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Tips for Driving in Uganda: All You Need to Know
Are you considering visiting Uganda for an exciting 4×4 self drive trip or holiday? We have provided the essentials and must-read tips for you if you intend to rent a car in Uganda for a self-drive road trip.
Uganda is breathtaking and one of the most beautiful places in Africa to explore by road tripping. It was dubbed by Winston Churchill the “Pearl of Africa” because of its remarkable beauty. It is located in East Africa and is about the size of Great Britain. While driving in Uganda, you will not only have a local experience but also immerse yourself in its multiple awe-inspiring attractions.
However, driving in Uganda, especially for first-time visitors, can be daunting. You don’t want to turn your experience in a new country into a nightmare. Therefore, it is important to adequately prepare for any successful road trip in Uganda. Before setting off on any road trip, learning some relevant driving techniques and rules will save you from a number of risks and help you stay safe on the road. The following is a practical guide that will help you have a smooth and convenient road trip experience in Uganda.
1. Plan your route beforehand.
To have a successful road trip in Uganda, it is important to have a clear route plan before setting out. Uganda is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, which you may want to include on your bucket list. This may sometimes be overwhelming, depending on the number of places you want to visit. However, we recommend doing some research and coming up with a list of the top attractions you want to visit. Consider areas that are comfortable and easier to navigate, say roads or streets that have minimal traffic, so that you are able to drive carefully. Planning your trip beforehand will save you from undue stress.
2. Make sure you have a valid driving license.
Having a valid driver’s license is mandatory in order for you to drive around Uganda. Being pulled over by traffic officers because you don’t have a valid driving permit while on your trip can be inconveniencing. So, you will need to avoid such experiences by obtaining a valid driving permit or an international driver’s license written in English. You may also come along with your local driver’s license.
3. Get a reliable vehicle.
The type of car rental you want to use will determine how successful your 4×4 self drive trip in Uganda will be. A sturdy and reliable 4×4 car rental is convenient for long or cross-country road trips. They are the perfect choice for driving off the beaten track and can handle all kinds of terrain in all weather conditions. Our car rentals are best suited to handle such conditions and are reliable and in good shape.
4. Know your vehicle.
Whether it is your own car or one that is rented, it is important for you to know the vehicle well before you embark on the real adventure trip. As a first-time driver or while testing a rental car, you may pay attention to things like how to start a car, control the brakes, or change gears, but there are also petty things that may be disastrous if not given due attention. It is therefore important to first familiarize yourself with all the controls, such as knowing where the signal lights are and checking whether all the lights are working well, before driving any car you are not used to. This will save you from much destruction and loss.
5. Learn the driving rules.
Although there are general traffic rules in every country, some may differ from one country to another. Some countries may be driving on different roadside than you do in your own country. For example in Uganda, drivers are supposed to drive on the left-hand side (keep left) while driver sit on the right-hand side of the vehicle. Countries such as the United States, Canada, and most of Europe drive on the right-hand side. Learn the driving rules of Uganda before embarking on your road trip.
6. Hire a local guide.
We recommend renting a car with a driver guide if you are a first-timer in Uganda and have no idea about the nature of the roads, weather, or destinations you plan to visit. A driver guide will help provide valuable insight about these places you plan to visit, how to deal with traffic, or even help you connect with the locals.
