6 Popular Kinds of Accommodation in Uganda
Due to the growing number of tourists inflow in Uganda, there is rapid accommodation facility development going on to match up the number of visitors and also make their stay comfortable and magical. One can hardly move a kilometer in the urban areas of Uganda minus finding an accommodation establishment. There is also a wealth of them in different tourist sites. The accommodation facilities differ in the purposes they serve to their guests and also in the classes of people they host. This is done to meet all the demands and needs of different people with different travel purposes and walks of life. All that the visitor has to do is to seek a booking agent and advise him/her on the best accommodation facility to stay at while on a safari in Uganda.
We listed down some of the 6 popular kinds of accommodation facilities a visitor is like to stay while in Uganda
Hotels
A hotel is normally an accommodation establishment with more than 10 stay rooms with a restaurant, bar, gym, and a swimming pool. In most cases, a hotel must be a stoled building. Uganda has more than 300 hotels across the country and these are normally located in major cities like Kampala, Jinja, Mbale, Mbarara, Wakiso, Gulu, and Masaka. Uganda has all classes of hotels from five stars to one-star hotels. The five-star hotels include Serena hotel Kampala, Sheraton Hotel Kampala, Pearl of Africa hotel, Protea hotel Kampala, and Muyonyo Speke resort hotel. The hotels in Uganda offer both continental and African dishes and most of the personnel that work in the hotels speak English. The payment at the hotel is done by cash or electronic transfer. The currencies popularly accepted are Uganda shillings and US dollars.
Lodges
Lodges are more of rural hotels that have fewer rooms and also offer fewer services to the hotel. The lodges in Uganda are popularly located in the national park regions. These are also classified into three categories that are to say the high-end lodges, mid-range lodges, and budget lodges. These lodges vary in their appearances and the services they offer to their clients. Most lodges in Uganda are eco-lodges- meaning that their structures are nature-based and also their operations adhere to conservation and preservation of the natural environment. The lodges in Uganda are evenly established around the different national parks of Uganda. Most of these lodges have a bar and restaurant and most of the time, they offer rates with the meals also attached. These are some of the popular lodges in Uganda; Mweya Safari Lodge, Paraa safari lodge, Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Red Chilli, Pakuba lodge, Gorilla mist camp, Mahogany springs, Gorilla safari lodge, Bakiga Lodge, Silverback lodge, Ndali lodge, Bush lodge, Simba safari lodge and so forth.
Motels
The motels are accommodation structures normally found along highways. These accommodation facilities target long-distance travelers. There are some destinations that are so far and require people to make a night stop somewhere to have a rest. The motel is always a lifesaver for long-distance travellers. The motels only offer bedding services to their clients nothing else. They are established for travelers to get rid of the long-distance travel fatigue and probably take a shower and then get back to the road. A traveler is more likely to find these establishments on the highways from one city to another.
Apartments
Apartments are away from homes. They are more of a set-up home, fully furnished with all the equipment one may need in a home. Normally in the apartments, there is a living room, kitchen, and bedrooms. The apartment is meant for a long stay and family travel. At the apartment, the visitors do the cooking for themselves. It might have a bar and a swimming pool on a rare occasion. The apartments in Uganda are usually found in modernized towns that could host upscale people for a long time.
Guesthouses
Guesthouses are private homes turned into sleeping establishments for visitors. Guesthouses are located in hideouts and a passerby may not know that it is an accommodation establishment. The guesthouses offer bed and breakfast to their visitors. The guesthouses are found in tourist compelling areas like Entebbe, Kampala, Jinja, Ntinda, Bukoto, Muyenga, and also in town centers of different districts across Uganda that host tourists like kabala, Mbarara, Fort Portal, Gulu, Lira, Masindi, Kisoro to mention but a few.
Rental Homes
These are some new accommodation facilities. Due to the changing trends of the world, people are trying to come up with something new on the market to make the traveler’s life easy. Some people hire out their homes to visitors for a stay. The visitor owns the home for a reserved period of time. The rental homes are mainly booked online. There is a world popular online booking agent called “Airbnb”. This makes a visitor rent a home in the different parts of the world and Uganda is one of their area of jurisdiction. People put up their homes for rent on this site. The onus is always on the visitor to choose the home that suits his/her needs and budget.
Read MoreWhat to Note When Hiring a Car in Uganda?
