4×4 Driving in Uganda is interesting; Uganda’s major roads are generally in good condition. Surfaced roads radiate out from Kampala, running east to bigger towns like Jinja, Busia, Mbarara Tororo, Mbale, and Soroti, south to Entebbe, southwest to Masaka, and northwest.
Uganda’s un-surfaced roads tend to be very variable from one season to the next, with conditions likely to be most tricky during the rains. Even in this generalization, an isolated downpour can do major damage to a road that was in perfectly good condition a day earlier.
You definitely need to be a defensive driver in circumstances when buses and minibus-taxis are around as their drivers are crazy. These are now the main hazard on Ugandan roads aside from unexpected potholes. Minibus-taxi drivers in particular have long been given to overtaking on blind corners and do not mind speed limits.
Driving at night can drive you mad because some Ugandans have this habit of driving without lights. This means that it’s not advisable and safer to avoid night drives.
Keep an eye in the rear-view driving mirror and if necessary pull off the road in advance to let the closing loony pass. You need to focus more on the driving mirrors to avoid such masses.
Most roads encounter a lot of traffic jams, especially in the rush hours so balance your driving time to do away with this.
If you rent a car in Uganda from a reputable car rental company, you probably won’t have any breakdown problems, fuel is available all around the country and there might be an occasional road block but you will probably be waved straight through if you have the required and necessary documents though they might ask what you have in the back.
You must have the following documents to drive in Uganda. This will make you have a soft and smooth drive while on Ugandan roads. – The vehicle registration book (a photocopy is acceptable; ensure it’s a recent one with the most recent vehicle license entry recorded on the back page); -A minimum statutory Third Party Insurance Coverage Certificate – sticker and a driving license – most reputable agencies hire out fully comprehensive insurance for cars taken on self-drive in Uganda.
Your own domestic license is acceptable for up to three months. After three months of your stay in Uganda, you should get a Ugandan license. In case you planning to visit Uganda this season and you are planning a self-drive road trip adventure; we advise you to acquire an international driving permit that has lasted for at least 2 or more years.
The speed of 80k/h on the open road would be comfortable without being over-cautious, and it’s not a bad idea to slow down and cover the brake in the face of oncoming traffic.
In town especially Kampala, you are just centimeters from other vehicles, and traffic laws exist. Please be aware that on busy streets, people and Boda Boda (motorcycles) come from any direction of the road. These can pose a big challenge to new drivers on the road. This means that you must keep enough distance to avoid such.
Obeying traffic signs and posts is another great tip when driving in Uganda or any other country for that matter. There are many of them in all corners of the country and clearly communicate how you should behaviour on the road to avoid accidents. These signage include; no parking, traffic lights, zebra crossing symbols, traffic lights, speed limit among others.
If you want a safe and comfortable road trip, then don’t get tempted to drink & drive as it is one of the leading causes of accidents worldwide. Avoid stopovers at bars and instead opt for restaurants & shopping malls where you can get refreshments and not alcoholic drinks.
Driving in Uganda is on the left-hand side driving country unlike other East African countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi and Rwanda that maintain right while driving. Therefore, for you to delight in a safe and comfortable road trip, obey this rule and safe yourself from an unnecessary accident.
It is important to note that not every car fits your safari destinations, however we advise all travelers to think of renting a 4×4 vehicle that can manage all road conditions including the poor road networks in remote areas. This is never disappointing regardless of the weather conditions especially during the rainy season when roads are muddy, wet and slippery. Don’t hesitate to consult from our travel experts about which type of car you need for your safari destination and they will advise you accordingly at an affordable rate.
Don’t miss out on the Google Road maps. Whenever you decide to go self-drive Uganda, feel free to request for GPS, this updates you on some of the travel road maps and also helps you to double-check your route before you set off especially to remote places like south-western Uganda.
It is vital always to first check the car’s condition before you start it. Check on the water levels, oil brake fluid, battery, and other essential parts. In case of anything, you don’t understand endeavour to contact a mechanic.
Follow the traffic lights. These are common on roundabouts and junctions. It includes arrows and three bulbs lighting red, yellow, and green. There are put in place to ensure the proper use of the road meeting points by drivers. The moment it lights red, you have to stop and wait for the yellow light which tells you to be ready then green which tells you to go.
Don’t forget the backup mechanical tools. You can’t know when your car will break down. Therefore, it is always good to ever be ready for it. Pack some important tools like car jack and wheel spanner in the boot or trunk to help you out in any case.
If you are traveling with kids, it is necessary to provide a child seat. This seat can keep him or her in one position. It is advisable to let the young ones use the back seats. Don’t risky to let him or her use the front passenger seat. Children are ever distractive yet drivers need to be more attentive.