Dar es Salaam to Nairobi by Bus Complete Guide

“good morning from Bonjour Dar es Salaam I’m going to Nairobi today and in this video, I’m going to give you all the information you need if you want to travel from the restaurant to Nairobi to the restless by bus you are welcome to right now I’m at the bonjour b bus stop waiting for tom hairy bars from magufulibasi terminal amazing as you can see other buses heading to northern regions are passing hopefully my birthday will also be arriving very soon Nairobi yeah let the journey begins this is a very long journey approximately 16 hours due to some delays that in a manga border but the actual distance between the Dar es Salaam and Nairobi is 900 kilometres

I Used Tahmeed in this trip, I think this is the only bus company playing this route daily for now August 2022 the bus has comfortable seats and the seating arrangement is impressive I paid 75 000 Tanzania shillings which is like 3 800 Kenyan shillings you can buy your ticket by visiting their offices at shekilango bungo and the magufulibasi terminal in the Dar es Salaam. In Nairobi their office is located at a river road downtown alternatively you can buy your ticket online or you can call them and they pay through mobile money.

This is our first stop it is for passengers to stretch their legs and easing themselves in sway they use the metaphor for chimbadawa they are toilet facilities but you can buy some refreshments from vendors around. I’m um oh hi everybody so foreign though this is a long journey but it is worth it the scenery along the way the landscapes are impressive to watch and the roads are in a very decent condition

This is our major stop for passengers to get their lunch you can buy everything from buffet lunch at eight thousand five hundred thousand shillings but also you can get chips and chicken at the same amount sodas juice to name just a few of them um there are also fruit section where you can get sweet oranges from tango mangoes bananas and other foods.

It took one hour and 30 minutes from Arusha Tanzania and Kenya share one border post yatina manga border formalities are still the same you must have your passport uh temporal passports are accepted for East African nationals apart from having a passport you must also have a yellow fever vaccination card with regard to covid19 you must produce a coverage certificate if you are fully vaccinated if not you should produce your pcr test border formalities went smoothly and after one year under 20 minutes we are ready to go it is less than 200 kilometres from namanga to Nairobi good.

There we are welcome to Nairobi you can see the Nairobi expressway welcoming us hope you have enjoyed today’s video don’t forget to subscribe like and share this video to your loved ones okay

Discovering Uganda’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Nature, Culture, and History Unveiled

Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” is not only known for its stunning landscapes but also for its rich cultural heritage. The country proudly boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase its exceptional biodiversity, majestic mountain ranges, and cultural significance. Join us on a journey to explore these remarkable sites and delve into the natural wonders, cultural traditions, and historical treasures that make Uganda a truly unique destination.

  1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Nestled in the southwestern part of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. This ancient rainforest is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and, most notably, for being home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Trekking through dense foliage and mist-shrouded trails, visitors have the rare opportunity to encounter these majestic creatures up close, immersing themselves in a truly unforgettable wildlife experience.

Beyond the gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a sanctuary for numerous other species, including chimpanzees, monkeys, elephants, and a variety of bird species. The park’s verdant beauty, with its cascading waterfalls, meandering rivers, and lush vegetation, offers a picturesque backdrop for exploration and a remarkable opportunity to connect with the natural world.

  1. Rwenzori Mountains National Park: Located on the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwenzori Mountains National Park is a jewel in Uganda’s crown. Also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” this World Heritage Site presents a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and unique Afro-alpine vegetation. The mountain range offers a challenging and rewarding trekking experience for adventurers seeking to conquer Africa’s third-highest peak, Margherita Peak.

As you ascend through different vegetation zones, ranging from lush rainforests to bamboo forests and high-altitude mossy forests, you’ll encounter a diverse array of plant and animal species, some of which are endemic to the Rwenzori Mountains. The trek is a testament to the resilience and determination of explorers who wish to conquer this mystical and awe-inspiring natural wonder.

