Car rental and self drive in Uganda , If you are looking for the best destination to par take a self drive safari in Uganda. There are very many car rental companies in Uganda today that one can book a car for self drive. Driving in a new destination like Uganda is really challenging and there is need to be very careful.

What to know

If you are renting a vehicle, especially a 4×4 WD you will have the freedom to explore most of Uganda’s beautiful tourist’s wilderness places at your own time and pace. The only issue is that the areas are distant and requires long drives. Expect to rent SUV vehicles very cheaply but reliable from as low as $ 50 Rav4 4×4, 5 doors or 3 doors and 70 USD for the Land Cruiser Prado and this offer applies to the long-term rental.

While driving in any area in Uganda it is advisable not to drive early morning before 06 am, evening after 06 pm and late in the night for the security purpose of the vehicle and clients. Also when driving in Uganda it is advisable to be observant as the locals may cross at any time without your notification especially in trading centers plus be aware of domestic animals like cows, sheep and goats on the road.

Always fasten the seat belt and drive on the left-hand side of the road, alternatively drive 50 km/h in towns and 80 km/h on the highway, fuel up the vehicle in the last town before you enter into the park as there is no fuel point.

For one to hire a jeep in Uganda one must have a valid International Drivers license or your country-issued Drivers license and it has to be in English and must be valid for the period of 6 months.

How safe is East African Regions?

For any traveler visiting the East African Region and Uganda in particular security is a key factor that one has to consider and generally speaking the East African region is safe from the terrorism attack, Ebola & Cholera, Water Bilharzia and other dangerous diseases but one should first immunize himself from yellow fever before setting off to Uganda or any other East African region.

What is the weather like?

The African weather is always conducive due to the rainy and sunny season which is friendly to all humans through in some places you will find that it’s hot and others very cold. It is advisable for all clients visiting Africa to travel with both warm and cold weather clothes and boots.

What types of immunizations do I need?

If you are planning for your holiday in Uganda, you are required to have the yellow fever vaccination certificate.

What is included/not included in my payment and what is the model of payment?

The car rental booking includes the fee for the vehicle, comprehensive insurance (theft, damage and accident) for the vehicle and clients plus life insurance for the client

What type of vehicle will a client hire for a holiday in Africa?

There are various types of vehicles a tourist can hire like Rav4 4×4, Land Cruiser TX or TZ, GX, Safari Land Cruiser, Hiace Super Customs with the roof top hatch for the wildlife viewing.

Below are some of the tips to help you stay safe while on self drive tours in Uganda;

One should Check the vehicle thoroughly
It is advisable that you check on the vehicle to be used thoroughly. Take a look at the tyres and find out if they are in better conditions and if there is a spare tyre in better shape and for longer journeys one needs at least two tyres. One should also make it sure that they have checked the water level, lights, oil, wiper blades for any linkages.

One should avoid driving at night

In most areas in Uganda, because on most of the roads you may not find streets lights and this means that such areas are risky. Therefore you need move early enough to the area of interest so as to help you stay safe.

One can also Use Road maps and GPS

Because driving in a foreign destination is very challenging and chances are you can easily get lost because you may not be familiar with the directions of the area. Hence one needs a road map and GPS to help you find the appropriate direction in the remotest areas that you not know. Hiring a four by four safari car for self drive in Uganda allows you to access GPS and the road maps cheaply.

One should obey the traffic Laws while on the road

Like any destination, traffic laws are worth following if you are to stay out of danger on the road. One should make sure that they can read road signs, do not drink and drive and at all times, put on the seat belt.

One should have breaks, eat and fuel the vehicle

One should have adequate eats and fuel the vehicle and never leave a big centre without filling the gas tank, otherwise you may not find any fuel station in the National Parks.

Understand the weather patterns

One should take note of the weather changes and patterns and also know what speed to use. Try to limit down on your speed since the roads can be muddy or slippery. Murram roads are the worst, very dusty with potholes and you might find it challenging to navigate when it has rained hence choice of vehicle is very important depending on the weather.

One should mind about the rest of other road users

Since most of Uganda’s roads are narrow You need to be attentive and take note of other road users like boda boda riders, students, cyclists and cattle as most of them can be crossing the road at any time.

One needs to know the park rules and regulations

One should follow the rules and regulations if you are to enjoy your safari in Uganda’s national parks. Do not feed wild animals, or walk alone in the park, be within the tent and do not keep food items in the tent otherwise you will attract hyenas and lions that can easily come and attack you. If you make a mistake to over speed, you will be charged heavily.