The trends of hiring a car in Uganda for a road trip has become so admirable by many travelers, this traveling style suggest a comfortable a privacy way of enjoying an adventure or even a business trip at a tensionless pace of drive. Though sometimes self-drive Road trip trails seems to be complicated, we are tips to comprehend its complicity. But don’t hesitate renting a car to let you through the busy towns and the remote countryside of the pearl of Africa.
When decided to rent a car for the privacy admired safari, can decide to either rent a car a self-drive or renting a car with a driver. Have you made your car rental choice? There is nothing which empowers a traveler liking seating behind the wheels of the car rental and dictate on where to go, which time to drive, where to make a stopover. There’re varieties of car rental fleets that one can choice from. All car rental agencies around the country can suggest that reliable model of the vehicle to make your trip colorful. The fleet arrangements go with questions of how people are traveling. Where to go? And the purpose of your traveling, but should know that besides advice by car hire agencies the first priority is the customer desires.
After knowing all the above statement, it fixes the suitable and comfortable vehicle. When renting a car in Uganda there are ranges of fleets of 4×4 including the cheapest RAV4 fitting for 3 people, 4×4 (safari land cruiser TX and V8, Nisan patron, land cruiser JX) are all fit for a group of 4 travelers, lands cruiser hard top and Toyota hiace (Omni bus) fit for 5 to 9 people, and for the larger group consider hiring the coaster.
Thing to note when hiring a car in Uganda
Terms and condition
An interesting part to consider when opt to hiring a car in Uganda is looking at the terms and conditions agreement which dictate on everything concerning the car hire. This is always signed at the hour of picking up the vehicle but it elaborates everything to follow when seated in the car rental. It’s important you first read through not to follow in traps of innocence, actually at the time of booking can ask to know the terms and conditions of a car hire agency before wiring you money to secure a car. Whatever happens on the car rental in your hands is well prescribed in the agreement and signing on it, this discloses the actual gist of the agreement.
Eligibility to hiring a car
First and foremost one must be at the age of 18 and above to kick on the roads of Uganda and drive. In additional it’s important to keep your valid driving license at hand whenever asked for it, in actual sense it also difficult for any car rental company to hire out their vehicle to a person who is not legible to drive according to Uganda traffic laws. Whenever on an adventurous self-drive in Uganda expect to encounter road blocks where you can be stopped and asked to present both identification documents and driving license which must always be at hand to avoid uncalled for circumstances which can include impounding your car or even arrest you if you don’t have them.
Safety and security
Is Uganda a safe country for one opting to hiring a car and take on a self-drive road trip adventure to the remotest part of the country? Yes, with no hesitations I remain firm to write that Uganda is a safe country for a private road trip even to the remotest part of the country. Though the previous civil wars and drops of political unrests, this is not scarily many traveler both on private self-drive trips and those on guided trips have experience a successful moment when explore the fabulous beauty of this tiny east African interior. The long stories of Kony rebels, and ADF has vanished, so deciding to go for comfortable self-drive road trip is safe in Uganda. However, when driving in Uganda should not go beyond the recommended hours from 6am to 6pm to avoid possible night robbers, and driving through the streets of Kampala should keep your door mirror raised.
Traffic guide line
In Uganda we drive on the left, if you’re not used to this rent a car with a driver, adhere to the road signs across the country. Also should know this, when driving within the city center be careful with other drivers, most of the taxi drivers and bodaboda bikers in the city center drive recklessly and whenever driving should be alert of them to avoid uncalled for situations including misfortunes.
Read MoreGuide to Choosing Best Self Drive Car in Uganda
Choosing the right Uganda self-drive car rental for your road trip can save you a lot. Hiring a rental car for a self-drive Uganda is the wisest choice to make. Not only does come with the most flexible road trip, making stopovers at your own wish and choosing which tourist sites to visit but also assures you of total privacy while on road trip. Today, self-drive trips have become more famous than ever before and undoubtedly, exceptional option discover Uganda your way.
However, driving yourself in unfamiliar routes on self-drive tour is something that is so intimidating if you are a first-time traveler on Uganda safari. But with introduction of the Global Positioning System (GPS), there is no need to worry about venturing into unfamiliar routes. It is a matter of you setting your current location and destination point then you keep following the routing as your GPS directs you.
