Tips

Qualities of a Good Rwanda Car Rental Service

When it comes to renting a car in Rwanda, choosing a reliable and reputable car rental service is crucial. Whether you are a tourist exploring the beautiful landscapes of Rwanda or a local in need of transportation, a good car rental service can make your experience hassle-free and enjoyable. In this article, we will discuss the qualities of a good Rwanda car rental service to help you make an informed decision.

Wide Range of Vehicle Options:

A good car rental service in Rwanda should offer a wide range of vehicle options to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of their customers. Whether you need a compact car for city driving, an SUV for off-road adventures, or a luxury vehicle for a special occasion, a reliable car rental service will have a diverse fleet to choose from.

Well-Maintained Vehicles:

One of the most important qualities of a good car rental service is the condition of their vehicles. The cars should be well-maintained, clean, and in good working order. Regular servicing and maintenance ensure that you have a safe and comfortable driving experience during your rental period. Additionally, the rental service should conduct thorough inspections and provide necessary documents like insurance and registration for each vehicle.

Transparent Pricing:

Transparency in pricing is another essential quality of a good car rental service. The rental company should provide clear and detailed information about their pricing structure, including rental rates, additional fees, and any conditions or restrictions that may apply. Hidden charges and surprises at the time of billing can lead to a negative customer experience, so a reputable rental service will ensure that all pricing information is easily accessible and communicated upfront.

Excellent Customer Service:

Customer service is a key aspect of any business, and car rental services are no exception. A good car rental service will have a friendly and knowledgeable customer support team that is readily available to assist you with your inquiries, bookings, and any issues that may arise during your rental period. Prompt responses, clear communication, and a willingness to go the extra mile for customer satisfaction are signs of a reliable and customer-centric car rental service.

Flexible Rental Terms:

Different customers have different needs when it comes to car rentals. A good car rental service understands this and offers flexible rental terms to accommodate various requirements. Whether you need a car for a few hours, a day, a week, or longer, a reputable rental service will have options to suit your specific needs. They should also provide convenient pick-up and drop-off locations, allowing you to access their services with ease.

Local Knowledge and Support:

Rwanda is a country known for its unique attractions and diverse road conditions. A good car rental service in Rwanda should have in-depth knowledge of the local areas, road networks, and driving regulations. They should be able to provide you with useful tips and recommendations for your travel plans. Furthermore, in case of any emergencies or breakdowns, a reliable car rental service will offer 24/7 roadside assistance and support to ensure your safety and peace of mind.

In conclusion, when choosing a car rental service in Rwanda, it is important to consider the qualities mentioned above. A good car rental service will offer a wide range of well-maintained vehicles, transparent pricing, excellent customer service, flexible rental terms, and local knowledge and support. By selecting a reliable car rental service, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable experience during your time in Rwanda, making your journey all the more memorable

Common Rwanda Safari Scams You Should Not Fall for this Year

Would you like to know some of the common scams that travelers fall in? Here are some of the common ones you should not fall for while on your Rwanda safari this year: Like other business sectors or fields, the tourism and travel sector has had cases related to scam leaving a negative picture in the sector. Although these cases are minor, but there is need to exercise caution because some elements could be targeting innocent visitors. When booking or while on Rwanda safaris, typical scams can be encountered while in Kigali, Kibuye, etc. Here are some of the common Rwanda safari scams you should not fall for in 2023.

Picture scam

The most famous scam you are likely to encounter is the picture scam. This is when a local asks for you to take their pictures, the camera is handed to you. Once you return the camera, they intentionally drop it and throw blame on you to have broken it then demand for payment. Never accept to take anyone’s picture to be on a safer side.

Overcharging by taxis

Often visitors want to connect to their destinations faster before it is late and opt for taxis, especially in situations where there is no uber or other alternatives. Once you have boarded a taxi, please feel free to ask them to turn on the meter and as well, ensure that you keep mapping your journey before you take a taxi. This can give you prior idea of how long your journey is likely to take.

