Cross border Car hire in Kenya & Tanzania.
The best self-drive 4×4 car hire options for self-drive tours in Kenya, and Tanzania are the Toyota Land Cruiser, 4×4 Toyota Rav4, Super custom for families and Safari land cruiser. These cars have a great track record and are the most capable and enduring for a 4×4 self-drive in the wild.
Kenya and Tanzania are famous for the wildebeest migration that attracts thousands of Visitors into Masai Mara National Park in Kenya and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Book a very reliable car with Car Rental Tanzania and explore all the hidden treasures of Kenya and Tanzania in a self-guided self-drive adventure. We have huge discounts if you hire our car (s) for more days.
In case you’re anticipating driving you to hire a vehicle from one nation to another, most rental agencies will charge you a ‘cross-cross border fee‘. This is what you have to know.
In case you’re anticipating using a rental vehicle for a self-drive trip across a border, you’ll have to get ready for the additional cost of a cross border fees, this is an extra fee to cover the extra insurance needed when you drive in a different nation from where you hire the vehicle.
Some car rental company don’t charge cross border fees they just get for papers for crossing the border and even advise you on where to buy the insurance needed to drive in any country you plan to visit.
You should simply tell the rental company where you’re anticipating going and they’ll advise you on how much additional you have to pay. They’ll require some notice, so ideally let the agency know you’re itinerary when you book the vehicle, and also before you arrive to pick the vehicle or before they deliver it to you at the airport or at the hotel.
How much do I have to pay to cross a border?
That really depends on where you’re going. Simply let the car rental agency know which border you’re planning to cross with their vehicle and they’ll give all the information and papers you need to cross the board and how much you will pay for insurance.
Why I have to tell the rental company?
In case you don’t inform the rental agency before you drive into another country, you’ll void your insurance/protection. This implies on the off chance that you have an accident, or if your vehicle gets stolen or damaged in another country, you’ll need to pay all cost to the rental agency out of your own pocket.
Most car rental agencies will ask you about your travel plans before they confirm the booking. This gives them enough time to process for you all the information you require, to enlighten you about any fees and process for you all the paperwork you may need to take with you when crossing borders. Along these lines, while booking a vehicle, always tell the company you’re booking with that you’d love to cross the border to another country with your rental vehicle.
Are there any countries I can’t cross into?
Most car rental companies don’t allow clients to cross to some countries with their vehicles most especially those countries in political crises, for example, DRC, South Sudan, Somalia, and others.
Are there any vehicles I can’t take across a border?
It’s not an immovable administer, but rather as a rule you’ll struggle to get a high-value vehicle across a border. Once more, always check with the agency when you book your trip to be safe.
Border Crossing from Kenya to Tanzania
Border crossing from Kenya to Tanzania provides detailed information on how to access the two countries during a safari starting in either Kenya or in Tanzania which also involves crossing the border.
Crossing from Kenya to Tanzania or from Tanzania to Kenya is popular among tourists especially those interested in the wildebeest migration and also experiencing the big five in both countries.
The popular destinations which tourists crossing from any of the two countries visit during their safaris include Kenya and Tanzania. There are lots of attractions to encounter for example the wildlife species and the different natural physical features. Some of the places to visit in Kenya are; Lake Nakuru National Park, Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, Mount Kenya National Park, Nairobi National Park, Nairobi city, Mombasa beaches, Samburu National Park and so many other places. The list of attractions in Kenya is endless, it is upon the travelers to select the best places of his/her own to visit.
Tanzania is one of the best places in Africa to travel to and once there, a visitor never runs out of choices of places to visit. It has numerous national parks like Serengeti, Arusha, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Ngorongoro crater and so forth.
There are different ways to cross from Kenya to Tanzania and they include using road means and also air transport means depending on the choice of the tourist among other factors.
The borders which are used during crossing from Kenya to Tanzania include the following;
Isebania border
Isebania border is the border of Kenya and Tanzania and is found in the northern part of Tanzania and in the southern part of Migori County.
This border is commonly used when crossing from Serengeti national park which is in the northern part of Tanzania to Masai Mara national reserve located in the south western part of Kenya. These two destinations are known for the amazing wildlife viewing experiences they offer to the different visitors who go there annually.
Isebania border is found west of Masai Mara national reserve and is about a 6 hours’ drive to reach this crossing point.
Some of the customs formalities at the Isebania border include vehicles crossing from Kenya to Tanzania or Tanzania to Kenya are required to be registered in both countries to be allowed to cross the border.
For ease in crossing the Isebania border, some of the requirements which may be required include a valid visa, yellow fever vaccination card among others. Presenting these requirements during the border crossing makes the process faster and less strenuous.
Namanga border
Other borders used when crossing from Kenya to Tanzania include the Namanga border which is located in Longido district on the Tanzania side and in Kajiado County in Kenya. This border is located close to attractions such as Amboseli national park and the development of the surrounding areas around the border have been attributed to tourism.
