Choosing the Right Uganda Car Rental Company
Choosing the right provider can make the difference between costly delays, smooth trips, and it can play a pivotal role in keeping your company’s travel program efficient and stress-free. There many companies that offer cars for rental. Choosing the right Uganda car rental can significantly impact your travel experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and find the perfect fit for your needs.
Conduct research
The process of choosing a car rental company for your Uganda safari or can be cumbersome if you don’t have an idea of the right factors to consider. This is probably the real reason why you need to first undertake thorough research because there are thousands of car rental companies in the country. With enough homework, updated information, and details, you will make the right choice for a rental company.
Company reputation
Before choosing a particular car rental company, it is important to first consider its reputation, from online testimonies (Safari Bookings and TripAdvisor among others). The majority of the companies are notable for their reliability and good quality services offered to clients but online reviews and testimonies are paramount to making the final decision on the car rental company to choose, for safety and security on the road.
Insurance and policy varieties
A number of car rental companies offer clients with varying insurance covers at different rates thus depending on your individual needs and what you are ready to be responsible for, you will choose which company to make bookings with. The company with the best insurance deals/ or policies will be your final decision.
The booking process
Check out the process you have to follow to get access to a car from your car hire company. It’s true that these processes are there for safety purposes and to make things easier for everyone but you shouldn’t have to go through any extra hoops that you don’t need to go through.
Customer care services
When choosing a car rental company, it is paramount to take your time to physically visit the company before hiring it for your self-drive Uganda trip. The moment you get to the intended company and are satisfied with the good quality service delivered to clients, go ahead to make your reservation. A professional and reputable car rental company will make certain that it meets the personal needs of clients hence offering the best customer care service even before you confirm your rental. Ask for recommendations from family, travel forums and friends that have rented cars from particular service providers in the past for their personal experiences before you make the final decision.
Flexibility
Always go for car rental companies that are flexible, with several locations to drop off the vehicle. Honestly, it is a perfect idea to opt for service providers that are cheaper and clement in as far as drop-off locations are concerned.
Vehicle selection
Since your aim is getting the best car rental company, it is vital to take your time to check on the different kinds of vehicles that the company offers. For instance, if you are planning to travel as a family or group, the company should provide a wide range of choices to decide on for your trip. All in all, choose a car rental company with a wide array of vehicles that will suit your particular travel need. Most of the car rental companies have cars with pop up roofs for wildlife viewing, cars suitable for cooperate people and cars that can be used for camping.
The rental terms and conditions
Every car rental company has its own rental terms. These terms cover rental duration, mileage limits, fuel policy, and more. Carefully reading and understanding these terms will ensure you aren’t surprised by any hidden conditions.
Some rental companies impose a mileage limit and charge extra for exceeding that limit. Make sure you are clear about these terms.
The fuel policy is also important. Some companies provide the car with a full tank of fuel and require it to be returned with a full tank, while others may require it to be returned empty. Be clear about the fuel requirements.
Convenience
Convenience is another important factor to consider when choosing a car rental company for your Uganda safari. It is a known fact that Uganda has numerous service providers that provide online bookings which are undeniably more convenient and save visitors from wasting a lot of time and stress.
Additional drivers
A number of car rental companies will charge for additional drivers while others will not and therefore, you can choose a car rental company that doesn’t charge for additional drivers used during the Uganda safari.
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Guide to Self Drive in East Africa
Exploring East Africa on a self-drive adventure is one of the most exciting and flexible ways to discover the region’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and world-famous wildlife. From the open savannahs of the Serengeti and Maasai Mara to the lush forests of Uganda and the volcanic scenery of Rwanda, East Africa offers countless opportunities for independent travellers with a spirit of adventure. A self-drive trip allows you to travel at your own pace, create your own itinerary, and experience authentic local life beyond the typical tourist routes. However, driving in East Africa comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Road conditions can vary, traffic rules may differ from what you’re used to, and remote areas require good planning and preparation. This guide provides essential information for anyone considering a self-drive journey covering everything from car rental tips and border crossings to safety advice and driving etiquette so you can explore East Africa confidently and responsibly.