Friendly ATM helpers

Often, there are cases where a person approaches you at the ATM cash machine disguising to offer help, please avoid such elements as much as possible. They do so with intentions to scan your debit/credit card with their card skimmer in their pocket and keep watching you enter the pin number and by the time you are done, they could have drained your account. Alternatively, they can approach you especially when your card has issues and they will seem to assist you solve the issue. While at the ATM, ensure that your card number is well covered. Or better still, you can have credit card or enough cash to exchange to local currency to avoid frequenting to the ATM.

Friendly bar friends

For those of you who may have plans to hook up in Kigali or Kibuye or any big town in Rwanda, you should also be aware of this scam. You can be approached by 2 friendly girls/guys who will start conversing and make you believe as if you have mutual interest. They will suggest to you to go for a drink and invite you to the bar, then after you will end up paying for about 5 to 10 times or more for small shots. If you want to be on a safer side, you should be the one to suggest the bar or ask the bar attendant for menu & you can be in position to see the rates yourself.

Guessing game scam

This kind of scam is also common in big cities in Rwanda and the rest of the world where you may find a man with 3 boxes and with a group of people surrounding him. They will be guessing in which box the ball is found and one of them can guess it right then money is handed to him as a prize. They do it multiple times so that more of their members join with similar reaction. More and more people can gather and as a result, they can be pick pocketing.

Bird poop scam

Often there is a group that intentionally throws a bit of white paste on someone’s shoulders as a way to divert your attention and you think perhaps it was bird poop. From nowhere, a friendly person can come to provide assistance of cleaning you up and as they seem to help you, their hands will be already inside your pocket. Only accept such help if it is an emergency.

FAQs About Renting a Car in Rwanda

Whether it’s for a business meeting or a family touring, if you’re in a new city without a ride, you’ll need a rental car. Or, you may not even be in a new location; you may simply need one because your vehicle is out for repairs. Either way, before you sign an agreement with a rental company, there are a few questions you should ask to avoid problems like unexpected charges.

What Essential Questions to Ask Before Renting a Car

What fees are included in the rental?

When looking for Rwanda Car rental, the basic quote won’t include everything. Usually, they’ll omit things like taxes or fees. For example, suppose you’re renting at an airport rental desk. In that case, there’s usually an extra fee for that, compared to doing so at the rental facility itself. The quotes will also be missing details on extras like an infant car seat if you need it.

What are the terms of the return process?

Most rental car companies adhere to the same return process, but it’s good to confirm. Usually, they expect a full tank of gas when you drive it back to the facility. There, an attendant will take a quick look at the conditions to ensure there is no damage. If everything looks good, you’ll return the key and get a receipt in exchange. Car rental companies charge you in 24 hour increments based on the time you picked up the vehicle. Most companies allow a 45 minute grace period beyond your return time, but exceed that and you can find yourself paying for another day’s worth of rental fees.

Where am I allowed to drive the rental car?

Depending on where you book your rental car, there may be geographic restrictions. Generally speaking, you’ll be prohibited from driving into a different country, even if you’re close to the border. Aside from that, there may also be a daily mileage limit. If you return the car and you’re over the limit, you’ll be charged for the extra miles.

What forms of payment do you accept?

Finally, there’s the issue of payment. Like any business establishment, the rental car company may not take every form of payment. If you prefer to pay with cash or your debit card, make sure to ask them whether they’ll accept it from the get-go. If you’re on a tight schedule, you may end up wasting precious time going through the process.

What is my liability if I’m involved in fender-bender (or worse)?

A simple accident can be a big hassle and in some foreign countries could land you in jail, require a large deposit on your credit card or delay departure until the matter is settled.

Do I need extra insurance?

Most business oriented credit cards such as American Express and Visa Business Card offer added insurance. So does your personal automobile insurance policy. Each year it’s a good idea to call your credit card company and personal insurance and determine what coverage you have for both domestic and international car rentals.

What are the terms of my rental agreement?

It’s a good idea to call your car rental company or review their web site to determine the terms and policy of the rental agreement. Be sure to ask about who can drive the car, where the car needs to be park, what happens if you need to extended your rental, and if the rental company is responsible in case of a mechanical failure.

