East Africa Travel Guide

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  • Top Attractions to Explore by Car in Tanzania

    Are you thinking about the finest places in Tanzania for your upcoming Tanzania Safari? We are here to give you some chilling information about Tanzania and its major tourist attractions. As a home for the snow-crested Mt. Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain of Africa, Tanzania is famous for its natural and ecological diversity. The country is most famous for its tourism and agricultural activities. The national parks, game reserves, conservation areas, Mountains, beaches, and lakes are the major Tanzania Tourist Attractions for foreign tourists.

    Not only Tanzania Destinations, but the wildlife activities like Great wildebeest migration also attract many natural enthusiastic and wildlife photographers.

    The most popular places to visit in Tanzania

    The Serengeti- Iconic Wildlife Hotspot

    Having the oldest ecosystem on this planet, Serengeti National Park is very delightful for its flora and fauna with the natural diversity and biodiversity.

    The Great Wildebeest Migration in this park and around the larger serener area shows the game of the ecosystem of Tanzania. After the calving season of January and February, herds of wildebeests start the migration from March. During May, the migration heads towards the western corridors. The great migration gathers in one place and is joined by herds of zebras, cape buffalos, gazelles, etc. to start the migration.

    After crossing the Grumeti River in July, the migration moves to the north. From August to October, they cross the Mara River and enter the Masai Mara national park of Kenya. In November and December, the migration crosses the northeastern Serengeti and move towards the southern Serengeti. You can see the largest and most diverse prey and predator encounter in migration which shows the lifecycle of the Tanzania ecosystem. This is the most beautiful and impressive event that attracts many tourists from every corner of the world.

    Mostly famous for the African big five, the Serengeti national park has the highest concentration of lions all over the world. You can see the wildlife diversity because not only for the land mammals but also for 500 bird species.

    This park is listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site because of its biodiversity and most wonderful ecosystem.

    Ngorongoro Crater- The most dramatic of Landscapes

    As famous for the earliest human fossils of 3 million years ago, the Ngorongoro Crater was once a volcano and now is the largest intact caldera in the world.

    Now, the crater is a wide highland area with 600 m deep of focal point. The beauty of wildlife diversity in the crater will take your breath away. The crater is the place, where every year the great wildebeest migration starts after calving.

    Most importantly, OI Doinyo Lengai, only volcano that erupts carbonate lava, is located in this park. The dramatic highlands males it most unique and the area Oldupai Gorge, is famous for the proof of earliest human fossils.

    Arusha- The tourism capital of Northern Tanzania

    The Arusha city, near Arusha national park, makes the place accessible and famous Tanzania Tourist Attraction in Tanzania. The Mt. Meru of Arusha National Park is for the hikers to warm up before hiking for Mt. Kilimanjaro.

    However, the Arusha city is one of the Tanzania Destinations that describe many things about Tanzania’s history, culture, and economy. Arusha’s highland is made for tourists to relax before starting or ending your Tanzania Safari.

    As a major international diplomatic hub, it is the capital of East African community (EAC). Every year, the city hosts the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda Genocide.

    Arusha city is the only city where you can communicate in English with the local people if you don’t know the Kiswahili language.

    It is a multicultural city having mixed backgrounds like Indigenous Bantu, Arab-Tanzanian, Indian-Tanzanian, and white European and Americans.

    Mount Kilimanjaro- The towering peak of Africa

    As the “roof of Arica”, Mt. Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain peak with an altitude of 20,000 ft. It was made up of three volcanoes namely, Mawenzi, Shira, and Kibo. During the trekking, you can face five ecological zones such as tropical rain forest, cultivation, Heather-moorland, Alpine desert, and summit climate zones. There are 7 routes to reach at the summit. The Umbwe route is the most difficult and the Marangu Route is the easiest route for the summit.

    Tarangire National Park

    One of the most unique and best safaris in Tanzania, Tarangire National Park is a must visit. This park is best known for the largest elephant population in the entire world. If you plan to visit Tarangire National Park, you will see the magnificent animals in all their glory.

    The best time to visit Tarangire is during the summers. The dry season pulls all the animals to the Tarangire River. You can spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras among other animals on the river banks.

    Lake Manyara National Park

    The real fun of visiting Lake Manyara National Park is during the monsoon season. The park is in its full glory with plenty of flamingos and wallowing hippos. The park as its own charm owing to the trees with thick, hanging roots. It is also the only place where you will spot lions perched on trees.