Car Options
The best self-drive 4×4 car hire options for self-drive tours in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania are the Toyota Land Cruiser (Prado or Hardtop), Land cruiser V8 & VX, Land cruiser LX. These cars have a great track record and are the most capable and enduring for a 4×4 self-drive in the wild.
Tips for self-drive
If you are looking for the best the destination to take a self-drive trip, look no further than the most East African countries Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda. There are very many car hire companies in these countries today that one can book a car for self-drive. Driving in a new destination like Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania is really challenging and there is need to be very careful while on the remotest routes of this landlocked country.
Visitors are strongly advised to review their personal safety and security posture, to remain vigilant and to be cautious by lowering their public profile when frequenting public places and landmarks.
Check the vehicle thoroughly
Before setting off, it is advisable that you check on the vehicle to be used thoroughly. Take a look at the tyres and find out if they are in better conditions and if there is a spare tyre in its better shape. For longer journeys, you will need at least two tyres and make sure that you have checked the water level, lights, oil, wiper blades and for any linkages.
For example Murchison falls national park takes 6-7 hours in Uganda, Serengeti national park takes 7 hours in Tanzania among others.
Driving after dark
We plan our self-drive safaris in East Africa so that you try to avoid driving at night because in the cities, the majority of carjacking take place after dark while rural roads are rarely lit by street lights, making people and free-ranging livestock difficult to spot. It becomes harder to find the hotel as road signs or landmarks are not so clearly visible. Darker areas are too challenging even when it comes to accessing any kind of help.
Use Road maps and GPS
While transferring to the various safari destinations of your choice ensure to carry a GPS to direct you along the different routes in the country as well as travel road atlas and maps or directions and know exactly where you are going but don’t just reply on the GPS in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania. It can be seriously flawed, especially in the safari regions.
Follow traffic Laws while on road
Like any destination, traffic laws are worth following if you are to stay out of dangers on the road. Make sure that you can read road signs, do not drink and drive and at all times, put on your seat belts.
Have breaks, eat and fuel the vehicle
Refreshing the mind after a long drive is very important factor when you are on self-drive holiday. Have adequate eats and fuel the vehicle. Never leave a big center without filling your gas tank, otherwise you may not find any fuel station in the next area especially the protected areas in East Africa.
Too much driving
Usually people plan to drive way too far in one day and sometimes they plan a hectic trip which has them driving too far and away too often. If you are feeling tired, it is advisable that you park aside and have a rest or give your colleague to also take up the wheel, provided he or she possess a valid driver’s license.
Close windows and doors
Keep your windows and doors locked when driving through urban areas, and especially when stopped at a traffic light. Never leave valuables in sight when parked, and try to park your car in a well-lit area that’s protected by car guards.
Mind about the rest of other road users
You need to be attentive and take note of other road users like, students, cyclists and cattle as most of them can be crossing the road.
For example, Uganda’s roads are narrow and there can be some pedestrian walks.
Driving license
Make sure that your driving license is valid written in English and if not, you’ll need to apply for an International Driver’s License ahead of your trip. To stay safe while on your trip, you need to follow the above listed tips and you will enjoy your tour in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda.
Speeding
Speed cameras operate in cities, towns and on high ways and if you are caught over speeding on camera, the fine will go straight to the hire car company, who will simply debit your credit card with the amount. A more common speeding trap is on the outskirts of towns, where traffic police wait for the unsuspecting driver to come racing out of the built up area.
If you are caught speeding by traffic police, the correct procedure is to give the traffic officer your details (name, car rental agency details and car registration number) and ask him to issue you with a speeding fine ticket. You also have the option of taking the speeding ticket to a local police station and paying it directly however, this may not be a feasible option as it may involve a long detour and eat into valuable holiday time.
