Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Or Rwanda
Gorilla trekking is of the thrilling moments that one shouldn’t miss before living planet earth. Under normal circumstances, gorilla trekking go on differing from country to country and experience differs as well. Some of the rampant questions under the spot light here include; which is the best place to do a gorilla trek Uganda or Rwanda? Which is more viable and cheaper: Bwindi or Volcanoes National Park? Is gorilla tracking in Rwanda better than Uganda? So such questions are some of the many that we are going to digest under this article.
Call it gorilla trekking or tracking or whatever comes in your mind, but it’s one of those really delightful, lifetime experiences you should take time for, before you leave planet earth. But where should you go is it Uganda OR Rwanda for Gorilla tracking! Let’s compare relating on gorilla permits, number of people to track pre-day, major challenge with tracking gorillas.
Gorilla Permits
The animation attached to the first setting eyes on a wild mountain gorilla is difficult to describe. Yet in the same sense, that magical one hour spent with the gorillas is worthy a million experiences in either Uganda or Rwanda. Although the experience is the same, it does not come cheaply considering that a permit goes for US$1500 in Rwanda and US$800 in Uganda – but it is unusual to find someone who regretted the financial outlay.
Number of people to track Gorillas
Only 8 persons can visit a given gorilla family per day. In Uganda, twenty gorilla families have been habituated in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP, and so can host 80 persons tacking the mountain gorillas on any day.
Rwanda can also take 80 persons per day. All else being equal, Rwanda’s Volcanoes Park has a slight edge over the rest because its gorillas are the most wholly habituated, and they are often found in bamboo than the dense forest which makes photographing easier.
The major challenge with tracking gorillas
The price of a gorilla permit in Rwanda is undoubtedly at US$750 compared to Uganda’s US$600 per permit. However, Rwanda’s pride is in the ability for one to do the gorilla trek even in one day and fly back home which is impossible for Uganda. Volcanoes National Park is located 116 km from Kigali and can be driven in just 2 hours.
However Uganda’s Bwindi National Park is located 500 km from Kampala/ Entebbe Airport and a drive can take 8 hours plus. In that sense, you will spend at least 3 days for your gorilla trek tour to – one travelling to Bwindi, another doing the gorilla trekking and the other driving back to Kampala/Entebbe. If a tour operator is making you a tour package, he/she will definitely have to consider this cost and include it in your tour cost.
However, the long drive to Bwindi is quite entrancing with great sceneries all through like the Equator at Kayabwe, Lake Mburo National Park, terraced mountains with flowing rivers, and a lot of rural Africa. This is not so really the case for the drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park.
Some tourists have also opted for flying over from Entebbe to towns near to Bwindi National Park (Kihihi and Kisoro) to track the gorillas. A round flight ticket costs $300 with AeroLink Uganda. In that case you will need to arrange your transfer from the airstrip to Bwindi, and back as well
You will certainly need to spend more on transport and time to track the mountain gorillas in Uganda than it’s for Rwanda although this cost is compensated for by a cheaper gorilla permit most especially in the low season( April, May and November) where the gorilla permit will go down up to US$350.
At the end of the day – the ultimate jury are those who are looking as to which country to visit in order to track Gorillas – it is not Rwanda, not Uganda but where their pockets and hearts choose. If you precisely want the mountain gorillas and nothing else, go for a one-day gorilla trek especially in Rwanda but if you are a one who wants it and all of it, go for the long drive in Uganda – you won’t regret.
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How to Get a Good Deal On Uganda Car Hire
Renting are car to drive your self is one of the best way to explore the goodies of Uganda. The pearl of Africa is one of the best locations/destinations to pay a visit before to end of your life. The country is found on continent Africa in the East. With over ten national parks and many more things, Uganda is worthy a visit. Although many people hire care for their self drives, the end up spending much than what they would have paid on there rental car. Below are some of the tips to bare in mind for cheap, budget or good deals on car hire.
Shop the Internet
Look at multiple independent travel sites (three popular ones are Uganda self drive, Car Rental Uganda and 4×4 Uganda Car Hire) and then review three car rental Web pages. Because of special arrangements, you’ll often find that one of the travel or car company sites will have a better deal. Note these companies will provide you with different prices so you will opt to book with the one with the low prices.
Ask about discounts
Most of the Uganda car rental or any other company, do give discounts to their customers. So it would this would be the best option for hires who want to hire cars at low prices as you bargain with the hirer. This on the offer give to those who book for a week and more days.