Before you set off on your self-drive Uganda, here are some significant tips to guide you choose the best self-drive car rental.
Destination routes
Before you set off for your Uganda self-drive trip, first, conduct adequate research on various routes to your destinations. Higher chances are that you can easily go off-road routes and you can encounter tough terrains, steep slopes, muddy slopes and you need a good rental car in its better mechanical conditions.
The size of the rental car
The number of people you plan to get on the road with and luggage size should be put into consideration. This should guide you when deciding which self-drive car rental to book. A Toyota Rav4 is ideal for a group of 5pax on self-drive Uganda or you can hire a Mini Van or slightly larger rental depending on the number of people and cargo.
Car rental category
Rental cars come in different categories and each does serve best a specific purpose when it comes to road trips in Uganda. They range from 4×4 rental cars, luxury vehicles, SUVs, Mini buses, Sedan cars and many others. If you plan to go for game viewing safari then a 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, Nissan Patrol or Safari Van is the best choice.
Conduct thorough check on the car rental
Before you start your road trip in Uganda in self-drive car, cross-checking your rental car is very important. All the dents, the current state of air conditioner, damages of the car should be taken note of and you can inquire even about its past mechanical issues.
Read MoreGorilla Trekking Tips For The Elderly
Gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is not only for youths but also for elderly persons too. Let your age not be a hindering factor because it is very possible for the old to also take part in a trek to see mountain gorillas.
How gorilla safari for the old is planned
Get in touch with our reservation team and we shall arrange for you a gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi impenetrable forest National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park, or the Virunga National Park. To enable everyone to have an enjoyable gorilla adventure in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo regardless of his or her age, there are set guidelines to observe. Very old tourists can embark on a short gorilla trek.
Talk to the tour operator before embarking on the actual trek
When planning a gorilla trip for the elderly, we make sure that if the old person can walk, our guides will explain it to Uganda Wildlife Authority management to ease the process of assigning him or her easier gorilla group to trek and also to enable park ranger guide to move at a pace favorable to him or her. Please do not shy out from telling the park ranger guide that he or she to slow down. You are therefore advised to talk to our reservationist in advance so that we explain it to park authorities earlier.
Hire sedan chairs/porter
In case of need for push or pull, there are porters at the park headquarters to give a hand of help although you need to hire one at $10-$20. Alternatively, you will be carried in sedan chairs for disabled persons. You will be carried by a group of 4 porters and this may cost you about $400.
Exercise before gorilla trek
Before embarking on a gorilla trek, make sure you do some physical fitness. This is to help you familiarize yourself with altitude so that you do not face challenges on the gorilla trek. Remember gorilla trekking is all about hiking through the dense vegetation and steep slope while in search of mountain gorillas. A trek to see mountain gorillas can take you about 2 to 6 hours depending on the location of mountain gorillas, the nature of the habitat, and your physical wellness.
Carry adequate drinking water and energy-giving snacks
Have adequate drinking water and energy-giving snacks to help keep strong and fit to make a complete trek. In your packing list, bottled water and snacks are some of the essential items not to miss out on.
In summary, gorilla trekking can also be perfectly done by elderly tourists on a safari in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is not only for youths but also for elderly persons too. Let your age not be a hindering factor because it is very possible for the old to also take part in a trek to see mountain gorillas.
Read MoreWhat are the different Car Rental Services Operating in Uganda?
The transport industry in Uganda has been evolving in the recent years. Different means of transport have cropped out to suit the travellers with different purposes of travel. One of the biggest revelation in the transport sector of Uganda is the car rental services. Car rental services are exclusive and private means of traveling. A person solely hires a vehicle for lone travel. Within the car rental world, there are different types of services offered to serve different reasons or purposes of traveling. The different car rental services are created to reach out to specific niche or market of people. Below are the different types of car rental types offered in Uganda:
Online and Structured Car Rental Services
These have a very well organised working system. They operate both online and on ground in an office establishment. Their main market is well streamlined and planned travel. They have professional personnel right from the reservation team to the drivers. They appeal to people traveling from 3 days and more. They have a big fleet of cars and offer different types of cars from sedan, crossovers to SUVs. They provide services like self drive traveling and car hire with a driver. Travellers who normally use Uganda car rental services are ones who are traveling for long distances or to further places than their usual ones for instance tourist and usually traveling for a number of days. These services come with a higher price compared to other services due to the purpose they serve and this is why the biggest demand comes from foreign travellers. They charge on a per day basis with unlimited mileage, and sometimes long term rental discounts are applied by the operators in case the hirer is going for a reasonable number of days.
