WHY IT’S NOT SAFE TO SELF-DRIVE IN UGANDA
Is it safe to self-drive in Uganda? This question usually arises even before clients book their flights. Yet, for many travellers, self-drive tours are high on their bucket lists. A trip through Murchison Falls National Park, and the jaw-dropping countryside- the diversity of this stunning country is unrivalled. Although some Car rental Companies make self-drive travel thrilling, it is generally not safe for you, especially if it is your first time in Uganda.
Here is why we believe it is not safe:
Hazards on Uganda’s roads
Ugandan drivers love overtaking other cars on the road, and it is because of this that over 14 people die daily on Ugandan roads. This is according to a 2024 Police report, where over 5144 people lost their lives in traffic accidents.
Most of these accidents are attributed to careless driving. While you are self-driving in Uganda, expect overtaking on any street, and from any lane (including the shoulder lane). It is for this reason that you need to stay alert. Also, check your rear-view mirrors, and watch out for those blind spots if you must self-drive. If you notice someone attempting to overtake you, it is advisable to simply pull over, as it is safer to do so and let them pass.
Minibuses and taxis are the most popular way of getting around in Uganda. However, they can also be dangerous. For this reason, metered taxis (such as Uber) and car rentals with drivers are generally safer options. Nonetheless, be sure to use accredited Car rental Companies or taxi services.
Poor infrastructure, which you aren’t accustomed to
The highways/main roads and toll roads in Uganda are modern and well-maintained. However, this isn’t the case with rural roads, where most National Parks are found.
The potholes (surprise, surprise), unkempt pavements, inoperative streetlights, and floods that overflow due to pollution. These are some of the challenges you might encounter while self-driving in Uganda. Because of this, motorists driving at speed have to swerve to avoid potholes, hence causing crashes.
The roads, especially in rural areas, often lack street signs and road markings. It isn’t uncommon to find roads that aren’t even marked on your map, or street numbers as well as addresses to be different from what you expected.
Blocked drainage, along with overflowing rivers and streams, can make roads impassable as they can cause gridlock traffic and sudden stops.
Additionally, the condition of rural roads changes according to the season. In the sunny season, roads are rough and dusty, and in the rainy/wet season, roads become muddy, slippery, and sometimes difficult to navigate. Renting a car with a driver will make it easier for you to navigate the countryside, as they are conversant with the roads. They understand which ones become muddy in the wet season, hence avoiding them altogether.
Unexpected road blockages: Wildlife on some roads
Wildlife viewing is one of the main reasons travellers head to Uganda, the Pearl of Africa. These include the Big Five Game (Buffaloes, Elephants, Rhinos, Lions, and Leopards), Rothschild’s giraffes, antelopes, and primates. Self-driving through the many National Parks and Wildlife Reserves means there are 90% chances of encountering animals on the roads.
They are called “wildlife” for a reason. Animals are in no way tame, and it is always advisable to give them the space they need while driving. You will, therefore, unexpectedly encounter animals even in the middle of the road during your self-drive safari in Uganda.
Renting a car with a driver will therefore make your trip enjoyable, as they know how to act while driving in the National Parks and Wildlife Reserves. It is advisable to avoid driving in the Parks at dawn or dusk, as it is when most animals are out feeding. For this reason, if you want to see wildlife at these times safely, opt for a car rental with a guide.
Additionally, never leave the safari vehicle unless you have stopped at designated areas or rest stops. When animals cross your path, it is advisable to stop the car, turn off the engine, and sit quietly, and many drivers know this. Most of the drivers know and follow the Park or Reserve signage or rules displayed.
Boda Boda chaos on many urban roads
One thing you will notice about urban roads, especially in Kampala, is the many boda boda (motorcycle taxi) riders. The majority of these riders don’t possess a riding license, and once behind the wheel, are unforgiving.
For this reason, you should think for yourself and everyone on the road, you will be part of the statistics. One excuse that motorists give is not knowing the rules of the road.
Roadside crime risks in Uganda
Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, is a breathtaking country, but there is also a lot of criminal activity going on. While you might feel safe inside the car, there are still some dangers to be aware of. Renting a car with a driver means understanding some of the dark spots and practicing safety precautions to avoid being a victim.
Drivers know how to avoid scams involving fraudulent traffic police, who always take advantage of unsuspecting foreigners. Also, if the rental car breaks down or gets a flat tyre, it is advisable to pull over as far as possible and turn on the hazard lights. Your driver will always remain in the vehicle at all times, with doors locked and windows up.
Drivers know never to stop to pick up hitchhikers, regardless of how lost or pitiful they appear. This is because chances are their intentions aren’t clear. This isn’t worth the risk, and if you find someone thumbing for a ride (for assistance), it is advisable to stop in the next town and report to the police.
Also, it isn’t safe to self-drive in Uganda because you might not be conversant of the safe parking garages or store parking lots. These are normally safeguarded and have security staff to maintain the vehicle’s safety.
Delayed roadside assistance or rescue
The delay in roadside assistance is another reason why it is not safe to self-drive in Uganda. This is one of the things that exacerbates the vulnerability of motorists, especially during medical, rescue, or other emergency services while on a self-drive in Uganda. Delays are even worse due to the rural locations of most destinations where travellers drive to, high-traffic areas, or high demand.
Most Car Rental Companies in Uganda will ask for 24 to 72 hours to fix roadside emergencies. This makes it not worth the risk for self-driving in Uganda, but with a driver, another plan can be derived in case of these emergencies.
Conclusively, while Uganda’s stunning countryside invites you to experience the country’s spirit firsthand, it is important to think carefully. The allure of a self-drive safari in Uganda- open road, breathtaking scenery, and the freedom to go anywhere you desire at any time you like. However, it is not safe to self-drive in Uganda due to delayed roadside assistance in case of emergencies and high rates of roadside crimes. Also, there is wildlife on Uganda’s roads (especially in Protected Areas), and rowdy Boda bodas are common on urban roads.
Therefore, we are just a call away from renting your vehicle with a driver for your next road trip in Uganda!