Time your reservation
Everything’s a trade off. By reserving early, you lock in your car and your rate. But if you rent your car before you book your airline or hotel, you might miss out on a reciprocal deal. So do a little research and ask a few questions before you book.
If you want to book during peak periods, such as long holiday weekends, reserve six weeks ahead or you’ll be blocked out ending up for last time booking which tend to be hire than the pre bookings since you will have no second option. At other times of the year, the lead time varies with the company, but a couple of weeks is fine.
Consider how long you need the car
Although you need the car for only two days, you might get a better price if you rent it for longer. Don’t be afraid to look at a weekly rate, It’s sometimes cheaper compared to a four- or five-day rental.
Look beyond the big guys
Be willing to investigate lesser-known agencies. There are many secondary brands that deliver a quality car at a competitive rate that are not necessarily household names. These are always on the second and third page of google search. And if you like the staff or cars at one agency and the prices at another, ask your preferred agent to match a competitor’s price. The worst that can happen is a “no” and you lose nothing.
Compare non-airport rates.
In general, prices have gotten more expensive at airports, you must asked for an airport pick up from you preferred car rental company which is free for most of the companies.
Shop the counters
If you show up in the country without a rental reservation don’t be afraid to go counter to counter comparing deals. “You’ll be amazed as the difference can be up to 50 percent at the same location.
Think about where and when you want to return the car
If you want to leave your car in a place other than where you rented it, you need to include drop-off charges in your shopping. It some cases a higher daily rate that offers lower drop-off fees might be cheaper.
Book ahead if you have a special request
Need a child safety seat, camping gears, GPS, or a ski rack? Reserve it at the same time you reserve your car. Ask about extra charges and get it in writing.
Ask about mileage
Except for a few, most companies in Uganda give an offer of Unlimited mileage. Though the price for someone who will be in Kampala will be lower than that of Gulu.
Consider gas and insurance
These two items can add to the cost of your rental car. Unless you know you’re going to be scrambling when you drop off the car, offer to fill the tank yourself. Otherwise, it’s usually a pretty pricey fill-up at the rental office’s pump and you can’t take any left over with you.
As for insurance, talk to your own agent first. “Be sure you know what your own auto coverage are regarding renting a vehicle. Most customers don’t know or understand the rental coverage offered at the counter or how their own insurance will treat a rental car. Cars being provided to you in Uganda have comprehensive insurance but this insurance covers only the car so you are advice to have a travel insurance. Are you planning to hire a car on budget, or relatively cheaper price, just click here.
Read MoreCheap Things to Do on Self Drive in Uganda
Are you longing for the open road in Uganda? From the extensive outback adventures to the magical winding hillside routes as well as verdant green landscapes, there is no better place to discover on wheel than the Pearl of Africa (as Uganda is described). Go for a specific type of road trip, location as well as duration that well suits you, your self-drive journey begins here. While you are on your self-drive trip in Uganda, there are a whole lot of things you can actually do and these include;
Go on a wildlife viewing Safari
Uganda is one of the best places for game viewing, offering a small slice of everything Africa offers. Thanks to the rich savannah plains, woodlands and semi-arid arid areas, it is possible to come across lots of wildlife species. Discover the untamed wilderness at its best through these morning, afternoon or evening game drives. This experience is possible with a self-drive trips to/through Lake Mburo, Kidepo Valley, Murchison falls, Queen Elizabeth and Semliki National Parks where views of African bush elephants, lions, Defassa waterbucks, Cape buffaloes, bushbucks, Uganda Kobs, Impalas, spotted hyenas, cheetahs, Topis, Klipspringers, Roan antelopes, duikers, Olive baboons, Hippos, giant elands and others are seen depending on the destination.
For comfort and the opportunity of capturing the best views during your self-drive trip, it is advisable to ride a 4WD like Land Cruiser TX, Safari Van, Toyota RAV 4and Safari Land Cruiser.
Birding tour
Your self-drive trip in Uganda can also lead you to any of the 33 Important Bird Areas in the country that include Queen Elizabeth National Park for its 600 bird species, Murchison falls National Park in North-western Uganda for its 500 bird species, Mabamba Bay Swamp which is home to over 200 bird species that include the elusive shoebill storks, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for its 350 bird species, Kibale Forest National Park for its 370 bird species, Kidepo Valley National Park for its 475 bird species that include the Ostriches, Semliki National Park for its 440 bird species and so much more. Besides shoebill storks, other must-see bird species during self-drive tours in Uganda include Green-breasted pitta, Bar-tailed Trogon, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, African green broadbill, Great blue Turaco, Black-breasted Barbet, to mention but a few.
