You could either be excited or anxious looking forward to controlling the wheel on the roads of the Pearl of Africa – Uganda. Officially the Republic of Uganda, Uganda is a landlocked country in Eastern part of Africa bordered by different countries like Kenya, South Sudan, Rwanda, Tanzania and DR Congo. At a total surface area of 241,038 square kilometers, Uganda is a home to several attractions like cities, national parks, national reserves, primates, mountains and wildlife species. All these and the unmentioned can be navigated using Uganda roads though this require careful consideration of various factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. In this guide, we’ll delve into essential things to know while self-driving in Uganda, providing detailed insights and examples to aid you in your travels.
Essential things for travelers driving in Uganda
- Legal Requirements
As you are planning your self-drive experience in Uganda, you have to some legal requirements that you should pack first in preparation of the encounter. Among these include;
- Driving License: Self-drive travelers in Uganda must have a valid international Driving Permit (IDP) or a valid driver’s license from your home country and these must be carried at all times while driving.
- Vehicle Insurance: During the car rental process in Uganda, ensure that the vehicle has comprehensive insurance that covers all potential incidents. The renter must provide you with all the necessary documents like the proof of insurance and registration.
- Roadworthiness: Also, as you are going for your self-drive experience in Uganda, ensure that the vehicle is in good condition and meet the Ugandan road safety standards. Check all the necessary points and remember that the minimum age for driving in Uganda in 18 years.
- Traffic Rules
Every country puts up his/her rules that drivers should obey to avoid penalties or crimes. Among these include;
- Driving Side: While in Uganda for a self-drive, remember that you have to drive on the left side of the road.
- Speed Limits: Typically, 50 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on highways, but always look for posted signs.
- Mobile Phones: While having a drive in Uganda, using a mobile phone is prohibited. As a tourist, avoid using your phone for calls, texting, or any other purposes while operating a motor vehicle. If you need to make a call or use your phone, pull over to a safe location and park the vehicle before doing so.
- Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all vehicle users including drivers and passengers. For that case, ensure that all persons in the vehicles tie up the seat belts before starting off your self-drive journey.
- Drink Driving: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%. Penalties for driving under the influence are severe and they include fines, license suspension or even imprisonment. So, we encourage the self-drive travelers to refrain from drinking alcohol in case they are planning to drive.
- Fuel and Repairs
Uganda has a number of petrol stations and garages that you can use to fuel up your car during the self-drive experience. But some rental agencies have their specific places of repairs and fuel top ups. For that case, require from your responsible rental agency from which you can fuel up the car or repair incase of any damages.
- Inspect the car
When you hire a car for self drive in Uganda, ensure to do a thorough check before setting off for the trip. Make sure all parts are functioning well to avoid inconveniences during the trip. This will help you have an enjoyable Uganda road trip experience and also keep you safe on the road.
- Do not drive at night
One of the restrictions we give as a car rental company is not to drive at night. Since most parts of the country do not have street lights, driving at night puts you at risk of accidents due to some bad drivers on the road and people crossing plus a risk of robbery. Make sure to start your journey or activities early so that you arrive at your destination by 19hrs. The only activities allowed at night are night game drives where you must go with a ranger guide from the park.
- Have an emergency safety kit
An emergency safety kit prepares you for any unforeseen circumstances that inconvenience travel, for example, flat tyre among others. Before you set off for your road trip, ensure your rental car has a safety kit with items such as the Jake, jumper cable, batteries, road flares, spare tyre, and flashlights. A safety kit is essential for all drivers, whether first-time or repeat drivers.
Planning to explore Uganda on self drive adventure? Simply ready yourself with the help of these driving tips and look forward to an enjoyable experience. For any inquiries about self drive Uganda and other car rental services,