  1. Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi: In the bustling capital city of Kampala, the Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi stand as a symbol of Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and the historical significance of the Buganda Kingdom. This site is the final resting place of four Buganda kings and serves as a spiritual and cultural center for the Baganda people.

The architectural grandeur of the tombs is a sight to behold, with their traditional thatched-roof structures and intricate design. The rituals and customs associated with the Buganda monarchy are still practiced today, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the kingdom’s traditions and beliefs. Exploring the tombs and learning about the history and cultural significance of the Buganda Kingdom is a fascinating journey into Uganda’s past.

Conclusion: Uganda’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites embody the essence of the country’s natural wonders, cultural traditions, and historical legacy. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park reveals the remarkable biodiversity of the African rainforest, while Rwenzori Mountains National Park offers a majestic alpine experience unlike any other. The Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi invite visitors to immerse themselves in Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and witness the traditions of the Buganda Kingdom.

These UNESCO sites in Uganda are not just destinations to visit but gateways to connect with nature, culture, and history. They remind us of the importance of conservation, preservation, and appreciation of the world’s wonders. Exploring these sites promises unforgettable experiences and a deeper understanding of Uganda’s natural and cultural treasures.

Kenya Tourist Visa Extension Guide

First, you need to register on the portal https://fns.immigration.go.ke
This applies even if you already have an e-citizen account (the one you used to get your visa online, for example). Although the portal asks you if you want to log in with that, it is better to create a new username and password by logging in with Efns.
Once the account is created, you will need to do this.
Click on “Submit Application”.
Select “Extension of visitors pass”.
Fill out the application form (Apply now)
Fill in the required data (name, address etc…)
Upload a copy of your passport data page
Sign the online application
Download and print the application form to keep
As soon as your visa has been extended by Kenyan Immigration, a notification will appear in the account you created, in the “My Application” section.
Click on the printer icon, print and carry the notification in your passport indicating the duration of validity of the visa.
To be more precise and secure, you can go to the immigration office and have the extension stamped in your passport, at no extra charge.
If you have difficulty accessing the portal https://fns.immigration.go.ke you can contact the Kenyan Immigration Office at the following numbers:
Permit Section – 0707 65 79 91
Permanent Residence – 0707 65 87 55;
Or call the Nairobi Immigration switchboard on 020 2222022.
Obviously, the language spoken is English.

KFC denies stealing South African local dish idea from local entrepreneur

KFC has lashed out at an entrepreneur who accused them of stealing his chicken kota “idea”, saying it was not a secret that kota is a famous South African dish.

Romeo Malepe of Sharpeville, in the Vaal, took to social media this week to blast the fast-food outlet for allegedly stealing the brainchild he developed four years ago after making a presentation to brand managing company Yum! at their offices in Bryanston, Johannesburg.

The outlet is currently launching their (Sphatlho) kota flavour at limited pop-up shops in Gauteng.

KFC said: “We are aware of the posts by Mr Malepe currently circulating on social media and refute these claims. “It is no secret that kota is a famous South African meal and the limited-edition KFC Sphatlho is a result of an internal product development process.”

“For more than 50 years, KFC has been inspired by the South African heritage and culture and has regularly brought local innovation like the Streetwise Chow, Masala Crunch and Mrs Ball’s Chutney burger to our menu. “We will continue to use South Africa food trends as inspiration to bring relevant products to our fans across South Africa.”

Malepe told Sowetan that his idea of Streetwise Kota was stolen while looking for a partnership with the outlet.

“I did my research and realised that KFC in other parts of the world features that country’s popular food in its menu. “I looked at their menu in India and Russia. Because I wanted them to partner with me, I created a kota concept that features chicken. “I got a team of photographers and creatives together. With my advertising background, we created this concept that included merchandise like sneakers and T-shirts. We consulted Yum!, a KFC holding company in Bryanston.

“We met the brand manager, but our plan was to meet the big bosses who can buy into the idea. The manager kept wanting us to meet her instead of the bosses. “So, I started a Facebook page of Streetwise Kota. It went viral and people began demanding the Streetwise Kota [at] KFC outlets. “In the same year, I received lawyers’ letter that I must take down the page and delete pictures.”

