A self drive safari is the most exciting way to explore any destination offering you all the privacy, flexibility and freedom to drive to any destination of your choice at your own pace and time. Not only is a self-drive safari cheap, but also adds spice to any adventure especially if it’s your first time driving yourself around a foreign destination.
Uganda is one of the best safari destinations in Africa attracting thousands of tourists each year who would love to explore the national parks, cities, suburbs and remote villages privately in a string and reliable rental car. However, you have to be careful when driving on Ugandan roads especially the remote highways and off-the-beaten-track roads in the villages and parks. Accidents, traffic fines, collisions and highway robbers will put a huge dent in your Uganda self drive safari and that’s why we have come up with 5 important tips to keep you safe on the road during your road trip.
1- Dont overspeed– One of the leading causes of road accidents in Uganda is over speeding most especially on highways. The maximum and highest driving speed in Uganda is 100km/hr with it getting lower when in the city streets so make sure you strictly follow the speed limit signs to avoid accidents and falling victim to police traffic fines.
2- Drive cautiously in bad weather– Another important self drive Uganda tip for safe trip is to avoid driving or drive carefully during heavy rains, mist, high winds & hail storms. Drive slowly and make sure to reduce speed on sharp corners or down slopes. If the bad weather persists, just park your rental car at the gas station, restaurant or supermarket for a short break before continuing the trip.
3- Drive defensively– The art of anticipating dangerous road situations will always help you avoid accidents. A mistake from a road user can greatly affect you driving stance leading to collisions and road rage so be careful and drive defensively. Some of the best defensive driving skills include maintaining safe distance, especially in traffic jam, adjusting your rental car speed based on weather conditions among others.
4- Avoid driving late night – Another important tip for safe self drive in Uganda is to avoid driving late at night as you risk falling victim of armed robbers who like to target tourists, especially on highways. If you know you are going to be traveling for long distances, make a reservation at a roadside guest house or hotel where you can spend the night and continue your trip the next morning.
5- Don’t drive when tired– You should always avoid driving when drowsy or worn out as you risk losing concentration and colliding or over-turning. Make sure you are well rested and fully charged before sitting in your self drive rental car or you can hand over the driving duties to your partner if you are not traveling alone.
Other important safety tips include wearing a seat belt, avoiding DUI, strictly following traffic signs, doing some car maintenance if you are taking the car for a long-term period, and carrying backup batteries and tires among others.
Are you planning to self drive Uganda this season, the above tips will help you get where you are going safely and comfortably. You can rent a car in Uganda today, simply get in touch with us by sending an email to booking@4x4carhirekampala.com or call us now on +256779612466 to speak with our reservations team