Kampala City excursion
City tours are the commonest and one of the cheapest things to do on self-drive in Uganda and these bring visitors closer to the cultural and historical attractions in the Cities. For Kampala City tours, your self-drive trip will lead you to Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, Kabaka’s Palace in Bulange (Mengo), Kabaka’s Lake, St. Balikudembe (Owino) and Nakasero Markets, Gadhafi Mosque, Bahai Temple, Art and Craft Markets along Buganda Road, to mention but a few.
Tour of Entebbe Town
Discover the beauty of Entebbe Town (home to Entebbe International Airport, gateway into Uganda) for its remarkable tourist attractions that include Uganda Wildlife Education Center, Entebbe Botanical Gardens (a renowned birding Paradise), the numerous Art and Craft Markets, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the white sand beaches, Uganda Reptiles Village, Mabamba Bay Swamp and many others.
Tours of Fort Portal Tourism City
Fort Portal is found in the western side of Uganda and about 320 kilometers from the Capital. This Tourism City is surprisingly the gateway into Kibale Forest National Park but also home to the Toro Kingdom Palace as well as numerous Crater Lakes. This Town offers travellers with the views of snow-capped peaks of Rwenzori Mountains although other magnificent attractions include the “Amabere ga Nyina Mwiru” Caves and waterfalls, numerous Crater Lakes and so much more.
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Ultimate Guide to Driving a Rental Car in Uganda
Our legendary road trip Uganda is one of our favorite trips EVER and renting a car in Uganda was an essential part of our itinerary. After all, four wheels are a must have when you’re planning a road trip through three countries! We had huge plans for our rental car: a 3 week drive from Kampala taking in Bwindi impenetrable National Park, Murchison Falls, Tree climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park and the incredible Ssesse Island beaches in the middle of Lake Victoria. Having driven over 4,000km on Uganda’s roads we wanted to share everything we learned about driving in the country to help you plan your trip. Here are our top tips for driving in Uganda!
Choosing a rental car
Rent the biggest car you can afford if you’re traveling for more than a few days. The vastness of the country means you are going to spend many, many hours in the car and it is more than worth it to spend a little extra for some comfort. We, as three adults, shared a Toyota Land Cruiser customized for safaris with a pop up roof, and it was perfect for a longer haul Gorilla trip. The tinted windows meant our luggage wasn’t too visible in the trunk and we had plenty of leg room during the trip.
Consider a 4×4 if you are tempted to go off-road. We ended up taking some hilly terrains, something which was only possible with a 4×4. We also encountered a number of roads which would likely be uncomfortable in a regular car due to their very poor condition.
Uganda Driving Etiquette
Driving is on the left hand side in Uganda and almost all vehicles are left hand. This is because the country was once a British protectorate.
Almost on the entire trip we generally found Uganda drivers to be very courteous and everyone we met on the way was very considerate when over taking and changing lanes.
When driving on a single lane road move to the left into the hard shoulder to let cars past. This can be quite counter-intuitive as a foreign driver but it was a common occurrence and caused us to sweat profusely when it happened on the brow of a hill!
If you wish to pass a slower moving vehicle indicate to the right and the car in front will typically move in when possible.
Climbing lanes are often available as the Uganda roads are quite hilly especially in the southern part of the country and there are lots of large trucks and Lorries. Use them to pass trucks and slow-moving vehicles when going uphill. If you are moving slowly than the traffic, move into the left lane to let traffic overtake.
Once you pass another driver a flash of the hazard lights suffices as a thank you. You’ll usually be greeted by a friendly flash of their headlights. It’s a friendly gesture so don’t be alarmed when it first happens!
Honking the horn is strictly prohibited in any national park and fined if you do it except in an emergency. We only heard a horn twice and definitely not in the park on both occasions the drivers were almost in an accident situation.
Watch out for the stop signs! Being used to driving in the US and Europe the stop signs on the main roads through the towns took us by surprise. Be sure to come to a complete halt at the stop sign and give way to cars along the main road onto the main road.
Driving Directions
A GPS is essential. We used an offline GPS app which we have on our cellphones and, on occasion, used the data on the local phone lines we purchased at the beginning of our trip. Our GPS was equipped with speed limits which although sometimes out of date, was useful for the ever-changing speed limits we met.
