Self-Drive Car Rental | cheap uganda selfdrive
Self-Drive Car Rental, are you planning a self-drive in Uganda and don’t know how to go about it? Road trip enthusiasts find Paradise in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa with its vast beautiful scenery, vibrant Cities, and gorgeous sprawling savannah Plains. This article provides you with all you need to know about self-drive car rental in Uganda, so ensuring your safari is as seamless and fun as it may be, should you be planning a trip in the Pearl of Africa.
Why you need to rent a self-drive Car in Uganda
A self-drive car rental in Uganda offers unmatched and unforgettable flexibility as well as independence. This option allows you to make your stops, set your own pace, and relish the spectacular local landscape. Whether you plan to undertake a self-drive trip through the savannah National Parks (Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo, and Kidepo National Parks), to the primate destinations (Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Kibale National Parks), or the stunning countryside.
Nature/types of accessible vehicles for self-drive safaris
Uganda’s beautiful and varied landscape requires a range of rental cars to fit and these include;
- Standard rental cars are perfect for short excursions and City drives. These are small and affordable, ideal for metropolitan areas and highways. They’re mainly saloon/sedan cars that include Mercedes Benz, Harriers, Corona, Rav 4s, Limousines, and Premios.
- SUVs are perfect for group safaris or off-the-beaten-track excursions, hence can pass over rough terrains better than regular vehicles. SUVs also provide additional room and they include Toyota Rav 4s, Toyota Land Cruiser Prado TX, Range Rover, and Toyota Kluger among others.
- 4WDs are essential for tackling off-the-beaten-track destinations (outbacks) or more difficult paths. These vehicles include Land Cruiser V8, Safari Land Cruisers, and Land Cruiser Prado among others.
- You can opt for the luxury Cars for comfort and flair, especially if you are looking for a little class. However, these rental cars are perfect for City driving or special events and include the Hummer, Land Cruiser V8, Chrysler, Range Rover, Jaguar models, Limousines, Convertible, Mercedes Benz, and many others.
- Campervans are perfect for individuals who wish to mix travel with lodging, hence recommended for road trips intended to spend time in several locations.
Requirements and License for drivers on self-drive trips
Renting a self-drive car rental in Uganda requires;
- Valid driver’s license from your country of origin. However, if your driver’s license isn’t in English, an International license is recommended.
- The minimum age: Embarking on a self-drive trip requires a minimum age of 18 years for starters. Also, 25 years is the ideal age for individuals looking to upgrade to another class in the vehicle category.
Insurance and additional expenses during self-drive road trips
The car rental price only includes basic insurance. However, you should consider extra coverage for peace of mind, and these include Collision Damage Waivers and Theft Protection among others.
Additionally, choose excess reduction insurance as a way of minimising the hefty payment you will need, should an accident happen.
It is important to understand the fuel policy, which includes whether you will be charged for refuelling or whether you will be required to return the rental car full-filled.
Self-drive safaris in Uganda also require understanding the extra fees for car seats, additional drivers, GPS systems, and Tolls.
Traveling across Uganda, the Pearl of Africa with a self-drive car rental
Ugandans drive on the left side of the road while the driver’s seat is on the right side. Before you hit the open road for a self-drive safari, it is important to first understand this arrangement to avoid making mistakes.
Uganda’s road standards include speed limits- typically 30 to 40 kilometers per hour in National Parks, 50 kilometers per hour in Trading Centers/urban and developed areas, 80 kilometers per hour in rural areas, and up to 100 kilometers per hour on highways—should be familiar to you. Avoid using a phone while driving and fasten your seatbelt too.
Always plan your road trips depending on your interests by using research. For instance, for lush green countryside views the western circuit is a must-do. The northern circuit is perfect for relishing views of the open savannah plains.
Before embarking on a road trip to a rural area, check road conditions and weather forecasts to be well prepared.
Returning the rental car
When you choose a self-drive car rental in Uganda, it is recommended to first verify the pick-up and return location, and time. For an extra fee, some Car rental Agencies/Companies provide the simplicity of dropping off at a different location.
The rental car should be dropped off at the same location where you picked it up to prevent extra costs. Once back, check the rental car with the Agency. Additionally, carefully read through the final invoice to make sure there aren’t unexpected costs.