Namanga border is favorable for tourists who wish to go to Africa’s tallest mountain which is mountain Kilimanjaro. The visa formalities when crossing from this border take up less of the tourist’s time compared to other borders and it is preferable to many.
Despite being very busy, Namanga border is relatively and involves a process of going through immigration and customs office that also involves filling out entry and exit cards of both countries, filling the visa form, checking the vehicles used during the crossing of the border, getting inline to see the immigration officer.
Lunga lunga border
Lunga lunga is another border which is used to cross from Kenya to Tanzania especially Mombasa and Tanga or Dar es salaam. This border is located in the south eastern part of Kenya in the southern part of Mombasa.
This border is found in the coastal part of Kenya and some of the formalities at the Lunga lunga border include checking the yellow fever card, waiting in line to clear with immigration followed by crossing to Horohoro on the Tanzanian side.
The Lunga lunga border is about 6.5 km from the Tanzanian side and is open for 24 hours a day.
Loitokitok border
Loitokitok is another border which can be crossed to access Tanzania from Kenya. This border favors travels from Amboseli national park to Marangu and Moshi in Tanzania.
This border is also located at the foothills of Africa’s highest mountain which is Mt Kilimanjaro and beautiful views of this mountain can be seen from the Loitokitok border which is also referred to as Oloitokitok.
The northern trail of Mt Kilimanjaro can be accessed by hikers using the Loitokitok border during their hiking adventures. Different cultures can also be experienced when crossing this border such as the Maasai culture from the side of Kenya and the Chagga people from the Tanzanian side.
There is also an airstrip that can be used for travel in Loitokitok district since this border is another common crossing point between Kenya and Tanzania.
Taveta border;
Another point of crossing from Kenya to Tanzania is Taveta which involves crossing from Voi to Moshi in Tanzania. This border is also known as the Taveta/Holili border.
The taveta border is seen as a one stop border crossing point between Kenya and Tanzania which favors movement between the two countries especially during trade by simplifying entry and exit procedures at a single location.
Taveta border reduces the lengthy processes associated with crossing from one country to another during fulfilling the entry and exit formalities for both vehicles crossing as well as pedestrians.
Conclusion
Visit Kenya and Tanzania to experience many different attractions by getting to know the different borders which you can use during your travel or safari.
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Tsodilo: An Adventure with the Ancestors
Do you love to explore the ancient world full of rocks where history is carved on those giant rocks? Then Tsodilo is one of the best places for you. This place was inscribed in the year 2001 because of its unique religious and spiritual significance to the local peoples. Tsodilo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that lies in the northwestern Botswana in Africa. The best part of this place is that it gives unique record of human settlement of more than millennia.
Tsodilo is comprised of more than 4,500 rock paintings within an area of nearly 10 square kilometers. This could be found within the Kalahari Desert. No wonder, the striking old age paintings that depict deep history of the civilization will fascinate you a lot. Recently, the discovery of 70,000 years old artifacts and a python’s head that has been carved out of stone seems to represent the first known human rituals. Right inside a cave in the Tsodilo hills, the archaeologists discovered a huge stone sculpture of a python. This sculpture was worshipped during 70,000 years ago. The sculpture has a height similar to the height of a human being and is measured close to 20 feet long.
Tsodilo today is a well-known tourist destination where people from every corner of Africa and the world visit just to take a glance of the ancient paintings. While exploring the area, you will feel like living those precious moments that was once lived by the first settlements. It is so great to see something that was made by the people dating back to 70,000 years ago. They might just want us to trace the presence of their civilization and so they formed spectacular rock art.
Six to seven hours drive from Maun will take you to explore the beauty of the highest concentrations of rock art in the entire world. This magnificent attraction is situated in the harsh landscape in the district of Ngamiland. Many people describe Tsodilo as the Louvre of the Desert. It is a home to a rich inheritance of 100,000 years of human activity. In fact, Tsodilo has been honored as a spiritual place by the local people of present generation. Locals say that this place is been visited by the souls of ancestors.
To reach to this ideal and historic destination, you have Sir Seretse Khama International Airport. For accommodation the place offers a variety of options that suites every pocket. All you need is to book completely prepared expedition style 4WD vehicles and explore the area entirely. You will get total four chief hills out of which the highest is the 1400 metres AMSL. It is the highest point in the entire Botswana. All of the four hills are commonly depicted as the Male, but the highest one is the female, chile and an un-named knoll.
You will get managed campsite that is located between the two largest hills. Along with that, showers and toilets are also available. This campsite is situated close to the most renowned of the San paintings at Laurens van der Post Panel. You can reach to the hills through good graded dirt road that lies at a distance of 40 kilometres from Shakawe. Close to the campsite, there is a museum and you can also enjoy an airplane ride, as the place boasts an airstrip.