Where do I keep my rental contract?

In most cases the answer to this is in the car. The rental agreement is usually used as the car’s registration, providing ownership and liability information for peace officers.

What do I do if I have a problem with the car or need to keep it longer than planned?

When you pick up the car, be sure to find out the phone numbers to call in case of an accident, breakdown or rental extension. You can also call the companies toll free customer service number.

What are my fuel options?

Rental cars usually come with a full tank of gas with drivers responsible for returning their vehicle in the same condition. When you have a lot of driving ahead one option that can save time and money is the “Fuel Purchase Option” or “Fuel Service Option” this option allows you to pre purchase fuel at a price slightly under the average market price when you pick up the car. This plan is helpful when you have a tight schedule and know that you will use at least one tank of gas.

Is the car you’re renting suitable?

Not all cars are appropriate for all trips. Is it big enough for all your bags and passengers? Are you tackling a lot of steep hills or going off road? You might need to rent a 4×4 then.

Equally, some rental companies forbid you to drive certain car types on certain roads. If you want to drive those “forbidden” roads, you will need to rent a model suitable for them.

Why take a self-drive in Rwanda?

A self-drive gives you the freedom and flexibility to decide on where you travel and what you see and do at your own pace.

Do I require an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is proof that you hold a valid driver’s licence in your home country at the date of issue of the IDP. This should be carried with your domestic drivers licence. It is a very useful travel document and is required or recommended for many countries when hiring a motor vehicle. How do I receive confirmation?

What else is included in car rental?

Our car rentals come with GPS, guide books, travel magazines, free boxes of bottled water, travel map, meaning visitors on self-drive are covered too.

Conclusion

Car renting is more trending where now many travelers prefer going for the holiday driving on their own tunes. So before one can go for renting a car in Rwanda may have burning concerns about how to rent a car in Rwanda, essential requirements, pick up and return, hiring policies, terms, and conditions, insurance, and many more as we digested them above.

Mistakes to Avoid on Uganda and Rwanda Safaris

Everyone traveling to Uganda or Rwanda wishes to have the best and unforgettable safari experience. Safety, security, comfort and peace of mind are the things most tourists wish for. Therefore, if that is also your wish, then these are the mistakes you should avoid during Uganda and Rwanda safaris.

Avoid moving alone at night

Moving alone in lonely places is risky because of the high rate of theft and robbery in Urban places especially Kampala city. It is therefore advisable to move with someone, preferable a local of the country although it is better and safer to move during daytime during safaris.

Similarly, avoid some nightclubs

Most nightclubs within Kampala are not safe because it is in such places that most tourists are robbed, murdered and get involved in fights. Not only that, never leave your drinks unattended to because you may be dragged and robbed in the process. If you must enjoy the nightlife in these countries, avoid flashing money and valuables, do not use the ATM machines within Bars, don’t leave your mobile phone on the table and avoid “buying” prostitutes because they look beautiful but are “sometimes” either infected with HIV/AIDS or are thieves themselves and make sure top move with a friend (a local who understands the local languages)

Avoid motorcycle taxis or boda-boda transportation

Boda-boda motorcycles are one of the main reasons for the increasing accident cases within Uganda or Rwanda. This means of transport is undeniably faster and efficient but can also be the reason for you losing your valuables and life because some of the riders and robbers. While on  safari in Uganda, it is important to use only safe bodas.

Make sure not to fall sick in Rwanda and Uganda

Try not to fall sick during Uganda and Rwanda safaris. It sounds weird and you are possibly wondering how you can control it but try to prevent some common things than suffering the effects of curing the sickness. Some of the ways to avoid falling sick include immunizing against yellow fever, carry malaria medications, avoid street foods, don’t drink tap water and you will be good to go. Nonetheless, the good news is that most travelers don’t fall sick during Uganda or Rwanda safaris.