App and metered car hire services
They are normally known as online taxis or cabs. They have just graced the transport sector of Uganda due to the technological advancement. Their booking is done through an app which is only compatible to smartphones with ios and android systems. These are normally used for short distance traveling less than 30kms. They are very popular in urban cities like Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja, Gulu and Mbarara. They charge basing on the distance travelled or time. Some of these services include uber, premium taxi, specio hire, quick taxi and bolt. They are popularly known as city cabs.
Local Special hire or Special Taxi
These are cabs that are owned by the local drivers. They are so informal and rudimentary. They were the first car hire services in Uganda. They have no structure; the traveller deals directly with the driver who is in most cases the boss. The traveller negotiates with the driver the fare. More to that, there is no specific or fixed fees for their services, the fare entirely depends on the traveller’s bargaining power and the mood of the driver. There are no protocols followed in this business, the driver sets his/her rules. Most of the cars used by special hire are old and not in very sound mechanical conditions. They operate in urban areas of Uganda.
Event Car hire services
These are car hire services that reach out to people in need of transport services for wedding, birthday parties, conference events and other events not mentioned above. They normally offer executive cars like Mercedes Benz, Range Rover, Jaguar, limousines and latest land cruiser models. The vehicles are always clean and very classy thus commanding a very high price. Due to the high expenses to start and maintain these kind of services. There are few companies in Uganda that offer such kind of services. They operate both online and on ground.
Before choosing any of the above car rental service, the hirer is tasked with knowing the purpose of travel and then opt for the most suitable means to go for. For instance if going to an expedition around Uganda for quite a number of days, there is need to opt for the structured system, and if you are only wanting to go from point a to point b with a maximum travel time of an hour, then it would make much more sense opting for a special taxi or metered car hire service.
Read MoreRoad Tripping Uganda – Flashing your Headlights While on Safari
“Is this done in the Uganda at all, or will it just confuse other drivers, or worse, insult them in some way? Where I grew up (rural Lyantonde Town) flashing the headlights was a warning that there was a policeman nearby trying to catch people speeding! Or may be a symbol that the road is clear, its normally followed with a sign of the finger to show you how the flow of traffic goes I don’t know if that is true other places in the US, but I would consider someone flashing their lights a warning but in most cases, if you want to allow someone to merge in front of you, slow down and give them the space to do so. If you want another vehicle to turn in front of you at an intersection where everyone stops, you can either just sit and wait for them to do so, or make a polite hand gesture (using all your fingers 🙂 ) for them to do so. As also said above, in many places someone flashing headlights at an oncoming vehicle would be seen to be warning the driver about something.
On another side, here, too– flashing lights to warn of a police car sitting with a radar gun.
Also, people will do it around here — coming up behind you — as a signal to get out of the way, you are going too slow! I am tempted often to do this…. but actually do not. I find it rude, so exercise patience instead behind a slow driver and wait for a place to pass. I will flash lights at the car in front of me when passing in low light just as I begin the pass to let them know I am passing.
Another point with respect to lights……you will see a good number of cars that appear to be driving during the day with their headlights on.. A good number of cars (but not all) on the road in respect to too much rain they will put the lights on and are equipped with DRL (daytime running lights). Basically, it’s the main headlight with just a lower intensity. During the day, it looks like the headlights are actually on. Some people also drive with headlights on as a good measure of safety. I have also seen roads that rand I have the same experience in that a flash is used to alert oncoming drivers of a hazard (wildlife or rocks in the road)/law enforcement. Of course, I am driving mainly on 2 lane roads so if someone is overtaking it is quick and done require headlights to be on if your windshield
I use flashes to signify things are okay, or “you go first” or as thanks. I don’t think there’s a lot of confusion. Repeating the flashes however – flash-flash-flash – pause – flash-flash usually is taken as a warning or a complaint (lower your high beams, etc.)
As to road etiquette, I conventionally flash for truckers wishing to switch to my lane and if I am not in a terrible hurry make room by slowing and subsequently flashing – especially when the trucker needs to get to the right [slow] lane relieving backed up traffic behind him; but also I’m sure to do this if coming to a split and it appears he needs to be in my lane.