    Another reason to visit the park is the abundance of birds in the area. The park also offers canoe safaris for those who want to see the wildlife up close and personal. They also have night safaris which add a lot of thrill to the adventure. Head here to feel an adrenaline rush that you will never forget.

    Ruaha National Park

    In 2008 Ruaha National Park became Tanzania’s largest park. It is home to large herds of buffalo and gazelle, and has one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Tanzania. The Great Ruaha River is the main feature of Ruaha National Park, providing magnificent wildlife viewing on the banks. The river also provides much of the electricity to Tanzania through a hydroelectric dam at Kidatu.

    Ruaha National Park is the least accessible park in Tanzania and as a result the landscape remains relatively untouched. Birdwatcher’s can enjoy over 400 species of bird that are not found in northern Tanzania, and the river, spectacular gorges, and majestic trees are especially appealing to photographers.

    Gombe Stream National Park

    Gombe National Park, also sometimes called Gombe Stream National Park, is primarily for those who want to get a little off the beaten track and see chimpanzees. This is one of the smallest national parks in Tanzania and is famous for the work of Jane Goodall. This British researcher arrived in 1960 to study the wild chimpanzees and her work turned into what would become the longest running behavioral research program of its kind in the world.

    Guided walks take visitors into the forest to observe chimps in the wild. Many species of primates and mammals live in the park. Over 200 bird species have been recorded in the tropical forest, including barbets, starlings, sunbirds, crowned eagle, kingfishers and the palm-nut vulture.

    Hiking and swimming are other popular activities; a trail leads into the forest to a waterfall in the valley.

    Stone Town -The heart of Zanzibar Life

    Zanzibar is an island including Pemba and Mafia Island with other small islands. Most tourists come here to know about the ancient trade and tribe of the Stone Age. The Zanzibar city monuments and museums say about the stone age of Tanzania, you need to visit the Zanzibar, the town of Swahili tribe people of Tanzania. This island gives the proof of ancient history and culture of the Stone Age.

    Zanzibar- Water Sports Paradise

    Zanzibar beach is not only famous for enjoying and relaxing, it is also famous for the water sports activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, parasailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, and Kite-boarding. You can find more than 450 species of fish in Zanzibar.

    Conclusion

    During your Tanzania Safari Tours, you must visit the premiere Tanzania Destinations to enjoy Tanzania’s wildlife, ecosystem, culture, and tradition of Tanzania. The Tanzania Tourist Attractions are enough to make your moment memorable with a lot of experience.

  • Car Rental and Border Crossing in East Africa

    Every individual has a reason as to why they hire vehicles, especially those that wish to travel up country or those wishing to travel to other countries on the road. Not every person that wants to travel has a vehicle but that factor shouldn’t hold you back, car hire companies are there for such people.

    Let’s talk to those people to wish to travel East Africa with a rented car, and if you’re asking yourself whether it is possible to cross the border with a rented car.

    If you want to drive a rental car from one country to another, most car rental companies charge you an additional fee for crossing the border, to cover cross border insurance fees, regional taxes, etc. This additional fee also covers the extra insurance needed when you’re driving in a different country from where you hired the vehicle.

    However, some rental companies don’t charge the cross border fees but they get you papers for crossing the border and even advise you on where to buy the insurance needed to drive in any country you wish to visit.

    Can I cross to another country with a car rental from Kenya?

    Countries offer different experiences and sometimes travellers are interested in exploring more than one country in a single safari. The question now is, “can I cross to another country with a car rental from Kenya?” The answer is yes, although some extra costs may be applied and these cover border crossing fees, national taxes, extra insurance fees and many other fees. With chauffeur-driven or guided drives, all these costs will be calculated beforehand and included in the overall cost of hiring the car.

    Travellers are required to provide honest information on the destinations to be visited, especially if planning to cross borders. This is important because withholding information means paying insurance covers in case of uncertainties will not be made possible. With the correct information, the rental Company will provide the right documents and insure the car before you eventually cross the border to another country.

    If you withhold information and unavoidable circumstances such as theft, accident or car damages happen in a foreign country, you will have to meet all the costs to the Car rental Company. Given the political instability in some countries especially South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia, crossing borders are limited to only relatively secure countries.  It is therefore important to first undertake research on the destinations you are planning to visit to avoid unexpected attacks during your safari.

    Important requirements for renting a car and crossing to another country

    Travel documents (Valid passport and Visas)

    The travel documents required of travellers before crossing to another country are valid passports and Visas. It is important to first check with Rwandan immigration websites for information pertaining visa requirements, based on your country of origin. You can book for the East African Tourist Visa (at $100) allowing you to visit Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya with a single visa. Additionally, citizens from East African community member States don’t require Visas to visit Kenya, Uganda or Rwanda during the cross-border safari.  However, a Ugandan passport or National Identity Card is required for drivers planning to cross borders of East African countries.