If you want to experience most of the San rock paintings then head to the Female hill. Here you will get to see the paintings of Whale, Two Rhinos, and the Lion on the Eastern face of the Father. Few of the paintings are dated back to some 24,000 years ago. There are a variety of breathtaking paintings to explore, but could be found comparatively less on the outlying hills. You will get plenty of paintings in the obscure places that are likely to be discovered by the present generation.
The area has been developed for the tourists so that they can explore the area properly. Trails and signs have been installed, but you should explore the paintings with a knowledgeable guide, as the paintings are quite difficult to find out. So enjoy the environment to the fullest and make a real adventure with the ancestors in Tsodilo.
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Is Kenya Safe for Self Drive?
Kenya has had its own horrible past reputation. Because of its past, most Kenya safari travelers opted for structured safaris arranged from their home countries but today, the story is different. Kenya is one of the very few safest and most accessible destinations in Africa, the easiest place to explore and experience even as a solo traveler.
Whereas Kenya is considerably the safest destination compared to other African states, cases of crime in the main cities/towns usually occur. Also, it is important to crosscheck with travel advisories on the current state of the country.
Most often, visitors attract the unwanted attention from beggars or potential pickpockets and you should be keen enough while on the streets of Nairobi or other towns in Kenya.
How a self drive tour in Kenya can be done
Getting to Kenya for self drive
Solo travelers can fly up to Nairobi, the Capital of Kenya a beautiful city with a National Park set adjacent to it. From Nairobi, there are many airlines offering connecting flights between most cities or safari destinations of Kenya whether you want to visit Masai Mara National Reserve for wildebeest migration.
You can also use the SGR train which runs from Nairobi to Mombasa coastal town. Set off from Voi/Mtito Andei to Tsavo National Parks. Railway transportation is the cheapest means to navigate around Kenya while Kenya safari.
The most sought for means that most budget minded travelers often opt for is self-drive car hire in Kenya. We have the best 4×4 rental cars suitable for all road trips to Nairobi National Park, Masai Mara or Tsavo. Contact our team to book your dream ride and have the best of Kenya self drive.
Our fleet of rental cars for your Kenya road trips include among others 4×4 Toyota Rav4, Land Cruiser Hardtop Extended, Safari Land Cruisers, Super Customs, Land Cruiser GX Diesel Engine, Camper Vehicle with camping gear to Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Safari Vehicle.
Where to go for Kenya self drive tour
Kenya boasts of about 54 National Parks and Reserves and noted for its remarkable self drive experiences. Some of the best places not to miss visiting for unforgettable self drive experience in Kenya include the Masai Mara National Reserve most visited for wildebeest migration experience, big five game viewing etc.
Amboseli National Park, most popular for its large herds of elephants and mesmerizing views of the Kilimanjaro Mountains-snow-capped mountain. Tsavo National Parks-Tsavo East, Tsavo West also offer the best of Kenya self drive safari experience in Kenya.
Samburu National Reserve, a perfect semi-desert reserve set along the Northern side of Kenya. Ewaso Ngiro is the largest river in Kenya and it flows via the Samburu National Reserve. The protected area boasts of its significant wildlife species including cheetahs, elephants, leopards, lions, wild dog etc.
For unique experiences, don’t miss to visit Aberdares National Park in the western side of Mount Kenya. Chyulu Hills set between Tsavo and Amboseli N.Parks, Kimana Sanctuary and others.
Be aware of the weather
While on self-drive Kenya, weather conditions are key to take note of. In Kenya, the weather is largely temperate with Nairobi often experiencing cool weather conditions and temperature rise of 28 degrees celsius from the months of January, February, March during the day and at night 14 degrees celsius especially from July to August.
However, Kenya is an all year round self drive destination except the wetter/rainy months of the year. That is April, May, June and October, November when roads can be muddy.
Travel insurance
If you plan to visit Kenya soon, it is wise to have travel insurance. This can help safe you a lot from cases of sickness, theft etc.
What carry
Pack appropriately for your self drive Kenya starting with phone charger, bed sheets, insect repellents, safari shoes, cameras, daypack, first aid kit, valid driver’s license, sunglasses, bottled water and others.
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Top 10 Tips for Africa Travellers
Going on a vacation in Africa with your loved ones is indeed, one of the most fun-filled and joyous experiences. You get to discover the most beautiful places, exotic landscapes, virgin forests, and so much more. Traveling involves careful planning and there are travel agents who will help you to organize some of your tour preparations.
When traveling, planning is very important as it will give you enough time to decide which things need to be done first and what essential items to be carried.
- First of all, keep your travel documents securely and if you are planning overseas vacation, do not wait until the last minute to obtain, update passports or visas as this may require several weeks.