For other cars, it’s a little different because you’re as likely to confuse car drivers who might think you are flashing to tell them to stay out of your way. If however, we are merging because of a traffic backup, maybe a creeping stop and go movement, I might blink to tell the guy to move over in front of me especially if he seems timid or confused.
In some states it is the law to turn on headlights when windshield wipers are in use; law or not, it’s probably a good idea; many newer cars do it automatically. On some routes where multi-lane roads merge to one on one against oncoming traffic you may see signs recommending turning on lights – it’s not a bad idea anyhow.
In rural areas it is clearly an extremely helpful thing to flash lights on and off several times to give warning to on-coming traffic about animals near the road, flooding on the road, an accident, or any hazard or risk. Frankly as a visitor I suggest you mind your own business when it comes to police with speed traps; warning others maybe illegal, it isn’t necessary or expected so leave it to the locals to do or not.
Uganda /Africa mostly consider it extremely rude for drivers in fast lanes to flash lights on and off trying to push slower traffic out of the way. It is acceptable to pass on the right in the slow lane. Be aware of this while on a self drive in Uganda, other cars could be overtaking you from the right.
In many states, when driving in the far right lane, on multi-lane roads, if coming upon a police car with flashing lights [generally having pulled over some vehicle] it is now a legal requirement to shift to over a lane provided it is safe with little traffic. A ticket is a low risk for this law, but it’s also a wise thing to do.
Always use the flashlights where necessary
Read MoreSuggestions for an Eastern Uganda Road Trip
The Eastern region is one of the four regions in the country of Uganda. The region boasts some of the tourists’ jewel in the crown. An intoxicating blend of adrenaline adventures and superb scenery makes eastern Uganda a must on any East African journey. Here the mighty Nile begins its epic journey north. White-water rafting the Nile River is the main draw for adventurers seeking a wild ride, but there’s also the subtler, sweatier pleasure of trekking through Mt Elgon National Park or relaxing with a visit to the stunning Sipi Falls.
The regional capital of Jinja offers a charming and friendly base on the shores of Lake Victoria where travelers can spend a few days or more enjoying the chilled atmosphere and top-notch outdoor activities. Going on a road trip to Uganda in the eastern region? Below are some of the key attractions you should not miss to visit:
Jinja City:
Jinja is a city in eastern Uganda and it comprises so many attractions. On your way to the city is the beautiful Mabira Forest which you can visit and engage in so many tourist activities like zip-lining, and so many others. In Jinja, there are also so many tourist activities to be done such as white water rafting (at the source of the Nile), kayaking, visiting the source of the world’s longest River – River Nile, and so much more.
Mountain Elgon:
Mount Elgon is an extinct shield volcano on the border of Uganda and Kenya, north of Kisumu and west of Kitale. The mountain’s highest point, named “Wagagai”, is located entirely within Uganda. It is one of Uganda’s major attractions and it is the second-highest mountain in Uganda after the Rwenzori Mountains in western Uganda. Hiking this snow-capped mountain is an experience to remember. The Mountain is protected in the Mountain Elgon National Park that also boasts so many other attractions like wildlife species and bird species which you will also enjoy viewing during your hike.
The Sipi Falls:
Located close to Mountain Elgon National Park, the beautiful and romantic Sipi Falls is another attraction to fond of in eastern Uganda. The Sipi Falls is so beautiful and eye-catching and once you land in this area, there are so many memorable tourist activities waiting for you.
Nyero Rock Painting:
The Nyero rock paintings are located in eastern Uganda in Kumi District, 8 km west of Kumi town, about 250 km from the capital city Kampala. The Nyero rock paintings are among the most important rock art in Uganda. It is another beautiful attraction you should visit in your self-drive car in Eastern Uganda.
Read MoreTips for foreigners: Renting a vehicle in Uganda?
Deciding to visit Uganda on a road trip and renting a car there can be one of the best ideas you will ever have and it will transform your vacation into a real adventure! Why is it a great choice to rent a car in Uganda? For starters, renting a vehicle in Uganda offers you the flexibility and freedom to organize your route, to stop along the way whenever you want to, and to take your time to admire the gorgeous landscapes at your own pace. Plus, there are many car rental options out there for all budgets! Meanwhile, below are some of the tips for foreigners wanting to rent a vehicle/car in Uganda.