Avoid eating street foods

Avoid eating street foods because most of them are contaminated/unhygienic hence increase chances of diarrhea or stomach upset. Therefore you are advised to avoid consuming muchomo (roasted meat), Rolex (chapatti and omelet) and other street snacks. If at all you crave for such food, you can always buy them from restaurants and you will be saving your stomach from diseases.

Do not swim in rivers and Lakes

Swimming in most Uganda or Rwanda Lakes and Rivers increases chances of contracting Bilharzia and encountering wild animals such as Hippos and Nile Crocodiles. However, other Lakes such as Lake Kivu in Rwanda, Uganda’s Lake Bunyonyi and Mutanda are relatively safe for swimming. To be more comfortable, tourists are advised to always swim in the Swimming pools found within most Safari Lodges.

Additionally, you should avoid crossing the road without caution because as earlier mentioned, most road users don’t obey the traffic rules.

Avoid drinking tap water

Do not use tap water or use cubes, locally made juice with un-boiled water because its increases chances of typhoid. Tourists are therefore advised to use bottled (preferable Rwenzori water in Uganda and Inyange water of Rwanda) or thoroughly boiled water even for brushing your teeth.  The good news is that most Hotels offer complimentary water bottles in the rooms.

Do not leave your valuable and cash in the open within the Hotel room

Money, passports and expensive gadgets have to be put in a safe and not suitcase or bags because sometimes even the Hotel/Lodge employees can steal your valuables. Actually, most accommodation facilities will warn you about this.

Do not go on self-drive safaris

If you are a first time visitor to Uganda or Rwanda, avoid going on self-drive safaris because you might not be familiar with the traffic laws of the countries, or may not know the roads because for the case of Uganda, some roads or streets are not labeled. Another reason it is risky to go on self drive safaris is because of the high rate of accidents due to many inexperienced drivers who ignore traffic laws, vehicles of poor mechanical conditions and dilapidated roads. Therefore, you are advised to hire a car with a driver being provided so that you enjoy your safari in comfort.

Rent a Car with Rooftop Tent in Rwanda

Car rentals with rooftop tents offer ultimate wilderness camping experience to holidaymakers on Rwanda safari. Setting up a camp tent each day can be tiresome but here is the best alternative to get yourself relieved from that stress. You can rent a car in Rwanda with a rooftop tent all suitable for game viewing and camping holidays. We have the best full-time 4×4 rental cars in Rwanda with rooftop tents for you to hire.

Our selection of car rentals with rooftop tents are ideal for Rwanda self-drive trips or while you are on driver guided tours. You can also choose from automatic to manual transmission rentals with rooftop tents. Our fleet of rental cars with rooftop tents in Rwanda include among others;

Rooftop tent Land Cruiser

A rooftop tent Land cruiser rental is among our excellent fleet of rental cars in Rwanda worthy hiring for your Rwanda safari holiday. We have the best full-time 4×4 Land cruiser with rooftop tent suitable for camping holidays. Our rooftop tent Land cruiser rentals are equipped with tents that can easily be folded or unfolded and it accommodates 2 people and comes with 2 doors but with no mosquito net, pillow.

Land cruiser GX with rooftop tent

Holidaymakers with a plan to visit Rwanda for a self-drive, renting Land cruiser GX with rooftop tent should be a must-do. This is available with a rooftop ten taking up to about 2 people.

Land Cruiser VX rooftop tent for families

A Rwanda road trip in a Land cruiser VX rooftop tent rental offers travelers lifetime experiences. We have the best Land cruiser VX with capacity of 4pax.

Rooftop tent Nissan Patrol

Hire a comfortable 4×4 Nissan Patrol with rooftop tent and have the best of Rwanda holiday safari. Our full-time 4×4 Nissan Patrol automatic transmission takes 5pax and hiring it is best for camping safaris in Rwanda the Land of a Thousand Hills. Its rooftop tent takes 2 people per night.

Why choose a rental car in Rwanda with a rooftop tent?