- To get the competitive rates for your transportation and holiday accommodations, you will need to make your reservations in advance. You can obtain some best bargains during the off-season when demand will be low.
- Along with travel documents and your clothing, you must carry medication that you or any of your family members may require. Before embarking on a trip, check to make sure that you are allowed to travel with certain medications as some countries have strict rules concerning certain drugs.
- Your best protection is to be careful, book your tours through trustworthy agencies, and if possible avoid traveling alone to an unfamiliar destination. Try to know the traditions and local culture of the destination before you start your trip. It is important to do your homework and know the area you will be visiting and the applicable laws, locations of best tourist spots, and the kind of people you will have to interact with.
- As a result of terrorist activities, airports have increased their security inspections before allowing passengers to board. Get to the airport sufficiently early to manage the security check-in congestion. The locks for your luggage must be Travel Security Administration (TSA) approved ones so that your luggage can be opened for inspection without having to break your locks.
- When traveling, be constantly aware of your surroundings to guard against pickpockets. Travel with no more than two credit cards, and notify the card companies that you will be traveling so that they will not put a hold on your cards when they notice charges from unfamiliar places.
- Before leaving on a vacation with your family, make sure you have enough money and adequately financially equipped such that you do not run out of cash during the tripe. It is good to budget your expenses beforehand and avoid overspending.
- Carry a digital camera that uses AA batteries instead of a camera that uses proprietary batteries. They are less expensive to replace, easy to charge and are easily available wherever you go.
- When packing your clothes pile them up one on top of another and then fold them to fit into a portable suitcase. This will mean less creasing and you will not have to run around in wrinkled. Always pack each box or suitcase with a mixture of clothing of each family member traveling. Even if a bag is lost, no one will be left with out changing clothes. Further, you will only have to open and repack one suitcase at each hotel. Please note that Africa may require different clothing. Try to study the country you are to visit in advance or an adventure activity you are taking for instance gorilla trekking, rafting, mountain climbing, require special clothing.
- Finally, do not expect everything on your vacation to be perfect. You are possibly going to your dream destination and if you are taking your kids along you will certainly have challenging moments. Forget all about the worries and enjoy the vacation and your hard-earned rest.
Wish you a nice safari in Africa!
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10 Best places for a Road Trip in Uganda
Uganda’s adventurous gems are all scattered throughout the country. These gems include; National parks, mountains, hills, lakes, rivers, cultural sites, religious sites, historical sites, urban centers, and museums among others. The location of these different sites in different corners of the country makes the country one of the best destinations in Africa for road trips.
Some of the best places you shouldn’t miss on a Self-drive Ugandan road trip include the following.
Entebbe town
Botanical Gardens Entebbe
Entebbe town is the entry point to Uganda as it is where the international airport is found. Entebbe is proving to be a matchless urban destination in Uganda for tourism. Entebbe is a rewarding tour center especially for visitors who are interested in a road trip to the countryside. The city offers opportunities for day tours because it is a small site most tourist attractions are within a walkable distance, one can easily explore on foot places like; the Botanical gardens for bird watching, primate watching, and plant identification.
The Uganda wildlife education center is a zoo with activities like wildlife viewing, behind-the-scenes program, keeper for the day, chimpanzee viewing, among others. When leaving Entebbe, join the roadside markets popularly on days like Tuesday in Kitoro town for some little shopping or watching the daily lives of Ugandan people in the local markets before proceeding to Kampala.
Kampala city
Kampala City
Kampala capital is about 40km from Entebbe town, it is a perfect place to have a road trip because the city is absolutely rich when it comes to city tours. The city has a variety of sites that any visitor can enjoy during a road trip in Uganda including religious sites cultural sites like Ndere cultural center, historical sites, archeological sites, museums, and monuments among others. Religious sites to visit include; the Namugongo shrine, Bahai temple, Gadafi mosque, Namirembe, and Rubaga cathedrals.
Historical sites include the Uganda museum, the parliament of Uganda, and the Ndere cultural center. Cultural sites to explore include Entanda cultural sites and Sezibwa falls. All these make the capital Kampala one of the best places for a self-drive road trip.
Igongo cultural center
Igongo cultural center
This is a cultural center located in the western Uganda area along Masaka-Mbarara road in Mbarara district. This is an awesome spot for travelers to have a stopover for lunch or even for an overnight stay. Igongo culture is currently the major cultural center in the entire west and southwestern region of Uganda. This center has a museum that showcases at least most of the traditional aspects of the Ankole people. Visitors have a taste of the Ankole culture through the traditional foods that are served in the restaurant and on the displays. A road trip to western Uganda must never miss the Igongo cultural center for a great cultural experience.
Lake Mburo National Park
Elands In Lake Mburo National Park
This is a special site where every part is lively with a variety of natural wonders. This park is one of Uganda’s smallest protected areas covering only 260 sq. km and being a savannah park it harbors several mammals like Buffaloes, Impalas, Zebras, and numerous bird species including the rare shoebill stork which can be sighted in particular parts of the country.