- Car rental prices in Uganda
As you may know, prices vary from company to company. One possible way of finding a deal is to compare rates individually for your specific dates. So, what are the average prices you should expect to pay when renting a car in Uganda? Remember that the price will highly depend on the type of car you choose, the rental period, and the season you are visiting – during the peak season of dry months, the prices tend to be higher than in the low season of rainy months. The average price for hiring a land cruiser in Uganda is US$ 60 and the average for a Rav4 is US$ 45.
All in all, as I said, it is always best to book as far in advance as possible! There are no cases of car rentals in Uganda being discounted closer to the date of rental. You definitely should not expect the price to drop if you are traveling in the high season – that is anywhere between June to August and December to February. The demand during these months is so high; the suppliers are not going to lower the prices, that’s for sure!
- Things to consider when taking your car rental
Here are some of the questions you should be asking yourself before making a decision about the car type you want and its specifications:
Is your luggage going to fit? Think about how spacious the car is, how many people will be traveling in it, will all of you fit comfortably? Are you going to travel with the kids? Do you need a special kid’s seat? Are you going to bring your own child seat (you can do this and there is usually no extra charge from airlines for the seat)?
Does it have a GPS included? You can also bring your own GPS from home if you want to.
Are you going to travel to any other country as well? If yes, is cross-border travel allowed by your car rental company?
Is the car equipped with Spotify or other music options or is it radio only? The road is long, and even if radios are really good in Uganda, you will still want to listen to something different at some point and with no ads.
As for the car models available to rent in Uganda, you can pretty much choose anything you want. There is something for all budgets – from small economy cars to large luxurious models. To take note of, Uganda is a third-world country and don’t expect to find the latest models but the most promising part is that the cars are always in a better condition to finish up your trip successfully and on the other hand, if the car gets a problem, it can easily/quickly be fixed upcountry compared to the latest models which can only be fixed in Kampala.
- Watch out for any possible extra fees!
ATTENTION: You have to be at least 20 years old AND have at least 12 months of driving experience in order to rent a car as a tourist in Uganda! Also, do not forget to make sure your driving license is valid.
Here are some fees you might want to watch out for:
Are there any additional driver fees? If you’re planning to go out on a trip with a driver-guide put it in mind that you will be the one to pay that driver-guide; therefore if you don’t have enough money it’s better to drive your trip yourself.
Any one-way drop-off fees? Some car hire companies allow one-way car rentals with no additional charge, but you should double-check if they charge extra beforehand.
Are there any hidden service taxes that you haven’t noticed? Is the mileage unlimited or is there a per km charge?!
Is there a premium location fee (in airports, for example)?
Most of the time airport rentals are more expensive as they need to pay airport fees for running their business there. It’s always better to rent your car from any of the country’s authorized rental companies, beforehand, rather than booking at the airport.
- Which Car type to choose in Uganda?
Uganda has everything to offer for a car rental, so your choice will only be limited by your budget and will depend on the trip preferences that you have. The saloon cars will be perfect for city tours but if you’re planning to go visit some of the country’s hidden treasures in the National Parks, then you need to hire a powerful 4WD car like Land Cruiser. Most of the country’s national parks are nestled in remote areas where the road network is a little bit poor and needs strong cars.
- Things to check before picking up your rental car
Here are the documents you should have with you to present to the car hire agent:
Yourself– you must be at least 20 years old.
Your driving license. Make sure it is valid with at least one year driving experience.
A child seat in case you are traveling with young kids. Usually, your rental company can provide it for an additional charge, but if you refuse it, then you are obliged to have your own child seat with you.
Rember to come with both the copy of your driving license and that of the passport.
And here are important things to check when you take the car;
After you check the car’s condition and note if it has any scratches, check that you have the car documents and valid car insurance. If there are any scratches – document them, take a picture of them and let the car hire assistant know about them. There is usually a special paper where he should mark all the scratches on the car.
NOTE: Try to get a written confirmation AFTER you return the car where it states that the car has been checked and they confirm there was no damage made. I know that some car rental companies can charge you afterward for some small damages that they did not see before (and that could not have been done by you).
Another to check is the fuel. You talk about the fuel policy that is convenient for you before taking the car for a trip.