Petrol stations
It is worth noting that none of the petrol stations in East African countries are self-service and when you pull into a petrol station, you will generally be waved to a free petrol pump by an enthusiastic attendant, who are all dressed in smart uniforms and will welcome you with a big smile. Do make sure that he waves you to the correct pump, as you do not want him putting petrol in your diesel car, while the car is being filled up, they will clean your windscreen for you and take great care in making sure even the smallest dirt mark is wiped away
The majority of the larger petrol stations will take overseas credit cards, but some of the smaller ones may not. You will generally find an ATM on site so that you can withdraw cash if necessary, but in the more remote places, even this facility may not be present. You should therefore always ensure that you have sufficient cash whenever you pull in to fill up with petrol just in case.
Conclusion
A self-drive trip in East Africa offers unmatched freedom, adventure, and personal discovery. With proper planning, respect for local rules, and the right vehicle, you will enjoy an unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultures. Embrace the open road East Africa is waiting to be explored on your own terms.
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Luwombo Meal: Ugandan Traditional Dish Cooked in Banana
LUWOMBO meal is a Ugandan delicacy and one of my favorite meals. If you have never been to Uganda and may have plans of visiting this beautiful country one day please do not leave with out trying out a luwombo prepared meal. Most people eat this special meal on special days but I could have it any day, everyday! Luwombo is basically sauce cooked in banana leaves.
The banana leaves are specially prepared over heat with low smoke to make the leaves aromatic and soft enough to contain the food. It is actually a method of preparing stews by steaming as you will get to learn as you read along. I am going to share how to prepare the different types which include: chicken luwombo, smoked meat luwombo, mushrooms in ground nuts paste luwombo, smoked meat in ground nuts paste luwombo and dry fish in ground nuts paste luwombo.
Writing this piece reminds me of my foods and nutrition practical exams way back in high school because this was one of my favorite meals prepared. Because it is easy, time saving and most important nutrient saving.
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Malewa: The Delicious Taste of Bamboo Shoots
Malewa is obtained from crushing and drying special bamboo shoots that are obtained from the area of Mt. Elgon, found along Uganda’s border with Kenya. Malewa is harvested throughout the year, but especially during the dry season. The bamboo shoots are traditionally air-dried under mountainside caves, and can also be smoked to give a particular, burnt flavor when used in preparing food. Malewa can easily be confused in appearance for banana fibers, but the easiest way to distinguish these bamboo shoots is from the sweet smell and the visibile joints that characterized the short pieces of malewa.
Regardless of differences in the preparation method, malewa has a taste reminiscent of forest mushrooms. It is said that the best traditional taste of malewa emerges when it is mixed with groundnut paste to make a paste or sauce that can be eaten with millet, banana or sweet potatoes. Malewa sauces or soups are compatible with many other local and traditional dishes in Uganda.
Malewa is the traditional food for the Gishu people in eastern Uganda, and it has been in the area since the Gishu occupied the slopes of Mt. Masaba, also known as Mt. Elgon. It is served widely in the region during the traditional circumcision rites that are performed in each even numbered calendar year. Mothers would serve the product to their sons to give them bravery before embarking on a week-long journey to travel through the community and receive blessings before the actual circumcision (imbalu).
Malewa may be collected by individuals for personal use, but it is also sold in local markets, mainly by boys of the Gishu communities; however the quantities that can be found at local markets are declining. This is due to encroachment on the mountainside habitats for settlements and agricultural land as a result of growing populations in the area.
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6 Reasons to Go on a Road Trip in Uganda
Is Uganda your dream safari destination in Africa? Have you ever wished to encounter breathtaking experiences that come once in a lifetime? Uganda is credited for its most exceptional biodiversity, that are all confined within its magnificent protected areas. Visitors either choose to go for game drives and catch a glimpse of amazing big five game in the savanna national parks like Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park or visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for mountain gorilla trekking or simply catch up with adrenaline adventures in Jinja as well as life changing experiences at the Rwenzori Mountains ranges.