Double check your route before you start and have a general idea of the route before you set out each day. This is important especially when using the country roads. Sometimes the GPS suggested off-road conditions because the distance was shorter but don’t be tempted by the shorter predicted times as the roads can be horrific!
Driving at night
The number one rule is to avoid driving after dark whenever possible! Our car rental company advised us of this a number of times when we picked up our car. There are a number of reasons for this:
Outside of Kampala there were lots of people walking and running on the hard shoulder after dark and it was almost impossible to see them with the head lamps as they didn’t typically wear any reflective gear. It is especially common to see walkers in and around the townships.
Lots of animals come out at night and it is a huge driving hazard. We came across so many herds of goats and cows wandering on the road and it would not have been pleasant to hit them!
Many of the roads, including the main highways, did not have fluorescent line markings or cats-eyes. This makes driving after dark particularly difficult as it can be difficult to see the road!
Despite these warnings we actually ended up doing quite a lot of night driving as our itinerary was so jam-packed and we underestimated some of the driving distances. We encountered all of the above as well as an incredibly foggy mountain pass and it made for very stressful evenings!
Speed Limits in Uganda
Watch your speed! We noticed that the Uganda drivers rarely, if ever, broke the speed limit.
The police presence was very heavy in most areas of our trip, particularly on the Garden Route portion of the drive. This meant there were mobile speed cameras setup everywhere and we found cruise control invaluable for staying within the speed limit. Fixed speed cameras were prevalent in Cape Town and we saw a number of them during our time there.
The speed limit varies frequently and it was common to go through zones of 50, 80 and 100 km/h interchangeably. Driving through most of trading centers and towns strictly keep 50km/h follow the sign posts on the highways
Road Conditions in Uganda
Generally speaking the roads were very good throughout all of Uganda, especially the western routes to the African standard. The roads in Rwanda from the Katuna Pass to Kigali were, somewhat surprisingly, excellent due to the new road upgrade. The Northern roads were fine but we did encounter some patches poorly maintained roads. There are of course a number of caveats to these:
The Katuna pass road has a fantastic new surface on the Rwanda border side; however the road is still 4×4 only between the Kyanika border and the Uganda entry point. Only 4×4’s will be allowed to enter, you have been warned!
There were occasional long stretches of road works. Outside of Kampala we passed at least 10 instances where roads or lanes were closed because of temporary and road works. This can drastically increase your drive time!
On many occasions we came across roads in quite bad condition in the rural areas. Potholes, dust roads and roads without line markings were relatively common on our road trip through the country.
Gas Station stops
Fuel/Petrol stations were available frequently during our drives throughout the country. The only exception to this was up-country in the northern part of the country where we didn’t pass a single major fuel/petrol station on our drive. We had read this before we travelled and planned accordingly. The stations were less frequent on the Northern side of Uganda but were not sparse enough for us to be concerned about the distances.
Don’t fill your own car. There are petrol attendants at all the fuel stops who will fill you up, bring the credit card machine and wash your windows as you wait. If you need it any way, they can check your oil, water and tyre pressure. As a tourist, it’s customary to tip a small amount such as $5 for the service.
Parking Security
We loved the parking attendants who were present in the car parks at all the popular spots. A small tip e.g. 2000shs was sufficient and we felt very secure leaving our car. In Kampala there were official parking attendants on most streets, charging a standard price for parking and monitoring.
Use common sense when a parking attendant isn’t around. Do not leave anything visible in the car. We were warned on multiple occasions by locals about this. We didn’t have any bad experiences; however they warned that even leaving a charging cable visible was enough to increase the risk of a break in.
Driving in other African Countries
Most of the major rental companies allow their cars to be driven into Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Southern Sudan, Burundi and D.R. Congo. For Rwanda you drive on the right and for most of the highways keep the speed at 40km/h
If you are considering driving outside of Uganda be sure to mention it to your rental company when you pick up your car. We rented our self-drive Safari Car from Rent a Car in Uganda and received a letter (free of charge) which gave us permission to enter Rwanda and Tanzania with the rental car. These letters were required at the borders. We were still liable for the vehicle border crossing fees.
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Luxury Car Hire in Uganda: Things to Know
What every traveler ought to ruminate is the worthiness of the services to the huge mount. Luxury car hire in Uganda always reflect on the huge amount for a super comfortable. Besides the comfort, renting a luxurious car rental fleet bargains for privacy and freedom of ones travel plan. When opting to drive throughout a country with such uncompromising style considering to rent a car for a freewill is an echoing decision.