• Our car rentals Rwanda with rooftop tents come with adequate leg and luggage room. This guarantees you ultimate comfort on Rwanda holiday safari.
• If camping is your thing, then our rental cars with rooftop tents have you sorted this coming Rwanda camping safari holiday. Our rentals are fitted with tents and this means that you don’t have to stress yourself setting up one on the ground.
• Hiring a rental car in Rwanda with a rooftop tent lets you enjoy, explore and experience Rwanda in a single/double excursion. You have a chance to bundle game viewing together with camping experience.
• Renting a car with rooftop tent is advantageous as holidaymakers stand a chance to cut down on some costs like renting a vehicle and camping gear separately.

10 Bad Driving Habits to Avoid in Rwanda

Renting a car in Rwanda is by far the best way to embark on a road trip. Every car rental agency has got its set terms and conditions or rather policies that every traveler should observe. However, most drivers including self-drive travelers have a tendency of insisting on some of the awful habits. For starters, self drive in Rwanda on a road trip is very easy and exciting although other road users tend to make everything seem difficult due to their bad driving habits.

At times, you will get surprised to see another car behind you and the person has not even indicated to you and on highways, most people simply start racing and they will want to overtake at a corner. To embark on a self-drive car hire Rwanda tour is more exciting, memorable but you have to be very keen while driving as most drivers tend to be reckless on the road.

Below are some of the risky things you need to avoid while on road trip in Uganda

Driving when you are drunk

Driving under influence of alcohol has become a common practice by road users today yet this puts you at risk. This doesn’t only affect your ability to react or make decisions but also may cost you based on road rules in Rwanda. At times, most solo travelers on self-drive trip in Rwanda think they are in a holiday and so drinking is a must do thing something that is very wrong. It is the worst thing anyone can think of and to be on safer side, you can do so at your respective lodge or hotel.

Ignoring traffic signs

Once someone hits the road, issues of traffic signs are totally ignored yet these play a significant role especially for your safety on road.

Not paying attention

Always be attentive and have a listening ear while on road trip in Rwanda. Make sure that you cross check your mirrors and any blind spots, traffic a head and around you. Be mindful of the pot holes when driving and ensure that you are never distracted in anyway.

Disregarding weather and road conditions

Before you embark on road trip in Rwanda be keen on weather and road conditions. In most cases, some weather conditions require you to drive slowly.

Not making the best use of indicators

Always remember the use of indicators or do not make the best use of them when it is already too late. Indicators are essential to make alert to other drivers.

Use of phones while driving

Everyone loves phones but do not get distracted by phone calls, texting. Put your full attention on your road trip and you will have the best of it.

Not putting on seat belts

To most road users, wearing a seat belt is at times looked at as crime but it is not. Wearing a seat belt is for your own safety on the road. Before you set off, remember to be on your seat belts.

Putting on high heel

This is a common vice with women but it is dangerous when you driving.  The best is for you to have flat shoes or else simply relax and let someone else to take on the wheel.

Do not over speed

Over speeding is against traffic laws of Rwanda and major cause of road accidents. Be mindful of the driving speed sign posts along the road and other road users.

Traffic Tips for Driving in Rwanda

Rwanda is relatively safe compared to other countries. Driving in Rwanda is absolutely an exciting experience but requires some braveness while you are behind the wheels. For starters, higher chances are that you will face challenge driving in Rwanda’s roads as most of them are not yet to the standards of say United States or England. To get the best of your self drive experience in Rwanda, take a look at significant road safety rules and traffic tips for driving.

Driving in Rwanda always requires you to keep left and speed limit in town areas shouldn’t be over 40kms per hour and 60kms per hour in provinces.

Plastics are not tolerated, therefore do not dump rubbish anyhow while driving in Rwanda or else you will be penalized. The government of Rwanda banned all non-degradable polyethylene plastic bags in 2008.

Be prepared to drive along several terrains in Rwanda. Driving in Rwanda is amazing since most of its routes have been paved.

To drive in Rwanda, you should be at least 18 years that is for categories A and B and 20 for categories C, D, E and F.

Make sure that you have a valid driver license or international driving permit, car registration documents as well as car insurance certificates.

