Dos and Don’ts of self-drive Car hire Uganda
Dos and Don’ts of self-drive Car hire Uganda, Hiring a car in Uganda on self drive has become the order of the day to many tourist interested in visiting not only Uganda but the entire east Africa. When it comes to self-drive car hire in Uganda, there are certain dos and don’ts to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Find below the guideline that will make your car rental experience memorable.
Dos:
Do book your car in advance:
It’s advisable to make a reservation for your self-drive car hire well in advance to secure the vehicle of your choice. Last minute booking is always disappointing, either you get the car at a very price or you may get a car of not your choice and at a very high price. Some companies ask for a small commitment fee. Please if it’s asked send it so that they to can fully confirm your reservation.
Do choose a reliable car rental company:
Research and select a reputable car rental company that offers well-maintained vehicles and good customer service. Uganda has over 1000 car rentals, however look for the most reputable car rental agency, search the web, and compare,
Do check the condition of the car:
Before driving off, inspect the car thoroughly for any existing damages or mechanical issues. Take note of these and inform the rental company to avoid any disputes later. As for any extra/ spare needed with a spare tire and tools like wheel Spanner to help you fix a flat tire in case of it.
Do obtain the necessary permits and documents:
Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and any other required permits, such as an international driving permit if necessary. Carry your passport and rental agreement with you at all times. Those documents are very vital for anyone offered the service.
Do familiarize yourself with local traffic rules:
Uganda has its own traffic regulations, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with them before hitting the road. This includes understanding road signs, speed limits, and any other specific rules.
Do plan your route and carry a map or GPS:
Plan your itinerary and have a clear idea of the routes you’ll be taking. Carry a map or use a GPS navigation system to help you navigate unfamiliar areas.
Do drive defensively and be cautious:
Pay attention to other drivers and road conditions. Drive defensively, especially in busy city areas or on rural roads where pedestrians and livestock may be present.
Do respect wildlife:
If you’re driving through national parks or wildlife reserves, adhere to park rules and maintain a safe distance from animals. Do not disturb or feed wildlife. Maintain the speed limit while driving in national park which is 30km
Don’t:
Don’t drive at night, if possible:
It’s generally advised to avoid driving at night in Uganda due to poor visibility and potential security risks. Plan your travels during daylight hours whenever possible. And since many travelers are not familiar with many Uganda roads so ending up hitting the humps especially when driving at night
Don’t leave valuables in the car:
Always take your valuable belongings with you when leaving the car. Leaving them unattended can make your vehicle a target for theft, most especially when in many towns.
Don’t pick up travelers:
Avoid picking up hitchhikers for safety reasons. Stick to your travel plan and use designated transportation services if needed.
Don’t drink and drive:
Just like anywhere else, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and dangerous. Avoid consuming alcohol if you’re planning to drive.
Don’t overload the vehicle:
Respect the recommended passenger and luggage capacity of the car. Overloading can affect the vehicle’s performance and compromise safety.
Don’t rely exclusively on GPS navigation:
While GPS is helpful; it’s a good idea to carry a physical map as a backup. GPS signals can be unreliable in some areas, so having a map can be useful. Also advised to buy local sim cards and connect to Google to avoid getting lost
Don’t ignore road conditions:
Uganda’s roads can vary in quality, and some areas may have potholes or other hazards. Drive cautiously, especially on rural roads, and prepare for unexpected obstacles.
By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll have a better understanding of how to navigate Uganda’s roads safely and make the most of your self-drive car hire experience.