Hoping for the luxury car hire in Uganda, there’re varied comparisons to select from whenever one opt for a super and comfortable luxury trip. Renting a car for either a self-drive or with a driver has taken another course with the 21st century, as well in Uganda there’re number of car rental companies that have tended to propose wider range of car hire selections. A posh self-drive in Uganda is now made possible with variety of 4×4 car rental considerations for a remarkable pearl of Africa.
A luxurious car rental adventure comprises of various services used and among the considerations include transportation, accommodations as well there are luxurious adventure undertaking which also vary with tourist destinations. Renting a luxurious car rental is a shift which makes a classification in travelers among which are the Luxury travelers, Mid-range travelers and budget travelers. So, all classifications can be catered in respective to one drawn inquiry. In this write-up we have drawn below some of the things to consider when opting for a luxury car rental services in Uganda.
What to note with a luxury car hire in Uganda?
Would one like to rent a car for a self-drive or renting a car with a driver? Right all are possible with car rental in Uganda. Why go for a luxury car hire? It to cruising around like a boss, with this consideration one comfortably enjoys the behind seat, only be like a boss, and rent a car with a driver. There’re possibilities of a luxury car hire in Uganda on either a self-drive or rent a car with the driver. Though most of travelers think of renting a 4×4 for self-drive but luxury car rental services in Uganda mainly comes with a driver to ensure that uncompromised freedom of traveling like a boss. However, one’s motive is for a self-drive in Uganda then should possess a valid driving license to drive comfortably on Uganda roads. But it’s also important to note that mainly car hire in Uganda a number of car rental agencies is available only with a driver.
However, this depends on which kind of car rental is taken for a self-drive. There’re odds of having a luxury car hire to drive your way, but should note that these vehicles are have tracker locaters but this doesn’t interfere with one freedom of cruising around.
Vehicles available for luxury car hire in Uganda
As well in Uganda there’re wider range of fleets to reflect to make a superfluity trip. With any purpose of renting a car let it be wedding, honey moon, educational, volunteering, charity or an adventure trip. What brands a luxury trip is mode of comfort one receives and the having a touch of comfort with car rentals matches with the mode of the vehicle offered. The considerate Luxury car hire fleets include Mercedes Benz cross country, Land cruiser TX, V8, and range rovers these can be accommodative for solo and groups of about 4 travelers. And for group travelers of 5 plus can consider taking a 4×4 Land cruiser pop up, super custom or Toyota Haice (drone) and luxurious coasters for a bigger groups.
How to get a Luxury car hire in Uganda?
Wider ranges of car rental agencies avails in Uganda stretch service accessibility of luxury car hire. The best way to rent vehicles is basing at you comfort office, home in your residing country and browsing through endless list of car rental for the convenient online. Whenever making an inquiry on car rental make let all your request be made for full. To ensure that luxurious car rental it’s advisable to make installment payments in advance.
It’s not guaranteed that all car rental agencies can offer that superfluid luxurious car rental, however, a wider range of car hire in Uganda they have that offer. When the purpose is an African adventure on the land of the pearl of Africa then it’s advisable to reflect on hiring a 4×4 car rental which camouflage the holly, muddy and stony roads of the upcountry remotest places and the fitting fleets are the 4×4 Land cruiser V8, land cruiser hard top, Land Rover, Rang rover, Benz cross country.
Inclusive on a luxury car hire in Uganda?
Whenever renting car for either a self-drive adventure or with a driver comes with extras and other extras comes with client’s request of which some attract an extra charge. On receiving a car deal expect a guide map, and a driver which is sometimes included on the rental rates for Luxury hire in Uganda. As well, other inclusive come by client’s request and these are GPS, Camping gears among many as maybe requested for.
Read MoreWhy Hire Rooftop Tent Vehicle for Self Drive in Uganda?
There are very many kinds of vehicles provided for Self Drive safaris in Uganda by tour operators but the rooftop tent vehicle offers a peculiar experience. The rooftop tent vehicle is a new invention on the Uganda Self Drive scene but it is now the most sought after rental car by the travellers interested in self guided safaris. The rooftop tent vehicle is usually a Land cruiser jeep with a camping tent on top of it tied up. A single tent is put on the small Land cruisers (prados) and one or two can be tied on the big land cruisers (V8, VX and GX). Many self drive travellers have turned to rooftop tent vehicles as their best option and below is why;
Adventurous
A roof tent vehicle is for camping in the wild. it will make you get out of your comfort zone of sleeping in the customary places like lodges and hotel and sleep in the jungles under the tent at the top of the car. You are able to enjoy the moon light, the night bliss and the sounds of the jungle at night – not forgetting the sunsets and sunrises that are often magical in any African jungle. More to that nocturnal animals like the bush babies, wild cats and leopards are likely to be at your sight while camping in the wild. This is something of out of your world. It gets better when you are able to take pictures of these animals and also yourself in the wild at night. The adventure is very fulfilling and also makes your feel that you have conquered your fears.