Do not drive at night in Rwanda-this is dangerous.

Do not drive when you are drunk. The legal blood alcohol level in Rwanda is 0.08 percent and random breath testing is done by police.

Road Safety Rules and Regulations in Rwanda

Before you embark on a self-drive tour or guided tour, be aware of traffic rules to avoid being taken by surprise by presence of traffic officers. Road safety in Rwanda is governed by the traffic and road safety Act.

Drivers should keep left when driving and if you are not familiar with road rules please rent a car and driver and still enjoy your road trip at your own pace.

The speed limit in town areas is 40kms per hour and 60kms per hour in provinces.

To drive in Rwanda, you need a valid local or international driving permit/license.

Driving Tips before starting a Car Hire

• Check out the blinkers for proper operation.
• Cross check if the tyres are inflated well.
• Prior driving a rental car please do some simple safety check
• Turn on the lights and move around to ascertain if all lights are working.
• When you enter into the car please adjust all mirrors and seats prior starting it.

Driving Tips while your Rental Car is moving

• Turn your head to check no one is coming prior joining the road.
• Take note of traffic lights-green color is always for you to look left and right, straight then left once more prior proceeding.
• Always be on seat belts and put on your seat belt before starting your car
• Make sure that the headlights are on and the car is visible 4 times the distance with its headlights on
• Please indicate in case you need to make a stopover.
• Keep within driving speed limit.

10 Things to Know About Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is one of the best adventure tourist activities in the world.  Uganda and Rwanda are some of the world’s best destinations for gorilla trekking safaris in Africa. The Volcanoes National park in Rwanda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda hosts the largest number of mountain gorillas hence the biggest gorilla trekking experience.

Here are 10 things to know about gorilla trekking in Africa:

1. The experience is expensive
   Gorilla Trekking is an expensive activity. In Uganda , the permit to see the mountain gorillas cost US$ 600 while in Rwanda it costs US$ 750. To that note therefore, many clients find it hard to pay for gorilla trekking permit, Air ticket, Visa and so on.
2. The trekking requires maximum level of fitness – many people likes gorilla trekking but experience is strenuous and it involves climbing mountains and sloping down, crossing rivers and moving through slippery trails among others.
3. Some forests habour dangerous insects, animals and reptiles. The fact that Gorilla trekking is conducted in Forested areas, trekkers stand higher chances of getting Malaria from Mosquitoes, Sleeping sickness from Tsetse flies among others.  However, we advise all our clients to move with mosquito repellent.
4. Gorilla trekking is tiresome – trekking involves moving through the forest while searching for the mountain Gorilla and the time to meet Gorillas in unpredictable and some times takes a full day.
5. Gorilla permits are on a very high demand and are booked in advance yet some clients prefer paying on arrival. Any delay to pay for the permits can make a client miss trekking when all gorilla permits are sold out.
6. Gorilla permits are non refundable -once the client has paid for the gorilla permit and misses to come on the safari then, the Uganda wildlife Authority (UWA) OR Rwanda development Board (RDB) will not make refund by can only allow rescheduling.
7. Gorilla tracking starts early morning yet some people find it hard to wake up early especially on cold days. Early in the morning, Gorilla trekking trails are filled with fog and dew which hinders visibility and smooth walking to meet Mountain Gorillas.
8. Gorilla trekking is strictly done under instructions – only one hour is given to stay with Gorillas, No flash cameras, 7 metres distance must be left between Gorillas and the trekkers among others. Some people are not used to strict instructions.
9. Gorilla Tracking is Safe!
   Many travelers think that gorillas are violent creatures and thus can cause harm to human beings. However, gorillas are peaceable animals unless provoked. once you follow the set gorilla watching rules, you will definitely enjoy the company of these great apes safely.
10. There are strict rules to gorilla tracking that follow ecotourism. Children below 16years are not allowed to trek Gorillas yet some parents prefer trekking Gorillas with their children. Only one hour is allowed to stay with Gorillas –some clients find it less to maximally view gorillas and take photos.