Malepe, who was already selling the Streetwise Kota at different kota festivals, had to change the name to Kota Culture.

“When I got a letter from their lawyers, I realised that there was no chance of us getting into a partnership. My heart is bleeding after seeing their adverts. “I just want them to acknowledge that I came up with the idea. Since they are using it already, they can just buy it officially. I cannot take on these guys … they are big.”

Top 10 Guinness World Records held by Africans

Africa is a continent rich in diversity, culture, and tradition. It is also home to many talented individuals who have set remarkable world records in different fields.

From the longest distance walked on fire to the largest gathering of people dressed as Nelson Mandela, Africans have achieved some incredible feats that have earned them a place in the Guinness World Records.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most impressive world record holders from Africa and their incredible achievements.

Wayde Van Niekerk

The fastest 400 metres run by a male athlete is 43.03 seconds, achieved by Wayde van Niekerk (South Africa) at the 2016 Olympic Games, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 14 August 2016

The previous record set by Michael Johnson had stood since 1999.

Wayde won gold in the event with the new world record achieved in the final.

Fela Kuti

Fela Kuti recorded 46 albums as a solo artist over the course of a solo career spanning 23 years. The first solo album was recorded in 1969 and the last in 1992.

Kimani Ng’ang’a Maruge

The world’s oldest person to begin primary school was aged 84. Kimani Ng’ang’a Maruge (Kenya) enrolled into Standard One at Kapkenduiyo Primary School, Eldoret, Kenya, on 12 January 2004.

He even wore the school uniform and hoped to reach Standard Eight. On 6 April 2004, it was reported that Ng’ang’a passed his first end-of-term exams with straight A’s in English, Kiswahili and math, making him among the top five students in the class. The headmistress, Mrs Jane Obinchu (Kenya) made him a senior head boy as a reward.

Wizkid

Ayo Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid has a Guinness World Record for being the artist with the first track to reach one billion streams on Spotify. Wizkid achieved this with One Dance by Drake (Canada) which featured him and Kyla, on December 16, 2016.

Chinonso Eche

The most consecutive football (soccer) touches in one minute while balancing a football on the head is 133, and was achieved by Chinonso Eche (Nigeria), on the set of Lo Show Dei Record, in Milan, Italy, on 1 February 2023.

Chinonso Eche beat his own record by 22 and dreams one day of being a professional footballer.

Stephen Keshi

The youngest person to win the Africa Cup of Nations as a player and coach is Stephen Keshi (b. 31 January 1961, Nigeria) who was 52 years and 10 days old when he won the tournament as head coach of Nigeria at the FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa, on 10 February 2013.

Keshi was captain of the Nigeria national team when he won the tournament as a player in 1994, beating Zambia 2-1 in the final. As a manager, Keshi lead his team to glory after a 1-0 win over Burkina Faso in the final.

Tuedon Morgan

The fastest time to run a half marathon on each continent and the North Pole (female) is 62 days 12 hr 58 min 49 sec and was achieved by Tuedon Morgan (Nigeria), from 8 February 2015 to 12 April 2015.

Percy Mailela

The largest coffee grounds mosaic (image) measures 25.96 m² (279 ft² 62 in²), achieved by BrainFarm (PTY) Ltd and Percy Maimela (both South Africa), in Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa, on 12 September 2019.

The image depicted in the coffee grounds mosaic is the face of DJ Black Coffee, a South African DJ and record producer.

Paul Kehinde

The heaviest para power lift by a male in the -65 kg category is 221 kg (487 lb 3.5 oz), achieved by Paul Kehinde (Nigeria) at the 9th Fazza 2018 World Para Powerlifting World Cup in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on 19 February 2018. Kehinde broke his own world record of 220.5 kg, set at the World Championship in December 2017.

Para powerlifters compete in just one discipline, the bench press, and are categorized according to their weight.

