Self Drive Uganda
Driving yourself around Uganda is a very fantastic way to explore the country’s beauty at your own pace, from the dramatic Source of the Nile, Murchison Falls to the misty forests of Bwindi where the mighty Mountain Gorillas reside. This guide takes you through what to expect on a self drive Uganda adventure, the best routes, how to prepare, and crucial details that will help make your adventure a memorable one.
Why choose to Self Drive in Uganda?
Self drive Uganda gives you maximum freedom to make stopovers for views and road side shopping, change plans on the fly, and also explore the remotest areas where public vehicles may not reach. Self drive car rental in Uganda is so popular among couples, families and so travelers confident behind the wheel and want maximum flexibility.
Tips to note while on a self drive Uganda adventure
Drive on the Left: Driving in Uganda is done on the left side and therefore taking over should be done on the right. Please stay cautious and driver with a lot of care.
Carry a Valid Driver’s License: Usually, if your national driver’s license is not in English, please mind to move with an International Driver’s License.
Choose a 4×4 Vehicle: Given Uganda’s rough road conditions especially in the National Parks, it would be a great idea if you rent a 4×4 vehicle for easy navigation.
Drive only during day: Since you are not well versed with the country, you are highly advised to drive at most up to 7:00PM.
Always Lock the Vehicle when parked and when in traffic.
Avoid splashing lots of cash in public.
Don’t let your fuel tank fall below half tank especially when you plan to enter national parks for game drives.
Best Vehicle Choice – What vehicle to Rent
4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser V8
best for rough road conditions, Ideal for high-class travelers. Normally costs $70 to $90 per day depending on the season. Perfect for 2 to 5 adult passengers with enough space for cargo.
4x4 Land Cruiser Prado TX
The Prado TX is slightly smaller than the Land Cruiser V8 but still so capable for all remote roads. It has a high ground clearance and can come with a popup roof for perfect nature views. Costs $60 to $70 per day and it is ideal for 2 to 5 passengers.
The Toyota Rav4
The most affordable 4×4 vehicle for self drive Uganda. Perfect for solo travelers and couples on a fixed travel budget. Normally costs $40 to $45 per day depending on the season. Strong enough to handle off-road travels but restricted in Northern Uganda.
4x4 Safari Van
Best for big families and groups looking to spend less on fuel and have the best wildlife views during game drives. The safari van seats a maximum of 9 adult passengers with space for their luggage. It is mostly rented with a safari guide but also available for self drive Uganda.
Luxury SUV
Perfect for business travelers looking to look elegant for their business meetings. Normally cost from as low as $150 per day and mostly rented for town service. Mostly available with a professional driver but can also be rented for self drive in Uganda.
Saloon Cars
Mostly rented by families and couples looking to explore the urban parts of Uganda especially Kampala and Entebbe. Available from as low as $50 per day for self drive in Kampala and $60 to $70 per day if you are driving outside Kampala.
What to pack during your Self Drive Uganda Tour
Cash in UGX, credit card, a portable power bank, and a car charger
Good Hiking boots, light water proof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellants, good camera, binoculars
Basic medical kit, travel insurance documents, malaria tabs.
Best Time to Self Drive Uganda
Uganda is tropical and receives two main wet seasons and two main dry seasons. Self drive adventures in Uganda are most perfect during the dry season which runs from June – September and December – February. During this time of the year, the tracks are less muddy and hence best for game drives and wildlife viewing.
Common Problems Faced by travelers during Self Drive Adventures in Uganda and there solutions
Flat tyre or puncture: You should at least have some knowledge on how to use a car jack and wheel spanner to chance a tyre. Ensure your rental car has a spare tyre and good spare tools.
Stuck in mud: Move with a toe rope and consider hiring local help. Please avoid driving through impassible places especially on rainy days. If you try and fail, call your car rental company for help.
Loose Battery Terminals: Due to driving through bumpy roads, there are high chances that the battery terminals will get loose causing the vehicle to fail to start. Before you call for help, make sure both battery terminals are tightened.
Accidents: In case of an accident during a self drive Uganda tour, you are requested to immediately call your car rental company, inform them about the every detail. Inform the police in order to get a police note which will be used to claim for compensation of the damages. Please note if the cause of accident was a result of your careless/reckless driving, you will be liable to pay for all the damages caused.
Vehicle break down: All car rental costs include road side assistance in case of vehicle break downs. During such a situation, you just have to let us know your current location and what may have caused the brake down. Within a very short period of time, a mechanic will be with you to analyze the cause and make necessary repairs.
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Frequently asked Questions about Self Drive Uganda
- Do I need an International Driver’s License to self drive in Uganda?
As long as your national driver’s license is in English, the traffic authorities and the car rental company will accept it. However, having an International Driver’s Permit is recommended since it makes traffic checks and rentals easier.
- Is it safe to self drive in Uganda?
Yes, many international travelers enjoy the safe self drive trips in Uganda. However, you should avoid driving at night and should always lock your car.
- What type of vehicle should I rent for a self drive Safari in Uganda?
When planning to have a self drive aventure in Uganda, its highly recommended to rent a 4×4 vehicle. Popular 4×4 cars fro rent in Uganda include; Land Cruiser V8, Land Cruiser Prado TX, Toyota Rav4, and a Safari Van.
- Can I rent a car in Uganda and Cross to Rwanda, Kenya or Tanzania?
Yes, Best Car Hire Kampala offers cross border car rentals but you should request for clearance and crossing documents as you are placing your booking. Please note that you be required to pay an extra fee for the COMESA insurance and cross border documents.
- What is the speed limit in Uganda?
Speed limits in Uganda are usually 50km/h in busy towns, 80km/h on highways, 100km/h on express ways and 40km/h in national parks and reserves.