- Driving in Uganda
Driving in Uganda is done on the left-hand side of the road. The road signs are pretty similar to the ones that are found all over the world. Here are some general rules that are quite common everywhere in the world, but it doesn’t hurt to repeat them one more time:
Everyone in the car must have a seat belt on.
The use of mobile phones is forbidden for the driver unless he/she has a hands-free device.
Any young child should be secured in a forward-facing child seat.
Below are some rules that not everyone knows;
The speed is measured in km/h and you drive on the left side.
Here are the general speed limits (which can vary insignificantly) – in most cities the limit is 80 km/h and 100 km/h on some highways.
Don’t go off-road – most insurance companies will not cover the damage if you drive on a non-asphalt road. That is a violation of the rental agreement, so they will have the full right to refuse to cover any damage you cause.
7 The best time for a road trip to Uganda
The best time to visit Uganda is anywhere from June to late August and then December to February. This period is great because all the activities are most fascinating during this time as the weather be warm. But this is also the highest season, so prices are the highest too.
Other Important tips on renting a car in Uganda
Do not forget to let your car rental company know you are going to do cross-border travel though, as they need to know this in order to arrange the perfect documents for border crossing.
As already mentioned above, a one-way rental is possible, though not easy and not cheap in most cases. So you should call the office in advance to double-check this!
Meanwhile, beautiful Uganda is any road tripper’s dream – it offers terrific scenery and an overall unforgettable adventure! Even if you are better off using public transportation and walking in cities, there is no way to enjoy this spectacular destination without a car, especially if you are going to visit some remote areas (any National Parks, smaller cities, etc.) And, overall, it is much faster and much more comfortable to have your own means of transportation and to travel at your own pace!
Have a great road trip in Uganda!
Read MoreLake Bunyonyi: A Wonder to Behold
There are places you travel to in this world that were made to take our breath away, places that leave you marvelling at the wonders of nature. When you go to such places, you feel like you never want to leave.
Such places were created to bring out the zen lost within you; the moment you behold them you feel all the peace in the world descending on you.
Lake Bunyonyi is one of those places. Tucked away in the hills of Kabale and Kisoro districts in south-western Uganda near the border with Rwanda, the lake has one of the most beautiful views that are worth the five-hour drive from Kampala.
The lake is estimated to be 25km long and 7km wide and with an altitude of 6,437ft. It is surrounded by hills that are 7,218 to 8,130ft high. These hills are quite beautiful when viewed from an aerial point due to the farming activities carried out by the people who live in this area. Lake Bunyonyi is rumoured to be the second deepest lake in Africa, estimated to be 44m to 900m deep.
The biggest population of people in the area are Bakiga and Batwa who have resided here for centuries and live by cultivating the land and rearing cattle.
The area has wonderful weather throughout the year, with rain and mildly hot days coming through the months. This area is very suitable for farming and, best of all, vacationing for tourists. As is always the case all over Uganda, the residents around Lake Bunyonyi are very friendly, meaning your stay there will be warmly welcomed.
There are enough hotels and lodgings such as Arcadia Lodges plus campsites where one can find good accommodation for their stay whilst taking in the beauty of Lake Bunyonyi.
Over the lake, there are 29 islands that can be seen almost floating and in the morning before sunrise, there will be mist slightly rising off the surface of the lake, hiding the islands.
The islands make the lake look magical. When you see them from a distance, it is easy to think that you are somewhere in the Maldives without the coral of the ocean. One of the best locations to view them throughout the day is up in the hills. You can take a day from dawn to dusk and watch how they always seem to emerge from the shadows of the morning and glow throughout the day and gaze at the reflections of the stars in the sky dancing over the lake at night.
Birding
Lake Bunyonyi literally means “Place of many little birds”. True to its name, you will find here so many different bird species that call the islands and the shores of the lake home. Some of them are indigenous to the area while others migrate in. There are over 200 bird species that can be found in the area, meaning any birding enthusiast would be amazed by what they would find here. Species ranging from shoebills, wobblers to the ever beautiful crested cranes and of course the “little birds” can be easily sighted during a birding expedition.
Canoeing
The islands are so massive you just have to take a day off and have a tour of the ones closest to the mainland, see nature’s little wonders with beautiful views of the lake. Take a canoe ride with a professional guide on Lake Bunyonyi or set sails on a boat and have a romantic picnic while at it.
