Uncategorized

What to do when you get a flat tire on your road trip in Uganda

Uncategorized / By
What to do when you get a flat tire on your road trip in Uganda?

Car rental Uganda is the best and easiest way you can travel across Uganda and discover much that is within the country’s boundaries with a reliable 4×4 vehicle. We have a fleet of such vehicles available at very unbeatable prices.

The road network in Uganda is still under development and most of the destinations upcountry are either gravel or murram roads. While driving off-road up country, the roads over there may pose as a threat to the tyres of the car and in some cases, you will find either you are running out of pressure of the tyre or the tyre complete worn out.

Being in a situation is usually confusing especially when you aren’t sure on what to do next. We have put together some of the things you will need to do once you get a flat tire while on your road trip.

  1. Pull over; this is the first thing that you need to do once you realize you have a flat tyre. You will need to pull over to a safer location to ease the movement of other cars on the road.
  2. Turn on Hazards; this is yet another important thing you need to do. This is done to inform other road users of your situation and also they own safety as well.
  3. Assess the damage; it’s important that you need to assess the damage on the tyre and confirm whether it would be very easy for you to remove or whether you can seek assistance from another person.
  4. While changing the tyre; Loosen the tyre bolts and confirm that the jack performs well. Slowly raise the car using the jack from a designated point.
  5. Remove the flat tire and replace it with a spare tyre, tighten the bolts, slowly lower the car and remove the jack.

If you are not sure on how to use the Jack or remove the spare tyre, we do have a number of agents across the country who will assist you in case you need help with changing the tyre.

Our rental cars come with all the necessary tools needed for you to disengage the tyre and this does include the wheel spanner, jack and additional bolts plus a first aid kit in case of an emergency.

Whether you plan to drive to Murchison falls National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable or even Kidepo Valley; we have the right car and perfect tyres with tread to get you there with ease.

Road trip essentials in Uganda

Uncategorized / By

Road trip essentials in Uganda – Self drive Uganda safaris 

road trip essentials in Uganda

Self driving in Uganda can be much more rewarding and memorable when you have the right car to get you to any destination of your choice within the country’s boundaries and beyond.

Whether you are traversing through the leading national parks like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Murchison falls National Park or simply on a business trip, this does offer you a unique experience in the ‘pearl of Africa’.

Below are some of the essentials you need to consider for a memorable road trip in the country.

Your road + car connection; Be mindful of your car tyres as you drive to the various destinations in Uganda. It’s important to note that roads especially in national parks are rough and tough especially during the wet season.

Before you set off, you are required to check the pressure of the tyre and whether it is worth being on the road.

Medical kit: While a number of hotels and service providers offer a medical kit, it’s important you carry along your own medical kits. These include a few painkillers, first aid kit that does include bandage and much more that you can use in case of an emergency.

Gadgets: Your road trip Uganda  is incomplete if you do not capture it on your smart phone. While coming on your self drive Uganda road trip, you will need to carry a camera, binoculars, and your device charger and make sure you do carry enough memory cards where you will store the data from the trip.

Sun protection: Whether during the dry or rainy season, in Uganda you will always need a sunscreen to protect you from the direct rays from the sun that may damage your skin.

You will as well carry along with you a sun glasses, a hat and some sun gel or moisturizer to keep your skin moist through your game drives.

Money matters: While there places in Uganda like hotels, gas stations, national park where you can pay the fees by card, it’s important you have extra cash on you in Ugandan shillings to be able to help you out in case of anything like hopping on a boda boda to the next garage or tips.

Comfortable shoes and clothing: there’s nothing as frustrating as getting uncomfortable with what you are wearing while on your game drive. Choosing what to pack entirely depends on the weather and the time of the year you are visiting. For travelers visiting the country during the months of June to September and December to February, you are advised to pack light clothes as this is the time the country is experiencing dry weather conditions.

Passport and driving license: While driving through Uganda on your road trip, its essential you carry along with you your identification documents. These will be required at any mainly before accessing national parks and some accommodations will ask you to present your copy to them prior to your stay.

Are you planning for your trip in Uganda and can’t seem to find what you are looking for? Contact our reservations team today and they will take you through each and everything you would like to know about your trip to the pearl of Africa.

Car rental prices in Uganda

Budget car hire Uganda

Toyota RAV4 – $40/Day

self drive east africa

Land Cruiser Prado  – $60/Day

Self drive east africa

Land Cruiser V8/VX – $80/Day

Book your Uganda road trip rental car Now

    Fuel consumption of Different Car rental in Uganda

    Uncategorized / By

    Fuel consumption of Car rentals in Uganda

    From $40

    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

    Rent a car in Uganda now

     

      Traffic lawsin Uganda

      Uncategorized / By

      Top 

      Traffic laws in Uganda

      Book Now

      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

      Uncategorized / By

      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!

        Guide to self drive in Rwanda

        Uncategorized / By

        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.

        × Chat with us