Cheaper
A roof tent vehicle on a Self Drive in Uganda enables the traveller save some money as he/she is able to dodge the accommodation fees for the lodges or hotel which is replaced by the roof top tent. The roof tent vehicle package is way cheaper than hiring a car and at the same time pay for accommodation at the lodge.
Trendy
We all yearn for attention and what brings attention is something unique and trailblazing. A rooftop tent vehicle is a new addition to the self drive safaris in Uganda. Not so many people have tried but many people seek to try. Therefore, travellers go for roof tent vehicle on a self drive safaris to be the trendsetters and hence get the attention. Attention always brings so much joy in the heart and also the confidence as you are the man of the moment.
Safe
Roof tent is safer than the usual ground camping experience. With the roof tent camping, the traveller sleeps on top of the vehicle which is less risky compared to the ground camping where you are prone to being attacked by wild animals in the jungle. The sense of feeling secure and safe is very paramount in having a wonderful and exciting safari experience.
Convenient
The roof tent vehicle on a Uganda self drive safari offers an all-inclusive experience. With the roof top tent package everything you need on the trip is at your feet because it comes with the transport means, the 4×4 car, accommodation in the form of a camping tent and also the cooking equipment are provided, the meals are all sorted. This makes your life easy while on the self drive safari as you have everything at your disposal.
The convenience also continues with the fact that you can as well go to a restaurant in case you feel like not preparing your own dinner, and also choose to sleep in a comfort of a hotel bed in case you feel like you have had enough of the nights out on top of the car.
Read MoreExplore Uganda at Your Own Pace On Self Drive
Are you tired of being restricted to visiting a few places? Uganda would be the most ideal destination due to the existence of Self drive safaris that are up for grabs. These amazing expeditions make one travel at his/her own pace without being guided or timetabled. Self drive car rentals ensure that the traveler maximizes the travel time in Uganda while exploring different tourism destinations like national parks, cultural sites and unique natural resources. These services are also extended to other travelers other than explorers for instance people on business trip, visiting family and friends and also political meetings. What gives travelers an added advantage while driving in Uganda is that the road network is well developed and makes the tourism destinations easily accessible.
For the vacationers enjoying the wildlife, sand and sun of Uganda be assured of limitless mobility to different tourism destinations. Self drive expedition gives a traveler the freedom to move at his/her schedule to explore whatever attraction he/she may encounter while on the vacation in Uganda. These kinds of tour engagements are very adventure as one discovers new things and also moves out of the comfort zone to explore the foreign world of Uganda on his/her own. It deprives a traveler from laziness and being dull as he/she does everything for his/herself without any guide from a third party. After the self drive trip around the natural world of Uganda, the traveler gets that self contentment of discovering and also encountering something out of his/her zone by him/herself. How lovely and awesome that is! A Uganda self drive tour is this kind of experience an adventurous tourist would not miss in his/her illustrious travel life.
Self drive rentals are also used for business trip. The trip becomes so much more productive when you can set your schedule based on being able to drive from one appointment to appointment. Truth to be told, a business trip in Uganda is best conducted by renting a car which leads a businessman to the meeting time in a time to effectively kill off the deal. Car rentals are convenient and reliable as a businessman can easily access at anytime of the time since they do not have a timetable to travel and these lead you to each and every part of Uganda as long as it is accessible by road. The car rental companies in Uganda have different exquisite vehicle to offer to its business traveler and the business traveler is guaranteed of impressing his/her client due to the car he/she comes out when meeting them. These cars are very nice but come an affordable price for example a Toyota land cruiser v8 for business class is at US$ 200 per day. It is really a very offer to a person who is going to use this kind of vehicle to cut a deal and save some dollars.
No matter what your travel situation, 4×4 Uganda is likely to have the option that you need for personal transportation needs while in the pearl of Africa for safari vacations or business trip. With available options like the GPS and the child seats, you and the whole family can be comfortable in your rental car as you enjoy the boundless beauty of Uganda.