The Park is generally a beautiful place with sculptured landscapes and rolling grassy hills with abundant forest galleries, seasonal and permanent swamps. Road trip travelers can explore the park through different activities like birding for over 313 bird species in the park, boat trips in Lake Mburo are remarkable to see diverse water animals and marine species like crocodiles, hippos, and the birds, a forest walk in Rubanga forest with beautiful sounds of over 40 bird species. Fishing and nature trails are some of the best alternatives in Lake Mburo Park. Accommodation for night stays like Mantana luxury tented camp and Mihingo lodge is available around the park. From here you can proceed to Queen Elizabeth National park.
Queen Elizabeth National park
Tree Climbing Lions
Also situated on the western side of Uganda is Queen Elizabeth National Park. This is the best next and closest destination to Lake Mburo national park during a road trip in Uganda. It offers the best wildlife safaris in Uganda due to its diversity with wildlife. Incredible safari activities like game viewing for large herds of elephants, lions, buffaloes, Uganda Kobs, wild dogs, and lions among others.
The launch cruise allows travelers to float along the 40-kilometer Kazinga channel while watching the abundance of bird species flying over, the crocodiles, hippos, and monitor lizards, Buffaloes on the channel cooling off the hot weather.
You will later join the Ishasha sector for the rare tree-climbing lions and the park’s multiple crater lakes like Lake Katwe where salt is mined traditionally. Accommodation in the park is available with a variety of facilities ranging from luxury, mid-range, and budgets like Mweya safari lodge, Ihamba lodge, Katara lodge, mazike safari lodge, Kyambura game lodge, Bush Lodge, Simba Safari Camp, and various campsites at Mweya peninsular.
Fort portal
Fort portal is a town located in western Uganda greatly famous for its cultural heritage of the Tooro people. Fort portal is the right place to explore while encountering sites like the crater fields, like the Ndali- Kasenda crater in the northwest of Fort portal town. These crater fields are impressive with beautiful scenery and also offer beautiful hiking experiences. Best of all is the cultural and heritage sites like the Karambi tombs where the Tooro kings are buried, the Tooro Royal palace with its magnificent building, and the Amabere ganyinamwiru caves that showing the Chwezi era that make the road trip culturally rewarding.
Tea cycling is also another experience as you ride in the famous Mpanga tea plantation while viewing the beautiful lush tea estates. After the fort portal tour, the visitor can proceed to Kibale forest national park.
Kibale forest national park
Kibale National Park is found in the borders of Fort Portal and is the capital of primates in the entire world with up to 13 species of primates including Chimpanzees, black and white Colubus Monkeys, Red Colubus, and L’Hoest monkeys. The major attractions in Kibale national park are the Chimpanzee and over 300 bird species that can be explored on foot. The park is best for activities like chimp trekking, nature walks, and birding in the Bigodi wetlands with a variety of bird species.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
This is home to more than half of the world’s last remaining population of endangered mountain gorillas. The park has over 20 habituated gorilla groups available for tracking. Gorilla tracking and habituation experience is the main tourist activity to this park. Other tourist attractions include bird watching, Batwa community tour, and Forest walks.
Gorilla permits are in high demand throughout the year and each costs US$600(to be increased to $700 effective 1st July 2020), and US$1500 for gorilla habituation experience and can be acquired through a trusted travel agency.
Clouds Mountain gorilla lodge, Nkuringo gorilla camp, Lake Mutanda resort, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Gorilla Mist Camp, Havens Gorilla Lodge, Bakiga Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, and many others are the accommodation facilities available in the park.
Murchison Falls National Park
This is Uganda’s biggest and oldest National Park located on the northwestern side of the country. The park derives its name from the magnificent Murchison falls which is the main tourist attraction to this park. The main tour activities here include game viewing, a fantastic boat cruise to the bottom of the falls, hiking to the top of the falls, nature walks, night game drives, chimpanzee tracking, birding, and habituation experience in Kaniyo Pabidi forest reserve among others. Ziwa Rhino sanctuary is the only place for Rhino tracking in Uganda.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary:
Ziwa Rhino sanctuary is home to Uganda’s wild Rhinos, the sanctuary is located about 176km north of Kampala the capital of Uganda along Kampala- Gulu highway just before Murchison falls national park. Ziwa is a great adventure place for families and groups with children. Imagine walking on foot while tracking with the children is so adventurous with an armed ranger, one can get as close as 30 feet to Rhinos. Guests can also have fun on the boat ride and sighting the ancient Shoebill stork which is one of the rare bird species in entire Africa. Ziwa sanctuary is absolutely one of the best destinations for family safaris with an amazing experience of tracking Rhinos in the sanctuary, plus great meals and accommodation from Amuka Safari lodge.
