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Fuel consumption of Different Car rental in Uganda

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Fuel consumption of Car rentals in Uganda

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Different cars have their own fuel consumption rates depending on the models and engine capacity. Before you think of which kind of car you need for your Uganda safari road trip, Its important you first findout the fuel consumption capacity of the car you are to rent in Uganda.  This will help you manage your safari expenses accordingly hence a smooth, ultimate self-drive Uganda expense.

Below is a list of our cars with their fuel consumption rates;

Toyota Land Cruiser V8/VX

Do you want to have a ride worth your hype? Browse online now to book one of our luxurious SUV, the most hired land cruiser among our car fleets. Our Land Cruiser V8/VX is a fuel efficient car using a 1L of gasoline per 8-9km covered for a petrol engine and a diesel engine using up 1L per 9 – 10 km covered.

Toyota Land Cruiser TX/TZ

This is a 7seater and one of the ideal vehicles for travelers planning to spend much of their time off – road in Africa. It come with a full time 4×4 system and high ground clearance making it the best choice if you planning to drive through tougher terrains.

Our Land Cruiser TX/TZ has a large tank taking up to 90 liters  with a fuel consumption of  1L per 8 – 9km covered on tarmac and 1L per 10km covered on main roads.

Toyota Hiace / Safari Van

 This is a 9 seater with a diesel engine, mostly booked by group travelers and those who would like to travel as a family. Our safari van is available both in manual and automatic transmissions and a fulltime 4×4 car.  It has a fuel consumption of 1L per 11km depending on the accelerating rate.

Toyota RAV4

This is an ideal choice for budget travelers because of its cheaper car rental costs and its fuel efficiency merit. It is manufactured with a tank capacity of 55L and engine of 2.5L four cylinder making it a reliable for long distances with a fuel consumption of 1L per 12km. It comes with a spare tyre, and a tyre pressure gun.

 Safari Land cruiser Extended

Our safari land cruiser is a 8seater car, the most preferred SUV for wildlife explorations in Africa, with rough Tyre and a powerful Engine to navigate through the challenging terrains of Africa. It has a fuel consumption of 1L per 4km on highways and 1L per 3km on jungle roads. Our land cruiser extended has a manual transmission and it is available on both a short term and a long-term land cruiser car rental Africa.

Toyota Land cruiser Hardtop

This Land Cruiser Hardtop a 4seater, reliable fuel efficient car mostly preferred for jungle safaris because of its good off-road performances. It has a fuel consumption of 1L per 8km covered but mostly depending on the terrains, the load and your driving behaviors.

Land cruisers are strongly built cars, fairly fuel efficient cars, customized for long distances and safari explorations. We have them available both on self-drive Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda and Guided drive Africa, both on short-term car rental and long-term car rental Africa. Contact us today for the best land cruiser car rental deals in Africa.

Saloon Cars

Looking for a reliable and best car to use on  your self drive in Uganda especially if you are spending much of the time within Urban centres. We have a large fleet of saloon cars you can hire from as low as $40 per day. These have a fuel consumption that does range from 11-12Km per litre of fuel. 

fuel consumption

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    Traffic lawsin Uganda

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    Traffic laws in Uganda

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    Traffic laws in Uganda are primarily designed to ensure safety of all road users inclusive of pedestrians, drivers, passengers and cyclists.  These are designed and enforced by the Uganda Police Force, specifically the Traffic Police Department.

    Whether you are on a self drive Uganda or guided trip, you are required to adhere to these traffic guidelines. 

    By controlling speed limits, respecting road signs, making use of seatbelts and regulating all the traffic laws as a driver, you reduce on the potential risks of roads accidents which ensures you safety during road trips in Uganda.

    Traffic laws help to reduce congestion on roads by creating an orderly traffic flow which helps to reduce on the time spent on the road hence leading to less fuel consumptions and minimizing collision which reducing the risks of accidents.

    Therefore, for any traveler planning a self-drive road trip to the republic of Rwanda, especially for first time visitors, you need to familiarize yourself with the traffic rules and regulations to ensure that you have a seamless ultimate road experiences during your stay in the country.

    traffic laws in Uganda

    There are a few key points to put into consideration while planning a self-drive safari in Rwanda and thee include;

    1. General Road Rules in Uganda

    These are strictly followed while in charge of the wheels in Uganda and among these include driving on the left hand side wherever you go in the country being the remote areas, you must make sure that you always stick to the left and only overtake from the right hand side of the road overtaking.