    National or International driver’s permit

    You can cross to another with a car rental from Uganda when you possess an International Driver’s permit. If you have a local driver’s license (especially from any of the East African countries), it can be recognized in the member States. For instance, a valid Ugandan driver’s license is recognized in the neighboring countries of Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania.

    Letter of Authority from the Car rental Company

    Another important requirement for crossing to another country with a car rental from Uganda is a letter of Authority provided by the Car rental Company. This is a proof of consent or Authorization.

    Vehicle registration

    For a car to be allowed to cross the border from Uganda, it has to be certified and registered with documents being required at the border crossing offices. The vehicle registration or license papers should be accompanied by the Company’s letter of Authority to cross the border. Both vehicle license papers and letter of Authority must be signed by the Car (Company) owner.

    COMESA Sticker

    Travellers with rental cars from Uganda and planning to cross borders to other countries should bear COMESA Stickers that clearly indicate that they are foreign vehicles.

    In conclusion, it is possible to cross another country with a rental car from Uganda but travellers/drivers are required to present travel documents that include valid passport and visas, COMESA Sticker, letter of Authority from the rental Company or Vehicle owner, vehicle registration or license papers and the National or International Driver’s license allowing you to cross borders to another country.

    Conclusion

    Thinking of traveling to any destination this season for a vacation, business or safari and still searching for the ideal transportation means to get you around. Even though it requires you to cross the border, just get a vehicle from your preferred rental company Kenya car rental.

  • Guide to Self Drive in Tanzania

    Choosing the right Tanzania self-drive rental for your road trip can save you a lot. Hiring a rental car for a self-drive Tanzania is the wisest choice to make. Not only does come with the most flexible road trip, making stopovers at your own wish and choosing which tourist sites to visit but also assures you of total privacy while on road trip. Today, self-drive trips have become more famous than ever before and undoubtedly.

    However, driving yourself in unfamiliar routes on self-drive tour is something that is so intimidating if you are a first-time traveler on Tanzania safari. But with introduction of the Global Positioning System (GPS), there is no need to worry about venturing into unfamiliar routes. It is a matter of you setting your current location and destination point, and then you keep following the routing as your GPS directs you.

    Below are the guides for self-drive

    Rent a four wheel drive

    Tanzania might have great asphalted main roads, but the real adventure starts when you take a turn towards the smaller roads and safaris. So, if you plan on having the same vehicle for your entire self-drive Tanzania experience, you must rent a 4×4.

    The roads can get extremely bumpy in Tanzania and you don’t want to waste time being stuck in a ditch in the middle of a national park. It will not only cost you a lot of money (they charge a hefty fee to get someone to pull you out in a national park), you’ll also be wasting a lot of time since they might need some time to get to you.

    Opt for a car with roof tent

    The best way to travel to Tanzania on a budget is by renting a car with a roof tent. The tent on our car was very comfy and there are numerous campgrounds all over the country ranging from basic bush campsites inside the parks to private campgrounds operated by lodge owners, enabling you to stay at a secured site with good amenities whilst sleeping for a dime.

    Wild camping is uncommon. If you decide to camp in a national park, there will be park staff setting up a campfire for you to prevent animals from approaching the tent or vehicle (included in the camping price).

    Carry a valid driving license

    A valid driving license and identification must be carried and presented to the company or delivery person. Failure to present such important documents means low chances of you getting a car for yourself.

    Conduct thorough check on the car rental

    Before you start your road trip in Tanzania self-drive car, cross-checking your rental car is very important. All the dents, the current state of air conditioner, damages of the car should be taken note of and you can inquire even about its past mechanical issues.

    Pack snacks and water

    I know you’re perfectly capable of planning your meals, but we definitely weren’t. Once you stray off the main roads and into the parks, you won’t find a single shop that sells water or food. Many hours can pass in between meals if you don’t plan accordingly, so make sure you plan hearty snacks. We took cereal bars with us (2/day per person) and bought at least 3L of water in the mornings to have throughout the day.

    Bring good camera equipment

    One of the best things about doing a self-drive in Tanzania is the opportunity to blend in, and not be part of a bigger group of tourists, both in the cities as well as safaris. Your trip to Tanzania will definitely benefit from a good zoom lens.

    If you are traveling to Tanzania to take amazing photos of animals, then I would say something up to 600mm would be your best bet but those tend to cost a pretty penny, so also have a look if your local photo shop or website loans lenses.