CONCLUSION
It’s Important to Understand the places you must never miss in Uganda as you plan your self-drive trip, all the regions in Uganda are uniquely gifted with special tour attractions that can only be discovered in a single self-drive road trip. The best places to visit have been shared to make it easy for you to choose which place to add to your itinerary.
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Tanzania Car Hire Tricks to know
Hiring a vehicle is normally the last thing that comes in the minds of many travelers yet it is one most significant factor any holidaymaker should put into consideration when planning a vacation in Tanzania. Are you looking to renting a car in Tanzania for your next family holiday or looking to a memorable vacation in Tanzania? Here, we bring you amazing 7 car rental tricks you should know before you make any booking. Understanding these car hire tricks prior making any reservation is a great deal for you to have a successful vacation.
Compare different car rental deals
Finding the best car rental deal in Tanzania can be challenging considering the many car hire agencies/companies. While you search for your best deal, note, not all dealers are the same. You realize some offer relatively affordable rated compared to the rest and also come with other amazing offers for you to enjoy. Also, the car hire services differ significantly from one car rental dealer to another.
Well, not to have a stressful moment on your arrival day at Arusha airport or any airport, ensure that you plan your things early. This will help you make comparisons on rates online, car rental services from different car hire agencies before you choose the ideal one to book your car with. Make the best use of Google to search for your best car rental dealer.
Check out for rewards programs & coupons
Like most hotel chains, often families get rewards for staying at their properties and a case may apply to car rental companies/agencies. Most programs are free to join and discounts are provided on car seat rentals and additional drivers. At times, you can earn points which you will enjoy on future rentals. In case you are like many and you are not a frequent person who rents cars, still you may enjoy free car upgrades and front of the line pick up privileges. Or you can even save a lot on your rental, check out online for rental car coupons. Higher chances are you may land into different discount offers and opportunity to enjoy unlimited mileage among others.
Avoid booking rental car at the airport
Reserving a rental car at the airport can be convenient for many but be mindful of extra charges. These often come as concession recovery charges/customer facility charges which only means that you are hiring a car at the airport. But it is easier to skip these additional charges by renting your car through your trusted car rental agency/company.
Pay keen attention on hidden charges
Most car hire companies charge additional fees for refueling in case you bring back the car with less gas than you took it. Take note of company’s gas/fuel policy, some require that the gas gauge on pick up should be the same even the car is returned. Not to worry much about this, most car rental companies provide a pre-purchase alternative which lets you buy a full tank of gas upon picking up the car. You can also contact the car rental company if you plan to hire a car for 7 days but you want to return it after just 3 days. For this case, your daily prices may increase. Read and understand the different terms and conditions of the car rental company you plan to deal with.
Skip rental insurance
Most car rentals are insured and therefore, there is no need for you to get rental insurance again. Also, credit card companies may also cover car rentals and that why it is essential to cross-check before taking another insurance coverage. If any of these options aren’t there then better you sign up for rental insurance via the car hire agency/company you plan to rent a car with for your Tanzania safari holidays.
Come with your own car seats
If you plan to travel with children on Tanzania safari then you may require a car seat/booster seat especially for seats with seat belts that don’t fit well on the children. This can save you from additional fees as you will be required to rent from the company or even avoid the stress when you don’t find.
Understand the rules for hiring a car in Tanzania
Rules for renting a car in another destination like Tanzania are not the same as it is back in your home country. Learn more about the different terms and conditions for renting a car from various car rental companies. This will help you know what is required of you, acceptable age to drive a rental in Tanzania, mode of payment, fuel policy, pick up and drop off policy among others.
Read MoreBad Driving Habits to Avoid While on Self Drive in Tanzania
Driving in a foreign country can be troublesome for first time travelers. In most Africa countries, it is important to know that self drive is not for first time travelers. If you are looking to safe travels, it is important to be in the know of the strict rules and good driving etiquette before you hit the road.
With Tanzania becoming a favorite destination for those looking to self drive holidays, it is important to know which bad driving habits not to bring into this peaceful nation.
To most drivers, the one bad driving habit they know and have been warned yet still violated is ‘Don’t drink and drive’. But there is a long list of bad habits solo travelers and others on self-drive in Tanzania or any destination should avoid. By being keen on these bad driving habits, you will certainly have a smooth road trip in Tanzania.
Resting your hand on the gear stick
Normally, driving instructors do advise that you keep both hands on the wheel at all times. Instead, most people have developed a bad driving habit of just resting their hands on the shifter. The gear stick is linked to a selector fork and this is designed to make contact with a rotating collar for a short amount of time. In case you rest your hand on the gearstick, you may need a synchronizer and bushings of the transmission to handle more weight than normal hence resulting into internal wear.