    There are also speed limits governing different roads depending on where you are heading For example, in urban areas I.e in towns and cities, speed limit is set to 5 0Km/h, highways speed limits range from 60 km/h to 80 km/h and in rural areas, it is set at 60 km/h. These speed limits are always subjected to change basing mostly on the road condition therefore it is important that you pay attention to speed sign posts and adjust accordingly for your safety and the well-being of others using the same road.

    It is strictly prohibited to make use of your mobile phone as you are driving as it can easily destruct you and lead to collisions.

    It is also mandatory to every passenger on board being a junior or senior to make use of the seatbelts for their own safety.

    1. Licensing and Registration

    A driver is required to possess a valid driver’s license. Foreigners are allowed to use their International Driving Permits or a foreign license for a limited period of time but if they are to stay in the country for more than 1 year, they are required to get a national driving license.

    All vehicles on the road are supposed to be registered, bearing all the required registration documents and valid license number plates.

    1. Alcohol and Drug Regulations

    For a regular driver such as private car drivers, motorcycle riders, and rental car drivers, their Blood Alcohol Concentration legal limit is set at 0.08% and 0.02% for commercial drivers namely taxi drivers, bus drivers, truck drivers, and delivery drivers. Driving under drug influence is strictly prohibited.

    1. Traffic Signals

    All drivers are supposed to stick and obey traffic signals and road signs for ensure their safety and those of others using the roads. Pedestrians also only have a right of way at marked crossing famously known as zebra crossings. However, caution must be taken when crossing high ways as they come with no right of way for pedestrians.

    1. Accidents and Reporting

    In case of an accident, drivers are supposed to stop and assist the victim where necessary and then report it to the police.

    1. Penalties and fines

    Traffic officers offer various fines to those who have violated traffic rules such as talking on phone while driving, not wearing seatbelts, having an expired driving license, over speeding, among others and drivers must endeavor to settle them and on time.

    1. Special Regulations

    In Uganda, motorcycle riders are required to wear safety helmets and they are also restricted from certain roads specifically urban roads. Public vehicles also have specific road rules governing them which include designated routes and parking. Therefore, you must take caution when using certain routes and parking to reduce on the exposure to road fines.

    It is also important to note that vehicles in a bad state are not allowed on Uganda Roads specifically on urban roads and high ways. Therefore, try to keep your vehicle clean, well maintained and serviced for an ultimate and memorable drive experience in the country. 

    Once you follow these traffic laws in Uganda, be rest assured that you will be safe and will as well keep other road users safe on the road regardless of where you are heading to. 

    self-drive Uganda tips & advantages – Uganda self drive safaris

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    Self drive Uganda tips & Advantages - Uganda self drive safaris

    self drive Uganda tips & advantages - Uganda self drive safaris

    A self-drive Uganda trip is a wonderful way to explore the “pearl of Africa”  as the roads are well maintained, they wind through spectacular scenery, and there is little traffic out of the overcrowded Kampala city centre. You can explore entirely at your own pace and drive to the camps and lodges we have pre-booked for you

    There’s nothing quite like the freedom of a self-drive holiday, pile as much luggage as you like into the trunk of the car and travel at your own pace. This flexibility is perfect if you want to get a real feel of Uganda and then have the option to stay for as long or as short as you like!

    Our travel experts will help you in planning the best self-drive Uganda routes and provide you with all the information you will need for a Uganda self drive road trip. However, when you reach your chosen camps, expert guides with specialist local knowledge will take you into remote areas on foot or in four-wheel drive vehicles.

    Whether you plan to see mountain gorillas within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, tree climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park to spot the world’s most powerful waterfall among the other destinations, a self drive road trip will get you there with ease.

    Be rest assured that on your roadtrip in Uganda, you will get a memorable experience  unique features where you can enjoy a self-drive Uganda safari as part of your overall trip.

    Advantages of a Uganda self drive safari

    Contrary to some people’s assertions, a self-drive holiday abroad is not as daunting as you might imagine.

    We earmark a few reasons why Uganda is ideally suited and the best place you can consider for a self-drive holiday, as well as outlining some practical considerations.

    Why a self-drive Uganda safari:

    • You decide the overall pace of the holiday.
    • You have the total freedom and flexibility to get to places off the beaten track, and then spend as much time as you want there.
    • You can enjoy greater comfort and privacy.
    • Uganda in general has an excellent road network so getting around should pose no problem.
    • We can arrange all aspects of your self-drive, including flights, accommodation and car rental. All you need do is turn up at the airport.

    Useful information about self-drive in Uganda

    Uganda’s roads

    Uganda’s main roads have tar surfaces and these have improved over the years. Some of the routes that have been newly constructed and improved include; Kampala to Kasese routes, Fort portal Kabale and north to Masindi and Gulu. The rest of the network is gravel. The gravel roads are well graded and generally in good condition in the dry season.