Below are some of the reasons why you need to embark on a road in Uganda
You get in control of your trip
There is nothing as adventurous as taking a self drive trip to an unknown destination in the remotest places in Uganda. This allows you make a plan on your own and you arrange it based on your interest. But you have to be careful with the schedules of other transportation means like airlines and trains, otherwise you will be left out.
There is no need to eat airplane food
This is based on the note that the airlines still provide real food, but rather you can simply make a stopover at the nearest restaurant, pack a picnic, or swing via drive all the way.
Flexibility
With self drive road trips in Uganda, you can easily switch directions depending on what attracts you unlike where you are in a group or guided safari and you are required to dance to the tunes of other people and yet you also your own. When it comes to make stopovers at specific areas, a self drive is the best option for road trips in Uganda.
Elephants – Queen Elizabeth National Park
Ability to view Uganda’s natural wonders in reality
The amazing bit of taking a road trip in Uganda is that you have higher chances of catching a glimpse of a wide range of tourist attractions and interacting with communities adjacent to the protected areas while on safari in Uganda.
Pack appropriately while keeping in the space of the car boot
There is no need to book an extra car unless other people are traveling with you. You can fold the seats as well to create more room for the luggage and this can save you from paying extra charges.
Money saving
Traveling in a group is one thing exciting when it comes to a road trip in Uganda. If you have ever been on a road trip before or you plan one, make sure that you get on the road with your friends or colleagues of the same interest and experience the fun bits of a road trip in Uganda.
In conclusion, a road trip is the best way for you to catch a glimpse of the variety of attractions that Uganda has to offer to the world. There are a lot more things to experience while on a road trip, and given its flexibility, you can make a stopover at any point of interest at your own time.
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A Green Honeymoon Holiday in Uganda
It’s only Uganda in Africa with the most charming culture, entertainment and natural beauty which make it the only perfect destination for foreign honey moon holiday. Apart from the amazing islands, Uganda has a wide range of beautiful attractions including wildlife parks, lakes & rivers, mountains, stunning landscape and the most well facilitated luxury lodges just in line with the honeymoon rations. Are you planning to wed soon and Africa is your honey moon choice destination?
The Gifted land of nature “Uganda” has enough attractions to put together and make your stay very exceptional and memorable following its best cool weather in every corner of the country. Besides all the Islands and beaches are open year round with a lot of relaxing activities and water sports. Bunyonyi is one of the most desired a place you shouldn’t miss out on your honeymoon holiday in Africa. Also visiting some of the beautiful parks – Queen Elizabeth, Murchison falls, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest etc are one of the most recommended honeymoon destinations in the pearl of Africa since all tour activities are full of fun and relaxation. Other fun things to do include gorilla tracking, boat rides at the first-rate Kazinga channel and game viewing keep travelllers busy and happy in the wild as they explore the country’s beauty.
Make your honeymoon an event of a life time with a visit to Uganda’s top leisurely destination Ssese Island found in a 2 hour distance from Entebbe international airport, Murchison falls, Kibale Forest, Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo & lake Bunyonyi. The island is accessed by a ferry which leaves Entebbe daily at 3.00pm arriving at the island at around 5.00pm but you have to be at the ferry stage or start point by 2.00pm-Nakiwogo Entebbe.
Spend two days around the island playing in sand and enjoying all the available water activities before travelling to Bwindi forest the land of Uganda’s prime attraction the mountain gorillas. Enjoy private walks around the lake, boat ride, sun bathing, have a fish meal together at pineapple bay a lodge which attends to detail. Swimming is a must either at the pool or lake followed the delicious meals meals served at the lodge in time. The lake side gardens offer the best relaxing environment to couples as they look at the island lake waters and beautiful landscape. The lodge rooms facing parade the island beauty to couples something you will also like through your stay at the island. No need to strain yourself walking distances in search of a perfect relaxing environment since your overnight lodge has it all.
