Expedition Master Uganda – a motorcycle journey full of solidarity, adventure and humanity

August 2024, I’m getting ready for a motorcycle trip to Uganda. More than just a trip or a vacation, this will be an unforgettable experience in a vibrant country full of contrasts. A Dainese Expedition Master with an adventurous destination, which will offer both breathtaking scenery and an opportunity to bring humanitarian aid to Uganda. 

Our journey begins in the capital, Kampala, from where we set off, by motorcycle, with a clear goal – explore the country's breathtaking landscapes but also contribute to a worthy cause. Thanks to the collaboration with Dainese, which has raised funds for hospitals and schools in Uganda, we’ll have the opportunity to personally visit the places that benefit from this aid. 

Over the next eleven days, we’ll immerse ourselves in the real life of this country, sharing moments with its people, tackling challenging roads and crossing scenarios where the pristine nature of Uganda imposes itself in its purest form. A journey full of intense emotions, challenges and lessons that will remain forever in our memories. 

A humanitarian adventure by motorcycle 

Humanitarian purpose has guided our path from day one. We spend the first night in a hospital, an experience that allows us to understand the needs of patients and healthcare personnel up close. We visit several Ugandan schools, where children welcome us with smiles that light up even the darkest corners. We arrive with our motorcycles and they welcome us singing and dancing – moments that will remain etched in my memory and represent one of the most touching experiences of my life. 

The reality of these places is deeply affecting – hospitals with limited resources, schools with makeshift classrooms and children eager to learn despite the difficulties. Some walk miles to get to school, often without shoes, but always with a radiant smile. Seeing how even our small contribution can make a difference fills us with emotion and responsibility.  

Doctors and teachers tell us their stories, their daily struggles and their passion for improving the lives of their people. We feel honored to witness their commitment and to be able to contribute, even in a small way, to a better future. It’s not easy to witness a situation requiring such need, but it’s inspiring to discover the resilience of those who work tirelessly to improve the reality of their communities. I have the opportunity to spend time with a 17-year-old boy who tells me how he walked his mother to the hospital and how happy he is that she’s getting better, while his brothers take care of the house.  

One of the main reasons why we chose to travel by motorcycle in Uganda is that you can’t reach some areas by car at all. This is why there are “motorcycle ambulances”, which allow you to transport the sick and deliver medicines to the most isolated villages. 

Immersed in Uganda's nature  

After the first few days dedicated to humanitarian aid, we immerse ourselves in the wilderness of Uganda. We cross immense plains on our motorcycles, surrounded by African animals. Gazelles, giraffes and majestic elephants watch us from afar and the latter cross our path, knocking down trees. Sleeping in huts in the heart of the savannah, with only the sounds of nature to keep you company, is a breathtaking experience. 

Being close to animals is as exciting as it is challenging. More than once, we have to stop and wait for the animals to let us pass, reminding ourselves that we are guests in their habitat. The vastness of the landscape, the warm breeze and the feeling of freedom when walking along endless paths make this part of the journey magical and unrepeatable. 

Tips for a trip to Uganda – motorcycle and equipment 

We tackle the journey riding 250 cc Kibo motorcycles, perfect for the road conditions and the mud. Most of the route is similar to an enduro track, with continuous obstacles, and our Kibos surprise us on many occasions. 

On such a trip, motorcycle clothing is not just an accessory, but a necessity. High temperatures during the day, cold in the early morning, sudden rain showers and dusty, muddy trails test our endurance, which is why the versatile gear provided by Dainese is essential. 

Thanks to the breathable motorcycle suit we can tolerate the stifling heat without feeling oppressed. When the rain comes, we carry waterproof clothing in our bags (a must on any motorcycle trip), which protects us from the water and cold that creep in everywhere. The boots are outstanding – not a drop of water gets in, even though we cross numerous puddles. For me, motocross goggles are a key element, perfect for good visibility when the rain gets heavy. 

Without a doubt, quality equipment suited to changing weather conditions makes the difference between a comfortable journey and a difficult one. 

Traveling safely in Uganda – documents, safety and useful tips 

Taking a motorcycle trip and enjoying an authentic and safe experience in Uganda requires some fundamental precautions. To enter the country, you need a passport with at least six months of validity and a tourist visa for Uganda, which can be easily requested online through the official portal of the Ugandan government. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, accompanied by an international certificate, while vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid and tetanus are strongly recommended. Considering the risk of malaria, it’s advisable to adopt antimalarial prevention measures and carry an effective mosquito repellent. 

The best time to travel in Uganda by motorcycle is during the dry season, from December to February and from June to September. In these months, the climate is more stable, the rains are less frequent and the roads – many of which are dirt roads – are easier to travel by motorcycle. It’s best to avoid the rainy season months in Uganda, namely March-May and October-November. 

To travel safely in Uganda, it’s advisable to drive carefully, especially near Uganda's national parks where, as mentioned, it’s not uncommon to encounter wildlife. For greater peace of mind, it’s recommended to register at the Italian Embassy in Kampala. Finally, it’s important to respect local customs, maintain an open and discreet attitude in the villages and, if possible, rely on expert guides to explore the more remote areas. 

People, the true value of a journey 

Uganda's roads are a constant challenge. They’re mostly dirt roads, full of holes, puddles and muddy stretches that force us to stay highly focused at all times. There are days when the rain transforms the routes into real tests of skill, with the mud engulfing the wheels and weighing down our motorcycles. But, challenges aside, every kilometer traveled offers us unforgettable encounters with the locals. 

The Ugandans welcome us with a warmth that’s in real contrast with the difficult conditions of the roads. At every stop, there are curious glances, enthusiastic greetings and hospitality that always make us feel welcome. We stop in small villages where children run toward us and adults invite us to share their ancient traditions. 

It amazes me to see how little girls come up to touch my hair – they find it fun to stroke blond hair, a novelty for them. It’s precisely in these moments that we understand that, beyond the landscapes and the adventure, the greatest value of a journey is always the people we meet along the way. 

This Uganda motorcycle trip was more than just a two-wheeled adventure. It was a journey into humanity, nature and generosity. Every day we learned something new – the importance of helping out, the strength of a community, the beauty of simplicity and the grandiosity of nature in its most authentic form. 

We’re back with our hearts full, aware that the truly important humanitarian journeys and motorcycle adventures are not those that take us far away, but those that transform us inside. Uganda has changed us, challenged us and taught us so much. And even if the journey is over, its mark will remain with us forever.