    In the rainy season, however, the roads are slippery. All the gravel roads are well signposted and as there are only a few roads to choose from, it is very hard to get lost. As you drive along, you will find a number of road side restaurants and motels where you can stop over for a roadside snack. Since there’s very little traffic up country, you’ll find you can stop at the side of the road whenever you wish to enjoy the view or take a picture.

    Driving distances and time

    Distances are large in Uganda and we recommend you set off early in the morning and drive at a leisurely pace, enjoying the journey as you go. By leaving early, you can enjoy the first part of your drive in the cool of the day, and we have often seen animals on or beside the road at this time. You can aim to arrive at your next lodge in time for lunch and then have the afternoon either to relax, explore at your own pace or join a guided activity.

    We always recommend that you have a set itinerary that guides on when and where you will need to visit on a particular day.

    Cars

    It is possible to self drive around Uganda in an ordinary car, but we usually recommend a 4×4 vehicle for a hassle free experience. We will discuss with you what type of car you’d like, taking into account the number of people in your party, how much luggage you have and the route you are taking. In the rainy season, we always recommend a 4×4 because these are strong enough to go through the tough terrains

    Self-driving advice & tips

    We have been arranging self-drive trips to Uganda for years and offer a few small touches to make your trip easier and more comfortable. Some of the extras you can consider to add on your trip include a rooftop tent, camping gear, an electric fridge and much more.

    Planning

    All our specialists have driven extensively around Uganda. We will plan a route carefully, taking into account what you’d like to do and keeping an eye on the driving distances and times.

    Maps

    On arrival in Uganda, you will be given a fully annotated map with your route highlighted and your lodges marked.  You can as well use Google maps as this is accurate as well and will get you anywhere you’d like to go on your self drive road trip.

    Phones

    It is always useful to have a mobile phone and Uganda’s network coverage is improving each year. We will provide you with our emergency phone number as well as the phone numbers for your accommodation, and our ground-agents. It is always worth checking with your mobile phone provider about its coverage in Uganda, and ensuring the roaming function is switched on.

    You can as well ensure that you have local SIM Card that you can get upon arrival in the country or from the various network service providers in the country.

    Book your self drive roadtrip in Uganda now!

      Self drive Uganda tips for first time visitors in 2024/25

      Self drive Uganda tips for first time visitors in 2024/25

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      Self drive Uganda tips for first time visitors in 2024/25

      Uganda has become a popular hub for travelers seeking to discover the country’s hidden gems. From visiting the source of Nile river in Jinja, Sipi falls, the remote Kidepo Valley National Park, to Murchison Falls National Park to see the world’s most powerful waterfall, Queen Elizabeth National park to see the tree climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of the park, and then to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to see mountain gorillas as they roam freely in the dense rainforest.

      There’s a lot more you will be able to discover on your self drive Uganda roadtrip but to get the best out of your roadtrip especially if it’s your first time visiting the pearl of Africa, we have put together the key tips you need to follow for a memorable experience. These do include;

      1. Is driving yourself in Uganda safe?

      Safety has always been a major concern for travelers visiting Uganda for their first time but when it comes to driving to the various parts of the country, Uganda remains one of the easiest and safest places. The road network connecting to the different national parks are improved over the years with a number of them tarmacked and some with murram. On the various roads, the road signs are properly labeled for ease navigation.

      Apart from the main towns like Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja and more, the rest are sparsely populated which does reduce the risk of accidents. We assure you that as long as you adhere to local and traffic guidelines, you will be safe throughout your roadtrip.

      1. Do I really need a 4×4 while self driving in Uganda?

      This does depend on where you would like to drive to while in the country. For travelers planning to visit specifically national parks like Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park or more, you will need to have hired a 4WD to get you anywhere with ease. Some of the 4WDs you can check out include a Land cruiser TZ/TX, Land Cruiser V8/VX, Land Cruiser hardtop, Toyota RAV4 among others.

      If you are staying within Kampala or Entebbe, you can hire a saloon car and it will be able to get you anywhere within the city with ease.

      1. What can i consider for my self drive Uganda roadtrip?

      As you plan for a roadtrip in Uganda, you need to know that however much it is a small country, with a proper itinerary, you will get the best out of it. This means that you will need to plan accordingly the driving time between the different destinations. This helps you know the exact number of days you will need to spend on the roadtrip and know how long you will spend driving each day.

      Make sure you do have enough drinking water and food especially for your game drives. The fact that you will be visiting remote areas of the country, you need to always need to ensure you do have enough fuel in the car. There are fewer gas stations up country and these are distanced between 50km to 100km.

