Uganda has good passable roads, with road-signs and traffic guides. Roads run through out the country to all major towns and districts. Driving in Uganda is done on the left hand side. Car Hire services in Uganda are wide spread with several companies performing car hiring services.However,care must be taken as from which company you intend to hire the car as most companies are briefcase with no physical address and it can be risky as if you get a problem on the way you may never get a rescue.
Cars include: Saloon cars which include Corona, Corolla and Caldina, 4×4 Station Wagons which include Land cruisers and Pajeros, 4×4 Omni buses which include 7 seater, 10 seater and 12 seater, Costa buses (25 and 28 seater) as well as coach buses(50 up to 60 seater)
Drivers can be provided on request from Car Hire companies, “Special Hire” taxis are available in all parts of the city and self drive services are also available.
Fuel is expensive in Uganda, the equivalent of about 1.30$ per litre. Speed limit on an open road is 100km/h and 65km/hr in built up areas.
SELF-DRIVE:
Foreigners must have Full Comprehensive Insurance and an International Driving License in order to be allowed to drive. The driver must be 23 years old and a holder of a valid Full driving license for a period of more than 2 years.
Valid road licences can be received from the Road Transport Office/revenue Authority offices in Kampala. This can be received before hiring a car for self drive.
SAFETY DRIVING MEASURES:
in order to avoid problems while traveling in Uganda, take note of the following:
- It’s a good idea to have a fire-extinguisher on board.
- Stop well ahead of Bush fires.
- Do not travel without a first Aid Kit, Oil enough to refill the sump, spare petrol to last for not less than 300km and water of drinkable quality and for refilling the engines cooling system if it bursts.
- Most comfortable driving speed is about 60km/hr.
- Avoid patches of grass or savanna for parking during the dry season since there is a risk that hot engine parts might spark off a fire.
DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED:
Note that while driving in Uganda, the following documentation required:
- Vehicle registration book
- Vehicle certificate of insurance (Heavy fines are imposed for driving an uninsured vehicle)
- Vehicle license (ensure that it’s a recent one)
- An International or Domestic driver’s license.
Please note that unsurfaced roads tend to be variable from one season to the next, which are more trick during the Rainy season, and the use of a 4 x 4 wheel drive is best.