What you should note before Hiring a Vehicle in Uganda

Despite some few roads that are in bad and unpassable conditions, most roads in Uganda are in good condition and passable, with street signs and enough traffic guides. Roads run all through the nation to all major towns and different tourist destinations. In the country, driving is done on the left-hand side and most cars in Uganda are Right Hand Drive. There are hundreds of companies in Uganda offering car rental services however care must be taken as to which company you plan to hire the car as some companies here are briefcase with no physical location and it can be dangerous as though you get a problem ion the way you may never get a rescue.

Among the cars which are mostly used in Uganda include Saloon cars like; Corolla, Corona and Caldina, 4×4 Station Wagons like; Pajeros, Land cruisers, bighorn, etc, 4×4 minibus which can carry from 7 – 12 people, Costa buses carrying like 25 – 28 passengers and also coach buses carrying from 50 – 60 people.

In case you need a driver to drive you around the country, he can be provided by the Cire rental company on a request, “special hire” taxis are accessible in all parts of the country and self-drive services are also available.

Fuel is somehow costly in Uganda and it is around 1.30$ per liter. The speed limit on an open road is 100km/h and 65km/hr in town areas/trading centers.

Self-drive in Uganda:
For a foreigner to drive in Uganda must have a fully comprehensive and international driving permit. The driver must be 20 years and above and a valid driving permit holder for a period of more than 1 year.

Road licenses can be gotten from Road Transport Offices in Kampala and this is done before hiring a vehicle for self-drive in Uganda.

Safety Driving Measures:
Avoid serious problems while driving in Uganda by noting the following;

It is recommended to move with a fire extinguisher on board

It is also recommended to keep a comfortable speed of 60km/hr

Also recommended to stop well ahead of bush fires

Don’t travel upcountry without a First Aid Kit, spare fuel that can take you for about 300km, enough oil to refill the sump, enough water for drinking, and for refilling the engine cooling system if it bursts.

Avoid parking near savanna patches during the dry season since there is a risk that hot engine parts might spark off a fire.

You should also note that unsurfaced roads in Uganda tend to be variable from one season to another, which are more trick during the Rainy season, and it’s recommended to hire a 4×4 vehicle if your planning to travel upcountry.

Documentation Required
While driving in Uganda, remember to move with the following documentation to avoid fines;

  • Vehicle certificate of insurance
  • Vehicle registration book
  • An International or Domestic driver’s license
  • Vehicle license (ensure that it’s a recent one)