      1. What side of road do I need to be on while self driving in Uganda?

      Just like some of the European countries, while driving in Uganda you need to drive from the left hand side of the road and only overtake from the right when it’s safe for you to do so. Unlike Rwanda, the rest of East African countries, drive from the left hand side of the road.

      1. Do I need an international driving license while driving in Uganda?

      The only essential document you are requested to have on your self drive road trip in Uganda is making sure you have a valid driving license that does prove that in deed you have the desired experience to be on the road. An international driving license will be required if you plan to cross the border into Rwanda or Kenya.

      1. What equipment should I carry with me on a self drive Uganda trip?

      As a car rental company we do have a number of extras we can avail to you prior to the start of your trip so that you have a hassle free experience and this includes equipment’s like a rooftop tent, wheel spanner, spare tire, car jack, complete camping gear. We always advise you to thoroughly check the car before the start of the trip and make sure everything you requested for is available.

      Some of the essentials you will need to consider include a local simcard to reach out to us easily, a satellite phone, a torch, mosquito or insect repellent and proper clothing depending on the time of the year you are traveling.

      Guide to self drive in Rwanda

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      Guide to self drive in Rwanda

      Guide to self drive in Rwanda

      Rwanda is becoming another popular destination among travelers especially those who would want to explore the country’s hidden gems on their own on a self drive Rwanda roadtrip.  However, for a memorable experience on the road, there set guidelines things you need to know prior to your self drive in Rwanda adventure.

      This East African country that is often referred to as the “Land of a thousand hills” has a number of destinations that you can visit and you will be amazed by so much that you will find over there

      Whether you would like to drive to Akagera National Park – the country’s only savannah national park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, the popular Volcanoes National park to have a look at man’s closest relative – mountain gorillas as they roam in the park and more other places, a self drive in Rwanda will get you there. This is the cheapest and reliable option that you can consider as you plan for your visit to this beautiful country.

      What you need to know about self drive in Rwanda

      First and foremost, you need to have acquired a visa that allows you to legally be in the country. This is accompanied by a valid driving license to prove that in deed you have the desired experience to be on the road. You can as well get an international driving license as you will be required to present it once traffic officers ask you to stop.

      Read and understand the car rental contract. This is very important as you need to know whether you are insured and the Dos and don’ts you need to follow to safe on the road.

      Unlike other East African countries, while in Rwanda you will need to drive from the right hand side of the road. Prior to your self drive in Rwanda adventure, familiarize yourself with such an arrangement.

      Hire  a car with GPS or download offline google maps; if you are quite unsure on which road leads you to your final destination or national park, getting a map is the best approach that will help you go anywhere hassle. Offline maps and GPS are right options for you.

      The other important thing that you have consider while you self drive in Rwanda is the driving speed limits. While driving in Rwanda, you are expected 60KM/hr while on a highway and in urban centres, 40KM/hr. going against these speeds will lead to a penalty/fine that you will be required to pay.

      For travelers crossing from Uganda with Uganda registered plates or crossing into Uganda with Rwandan registered plates, you will be required to have all your travel documents with you and also make sure you purchase insurance for the car to be allowed to cross into Uganda legally.

      Road conditions in Rwanda

      Rwanda is one of the best countries in Africa with a well-developed road network. A number of roads that connect to the country’s leading destinations are well tarmacked and roads in national parks do have murram to ease your movement.

      The east African country also does have well marked road signs that in place to guide you on your roadtrip. These do include traffic signs, roadside signs like humps ahead, zebra crossing and much more.

      Where to go on your self drive in Rwanda

      Tourism in Rwanda is growing at a faster rate which is because of the commendable conservation efforts. While in the country, you can visit the following destinations;

      Akagera National Park

      Situated in the eastern of the country, Akagera is Rwanda’s popular destination of what this does have within her boundaries. This is the country’s only savannah national park and the best place where you will be able to spot the big five animals (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos) as they roam through the park freely.

      The other species you will see include; zebras, giraffes, several antelope species, bird species, crocodiles and hippos on a boat cruise along Lake Ihema and so much more.

      Volcanoes National park

      This is one of the most popular destinations in Rwanda and home to mountain gorillas. It is situated in the north western of Rwanda in Musanze provice. To see gorillas in this national park, you must have acquired a gorilla tracking permit from the Rwanda Development Board which can be purchased at $1500 per person. This gives you a lifetime opportunity to spend upto 1hr with these endangered species in their natural habitat. There other primate species you will be able to spot within the boundaries of the park and several species of birds.

      Nyungwe Forest National Park

      This is the only destination in Rwanda where you will be able to spot chimpanzees as they play, feed and roam on tree branches in the park. There other primate species and birds that you will be able to spot while within the park.