    Know the road rules

    Besides the information, the company you rent from will provide you with; make sure you read up on road rules before you sit in the car! The driving speed limit on the Tanzania non-urban roads 80 km/hour and on urban roads, you’ll have to maintain a speed of 50 km/hour.

    On gravel roads, you will be driving at an average of 30km/hour. If you are trying to estimate your travel itinerary with Google Maps, increase the suggested travel time by 30%. Don’t map out your entire day route, because Google Maps will look for the shortest route and those are likely to be in a very bad state. Instead, break it up into only looking at getting from point A to point B.

    Tip: make sure the company you rent from has comprehensive car insurance, that way there is less possibility for expensive, unexpected costs.

    Road tripping in Tanzania is safe

    Since most Tanzanians speak good English, they will also go out of their way to try and help you in case of an accident. Main roads outside the city are wide, asphalted and safe.

    Get ready for an ‘African massage’

    I’ve mentioned how safe the main roads are above. And while main motorways are safe and comfortable to drive on, you will definitely experience something totally different once you drive off of them. Get ready to experience the ‘African ‘massage’ the moment you get off that asphalt.

    We have never experienced a road as bumpy as the one going through Serengeti NP. But the experience was so much fun, we saw hippos, elephants, baboons and so many more animals by this road. This is what makes a drive through the non-asphalted roads so much better the animals are not scared to approach them because you can’t drive fast there.

    The size of the rental car

    The number of people you plan to get on the road with and luggage size should be put into consideration. This should guide you when deciding which self-drive car rental to book. A Toyota land cruiser is ideal for a group of 4-5pax on self-drive Tanzania or you can hire a Mini Van or slightly larger rental depending on the number of people and cargo.

    Conclusion

    Renting a self-drive car in Tanzania has become a common practice with many rental companies widely available in most main towns. This presents you opportunity to make a choice suitable for your self-drive tour. Contact Car Rental Tanzania for better services that will make your trip memorable.

  • Renting a Car in Somalia: Things to Know

    Need the best rental car for short-term or long-term travel in Somalia? Find the best car hire deals with Car Rental Somalia your reliable and trusted car hire company that is committed to offering world class car rental services in Africa. Finding it hard to reach Somalia? At car rental Somalia, we do all it takes to provide the best transportation services and for a test of time, we have positioned ourselves as the best sellers of car rental services in Somalia and across African continent with our selection of rental cars ranging from Vans, SUVs, Saloon vehicles to land cruisers.

    Do you have a long-term project or planning to travel as a group? Regardless of your travel plan, car rental Somalia has something for every traveler. We make sure you get your project done with our rental cars available within our clients’ pocket range.

    Fleet of rental cars in Somalia

    4×4 Land Cruiser Lx

    Book 4×4 Land Cruiser Lx, 78 series and experience a trip of a lifetime in the Republic of Somalia. Need a perfect long-term car rental in Somalia? If yes, then definitely, our Land Cruiser Lx has all the answers you need. Choose from our comfortable land cruisers for weekly or monthly travel to your favorite side of Somalia with comfort.

    Mini Vans/Vans

    Need a classic rental car? Rent 4×4 Vans or Mini Vans for all your travel needs in Somalia and you won’t regret. Remarkably, there is no shame in being behind the wheel of a Van or Mini Van rental car in Somalia. They are perfect choice compared to most rental cars when traveling with colleagues and you have cargo. Besides, they save you a lot because their low fuel consumption rate compared to most SUVs. Their interiors are incredibly flexible, they can be folded with possibility to create more space. You can hire one our comfortable 4×4 Vans at as low as 78 US Dollars per day.

    Land Cruiser GXL

    Rent Land Cruiser GXL at just a pocket friendly rate whether for self-drive tours or long-term projects. They are very comfortable with amazing features to make your road trip memorable.

  • Self Drive Safari to Ruaha National Park

    Rent a 4×4 Car to Ruaha National Park, whether it’s self-drive or Chauffeur driven, Self-Drive tours in Tanzania is a fantastic way to experience Ruaha National Park in freedom and flexibility. The tours are created to suit client’s budget visiting Tanzania National Parks.

    It is located in the middle of Tanzania about 130 kilometers from Iringa. The park is part of a more extensive ecosystem, which includes Rungwe Game Reserve, Usangu Game Reserve, and several other protected areas. The name of the park is derived from the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its South-Eastern margin and is the focus for game-viewing. The park can be reached by car via Iringa and there is an airstrip at Msembe, park headquarters.