Nature walks and hikes
Most of the shores and neighbouring areas around Lake Bunyonyi are hilly and forested, which make for good nature walks. You can enjoy a day communing with nature or hike up one of the hills especially in the morning or evening when the weather is cool and breezy.
Kibale National Park
A little distance from the lake, you will find Kibale National Park, where you can go for chimpanzee trekking through the thick forests that cover most of the park and learn something new about the other animals that live in that area.
How to Book Uganda Car Rental
This is among the mutual questions asked my very many people hoping to hire self-drive cars in Uganda. . However, hiring a car in Uganda for 2020-2021 is something very easy especially if you book a car with us at 4x4ugandacarrentals.com. Consider below some of the ways you can get your car for either self-drive or with a driver in Uganda with a lot of ease.
- Sending an Inquiry: Go to our contact us form and fill in the form after press the send button, after receiving the massage, our reservation team will get back to you shortly not less than 10 hours with the best car hire offer. In the massage you are reminded to include what you need, what you ask for is what we offer, although we normally do advise our clients before we offer the service. We have a team ready waiting to answer your emails on time.
- Calling us Direct on our cell phone. You can hire a car from us in Uganda 2021 by simply dialing us on our office number +256776641554. Once we receive a call, we respond immediately and advise you accordingly on the best car fleet available in stock based on your travel plans and interest. You can book with us your fleet direct on a phone call and we reserve car a desired dates of travel either on self-drive or with a driver
- Whatsapp: We don’t have any problem, if you find that WhatsApp is the best way to reach us for your car hire fleet booking you are kindly welcome, and your massage will be replied immediately for 2021 car rental Uganda deal. You can whatsapp us on +256776641554. We shall then get back to you immediately with our discounted 2020-2021rates.
In a nutshell, if you are searching for the best car rental company in Uganda to give you the finest and discounted 2021 Uganda car rental offers contact us we will offer you the best and meet your come true. Fill in the Form below and rent a car in Uganda
Is it possible to Cross Boarders with a Rental Car in Uganda?
Hiring cars on self-drives has become very popular here in Uganda for a period of now 2 years and many travelers who prefer this method navigating. It’s understandable that not every person owns a vehicle, but that’s why 4×4 Uganda Car Rentals come into existence, so that nobody should be left behind and denied a chance to travel even if he/she is going to cross border.
In most of the time, many traveler prefer traveling up-country or even cross boarders by road. So every person has a reason why they rent a car. Many people are asking themselves whether it’s possible to hire a car and cross borders to another country, the answer is yes! Charges always differ and many companies charges differently in case one is going to cross borders. These fees are meant to cover cross border insurances fees, regional surcharges for crossing the border. The added fees are meant also to cover the extra insurance needed when you are driving in two the county. However sometimes you may find when the all charges included in the total costs for hiring the vehicle at once.
The car hire company can even advise you on where to buy the insurance needed to drive in any country you intend to travel to for the safety of your trip in the east African country. You are always advised to tell the car hire company about the country you are interested to travel in, so that they can advise you accordingly about the applicable fee to pay for the insurance plus necessary documentation needed and if also interested, you can be advised about the accommodation options available.
It is also advisable to share with your Uganda car rental company about your itinerary when booking the vehicle to assist you get the right information about what you have to do before crossing to another country. The car hire agency will avail you with the right document if he/she declare the right border they plan to use with the rental car to cross the country. it should be noted that if you get any problem with the car rental company without the awareness of the car rental company you will be stopping the insurance. And once you get an accident or stealing or damaging the vehicle in another country, you are entitled to pay the agency with your own pockets.
The car hire agency will ask you in advance your travel plans before they confirm the booking in order to give them enough time to process for you all information required and also to enlighten you about any fees and also process for you all the information required and all the paperwork you may need to take with you when crossing borders. So tell the company you are going to hire from that you are going to cross borders to another country with your rental vehicle.
Though some companies allow their vehicles to cross borders to any country in Africa, there are some car rental companies which do not allow their vehicles to cross borders especially to some countries with political conflicts like south Sudan, Democratic republic of Congo, Somalia among others.
Don’t meander around this festive season, in case you want to hire a self-drive car and you want to cross border either for business, vacation, leisurely tour or for adventure, and you are still looking for ideal provider to get around, simply contact us at https://www.4x4ugandacarrentals.com, we are at your disposal.
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