      Within Nyungwe forest, you will as well find the canopy walkway – a suspension bridge that gives you a bird view of the forest and on a clear day you may see the Virunga ranges.

      Other destinations you can check out on your self drive in Rwanda include Lake Kivu – the largest lake in Rwanda, Kigali city where you can visit the various local markets, the Kigali genocide memorial centre and much more.

      Can tourists drive in Uganda

      can tourists drive in Uganda

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      Can tourists drive in Uganda?

      Can tourists drive in Uganda

      Uganda is popularly becoming a leading destination in the world attracting various people from different ethnicity, backgrounds and much more. The country does have a lot to offer within her boundaries that you can spot on either a guided safari (car rental in Uganda with driver) or self drive in Uganda roadtrip.

      Are you visiting Uganda and still wondering whether tourists you allowed to drive a car on your roadtrip? That’s very possible. Whether you want to drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to see man’s closest relative – mountain gorillas, to Queen Elizabeth National Park to see tree climbing lions, Murchison Falls National Park to see the world’s most powerful waterfall which is formed by the Nile river forcing its way through a narrow gorge among other destinations, we have the right 4×4 cars for your trip.

      These are regularly maintained and serviced to give you a memorable road trip and hassle free experience.

      Why you need to drive yourself in Uganda?

      There a number of benefits that come with car rental in Uganda especially to tourists interested in self drive Uganda roadtrip and these do include;

      Privacy; If you are someone who values privacy, a self drive in Uganda will present you just that. This means you will have the freedom to do anything anytime without worry about a third party.

      Flexibility; One of the best things about self drive car hire in Uganda is the flexibility it presents you while on your trip. You will have the time to visit any destination of your choice at your own pace or even adjust your travel itinerary to how you need it.

      Affordable: Self drive car hire in very affordable compared to when you hire a car with a driver and for travelers hiring for longer periods of time, we have amazing discounts that you will be able to enjoy.

      How much do I need to hire a car in Uganda?

      Planning to drive yourself as a tourist in Uganda but wondering how much it would cost you to hire a car for such a trip? Worry not. We have the best cars at unbeatable prices for tourists. Our car rental vary and these will be determined by the type of car you choose to hire, the rental period and the time of the year you are planning to drive through Uganda’s top destination.

      Reach out to Uganda Self Drives today and we will be glad to arrange you a memorable self drive road trip in the ‘Pearl Of Africa’.

      Our car rental Uganda prices come with insurance for the car, pick up and drop off at any hotel of your choice within Entebbe and Kampala or even Entebbe airport, roadside assistance in case of breakdown and much more.

      What do you need to hire a car in Uganda?

      Car hire in Uganda is very simple. All you need is a copy of a valid driving license to prove that indeed you are licensed to be on the road. We will as well request for a copy of your passport for identification purposes and right after that, we will take you through our smooth booking process.

      To book that car for your next self drive Uganda road trip, you can simply fill in your details including the tme you will need it and for how long and our agent will be able to take you through our smooth booking process.

      Alternatively, you can reach us on +256 759498123 and our reservations team will as well take you through each and everything you would like to know about Uganda, Rwanda and more other countries we do operate in.

      Top Safety driving tips during the rainy season in Uganda

      Top Safety driving tips during the rainy season in Uganda

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      Top Safety driving tips during the rainy season in Uganda

      Top Safety driving tips during the rainy season in Uganda

      Uganda continues to be the leading destination amongst travelers due to abundance of activities you can do within her boundaries. The East African country can be visited any time of the year and whether it’s during the rainy season or dry season of the year, you will get the much needed memorable experience.

      For travelers planning to visit the country during the rainy season of the year, we have put together key safety tips you need to keep in mind as you drive on the roads to various destinations within Uganda. Whether you plan to visit the tree climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, drive to Murchison Falls National Park to see the world’s most powerful waterfall and more other destinations, we have put together the best tips to follow to safely drive on the road during the rainy season. These include;

      • Avoid large Puddles

      As you drive on the road on either tarmacked or murram roads during the rainy season in Uganda, we recommend avoiding going through puddles because sometimes you can’t tell how deep these maybe. Roads especially those situated in national parks are hard to go through during the rainy season and these have puddles.

      Avoid driving on the shoulders of the road as sometimes water concentrates on such positions. Drive from the middle of the road and only when there’s enough space for the incoming vehicle.

      • Don’t over speed

      You are required to keep the driving speed at 50KM/hr for your safety on the road. If you are driving at a high speed, you may loose control of the car and then cause an accident. If you highly doubt your driving skills, park the car and wait for the rain to clear.