    Ruaha National Park has a bimodal pattern of rain forest; the short rainfall season begins November to February, while the long season is between March and April. The park experiences its dry season between June and October. The park is one of the Tanzania birds’ paradise with more than 571species and some of them are known to be migrants from within and outside Africa.

    Ruaha is believed to have high concentration of elephants than any National Park in East Africa. It is also a place where, magnificent mammals like Kudu, Sable and Roan antelopes can easily be spotted in Miombo woodland. The park is also a habitat for endangered wild dogs. Other animals in the park include lions, leopards, cheetah, giraffes, zebras, elands, impala, bat eared foxes and Jackals.

    Apart from large animals, the park also harbors a number of reptiles and amphibians such as crocodiles, poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, monitor lizards, agama lizards and frogs. The park is characterized by semi-arid type of vegetation, baobab trees, Acacia and other species. There are over 1,650 plant species that have been identified.

    Safaris in Ruaha National Park

    Game driving is the predominant activity in Ruaha National Park. The park has a vast network of all-weather roads, so large tracts of the park are accessible to visitors. Not only does this increase the chance of seeing more animals, it also disperses the vehicles more evenly around the park so that you will not meet many other vehicles.

    Game walks are available at certain times of year. This is determined by National Parks. The walks are accompanied by a guide and also a National Park ranger.

    How much does it cost to rent a car in Ruaha National Park?

    The average price for car rental in Ruaha National Park is affordable and favorable. The cheapest car hire in Ruaha National Park is per day. Prices vary greatly depending on dates, car type, length of rental, and availability, and are subject to change. At car rental Tanzania we have a constant source of amazing deals.

    How do I find the cheapest car hire in Ruaha National Park?

    Incredible deals are ready and waiting for you on carrentaltanzania.com. You can also simply enter your travel details and our easy-to-use filters will help you find fantastic options with no hidden extras. Most of our deals include insurance and free cancellation up to 6 hours before pick up.

    What types of cars are available to rent in Ruaha National Park?

    From our impressive range of cars to hire in Ruaha National Park, you can choose a budget-friendly run-around, Safari land cruiser, Rav 4 and more. Use the Car Type filter to find exceptional deals on your ideal vehicle and see all available options.

    Which car rental company has the best deal in Ruaha National Park?

    At carrentaltanzania.com, we have different options to offer you the widest selection of cheap car hire in Ruaha National Park. Use the handy filters to compare prices and book with confidence.

    Can car rental Tanzania hire a car for a week or a month in Ruaha National Park?

    Yes, car rental Tanzania offer great deals on long-term car hire in Ruaha National Park. Simply enter your dates in the search and after experience the best in Ruaha National Park.

    I’m under 25, can I hire a car in Ruaha National Park?

    You may be able to hire a car in Ruaha National Park, but international Driver’s Permit (IDP) is an additional requirement that will let you hire a car if you are under 25 or above. You’re best-off checking with the individual car hire company to find out what their policy allows.

    Should I rent a car in Ruaha National Park?

    A hire car gives you the freedom to discover and explore Ruaha National Park. Grab that feeling with both hands. Whether you’re travelling for business, a family holiday, or a couple’s getaway, car rental Tanzania is definitely the best way to find your perfect vehicle.

    Why should I use car rental Tanzania to hire a car in Ruaha National Park?

    Skip the hassle of searching endlessly. Use Car Rental Tanzania to find amazing car hire deals and book a trip as unique as you, in Ruaha National Park so you are rewarded for your travel with the biggest selection at incredible prices.

    GETTING THERE

    By Air-There are both scheduled and chartered flights into the park mainly from Arusha, Dodoma, Kigoma and Dar-es-salaam. Park’s airstrips are located at Msembe and Jongomero.

    By road-It is about 130km drive from Iringa town and 625km from Dar-es-salaam city. The road into the park is passable throughout the year.

    Conclusion

    Our self-drive tours make traveling around Tanzania an effortless and enjoyable experience. Each of our vacation packages come with a personal travel adviser and backup service. Within our self-drive tour list you will find a wide-range of tours that take in all areas of Tanzania. This includes a number of specialist drives and where can i find the best car hire in Ruaha National Park?

     

  • Guide to Crossing Borders with a Rental Vehicle

    4×4 Uganda Car Rentals not only operate in Uganda but we do also cross boarders to the nearest countries of Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania at Self Drive. Enjoy a self-drive tour during your East African tour and explore on your own what each country offers.

