala to Gulu | 40,000-60,000 | Morning/Evening | 6-7/9-10 hours |
| Crown Bus | Kampala to Gulu | 50,000 | Daily | 5-6/8-10 hours |
| Friends Coach | Kampala to Gulu | 45,000 | Morning | 5-6/9-10 hours |
| Mega Bus | Kampala to Gulu | 60,000-70,000 | Twice daily | 5-6/8-10 hours |
Prices and Schedules Overview
| Operator | Route | Fare (UGX) | Departure | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Larem Safaris | Kampala to Gulu | 30,000-35,000 | Morning/Evening | 6 hours |
| Makome Bus | Kampala to Kitgum | 60,000-70,000 | Twice daily | 7 hours |
| Opit Bus | Kampala to Gulu | 40,000-50,000 | Morning | 5-6 hours |
| Gateway Bus | Kampala to Gulu | 35,000-40,000 | Daily | 6-7 hours |
The travel time depends on traffic and the number of stops along the route, especially at Karuma, Kigumba, and Bweyale, The Eastern route via Jinja, Iganga, Soroti and Lira and also the option of discovering Nature and wildlife via the Kidepo? Murcshion fall national park
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Payment Methods for Bus Tickets
To make your booking as convenient as possible, platforms offer several payment options:
Mobile Money: MTN and Airtel Money are the most widely accepted.
Bank Cards: Payments through Visa and MasterCard are supported.
Cash Payments: Available at physical booking offices (limited availability).
TBA App: Save payment details for fast checkout and discounts on future bookings
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Traveling Tips and Things to Know
- Book Early: Bus seats to Gulu can fill up fast, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Carry Snacks: Some buses do not offer food services, so it’s advisable to carry your own snacks and water.
- Check-in Early: Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid missing your bus.
- Keep Essentials Handy: Carry your ticket, ID, and any travel essentials in a small bag for easy access.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to travel from Kampala to Gulu by bus?
The journey typically takes 5-7 hours, depending on the bus operator and traffic conditions.
2. What is the cheapest way to get from Kampala to Gulu?
Traveling by bus is the most affordable option, with fares starting at UGX 25,000.
3. Can I book tickets online?
Yes, you can book through platforms like booking.ttta.co.ug or the TBA app for convenience.
4. Are buses available daily to Gulu?
Yes, most operators offer daily services with both morning and evening departures.
5. Which payment methods are accepted for online bookings?
Mobile money, Visa/MasterCard, and cash payments at booking offices are accepted.
6. What amenities are available on buses to Gulu?
Depending on the operator, buses may offer Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and ample luggage space.
Traveling by bus to Gulu and other parts of Northern Uganda is a cost-effective, scenic, and reliable way to explore the region. With multiple operators offering daily services, you can easily book tickets through booking.ttta.co.ug or the TBA app. Flexible payment methods and convenient schedules make it easier than ever to plan your journey. Whether for leisure or business, taking a bus ensures a comfortable trip to this vibrant part of Uganda.