      • Be on the look out

      During the rainy season, trees tend to fall off on a number of roads. As you drive on the road, be alert and spot where the danger may be that would lead to an accident. During rain, your hearing is always interrupted with. Its important you reduce the noise inside the car to concentrate on the noise coming from the outside.

      • Avoid causing confusion on the road

      Driving through major cities of Uganda during the rainy season needs some level of patience. During the rush hours traffic jam tends to be much more than expect which forces other road users to leave their lanes. Once you do this especially during the rainy season when visibility is altered with, it will cause confusion to other driving hence increasing chances of causing a collision.

      Its important you turn on signals to let other road users know your intentions while you drive during the rainy season.

      • Check your car

      Before we give out our cars to travelers, we make sure everything perfectly functions very well. It’s very important that as a traveler you get to check the car before you head out for your trip. Check for the wipers, the tyres and ask whether the spare tyre has enough pressure to help you in case you get a flat tyre.

      These are some of the best tips you can follow to have a memorable roadtrip in Uganda on your self drive. We have the best 4×4 cars that are strong enough to navigate the rugged terrains in National parks especially during the rainy season.

      Top things to pack on your self drive Uganda safari

      What to pack on your self drive Uganda safari?

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      Top things to pack on your self drive Uganda safari

      Nothing frustrates like forgetting the most essential item, document as you head for a self drive in Uganda. However, the good news is that we have put together some of the most important things that you definitely don’t have to forget to include on your packing list for a memorable and Uganda self drive trip.

      These have been grouped into essentials, clothing and rest that you are not so necessary but contribute to a rewarding safari in Uganda. Whether you are considering to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale or even to see the tree climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, our packing list will work for you.

      For travelers who are planning to self drive through Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya or Tanzania, this packing list will as well work for you.

      Travel essentials on self drive Uganda

      • Valid passport and Visa: If you are coming into Uganda as a foreigner you are required to have got yourself a visa that allows you to be in the country legally. A passport is always required for identity purposes.
      • Photo copy of passport and driving license: As a car rental company we always request you to present your driving license and passport before we go ahead to reserve your vehicle. This does act as proof that in deed you have the much needed experience on the road.
      • Airline ticket: Of course, there various airlines that fly to Uganda and to be able to be among those flying into the country, you will need to have booked and paid for your flight ticket.
      • International health card with immunizations (yellow fever): this is required from travelers who are visiting from high risk countries.
      • US$ cash / travelers cheques/ credit card: This helps purchase anything magnificent that you may come across during your trip. Be it locally made clothings, food, or even a tip to your favorite driver or hotel staff, you can do so with the above.
      • Small lock to lock zippers together
      • Sleeping bag for adventure camping: For travelers planning to spend sometime in the wild(camping), worry not we have the best and clean sleeping bag and camping equipment to make your overall self drive in Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya unforgettable.
      • Small diary and pen: you love journaling and documenting so much that you may come across on a roadtrip, pack your diary and pen to record these moments.

      Clothing

      Who wouldn’t pack clothes? Of course as you come for a safari in Uganda, you will need a few clothing and these and the types of clothings you need to put into consideration.

      • Neutrally colored clothing: Bright colors tend to scare away wildlife animals or even radiate danger for these species. Black and white colors attract insects.
      • 4 – 5 short sleeve t-shirts: Sometimes depending on the time of the year you have visited Uganda, the weather patterns seem to change but once it’s a chilly afternoon and hot, a short sleeved t-shirt will do much better.
      • 2 – 3 pairs of shorts: Chill under a tree on a hot sunny day or even in the evening in a short and the whole experience will be truly memorable.
      • 2 sweaters or sweatshirts: Night hours tend to get so cold thus you will need something quite heavy to keep you warm during that time. Even when it rains during day, these will do the magic for you.
      • 2 pairs of casual trousers
      • 2 long sleeve shirts: for travelers heading for gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking, we recommend making sure you have long sleeved shirts which may protect you from insect bites and thorns.
      • Lightweight rain jacket: Uganda is located close to the equator and this means it can rain any day of the year, to be on a safe side, we recommend you pack a jacket to keep you dry during a rainy day.
      • Fleece jacket
      • Hiking shoes: to easily hike through the steep slopes and the muddy roads, we recommend packing hiking shoes for a hassle free experience.
      • Lightweight shoes: for an evening walk, or a walk through the community, these shoes will do the magic for you.
      • Swimsuit: planning to swim, having this is an essential
      • Warm sleeping outfit for camping safaris:
      • Wide-brimmed hat: to keep you away from the hot sun during your game drive or natural walk.