    You can cross to Rwanda and trek the endangered mountain gorilla in the Volcanoes National Park, or trek the primates in Nyungwe National Park as well as game drives in the Akagera National Park. You can decide to cross to Kenya the home of incredible wildlife species in its remarkable national park. If you cross the boarders with Uganda car rental to Tanzania what you will see there will be memorable, each park is a home to incredible games and bird species some of which can’t be seen elsewhere in other parks like the migrating wildlife which exposes to all most all the big five mammals at a single glance, Spot the big five mammals.

    Wishing for car hire in East Africa, 4×4 Uganda car Rentals is here to offer you the great Complete Guide about Border Crossing for Independent Travelers. East African Border Crossing Essentials:

    1. Passport and Visas

    If you hold a passport to Uganda, you don’t require a visa to visit Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and Burundi. However you should also hold other documents such as Uganda, your Uganda passport or National ID in order to be allowed to cross the boarders. 

    1. International Driver’s Permit or National Driver’s License

    In order to be allowed to self-drive in a foreign country, you must own a valid driving permit or national driver’s license. However, The Local English driver’s license is recognized in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania.

    1. COMESA Sticker

    When traveling from Uganda across borders, vehicles should bear a COMESA sticker which labels that they are foreign vehicles. We think UAP is the reliable Source, once in Kabale Call this for the Comesa Service: +256772306224 to Talk to COMESA Officer. 

    1. White and Red Reflective Tape

    In Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania two small white rectangular size strips on the right and left hand side of the front bumper, as well as two small red square strips on the right and left hand side of the rear bumper is required

    1. Vehicle Registration/Vehicle License Papers  

    The car must be well registered with a certified vehicle license papers this is acceptable at the border posts. Not only that but you must as well be accompanied with a letter from the company giving you authorization to take the vehicle across the border and it must indicate the dates. Both the letter and license papers should be signed by the Owner. If you are not the registered owner of the vehicle, please carry an affidavit from the police giving you authorization from the Company /owner to take the vehicle abroad.

    6. Travel with a Letter of authority

    If you are traveling in a rented 4×4 car across borders, you are required to travel with a letter from the rental company you have hired from giving you permission to take the vehicle out of the country.

  • Is Rwanda the Best Place for Gorilla Trekking

    Whenever Rwanda is mentioned, many people’s mind rush to the endangered mountain gorilla. It is true this small country with the most densely population in the world, is gifted to be among the few countries in the world to house the rare mountain gorillas. Rwanda is regarded as the best destination for gorilla tracking. There is no word that can describe mountain gorilla tracking in the world but those who have got a chance to meet these apes in the wild say, ‘’there is no magical experience in the world than an encounter with the rare mountain gorillas’’. Many people in the world come to Rwanda specifically to see these endangered apes in the wild for at least 1-2 days while studying their behaviors as well as taking photography for a period of an hour with the animals.

    There are only about 1000 remaining mountain gorillas that are left in the wild and a big number live in Uganda, Rwanda and the rest live in Democratic Republic of Congo. Many travelers prefer tracking the mountain gorillas of Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) are easy to track as compared to gorillas of Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), within one hour you can meet one of the gorilla groups and by 1.00pm you are at the lodge for lunch. Due to the park’s proximity, one can easily track and come back to Kigali or depart within one day. This means that its just 2-3 hours’ drive from Kigali Rwanda’s capital and largest city to Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri Musanze district.

    If one is interested in a day gorilla safari , one has to drive very fist from Kigali(accommodation) to kinigi park headquarters for a briefing from the park wardens before 7:00am about the dos and don’ts while with gorilla and then after follow the ranger guide to the forest to begin the activity. After tracking you drive back to Kigali or at the airport to meet your departure flight back home. This is very difficult in Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo due to a long distance involved reaching the park(Bwindi and Mgahinga in Uganda or Virunga national park in DRC).

    Rwanda has 12 habituated gorilla families (Habituated means they are used to short visits by humans.) 10 gorilla families are ready for tracking and the two are used for research purpose. In each gorilla family 8 members are only allowed to track meaning that 80 people track gorillas every day. These apes are fabulous fan to watch in their natural habitat meeting eye to eye with the silverback gorilla is a memorable moment in life very difficult to forget.

    Gorilla tracking is regarded as the most expensive done activity, but it’s regarded as the most done Rwanda’s major tourist activity. Over 80% of travelers to Rwanda to do gorilla tracking. This has generated a lot of revenue to the government of Rwanda and hence improves the well-being of the people especially those that live near the park.

