TIPS FOR BOOKING A CAR IN UGANDA
The most tips to rent a car in Uganda include: Book a car in advance, travel documents (valid passport & driving license), hiring the right car for yourself, booking the car in advance etc…
Uganda is a spectacular country that appears on most visitors’ travel wish lists, especially those looking to experience adventure and Mother Nature at its best. Additionally, there is nothing more relaxing and stress-free than exploring this country on your own and therefore, we bring you the important tips for booking your Car in this beautiful country.
Hiring a Car in Uganda is an exciting way to discover the beauty of Uganda at your own pace. Known for its breathtaking scenery, rich history, vibrant cultures, endless adventures, as well as culinary experiences. It is in Uganda that you will find diverse landscapes, spectacular National Parks, Wildlife reserves, bustling Cities, and Towns, and incredible driving routes such as the western, eastern, and northern circuits.
You will need to book a Car for exploring popular destinations like Bwindi Impenetrable, Murchison falls, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo, and Kidepo Valley National Parks with or without a guide. However, you will sometimes not find it easy as some Car Hire and Travel Companies are overly shady hence it is advisable to go with open eyes.
Most travelers have had wonderful and daunting experiences while hiring Cars in Uganda, but if you take our important tips for booking a Car in this stunning country, your journey is likely to go smoothly.
Don’t forget your important documents
To book your Car in Uganda, one of the important things to consider is age (you must be at least 21 years) and have held a valid driver’s license for at least 12 months. While this is the legal driving age, some Car Hire Companies require drivers to be at least 25 years and if below that, a “young driver’s surcharge” will be levied. Besides the driver’s license, you will also require a National ID/Passport.
Hire the right Car for your Travel needs
Are you planning to go off-the-beaten-track (to the remote areas, National Parks, and others) or on City excursions/transfers? Will you be moving with luggage? How many passengers will you be traveling with? These are some of the important things to consider before hiring a Car because these will determine the type of Car to choose.
Book online
Some of the best rates and discounts can be got when you book/search online and this information can be got on TripAdvisor among others. You can also book online directly through the Car Hire Company’s website but in so doing, make sure that the Company is able to offer roadside assistance in case of any challenges en-route.
First check for reviews before booking
Prior to booking with a particular Car Hire Company, first make sure to check reviews on TripAdvisor, Facebook or even Google. While you have to take every comment/review with a pinch of salt, consistent negative reviews shouldn’t be ignored and will influence your decision on choosing a particular Car Hire Company to book with.
Purchase insurance but avoid Rental Companies’ hefty insurance covers
Don’t ignore buying Insurance when renting a Car, especially when in a foreign safari destination and some of the must-have are 3rd Party Liability and Collision Damage Waiver to cover damage to the car and others. What travelers might not know is that Car Rental Companies make a kill off selling their costly Insurance. An important tip we always give is to purchase insurance back home or on your credit card. These options are definitely cheaper than Rental Companies’ overpriced covers. While buying insurance, remember that some policies actually don’t cover damages to the glasses or Car tires thus make sure to first research about the safari destinations you will be heading you.
Some Ugandan roads are smooth while others are rough with potholes which are likely to even damage the tires. Additionally, ensure that you are covered against break-ins as well as theft because such instances are also common during road trips.
Seek permission when planning to undertake cross-border road trips
We always advise travelers planning to cross the border to Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan with our rental Car to first inform us, and attain letter of permission. While this might cost you more, it will be save you unforeseen circumstances. Remember that additional insurance coverage will be required hence it is important to have the Rental Company informed before crossing the border.
Book the Car in advance
One thing you might/or might not know is that Car Rental rates vary considerably during different seasons. You will not pay the same amount during low season like in peak season. The demand for cars also depends on season and for this reason, you might need to consider booking in advance to avoid getting disappointed last minute.
Always read and understand Car Rental Terms and conditions before taking the Car
It is undeniable that terms and conditions are long, wordy and boring but they will save you in the long run. You will need to properly understand all the details before hiring the car to avoid any hidden costs.