Always keeping the pressure on the brake pedal while driving downslope
This is one bad driving habit that can kill your car faster. Yes, driving down slope can be challenging but most drivers tend to make it a habit to keep their foot on the pedal to ease slow down movement. But the best thing could be to shift into a lower gear and this can slow down the car as you slope without putting pressure on brake pedals and rotors.
Not minding about warning lights
Usually, people tend to ignore warnings like bulb gone/washer fluid till they make a stop. And yet such may need to be noticed as early as possible. Ignoring them may result into damaging your gearbox and you will need to change its parts at the time not recommended.
Keeping on the clutch while driving uphill
In case you are driving an automatic car rental, there is no need to stay on the clutch while driving uphill. This may apply to manual vehicles. The best is to make use of automatic brake hold system while in that position. If your vehicle doesn’t have, then make the best use of hand brake.
Overloading the car
Every car has its recommended carrying capacity. This is why you should be certain of the number of people you plan to travel with so as to find a suitable car to fit all of them. Overloaded car can strain most elements of the brake, suspension among others.
Not using the parking brakes
Not using parking brake can be dangerous and it may require that the parking pawl works harder and eventually, it can break.
Not warming car engine
This looks obvious but a huge mistake many make. Before you set off, the engine should have warmed for some good time. Note, nearly all cars start with cold engines and that is why it is important to have them warmed before setting off.
Keeping the fuel tank to almost empty
This is another bad driving habit which needs to be avoided. Note, oil pumps can heat up and, in the process, the friction between the engine parts can increase in case it is not submerged in adequate fuel. The best is to go for full-tank to avoid such cases and this is even healthy for your engine.
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5 Best Places Where to Go Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking is a reason alone for a trip to the Eastern part of Africa. Thousands of travelers from different parts of the world are welcomed to numerous countries like Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo for this remarkable experience.
This great adventure is a must-do and grants tourists an opportunity to meet the rarely seen species of Gorillas in the Jungle. It includes treks through the Jungle until you discover the exact location of the Gorilla family you are tracing for. So it is no surprise that every participant is required to be physically fit.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Declared as a National Park, Bwindi is located just at the rim of the great Albertine Rift Valley in the Western part of Uganda. It covers a total area of 331 square kilometers which spans three districts including Kisoro, Kabale, and Rukungiri. This is the most popular destination for gorilla safaris in Africa.
Part of the park is occupied by the impenetrable Bwindi Forest, a great home to a plethora of Mountain Gorillas. The Park’s altitude range between 1160 meters and 2607 meters up to the Rwamanyonyi peak. It receives heavy rainfall in the months of March, April, September, and November, then the rest of the months are dry.
Adding to Gorillas, Bwindi is home to a number of 120 mammals including eleven primates, 360 species of birds, 324 tree species, and 200 butterflies. After Gorilla trekking in Bwindi, you can partake in other activities like bird watching, forest walks, and Batwa community visits.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
If not Bwindi, Mgahinga is a perfect alternative for those who would wish to trek Gorillas in Uganda. Located in Kisoro district, southwestern Uganda, this park is 55 km west of Kabale and 15 km south of Kisoro town.
It was established in 1991 to protect a number of Wildlife species including the Mountain Gorillas. Three volcanic mountains (Muhabura, Gahinga, and mount Sabyinyo add to a number of incredible scenery in the Park’s boundaries.
What’s more, this 33.9 square kilometers park is amongst the three parks that form the Virunga massif. Its bamboo forests, tropical rainforests, and Afromontane forests are home not only to Gorillas, but also to other species like Golden monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and red colobus monkeys, birds to name but a few.
Kahuzi Biega National Park
Not like the above four listed parks, Kahuzi Biega National Park differs itself unique from the species of the Eastern Lowland Gorillas. It is tucked far away in the Eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Its name was derived from the two volcanoes (mount Kahuzi and Biega) that occupy part of its total area. Its ecosystem which consists of grasslands, dry savannah, bamboo forests, swamps, and rainforests is inhabited by multiple species including 349 birds, insects, and 136 mammals.
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7 Best Family Cars to Hire in East Africa
Family trips on East African road trip are amazing! But finding a suitable Uganda car rental is the most challenging part of it all. Your choice of rental car matters a lot when choosing the kind of car for your family tour or any road trip in East Africa. It plays a significant role if you are to have a fun-filled road trip. You need a car with comfortable seats, lots of amenities and also comes with amazing offers.
We have variety of family size cars suitable for road trips in East Africa. Interestingly, our fleets of family car rentals are fitted with air conditioners, FM radio, CD player and above all, they are reliable, safe and save a lot on fuel.
Safari Land Cruiser (Hard top, V8 or VX)
We have a range of Safari Land Cruisers suitable for family trips. You can choose from our comfortable Safari Land Cruiser Hardtop, Land Cruiser VX, Land Cruiser V8. These are all ideal for visitor exploration in East Africa’s premier destinations such as Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, Serengeti National Park, Masai Mara National Reserve, Akagera National Park and many more.