    Gorilla permits costs US$1500 per person per tracking and this fee includes park entry fee,  ranger guide etc. Gorilla permits are sold at the Rwanda Tourism Board Offices (ORTPN) found in Kigali. For any gorilla tours and permits contact us we shall get back to you swiftly.

  • Tips for Car Hire in Kampala

    Car rental services have continuously become the most sought-after alternative of traveling in East Africa especially by most holidaymakers. It is the safest and affordable option for holidaymakers to get to their destinations without worries of uncertainties like it is a case with public means. With car rental services, safari-goers enjoy ultimate freedom to navigate through Uganda or any of East African destinations at ease.

    Before getting into Uganda or East Africa for a holiday, you must plan appropriately for Uganda car hire and renting a car is remarkably one essential step you shouldn’t leave out. To ensure that you have the most memorable Uganda holiday, here are some important tips for car hire in Kampala Uganda.

    Conduct adequate research and find the best car deal

    When looking for the best rental car deal, no need to be on a rush. Ensure you have adequate time and begin a search for available rental cars in Uganda before your actual Uganda road trip. This can guarantee you the best rental car deal of your dream that suits your travel interests in Kampala, Uganda safari parks or any other destination in this Pearl of Africa.

    While on a search for the right and best car deal, we advise you not always rush to make a choice on the first agency or company that appears on your eyes. Take time, look through more, then make your considerations and comparison on different aspects like services, rates and other offers you may enjoy when you rent a car with that car hire company.

    Though some holidaymakers tend to be taken by the lowest rates, it also puts them into a risk of bumping into undesirable services. With adequate research, it is possible to get the right rental car that is suitable for your road trips in Kampala Uganda.

    Get in touch with car rental service provider

    Once you have made up your mind to deal with a particular car hire service provider in Kampala/Uganda, next is for you to get in touch with its team. Being a premier car rental company in Uganda, it is possible to reach us online, by phone or walk in to our offices and we shall have your dream car reserved for you. Online, a visitor can send us an email provided on our website-fill into a contact form before you send the email.

    It is also possible to contact our reservation team on phone contacts provided on the website. In case you are nearby, you can simply walk into our offices to have a look at our car rental services.

    Book online

    At this stage, we believe that you already know the kind of rental car to use for your road trip in Kampala Uganda. This means, you must then make confirmation on its availability with car rental agency/company. The car hire company will require you to make a deposit of amount of the total price of the car hire. Once you have made the deposit, we make sure that your preferred rental car is booked for you. The balance will be needed upon your arrival to pick a car or pay online through PayPal, Pesapal, bank (on the account the company provides you) or any mode of payment that shall be provided to you by our reservation team.

    Essentials

    At the time of booking your rental car in Uganda, you will be asked to send your scanned copies of documents. In case of holidaymakers in need for a vehicle for a self-drive tour in Uganda, a valid driver license or national ID/Passport will be required. The original copies of your documents will be needed on the date of picking your rental car in Uganda. The reservation team will need to take a look at them before handing the car over to you.

    What your car hire price includes

    The price of car rental in Uganda includes comprehensive insurance, local taxes and visitors enjoy unlimited mileage if traveling within the country. The comprehensive insurance covers the specific number of damages. However, it is always good to inquire your car hire service provider about what the rates cover before.

    Confirm your car pick up location

    While making booking for your rental car in Uganda or Kampala, let us know of the location and time you want the vehicle to be delivered. It can be within Kampala capital city or Entebbe city; this is because delivering a car outside the 2 places may attract additional charge. Once you have done so, be guaranteed of picking up your car at that agreed location whether you are on self-drive or driver guided safari. But in case the car is available within other places such as Mbarara city, Jinja city, Mbale, Gulu, Masindi, Kasese and others, you may not incur extra cost on car delivery.

    Inspect the car

    Prior setting off, conduct thorough inspection on the car to be certain it is the one you booked and it is in its better condition. Aside from taking a look at the picture, ensure that it doesn’t have or has some scratches and dents or even take note of them, if the windows and doors work or not, if the indicators work well, if the engine is serviced and the car’s general cleanliness.

    Available features in the car plus other facilities

    Comfort and safety are essential when finding a car for your road trip in Uganda and therefore, it is important to inquire from your car hire service provider if some features exist in the vehicle. They include among others air conditioners, comfortable seats, central locking plus airbags. In case you plan to go for game viewing in any of the Uganda safari savanna parks, then the car you plan to use should have a pop-up roof.

    Drop off time and location

    When picking up your rental car in Uganda, the car hire service provider will require you to drop off the car upon your return. This should be done on agreed point and at a particular time which should be complied with to avoid incurring extra charges you didn’t plan for.

