Travelers like to explore unique destinations in Africa. One of them is Uganda. This amazing tourist spot is in the eastern region of Africa. A self-drive road trip in the pearl of Africa is not only cheap but also grants you a chance to delve into the country’s natural wonders on your own.
Therefore, it’s not a surprise that most travelers who go for a Uganda tour choose to hire a 4×4 Car for Self-drive. Car rental companies provide various brands of four-wheel drive cars at favorable rates.
Whether you need a small Toyota Rav 4, spacious Rooftop tent Land cruiser Prado, V8, VX, GX, Safari van, or the land cruiser Nissan Hardtop, there are all in store. Apart from that, read this information before you board a flight to Africa. It will add something to the success of your Uganda self-drive holiday.
Get a flight ticket
First of all, is to apply for Uganda Visa. Once issued, go on and reserve a flight ticket. Multiple airlines fly planes from different countries of the World to Entebbe Airport. There are also connecting flights for those who don’t have direct flights to EBB.
Agencies you can use include Brussels Airlines, KLM, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish, Kenya Airways, Air Canada, Air Tanzania, Fly Emirates, Fly Dubai, Air France, RwandAir, Etihad Airways, Qatar, Air Arabia, British Airways, and a lot more.
Book a Car in advance
Cars for self-drive in Uganda are in high demand, especially in the peak season. So, it is good to secure a booking in advance like a month or two months before your rental date. If possible, you can even deposit the rental cost.
The car will be fully available for you. It is delivered at the Airport or your hotel in Entebbe, Kampala, and other towns in the nation. Last-minute orders are always disappointing.
Don’t forget Travel documents
Every visitor to Uganda who transits through the Entebbe International Airport has to come with a valid passport, travel Visa, and health documents like a yellow fever vaccination card and the Covid-19 certificate. You present these documents at the immigration customs.
Have an Itinerary
Choose the best areas of interest and draft a plan or route to follow. Tourist places like national parks, sanctuaries, game reserves, cities, and many physical features are situated in various corners of the country.
The western route leads you to parks like Lake Mburo, Bwindi impenetrable national park, Semliki, Queen Elizabeth, Kibale forest, Murchison falls, and Mountain Rwenzori national park. The eastern route is for those who like Jinja, Sipi falls, Kidepo Valley national park, and the culture of the Karamojong.
Buy a local Simcard
Once you land at Entebbe Airport, make sure to buy a local Simcard, airtime, and internet data bundles. You use the internet to communicate with your relatives and coordinate business via WhatsApp or emails.
While in Uganda, you can’t use your international data bundles. Some areas in the country have a poor internet connection, so you can use the local Simcard to communicate with the car provider in case of anything like a car mechanical problem, a change of rental plan, and more.
Do shopping in major towns
Shop all the necessary items in major towns like Kampala such that you get quality goods at better prices. While in the capital visit major supermarkets or shopping malls like Victoria Mall, Arena mall, and Carrefour to get goodies like foodstuffs, clothes, snacks, drinks, and more.
Check the Car every morning
It is good to check the car’s condition every day in the morning before you start off the drive. Check the level of engine oil, cooling water, brake fluid, and whipper water. Start the engine and leave it on for some minutes for the oil to move in the different parts of the engine. Thereafter, you can start the ride to your next destination.
Use Google maps.
Every smartphone has an inbuilt GPS and up-to-date Google maps. If you have the internet on your phone, you can’t fail to reach your next location. Turn on the internet and Google maps. Specify the exact location you need to go to. Drive, and follow the directions given. Some routes deep in the village are not listed on the maps. In case the map fails, try to ask locals for directions.
Follow Road Rules & Regulations
Follow the road rules and regulations such that you aren’t interrupted by traffic officers. Make sure to have a valid driving license. Drive at a minimum speed. Avoid overloading. Don’t drink and drive.
Stop talking on the phone while driving. In the city center, make sure to follow the traffic lights. Be free from reckless driving such that you don’t involve in accidents. React positively to the road signs.
Avoid night driving.
Driving at night is not safe. Most hidden parts of the country have thieves who target road users. Once you fall into the gangsters’ territories, you may not only loose the car but also your life. Therefore, it is good to enjoy the ride during the day.
Moreover, the vehicle may break down at night when no one can give you support. Some people switch off their phones at night. Nothing is more scary than getting stranded in the middle of the jungle.
