Are you keen to self-drive Uganda? You should. Uganda is a unique country for road tripping and many tourists opt to hire a car and embark on a self-drive safari. Self-driving is fun option for getting around allowing you greater flexibility in your itinerary and opening several experiences that would have been missed.
If you are planning a long 4×4 rooftop tent road trip in Uganda, be careful in planning because the time are required as the distances are vast and there are long stretches of isolated road. And likewise, carry the contact numbers of your destination accommodation establishments so you can phone ahead should you be delayed for any reason. Keep your tank full, follow road signs, and never offer a lift to strangers.
These are the basics
What many visitors to Uganda may not have much knowledge of from back home, there are incidents of carjacking, robbery, or other crimes on the road. While incidences of carjacking, robbery and service delivery protests along the roads in Uganda does occur, you can take the right precautions to avoid being affected and enjoy a wonderful self-drive holiday like most visitors traveling around the country do.
You are more of a target if you are in an unmoving vehicle in an isolated area, perhaps with your focus intentionally directed elsewhere. And criminals have are targeting cars at stop streets, constructing roadblocks, and even impersonating police officers.
There are local laws
Take the time to get used your car before heading out on the highway, know if the car is Automatic or Manual Transmissions and you have to remember that some laws are somehow different. Take care of the roundabouts, most especially if you’re used to driving on the right-hand side. You have to observe the local road users but don’t assume their actions are always legal; however, this will allow you to anticipate actions that may not be common at home. All the legal requirements will be in the car courtesy of the rental company but it is always wise to do your homework, know what must be in the vehicle and ask the representative to show them to you.
Be aware and alert of your surroundings
It is extremely important always to be alert and be aware of your directions. See at your accommodation or with a local travel professional before driving into an unknown area. And avoid driving after dark. Keep the car doors locked and windows up when waiting at traffic lights or stop streets.
Rental Vehicle Insurance
Uganda law requires all vehicles to have third party or comprehensive insurance, the car rental supplier should already have comprehensive or third-party insurance covering their cars. In the case of an accident, it must be reported to the insurance provider immediately and an excess will be due.
Follow your Divination
If a vehicle, police or unmarked, indicates for you to pull over or you find yourself at a roadblock and something doesn’t seem right, rely on your divination sixth sense. If you feel uncomfortable stopping for a valid reason either you are alone, it is late at night, or you question whether these are genuine police officers there is a certain protocol you must follow while at the road.
You can alternatively drive to the nearest public place, such as a service station. Remain calm as you explain to the police personnel or officers that you felt unsafe and cooperate with them fully.
Similar steps can be taken if someone pulls up alongside you or flashes their lights signaling that something is wrong with your car e.g., pointing at your tyres. Do not stop in this situation. Simply drive to the nearest police station or service station.