In addition the stunning road drive journey to Uganda’s Bwindi forest takes you to the Uganda Equator, opens a wide door for cultural displays and also a road side few minutes of wildlife viewing at Lake Mburo National park. Lunch pops in at a right time when you ready to break off for a journey chat with your spouse or driver and Igongo cultural Museum is a place to be in Mbarara. This quiet wildlife paradise has some of the most beautiful world class animals and the ever green forested landscape which extends to both Congo and Rwanda Boarder.
Staying in one of the most beautiful luxury lodges such as Mahogany Springs, Gorilla Forest Camp or Buhoma Lodge sited just at the park entrance has always been the best option for couples to the park giving them ample time to wake up and prepare for the day’s main activity gorilla tracking. The most exciting moment comes next morning which starts with a briefing from the park rangers and indeed it’s a moment to do and listen to what you truly waited for awhile, how to behave with Gorillas, what to do when you see them, how to marvel through the Jungle forest, who to go with, how long the trek takes, what you shouldn’t miss out during the trek etc. Next will be time for you to hit the jungle forest to search for the unique world class primates which are always found depending on their previous day movements, where they had their dinner & overnight. After the Gorilla encounter and photography couples prefer relaxing at the lodge and memorize the forest Magical beauty which they witnessed during the trek than taking on another afternoon forest walk.
The beautiful Lake Bunyonyi has always been the next couple choice after Bwindi forest sited in a one hour road distance and known for its unique environmental setting in the cool towns of Kabale. The island is another leisure top honeymoon spot in Uganda which give couples superb moments to cherish for a life time as they enjoy attractive views of different Islands, cool weather and relaxing environment. The sunrise in the morning can make every tree, grass, water look dazzling and amazing, changing the weather from cool to warm and breakfast in gardens becomes very tasty under the right setting. The Boat ride to visit different islands and short hikes keep couples busy and happy all day as the explore the island and nearby communities. Get a chance to visit the people of the forest the ‘Batwa’ during your stay and discover how true Africans still live in the ancient. Their grass thatched houses welcome you but the time spent with them is worthy looking at their way of life, culture and different family members.
Above all it’s more fun to combine island beach setting with Wildlife and water adventure activities in either Queen Elizabeth or Murchison falls National Park. You can choose to visit both or one and end your Africa honeymoon holiday in a romantic wildlife setting. People say both parks have similar activities but the experience isn’t the same. If time permits would recommend travellers to check out both parks and tell the difference .Morning & Evening game drives, Afternoon boat cruise, Chimpanzee tracking are the main park activities but a visit to the top of the falls and a forest walk excursion at Rhino sanctuary can only be experienced while in Murchison falls while viewing trees up close in trees is only possible at ishasha sector the reason to visit both parks. Spare some time and also enjoy some Uganda cultural treasures at Kampala National theatre, Ndere cultural centre, Kasubi Tombs, Sezibwa falls, Namugongo shrines and the Kabaka’s lake.
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Uganda’s Most Adorned Popular Foods
“Food is everything we are. It’s an extension of nationalist feeling, ethnic feeling, your personal history, your province, your region, your tribe, your grandma. It’s inseparable from those from the get-go.” – Anthony Bourdain
Several million miles away from home and you are wondering what to eat. When you travel to a different continent, you don’t only deal with the change in weather, culture and lifestyle. You also have to adapt to the local food.
Today we bring you a couple of Uganda’s most delicious foods:
Rolex – To prepare Uganda’s most popular street food, a Chapati is made of whole wheat flour salt and water mixed into dough and then flattened. An omelette is then made to your preference and wrapped in the Chapati.