      Accessories

      • Toilet kit (soap, tooth brush, toilet articles, handy wipes, etc. It’s best to bring small trail size containers.)
      • Towel
      • Sun screen and lip protection (SPF 30)
      • Ziploc bags to protect camera, binoculars and other such things from dust
      • Money belt
      • Insect repellant spray

      First aid

      • Aspirin
      • Imodium
      • Valoid
      • Painkillers
      • Bandages
      • Throat lozenges
      • Eye drops

      Other accessories

      • Camera, lenses and extra film, where applicable (ASA 200 film recommended)
      • Binoculars
      • Pocket knife
      • Insect repellant
      • Reading and writing material
      • Snacks
      • Sweets
      • Nuts
      • Video camera
      • Video tapes (if applicable)
      • Battery packs
      • Tri-pod
      Cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda

      Cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda

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      Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

      Cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda

      Gorilla trekking in Uganda is famously renowned as the climax of all tourist activities in Uganda. At any time of the year, gorilla trekking is possible in the pearl of Africa.

      Uganda is a natural habitat for over 400 mountain gorillas. The pearl of Africa has harbored over 12 different families of these primates in its dense rainforests.

      Uganda still remains the prime destinatons where you can spot mountain gorillas as the country has the highest population density that any other place.  These gentle massive creatures inhabit high terrains in the montane and bamboo forests between 1500 meters to as high as 4000 meters above sea level, sparsely surrounded by agriculture and local communities.

      Where to see Gorillas in Uganda

      Uganda is home to over 400 mountain gorillas clustered in over 12 families. Tracking these gentle giants is an adventure like no other, though only one family can be trailed by 8 people each day – a reason as to why its important to book your trip months prior to your trip so that you don’t miss out on seeing man’s closest relative.

      Gorilla trekking is practicable in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park. These parks that are situated within the Virunga Conservation area are the renowned destinations for gorilla tracking in the pearl of Africa.

      Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has the most public acknowledgement credit for gorilla trekking. This park is seated on over 120 square miles of montane and dense bamboo forests in Kanungu district, south western Uganda.

      The park independently harbors over 10 distinctive families of the mountain gorillas in its nature habitation, i.e. Rushegura, Katwe, Bitukura, Oruzogo and many more. Recent census tolled over 300 mountain gorillas in Bwindi impenetrable National Park with 11 silverbacks. The park offers this exhilarating experience in a single itinerary, commenced depending on travelers’ tastes and preferences. This further beautifies the adventure.

      There 4 sectors in Bwindi that you can visit if you plan on doing gorilla trekking and these include; Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija and Nkuringo. Each sector has a unique gorilla families that are found there and you can as always select a sector depending on the lodge you plan to stay at while in Bwindi. We advise you to always ensure that you book a lodge close to the sector you plan to track gorillas. Forexample if you plan to stay in Rushaga, select a lodge within this sector as this allows you to reach the park headquarters easily in the morning hours for briefing.

      Mgahinga National Park/ Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the only other tourism park notable for gorilla trekking in Uganda. This national park is located also in south western Uganda in Kisoro district. It is the smallest national park in Uganda, seated on only 34 square kilometers.

      The park is a natural habitat for two mountain gorilla families, that is the Nyakagezi family and the Hirwa Gorilla Family.

      The Nyakagezi family is largely populated in the low land areas of the park. It is one of the easiest gorilla families to track in Uganda. It has a rich historic background lofted by its guardianship of 2 dominant silverbacks. The highlight of this family’s legacy is that its predominant silverback, Bugingo, is estimated to be 54 years and counting. This is completely uncommon for a gorilla life span.

      The Hirwa family mainly inhabits the Virunga conservation area. This family is an easier one to locate and encountering it takes not more than an hour when trekking in the Mgahinga Gorilla National park.

      Although these gorillas can be tracked at any season of the year in Uganda, the best times to encounter these gentle giants should be in the long dry season (June to September) and the short dry season (mid December to early February). During these months, majority of the trails within the park are dry and less slippery  making your hiking experience quite easy and memorable. 

      Cost of Gorilla trekking permits  

      To engage in tracing these mountain Gorillas in their natural habitats, travelers need to purchase a gorilla trekking permit. This permit is issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to only tourists over the age of 15.

      Booking a Uganda gorilla trekking permit costs 700 USD for each foreign nonresident tourist, 600 USD for every foreign resident and 250,000 UGX for only an East African tourist. These prices are fixed for both Bwindi Impenetrable National park and Mgahinga Gorilla National park.

      Crucially consider booking and purchasing of your Gorilla trekking permit from only trusted tour operators. Acknowledged operators on the market are spearhead by  Uganda Self Drives. Be rest assured with Vizuri Africa Safaris to consider your ideal dates of travel, travel destinations, accommodation preferences and booking of your gorilla trekking permit.