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5 Best Rwenzori Hiking Trails
Uganda is a country endowed with nature and it has a lot to over especially in the hiking adventure. Uganda offers many sites for both the veteran hikers and the day hikers. It is also a great haven for family hiking where you can bring your children and younger members of the family without having to worry about the dangers that might await you in other more rugged terrains.
There is so much with hiking tours in Uganda that it is fairly difficult to begin mentioning a great spot. So we have narrowed down your search into the best day hiking trails in the popular Rwenzori Mountains in Western Uganda. Here are brief descriptions of what you might see in each site:
Rwenzori Hike.Rwenzori is the third highest mountain in Africa just after Mount Kenya which is the second and Kilimanjaro which is the highest.Rwenzori hiking is not for starters and it needs one with a formidable level of fitness since it is the hardest to climb among all the above mountains that are higher than it. It is a good introduction to old-growth forests with its display of cedar and fir layers. There is wide variety of plant species from forest trees to bamboos thickets as you enter the Bamboo Zone which is steep climb with many high steps. In the wet season the bamboo zone is rather muddy and slippery making the going slow but not so bad if you are fit Baby Hot Springs Hot tubs out of slabs of logs are welcome treats even for veteran hikers especially during midwinter. It is also great during early spring and late fall. There are several hot and cold springs that adults and children will both like. Clothing depends on the choice of the visitors and people not accustomed to public nudity are advised to choose other spots.The hike to this mountain takes you through various trails that include the following.
Kalalama camp trail -This trail happens on the first day as you are heading to trhe first camp of this hike especially if one is making it to the summit.During this trail,there are rare sightings of the L’Hoest monkey which are part of the Bukonzo cultural emblems and are protected by the virtue of the King or Omusinga or you may hear wild chimpanzee in the distance. There is wide variety of plant species from forest trees to bamboos thickets as you enter the Bamboo Zone which is steep climb with many high steps. In the wet season the bamboo zone is rather muddy and slippery making the going slow but not so bad if you are fit. However the atmosphere and the forest is fantastic as you climb to Kalalama Camp.
Mutinda Trail -This trail meanders up and over several small knolls along a ridge top then drops down the side of the valley before climbing again and in doing so crosses several small streams and pass close to moss covered waterfalls. You then climb steadily along the side of a beautiful mossy river which tumbles down over the rocks under the Giant Heather trees whose trunks are covered in green moss with old man’s beards hanging from the branches. The trail twists and turns as you climb up the deep valley, which has an enormous variety of plants and flowers. This valley is unique with many Giant Heather trees creating a beautiful atmosphere often shrouded in mist. The trail here is boggy particularly in the wet season but with a little skill you can step from tussock to tussock to make the going easier. We have put several boardwalks across the worst of the bogs and continuing to build more to make it a little bit easier. You cross the Mutinda valley through the tussock grass and everlasting flowers interspersed with many Giant Lobelias before climbing a steep section up to the Namusangi Valley (3,840 meters), which ends abruptly with sheer waterfalls and fantastic views of Mutinda Peaks.
Bamwanjara pass trail -This trail majorly Pass high above Bugata Lake with views across Lake Kopello to Weismann’s Peak, which is often covered with snow then down the valley views of Lake Africa and Lake Kanganyika and the many small peaks. This area is covered with tussock grass, everlasting flowers and Giant lobelia.This trail offers evacuation pad for a helicopter if one hits a snag. This trail passes down the valley and around the edge of some bogs and thick ever green vegetation, moss. giant groundsel and lobelia.
Kitandara Trail
This trails goes around Lake Kitandara and thus the originality of the name of this trail. This trail begins from the 4th camp of Hunwick’s down and across the valley floor to Lake Kitandara which is very stunning with deep water and beautiful vegetation. From here you climb up Scott Elliott’s pass then up the ridge to Margherita Camp which is situated between some huge rocks and offering some shelter from the strong winds. This is the very spot where the Duke of Abruzzi camped when making his climb to Margherita Peak in 1906.
Nyamwamba Trail
This trail goes down the Nyamwamba Valley which is mostly downhill and absolutely stunning with beautiful views, moss covered rocks along the river, cascading waterfalls, deep valleys and forests are possibly the best in the Rwenzori Mountains. This valley was too impassable and it took over six years to find a way through and a route which is easy enough to be used. In 1937 the explorer and geologist McConnell tried to find a way up this valley but failed and have to turn back and search for another route up the mountain but now you can experience this truly beautiful valley.