This snack can be found around almost every street corner and is known for being affordable, delicious and filling.
Matooke – This is a starchy variety of banana that is typically boiled then mashed and is accompanied with a protein of some kind, Matooke is popular in the central and western regions.
Katogo – Katogo is a dish of boiled/ fried plantain with either beef, beans, groundnut sauce or offals served with traditional vegetables. It is traditionally a breakfast dish though it can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Though considered unconventional to the rest of the world, a heavy breakfast like this is popular in Uganda and is a great hangover remedy just in case you’ve been exploring the nightlife.
Groundnut sauce – This is a creamy paste made from sweet red peanuts and is typically served with a carbohydrate like matooke or sweet potatoes.
Smoked fish can be added for an elevated experience. When you’re in Uganda, there is no buffet that doesn’t include this delicious sauce and with good reason.
Luwombo – This dish can be prepared with beef, chicken, groundnuts, smoked fish or goat. This Ugandan special meal is one of great heritage and tradition and cooking it in banana leaf is actually what gives this dish that unique taste. It is served over matooke, rice, sweet potatoes and pumpkin.
This and more local dishes can make your weekend more superb, try out any of the above foods.
Read MoreTop 10 Tips for First Time Self Drivers in Uganda
An epic self driven Uganda trip is one of the most phenomenal vacations for every intrepid traveller. The country is often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa” with the melting pot of diverse cultures, spectacular landscapes, a wide array of wildlife species, a plethora of birds, beautiful sceneries and several landmark attractions that provide endless and unmatched possibilities for road trip safaris. Whether you are undertaking a long safari or just exploring the Urban tourism sites (Fort Portal, Mbarara, Mbale, Kapchorwa, and Kabale), planning a self-drive trip is the best way to undertake this adventure.
Uganda is filled with endless possibilities and any first time self-driver will be confused for choices. Therefore, these are the top 10 Tips for first time self-drivers in Uganda to help you prepare for the unexpected and arrange a stress-free trip;
Rent a 4WD Vehicle
There are several Asphalted roads yet the real exciting adventure begins when you make a turn to the smaller, murram roads. So if you plan to use the same vehicle for the entire safari (especially long safaris), then you need to rent a 4×4 Vehicle in Uganda. You wouldn’t want to get stuck on a Park road for days or spend a lot of money trying to move a vehicle that has been stuck in the mud.
Conduct checks on the car
When conducting checks on the car, make sure that the basics such as the right tyre pressure, check the spare wheel, water levels, and oil. Also, make sure that the lights are functional, there are no leakages and all these have to be done at least a day before the actual road trip. After all these checks have been conducted, fill up your fuel tanks before embarking on your first time self-drive trip in Uganda.
Understand the routes and driving distances
Using Google maps is wonderful but sometimes misleading and don’t function within the many roads in Uganda without signals. For any Ugandan self-drive planner, it is important to make sure that you have clearly indicated and documented your route plan hence saving a screen grab of the planned route on your phone, or better still printing a map, directions, and driving distances of the different destinations.
Additionally, if you are a first-time driver in Africa and undertaking a road trip in Uganda, yet have probably travelled in big cities or first-World countries, it may be challenging to determine how far you can travel in one day.
Avoid driving after dark/or at night
Another tip for first time self-drive trip in Uganda is “never drive at night”. It is sometimes inevitable but on a serious note, try as much as possible to avoid it at all costs. First time drivers are therefore advised to always set an absolute rule for rural, remote or distant safari destinations. A number of places in the country’s road network are really in bad state and crossed by livestock from time to time, making it difficult to maneuver during daytime but try your best to avoid driving at night.
Follow local traffic laws and regulations
Any first time self-driver in Uganda must follow the local traffic laws and regulations to avoid falling into troubles during the road trip. Some of the common rules include reading road signs, not driving under the influence of alcohol, possessing a valid driver’s permit, using a seatbelt when driving at all times and always keeping left when driving. The speed limit on highways is 100 kilometers per hour, 80 kilometers per hour around remote areas and 50 kilometers per hour within Urban Centers.