  • Driving in Tanzania: Tips for a Safe Self Drive Safari

    Driving in Tanzania is amazingly but you need to be keen enough. Here are some of the most incredible driving tips to help you as you explore Tanzania.

    How is the state of roads in Tanzania?

    Northeastern Tanzania

    The road conditions in Northeastern Tanzania are good according to East African standards. The major routes linking Arusha to Ngorongoro in the west, Moshi or Kilimanjaro in the East and Dar es Salaam in the extreme east are in their state and you can have a smooth road trip. When driving, be mindful of the bumps and occasional potholes. Expect also to drive on gravel roads especially on routes connecting to parks and safari lodges. The gravel and dirt roads in most cases vary depending on the season-during the rainy/wet season, it becomes a little challenging to navigate through.

    Self-drive tours in the Serengeti

    Driving to Serengeti on a Tanzania self-drive safari is exciting but you need a Land Cruiser. The main route stretching from Ngorongoro Crater to Naabi Hill gate; from Naabi Hill gate-Seronera, from Seronera towards East and West is complicated given its condition. It is characterized by rocky surface but self-drive tours are possible in a 4×4 Land Cruiser. The drive speed limit here should be kept within 25kms/hr. The driving times to Serengeti vary depending on the route; the Loduare gate which is also Ngorongoro entrance to Ngorongoro Crater route is approximately 1 and half hours’ drive. The Ngorongoro Crater route to Naabi Hill gate covers 2 and half hours’ drive then Naabi hill gate-Seronera is an hour’s drive.

    There is also possibility to access the southern parks of Tanzania on self-drive safari holiday. The longest gravel route takes visitors from Kibiti to Selous Game Reserve about 90kms, Morogoro-Selous Matembwe gate, 90kms; from Iringa-Ruaha National Park about 110kms. Between Dodoma and Babati, it is about 2 and half hours’ drive. Off-drive from Selous Game Reserve requires a Land Cruiser especially during the wet season.

    Navigating in Tanzania

    The best way to navigate in Tanzania on self-drive tour is hiring a comfortable rental car. You will need to install Maps on your smartphone prior visiting Tanzania or hire GPS if you do not have one to help you find directions.

    In case of breakdown/accident

    While on a road trip in Tanzania, there are unexpected issues that can arise. It all requires your cooperation and patience. We offer 24/7 road assistance and that is why we are the most preferred car rental agency in Tanzania. Get in touch with our experts as soon as you have trouble on your Tanzania road trip. For cases of accidents, contact our team immediately and you will be guided appropriately, take photos of the damaged car and process a clear police report.

    Dealing with traffic police in Tanzania

    Along the way, you will come across many traffic police in Tanzania. You can easily notice them at a distance on white uniform. Simply remain patient and be friendly, greet in Swahili where possible or even crack a joke. Usually, traffic police cross check if the vehicle you are driving is insured and if you have valid driving license among other factors.

  • Rental Cars in Ethiopia

    There is no better way to explore Ethiopia than exclusive car rental services offered to by Car Rental Ethiopia! Before you think of traveling to Ethiopia, find out how best will you reach your dream destination. Ethiopia is an incredible tourist destination offering unique experiences but to have enjoyable trip holiday, you need a comfortable rental car. In this article, we bring to you the list of the best rental cars suitable for your travel needs yet also come at affordable rates and interestingly, they are all comprehensively insured.

    Land Cruiser LX

    Enjoy Ethiopia holiday using anyone of our best Land Cruiser LX for hire whether you are interested in short-term or long-term rental. We have the 78 series at a pocket-friendly rate.

    Mercedes Vans

    Travel in Mercedes Van rental manual transmission and experience something unique on a trip in Ethiopia. This comes with 2 doors, the front doors and 1 slide but has carrying capacity of 16-18pax. You can rent one at just $98 per day.

    Toyota Land Cruiser

    If comfort is what you are looking for then our 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers guarantee exactly that. This comes in manual transmission, 4 doors and 8 seats. It is possible to hire one at US Dollars 95 per day.

    Land Cruiser GXL

    Hire Land Cruiser GXL for your Ethiopia trips in any of the country’s beautiful parks and have a memorable holiday. This is ideal for solo travelers on self-drive tours in Ethiopia. Car rental Ethiopia provides budget rates to suit your budget plan.

    Mini Vans/Vans

    Planning to explore Addis Ababa or any part of Ethiopia but not sure of which car to use? Worry no more because our vans/mini vans have you sorted for all your travel needs in Ethiopia. You can hire one at US$78 a day.