Rema

Signed under Nigerian record label Mavin, the young rapper Rema topped the charts worldwide with his hit single “Calm Down”.

The singer has been steadily on the rise ever since his debut, counting on an ever-growing fanbase and racking up international fame.

At the moment of writing, “Calm Down” stands at almost 388,000,000 streams on Spotify, while its viral remix with US artist Selena Gomez achieved a whopping 717,512,920 streams on the same music platform.

The 2022 international hit made history when it skyrocketed to the top of The Official MENA Chart, shortly after the launch of the chart itself.

How to Travel Between Nairobi, Kenya and Kampala, Uganda by Bus

Travelling between Nairobi, Kenya and Kampala, Uganda by bus is pretty straightforward. One bus takes you all the way. No transfers are required. The trip takes 12-14 hours. Day and night buses are available. In this guide, I outline buying tickets, pricing, bus schedules, ticketing office locations, luggage, safety, and more. I will also explain how to get the Uganda visa as it is not available at the border.

How to Buy Bus Tickets Between Nairobi and Kampala

I recommend you go down to the bus station at least a day in advance to buy your ticket. This route is pretty popular so the buses do fill up. The bus I was on was fully booked so I was glad that I already had my ticket. Remember to bring your passport with you when you go to buy your ticket. It is required for booking.

Tickets for this route can be purchased in cash at the ticket offices in Nairobi and Kampala. It may be possible to buy tickets online from some bus companies. If you’re buying your ticket in Kenya, you’ll probably have to pay with M-Pesa. This involves creating an account. If you’re purchasing your ticket in Uganda, you may be able to pay with MTN Mobile Money. 

Which Bus Company to Go With?

This is a popular route. Several companies offering bus service between Nairobi and Kampala. Really, they are all more or less the same. If one has a more convenient departure time or a better price, go with them. From what I saw, prices are all about the same. Bus companies include:

There are probably more companies as well but these are the main four. I made the trip with Mash Bus. I was happy with the service. Their buses are new and comfortable. The service is safe and reliable. I can recommend them. 

Where To buy Bus Tickets In Nairobi

Nairobi doesn’t really have a central bus station. Each company has an office where you buy your ticket and catch the bus. Unfortunately, these offices are located all over the city. Most are found within the CBD. Some are in Eastleigh. It is possible to walk around a bit and check pricing and departure times because most offices are within the same general area.

For the exact location of the ticket offices either click the following Google Maps links or copy and paste the plus code into Google Maps.

You can get to the bus ticketing office in Nairobi by taxi, Uber, matatu shared bus, or on foot if you’re staying downtown.

Where to Buy Bus Tickets in Kampala

All of the bus ticket offices are conveniently located in the same general area on De Winton Street in central Kampala. When you go to buy your ticket, you can easily check the departure times and prices for each of the following companies and choose the most convenient and best value bus.

For the exact location of the ticket offices either click the following Google Maps links or copy and paste the plus code into Google Maps.

You can get to the bus ticketing office in Kampala by taxi, boda boda motorcycle taxi, rideshare, or on foot.

Bus Ticket Prices Between Nairobi and Kampala

The average price for this trip is about $20-$25 depending on the company and class that you choose. The more expensive buses offer air conditioning. VIP seats are also available. These seats are larger and recline further which makes sleeping a bit easier.

The air-conditioned version of MASH bus is called MASH COOL. The non AC bus is called MASH POA.

Nairobi to Kampala Busses

Mash Bus offers this route two times every day. One leaves at 5:00 pm and one leaves at 6:30 pm. There are 3 ticket options for the 5 pm MASH POA bus:

  • VIP class costs 2,600 KES
  • Business class costs 2,400 KES
  • Regular economy class costs 2000 KES.

There are 2 ticket options for the 6:30 pm MASH COOL bus.

  • VIP class costs 3,500 KES
  • Business class costs 2,500 KES.