Our land cruisers are available with capacity range of 5 to 8pax. They are the best not for only family trips but also outdoor camping safaris anywhere in East Africa. They are equipped with air conditioners, pop-up rooftop, mini fridge and a lot more.
Toyota Prado- TX, TZ, GX
Book our excellent 4×4 Toyota Prado and have the best of East Africa holiday. Our fleet of Toyota Prado rentals exist with capacity of about 6pax. You enjoy great features such as an MP3, CD, FM Radio, air conditioner, pop up roof/sun roof offering ultimate game viewing experience. Visitors can book Toyota Prado TX, TZ or Toyota Prado GX at affordable rate.
Toyota Rav4
Have a fun-filled family trip in East Africa by using our 4×4 Toyota Rav4. Our Toyota Rav4 rentals are available in 4WD and preferably the best for family trips, self-drive tours in East Africa. They accommodate from 2 to 4 visitors, fully equipped with Fm radio, air conditioner and comprehensively insured.
Toyota Super Custom
Toyota Super Customs are available in 4×4 and capacity of 7pax. They are the best for East Africa safaris and come with pop-up thus allowing you enjoy excellent view of wildlife in East Africa’s savanna protected areas. They are fitted with best air conditioners, FM radio, spacious boot and many other amenities.
Safari minivan
For sightseeing tours, look no further than Safari minivans. Our minivans are available with capacity of about 9 clients. You enjoy amazing view of wildlife given the pop-up rooftop. The other amenities that come with safari minivans include air conditioners, adequate space, comfortable seats making them the most preferred for East Africa safaris.
Coaster minibus
For all large group safaris, book coaster minibuses. These are available with capacity of 25 to 35 people. They are ideal for family trips, weddings, company gateways, introductions.
Saloon cars
Book saloon cars for your family travels and you won’t regret. These are perfect for small group travels, family tours, conference, weddings and others.
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Best 4×4 Car Rentals in Dodoma
Get an ultimate road trip experience in Tanzania using any of our Dodoma 4×4 rental cars. We have a wide-selection of 4×4 car hire in Dodoma offering you complete flexibility, total privacy and freedom to explore Tanzania at your own pace. Our 4×4 rental cars in Dodoma include the latest SUVs-the Sport Utility Vehicles also best known as the off-road vehicles such as the 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser, 4×4 Toyota Rav4, 4×4 Nissan X trail, full-size 4×4 Safari Land Cruisers, Safari Mini Vans, Land Rovers, Toyota Prado, Hilux Double Cabin Pick ups to mention but a few.
4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser
Rent 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser from Dodoma at an affordable price and have a great opportunity to explore Tanzania uniquely. Our 4×4 Land Cruiser has a capacity of 2pax, diesel engine of 130 liters, power steering, fitted with snorkel, ABS, Radio, CD, fuel economy, air conditioner and available in manual transmission.
4×4 Toyota Prado
Go explore the magical Tanzania using our 4×4 Toyota Prado SUV This is fitted with power mirror, air conditioning, windows stereo tape, CD player, ABS, adequate space, 5 doors, powerful engine and it is comprehensively insured.
Toyota Rav4
Start your road trip from Dodoma comfortably using our 4×4 Toyota Rav4. It is compact and fitted with stereo tape, CD players, air conditioners, air bags and this is available in manual or automatic transmission. Toyota Rav4 can be rented for self-drive tour or chauffeur driven/car rental with the driver.
Saloon car/Sedan
We have a range of saloon vehicles/sedans/station wagons consisting of 4 doors, available in manual and automatic transmission. They are available in Toyota Premio, Hyundai Accent fitted with powerful engine 1.3 cc, air bags, MP3, CD players, power windows and mirrors, 2WD.
Safari Mini Van
Hire Safari Mini Van for your Tanzania safaris from Dodoma and have a memorable trip. This exists in custom made Toyota Hiace/Nissan Urvan featuring pop-up roof for excellent wildlife viewing experiences, comfortable seats. Other incredible features that come with include MP3, CD player, capacity of 6 to 8pax, adequate space and available in 2WD/4x4WD with 4 doors. Travelers on Tanzania tour choose between automatic and manual transmission.
Safari Land Cruiser
Our custom-made Safari Land Cruisers feature pop up roof providing excellent wildlife viewing experience to tourists. These can be rented with driver and they are among the best 4×4 Land Cruiser category. They are available with 5 doors, manual transmission and fitted with MP3, CD player.
Why choose Car Rental Tanzania for your Tanzania safaris?
- Opportunity to enjoy unlimited mileage
- No drop off charges involved
- Fun-filled road trip
- Comfort
- Safety and security
- 24/7 road assistance
- Flexibility