Respect other road users
You should always respect other road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and small and large vehicle drivers to avoid causing accidents. You will notice that most Ugandan roads are smaller than the ones you are used to hence every road users deserved respect while trying to use the same roads.
Always carry extra cash
They say cash is King and this has more meaning when in Africa, and therefore don’t forget to carry some cash during your self-drive trip in Uganda. It is undeniable that credit cards and ATMs can work but in case of smaller transactions at roadside food/fruit stalls, supermarkets and tipping will require cash-either local currency (Uganda shillings) of smaller bills of US Dollars.
Follow and respect Park rules and regulations
A number of rules and regulations govern driving within Park roads and they have to be followed at all times, and they include “not driving outside the indicated game tracks, “avoid walking alone in the middle of the wilderness”, “speed limit in the Park is 40 kilometers per hour”, don’t get out of the vehicle to follow animals on foot, and many others.
Avoid driving when tired
Some of Uganda’s National Parks such as Mgahinga, Bwindi Natural Forest and Kidepo Valley National Park are over 8 hours away from Kampala Capital and given the hilly terrains of some roads, getting fatigued is common. If you ever feel tired along the way, you can rest or spend overnight within the en-route accommodation facilities to avoid landing into problems. Some travellers alternate with friends or colleagues (as long as they also possess valid driving permits). Take breaks along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy meals.
Always be prepared for last-minute changes, breakdowns and getting stuck along the way
Preparation for these unpleasant situations avoids panic in the event of these changes. This involves carrying the necessary equipment and tools such as tow ropes, jacks and satellite phone especially self-driving in remote places with limited signal.
Some of the key areas for first time self-drive trips in Uganda are Murchison falls, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Impenetrable, Kidepo Valley, Lake Mburo and Kibale Forest National Parks among others.
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Booking a Vintage Car Hire for Wedding
Do you need elegant and graceful wedding? If yes, then hiring a vintage a must to book. When you think of wedding, you have to think about lasting memories and that is why it is such a special day for you and your dear one.
This day covers a number of incredible elements and colors with unique theme as well as more modern styles and trends thus making your day a magical one. During this day, each moment counts a lot especially when it comes to creating your wedding vision and so is choosing transportation means. If you have always wished to have something unique and special for your day then think about the Vintage car hire.
One may wonder what has kept these car models on market especially in such special occasions like wedding but it is just the romance and charm they make up which you may not easily find anywhere else except with vintage bridal car. To help you get that best rental car in Uganda, below are some tips
Reviews and reputation
Yes, there are many car hire companies with bridal cars but most importantly, how reputable are they? Not to end up in disappointments, the best is for you to deal with a reputable and reliable car rental company that have good vintage cars and that said, we are a few reliable car hire agencies you need to deal with and you will have your dream achieved. As well, you need to cross check online reviews and what others have said about it and its offers/services.
Make booking early
They say an early bird catches the worm and indeed it is true. Once you have made up your mind on which class of car to use perhaps vintage then you need to do the book side of it and preferably, do it at least 1 year earlier or your wedding date. What is important is finding what you desire readily available for your day other than rushing on last minute when you are caught up with time. Note that vintage cars are not freewheeling off the production line any longer and each year, they get taken out of service and this means once you find one, just know another person is also aiming at it. Meaning, you have to reserve it so long as it fits within your needs.
Car condition
Do not be like others, always cross check the car before taking any action. You can look at the mechanical conditions, body prior signing an agreement. Also, check if it is better air condition, lights, windows, doors and if its interior and exterior is well maintained.
License and insurance
Always consider booking a car with a car rental company that has insurance otherwise booking with one that doesn’t have, means you will be liable in case of accident. Not to be in such cases, make sure that you deal with a trustworthy, insured and licensed company. You can even go ahead to ask for a copy of the license or insurance to cross check.