I went with business class on the 6:30 pm bus. All of the seats looked exactly the same to me. I don’t know if different classes actually exist or they are just trying to upsell tickets for more money. Who knows? Next time, I’d just buy an economy class ticket. 

I went with business class on the 6:30 pm bus. All of the seats looked exactly the same to me. I don’t know if different classes actually exist or they are just trying to upsell tickets for more money. Who knows? Next time, I’d just buy an economy class ticket. 

Facilities and Bathrooms on the Bus

Most of the buses don’t have bathrooms. The drivers don’t make many bathroom stops either. Sometimes only once every 6 hours or so. I recommend you try to limit your liquid intake during the ride. You may not have many opportunities to use the bathroom after the journey gets started.

Most of the buses have electrical outlets for charging your devices. In my experience, these usually don’t work. If you want to use your phone during the trip, consider bringing a power bank. 

Arriving in Kampala

The bus arrived at around 7 am. We sat in traffic for a couple of hours before making it to the center of the city. The Mash Bus station is located on De Winton Street kind of near Said Barre Avenue.

It is just a block off Jinja Road which is a main road in Kampala. From there, minibusses and taxis are available which can take you anywhere in the city or if your destination is in the city center, you can just walk. You’ll also find ATMs, restaurants, and hotels within walking distance of the bus station. 

Arriving in Nairobi

The bus will drop you off in the CBD. If you’re arriving early in the morning or late at night, you’ll probably want to take a taxi or Uber to your hotel or hostel. The area isn’t particularly dangerous but it’s probably best not to walk around with all of your travel gear just in case. Within walking distance of the bus stations, you can find ATMs and restaurants. 

What to Expect Traveling from Nairobi to Kampala by Bus: My Experience

The bus leaves from the same place you bought the ticket. Most bus companies offer a small waiting room where you can sit if you arrive early. I recommend you just camp out in there until the bus arrives as the street is quite busy with people who will try to sell you stuff or potentially run scams.

If someone on the street approaches you and tries to tell you that the tickets are sold out, don’t believe them. Go into the ticketing office and see for yourself. These guys are just trying to sell you a ticket on a lower class bus and earn a commission. 

The buses I rode was air-conditioned and was overall in decent condition. It was surprisingly comfortable. You may want to bring a sweatshirt as the AC got cold at night. It was probably one of the best buses that I rode in Africa.

The bus left Nairobi on time and Arrived in Kampala at around 7 the following morning. It was around a 12-hour ride from Nairobi to Kampala.

Final Thoughts- Nairobi to Kampala by Bus

Overall this trip is pretty hassle-free and comfortable by African bus standards. The bus was in good condition, had AC, and arrived on time. Everyone I encountered along the way acted professionally including the immigration officials and bus company employees. 

If you’re trying to decide between flying and taking the bus, I recommend you save the money and take the bus. Flying between the two cities will cost $200-$300. The bus ticket costs as little as $20

All you need to know about French student visa

What is the registration procedure when applying for a France student visa? What does a French student visa include? These questions are the most commonly asked by international students. Though the key information is provided, details vary between countries. This article is based on how I, an international student from Vietnam, applied for my visa.

The conditions for applying for a French student visa

  1. Confirmation of Acceptance Letter: You must be invited to attend a course in France.
  • For short-term courses of less than 3 months, you will apply for a tourist visa
  • Courses of 3 months or more will apply for a long-term student visa.

2. Language certificates: If you choose a French program, it is recommended to have a DELF B2 French certificate recognized by France and Europe. Another option is to obtain a TCF DAP certificate of 350 points or more with a writing score above 10. Those whose program is in English should have IELTS 5.5 or higher.

3. Financial conditions: Have enough money to support yourself. You must prove financial to study in France with the amount previously stipulated as 7380 Euro. This amount may increase or decrease depending on the requirements of the French Consulate from time to time.