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What Is An Out Of Hour Fee In Car Rental?
When you return the car beyond the agreed time, this may mean additional cost on you. Most importantly, you need to find out how to arrange an out-of-hours service and the amount it may cost you. Ideally, you may require a car rental very late at night or early in the morning but depending on the location, the car hire companies are not open 27/7. However, some car hire agencies do open early enough and for any need for car pick up outside normal hours, you may incur additional charge.
So what is the an out-hours fee-this is a cost one has to pay with most car rental companies, in case you decide to pick a car up or drop it off outside the normal opening hours. However, not all car rental companies do have this option available at the time of you booking a vehicle. The cost usually covers charges of having an employee at the counter outside normal working hours. This fee differs from one company to another and country to country that you will be hiring the car. But an out-of-hours fee normally costs between 15 pounds and 45 pound. While booking for a car rental in Uganda, make sure that you check through the terms and conditions of a particular car rental company you intend to deal with.
If you want to pick up a car rental outside the normal opening times then you can enter the precise time you intend to pick a car that is if you are booking online. This will also help you find out what is available and what additional fees you may need to pay. The car hire company’s website should let you know if you will be in position to pick up a car when the counter is closed. Usually, it is better for you to request an out of hours pick up at a time of booking a vehicle online. It is important that you find more information on the terms and conditions that do apply for this case.
There are many car hire centers like airports and train stations have many car parks which are open at least 24/7 and key box where one can drop the car key securely. This denotes that you will not have to arrange out-of-hours drop off or pay a fee. Take note that that you are responsible of the car till the counter opens and staff checks it. In case the car hire agency does not have a car park which is 24/7 open for car drop off then you need to know the possible way or rather pay extra charge.
In most cases, an out-of-hours fee is charged at the car rental counter upon arrival to pick up a car unless it is included in the cost you pay when booking for it. The counter staff takes the money directly from the credit card you provide for the deposit.
In case you do not want to be part of this charge then do pick up a car when the counter is open. Alternatively, if you get late for pick up car then better you take a taxi to a hotel and ask for a hire company staff and if they can deliver it to your area of stay better or go at the counter the next day.
In conclusion, depending on the car Rental Company you deal with, policies on returning the car rental late may differ from one company to the other. However, it is a common rule that when you return a car late or beyond the agreed time, you will be charged a fee.
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Exploring Uganda on Self Drive
You can take a guided self-drive in Uganda using any tour company of your choice though it is more profitable when you use the best tour companies, for example you can decide to use a 4×4 car hire Uganda because it is one of the highly ranked tour companies in Uganda ideal for self-drive tours. The company will provide you a guided self drive in Uganda where you will be given a driver who will be guiding you wherever you will be taking your self-drive from.
To take a guided self-drive in Uganda you will need to book the tour at least a month or three weeks earlier before you go to Uganda for the guided self-drive and you will be advised to pay a deposit of at least 30% of the estimated fee for your guided self-drive tour in Uganda which will make your tour to be secured and confirmed.
A guided self-drive in Uganda is one of the best ways of exploring Uganda and get a great experience in Uganda because you will have a driver who will be taking you through everything in your tour. The driver will be telling you what is found and what to explore in every particular place you will be going in.
Whenever you take a guided self-drive in Uganda, you will be able to learn as you are enjoying because you will be having someone who will be telling you everything that you will need to know about various destinations that you will wish to explore instead of just enjoying to explore Uganda without someone who will guide you which will even make you to move out of Uganda without any experience that you would have learn.
Taking a guided self-drive tour in Uganda will save your time and make you very comfortable because you will even have some time for other staffs instead of focusing on driving. You can be free to be talking to your friends and relatives who you will have left home via social media as well as you are exploring Uganda without even pressurizing yourself.
Exploring Uganda using a guided self-drive tour will help you to venture many attractive places in Uganda including those which are not well known yet they contain many adventurous things for example the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary the only home in Uganda for wild rhinos.
A guided self-drive in Uganda will help a tourist to know some of the cities and towns in Uganda plus the attractive things in those particular places. This helps him or her to gain a great experience in those places and he or she will use the same experience acquired from those places to narrate each and everything they have seen and learnt to their friends and relatives and make them get inspired too in order for them to go for a guided self-drive in Uganda.
You will not be required to have a valid driving permit in order to have a guided self-drive tour in Uganda because you will be given a driver who has a valid driving permit to take you wherever you may want to go and that same driver will be acting as your tour guide due to the experience he has in that guided self-drive tour.
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