      Contemplate on other costs along the delightful adventure of gorilla trekking such as transportation, food, VISA, packing lists, porters and tips for on trip guides. These costs move along with your gorilla trekking experience modelling the adventure a magnificent one.

      Tips on minimizing costs along your gorilla trekking journey should be prioritized, as emphasis on them not only saves you an extra penny but makes your gorilla trekking journey a comfortable one as well. Tips like booking gorilla trekking permits and accommodation in time, hiring chauffeur, changing currency into small notes and following a tight budget should be prioritized. To best exploit your adventure, we recommend you to entrust Uganda Self Drives to plan your wildlife experience.

      Is gorilla trekking worth it?

      The adventure and the opportunity to connect with nature makes gorilla trekking a worthwhile for wildlife enthusiasts. Gorilla trekking is renowned for its unique and rewarding adventure allowing tourists to encounter these holistic primates in their natural habitats. Gorilla trekking is truly amazing and worthy every second accounted on it.

      self drive in Uganda FAQS

      Frequently asked questions about self drive in Uganda

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      Frequently asked questions about self drive in Uganda

      Like any other traveler visiting a foreign country for the first time, there those particular questions that you will always ask yourself before you go ahead to hire a car. But the good news is that if you are visiting the “Pearl Of Uganda” and would like to self drive in Uganda, we have compiled some of the frequently asked questions on self drive Uganda so that you are able to book with confidence.

      Renting a car in Uganda is one of the best ways you can fully explore and discover what this country does have within her boundaries. Some of the questions about self drive in Uganda include:

      • How much is to rent a car in Uganda?

      The cost of car hire in Uganda for self drive varies and this depends on the type of car you would like to rent, the number of people, the rental period and your destination. At Uganda Self Drives, we have a the best fleet of self drive cars for hire in Uganda that does include small compact cars and 4×4 SUVs best to use on the rugged terrains in the various parts of the country. The more comfortable and strong the car is, the more you are likely to pay for it.

      For travelers renting on long term car rental Uganda basis, we have amazing discounts if you hire a car for more than 28 days thus reducing on the cost of car rental in Uganda. For travelers who plan to cross into the neighboring countries, we request that you do inform us days prior to your trip so that we arrange the necessary required documents for you to cross the border.

      • What do I need to hire a car for self drive in Uganda?

      To hire a car in Uganda, you will need to provide us with a valid copy of driving copy of your driving license, an international driving permit and a copy of your passport for identity purposes. With these documents, we will have the confidence that in deed you have the experience to drive on the road.

      • Is it safe to self drive in Uganda?

      Your safety is our top priority and we give you the assurance that you will be safe while you drive in Uganda. A number of roads in Uganda are now tarmacked while others are being worked on. Driving in Uganda is quite easy as long as you follow the set traffic guidelines.

      In terms of security, Uganda remains among the safest countries in sub Saharan Africa where you can go and have uninterrupted safari regardless of which destination you are visiting. Please note that like any other developing country, you will need to be cautious while going through crowded places like major cities, and traffic jam. Ensure all your car doors are locked and your windows are up as you drive through busy areas.

      • Can I hire a car with a driver?

      Yes. You can now hire a car with a driver in Uganda with a driver with us. Our drivers are well trained, English speaking and disciplined to give you the best experience as you explore the country. These are well versed with the road network in the country making sure you do arrive at your desired destination on time.

      Our car hire in Uganda with a driver allows you to sit back, relax and let our driver take you to anywhere you would like to go within Uganda and beyond.

      • In case of a breakdown, what do I need to do?

      We have agents all over the country that will work on the car once it breaks down while you are on your trip. We always request you to inform us, tell us the location and our agent will locate you as soon as possible to work on the car so that you continue with your trip.

      In cases where it’s likely to take us so long to fix the car, we will be able to send you a rescue vehicle so that you get to finish your trip at no extra cost.

      • What type of insurance that does come with the car?

      Our cars are comprehensively insured but cases where you cause a damage on the car out of recklessness or ignorance, you will be responsible and accountable to repair that damaged part of the vehicle.

      • What is the minimum age required to hire a car in Uganda?

      For travelers interested in self drive in Uganda, you need to be aged between 25-65 years. Those who would prefer to rent a car Uganda but are aged below 25 years, you will be subjected to an underage surcharge.

      To rent a car in Uganda for self drive you can send us an email on info@ugandaselfdrives.com and our customer care team will be able to take you through the booking process. You can as well talk to us directly  on +256 759 498 123 and our customer care agent will brief you and take you through the booking process.

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