Other Required Documents: To apply for a French Visa you need to prepare the following documents

  • 02 long-term visa application forms.
  • 03 latest photos (white background; 3.5Ă—4,5)
  • Copy of Passport (valid for more than 6 months compared to the length of the course)
  • Birth certificate (notarized French translation)
  • Certificate of passing the interview round at CampusFrance
  • A copy of your high school diploma
  • Proof of accommodation in France

The process

  1. Fill out the student profile on CampusFrance’s website
  2. Pay the CampusFrance procedure fee
  3. Prepare the documents mentioned above for the following step of your visa application
  4. Make an appointment for a visa interview, also on CampusFrance’s website
  5. You will get your certificate of passing the interview round at CampusFrance right at the end.

I hope this article and information are helpful. Please let us know your thought by commenting below!

Things you must know before applying to university in France

Number 1: Availability of your major

As an international student in a business school, I can confirm that you will have a lot of options for your future major. Given the example of my experience, I was extremely satisfied with all the information my current school provides. Regarding the degrees, they include all the modules for each semester and even the subjects for each major in the third year. However, they didn’t warn me about the requirements and availability for the Finance and Accounting major, as if later on after I joined I would get the details. On my side, I did feel bad for not taking a look or proposing a question. In fact, the number of students who can join this major is limited, and be chosen based on their performance and GPA ranking, which turn out to be stressful and open an unwanted situation for me.

Number 2: Proof of your finances for the visa application

This might not be a big problem for someone studying at a private university. Though, even if you got accepted into a public uni, you still need to demonstrate that you are well prepared for your education. For more information, please check the minimum requirements on the embassy website.

Number 3: Percentage of Students Who Graduate on time

Imagine staying in the same class all over again, could you stay positive? Well, getting to know this figure might keep you to stay focused on the number of hours or efforts you put into your study, especially when others are not concerned about the difficulty of the course.

Number 4: The Total Cost

Checking carefully other things you might need to pay for and add them to your financial plan. For example, printing and visa application fees, and books are also unavoidable.

International student scams you should know about in France

Dear future international students coming to France for your education, it’s sad but significant to warn you that, even though France is such a great country with a rich culture and historical background, it’s dangerous at some aspects. This list of 5 scams can’t cover everything but I will cover the major ones that I or someone I know, have experienced.

  1. Scammers claiming as “government authorities” sometimes contact or email you and demand banking details or warn you that you have violated immigration regulations.
  2. Proposals of employment that demand you to buy gift cards or make a purchase on anything online
  3. Tax forms from a third party seek to reclaim the reimbursement that is legally yours.
  4. Rental scams such as your security deposit are taken but you are not greeted with the keys to your new home.
  5. A scammer will hold you on the phone for an extended period of time and won’t let you hang up to return the call. This happens a lot to international students who don’t speak French because they don’t understand the context and the reason of the call.

Public Transportation in Grenoble

Grenoble, a destination that is surrounded with mountain and waterfall, is still one of the biggest student cities in France. Its public transportation is comfortable enough to use, though, since it’s way smaller than Paris, the metro system does not exist. Well, there are still 3 available options so you can decide on one, or combine them for your daily life.

NUMBER 1&2: Buses and Trams

Tram is indeed the fastest choice. It’s hard to compare the buses in Grenoble and the tram system as both of them are on the ground, sharing similar working hours and way to use. However, in order to purchase the paper ticket, as a tourist, you can only do this at every tram station. Of course, it would be a different situation if you’re a student or you are going to work here for a while. Then, the first task is to go to the office and buy yourself a monthly/yearly card, which will help you saving a lot of money. Though, keep in mind that when booking your place of living. Some might look like it’s close by the city center but in fact, far away and unreachable by the tram. Hence, your only option left is the buses, which are not always on time, most of the time.

NUMBER 3: Public bicyclesDaily rent option available if you live close by your university and only want to rent for a day to go somewhere else. I still highly recommend you to rent it monthly. It would save up your booking time whenever you need it urgently. Also, riding a bike is a type of exercise, the different is, you will have the view of pretty Grenoble. Up to your preference!