Check the cost of vintage car
Each car hire company sets a price to its car hire and so are vintage car rentals. When booking, make sure that you ask if there hidden fees so as not to be left in surprises. Inquire there are also other offers that come along the set price.
Take note of decoration
Interestingly, vintage cars do come in different colors and can match with your wedding needs. Therefore, you need to make a choice on that which matches your wedding theme.
Avoid double reservation
When booking, make sure that you do not do it twice as you are only making reservation for that particular day. Why don’t you need to double book? Double booking may come with additional charge which you never planned for.
Check through the replacement policy
Normally, some bridal car hire dealers do have policy where they can replace a car you chose with another in case of break down. In case of vintage, higher chances are that you will need the replacement service than with a modern vehicle.
Confirm parking arrangements
Cross check the parking arrangements with the venues to ensure that there is another ideal place for your wedding car to wait. Vintage cars in most cases come in larger sizes compared to the latest models and can be challenging for one to maneuver. This means you need adequate space for your driver to be in position to park.
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Buganda Culture at Kasubi Tombs
The Kasubi Tombs have always been considered a national monument by Ugandans and the location was recognised internationally as such when it was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 2001. Then, tragedy struck on 16 March 2010 when the tombs were gutted by a fire. It was like a stab in the heart to many Ugandans – but especially the Baganda.
The Kasubi Tombs are a traditional burial site for the late Kabakas. The Kabaka is the king of Buganda. The Kasubi Tombs are also referred to as Ssekabaka’s Tombs in Buganda. It was first constructed in 1881 and is located on Kasubi Hill – 5km out of the city centre. This monument is witness to the well kept traditions of the Baganda people and the tombs hold the remains of four Kings: Muteesa I, Muwanga II, Daudi Chwa II and Sir Edward Muteesa II. The guards and caretakers at the tombs are the descendants of the original guards and caretakers since it was first constructed.
While the fire destroyed some major buildings the remains of the kings were saved by the caretakers. Reconstruction of the tombs has taken some time but did start in July 2012. The delay in reconstruction was due to gathering funds and the investigations into the cause of the fire. The reconstruction will be a replica of the former tombs which were made of reed and bark cloth.
Before the tombs were destroyed, visitors entered by a small gate and would be met by guards dressed in yellow. After paying the entrance fee, a visitor would be assigned a guide to take them around and tell them the history of the tombs. The tombs were located at the end of the compound with other huts surrounding it. Some of the other huts were homes to the widows and granddaughters’ of the former kings and they were charged with the responsibility of looking after the tombs. It is an honor in the Buganda culture to be charged with taking care of the kabaka’s tombs.
The widows, and/or granddaughters, of the kings would sit by the pictures of the king. Visitors were required to take off their shoes before entering the hut to protect the bark cloth carpet that lined the tombs. Inside the tombs, the guide would explain the different artifacts that included spears and the stuffed leopard that was Kabaka Mwanga’s pet.
The tombs still remain an important spiritual and political site to the Baganda people. In as much as the original site was constructed using mud, reeds, and wattle, the main significance of the site is the continuity of the Baganda traditional and spiritual beliefs.
While it is unclear when reconstruction will be completed that does not mean that visitors need to remain away entirely. While there isn’t much to see visitors may still glean information from the guides and caretakers. In Kampala, all schools organize a trip to the Kasubi tombs for classes throughout the year. To learn about the rich Buganda culture, visiting the kasubi tombs is always a good idea. Pictures of the original tombs can be found at the Uganda Museum as well as the Uganda Tourism Board.
To know more about the tombs and the Buganda culture contact the Kabaka Foundation, Bulange in Kampala by phoning +256 412 273 600 or emailing kabakafdtn@utlonline.co.ug. To read more about the Kasubi Tombs go to www.kasubitombs.org.
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