Self Drive Rwanda Experience- Private Guided tour in East Africa
A self-driving road trip means that the traveler is ultimately responsible for their movement from one point to another around the destination but can be helped with arranging the itinerary for them including suggesting best options for accommodation. As you control the wheel, you are also your own guide to every location and you, therefore have no limit to where to go as long as it is within agreed boundaries of East Africa.
Self-driving in Rwanda can be an exciting and adventurous way to explore this beautiful East African country. However, there are some important considerations and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable self-driving experience in Rwanda.
Rent your car
Renting a car in Rwanda is a popular option for tourists seeking flexibility and independence, with both self-drive and chauffeur-driven rentals widely available. Rent a reliable and well-maintained vehicle from a reputable car rental company. Make sure the vehicle is in good condition and has all the necessary documents.
When picking your rental car from the tour operator or car rental company, check and confirm that the car is in good mechanical condition. It should also be well serviced for it to operate perfectly during the road trip. This also saves you from inconveniences by traffic police which may stop you for blames of driving a vehicle that is in poor mechanical condition.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
Just like any other country, you need a valid driving permit to be able to drive as a tourist. It is important to note that an International Driving Permit is not compulsory for international visitors so a permit from your home country should be just fine. However, if you are driving through all the East African countries, you will need the IDP to drive in Kenya and Tanzania.
Driving Side
Rwanda is one of the few countries in the East African Community (EAC) that drives on the right. The majority of its neighbors, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, drive on the left. In Rwanda, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. This means vehicles are typically configured with the driver’s seat and steering wheel on the left side.
Do not drive while using the mobile phone
Driving while talking on phone or texting pulls most of your attention to the message you are delivering or have received. This is considered dangerous because it has a high potential of distracting driving and increases the risk of a crash. In addition, being behind the wheels and at the same time using a cell phone is a violation of traffic rules and regulations. Traffic police in Rwanda are very strict on this issue and if apprehended, the driver is fined.
Navigation
You should know your destination well, and if not, at least have a GPS or a roadmap to guide you on finding the right tracks without getting lost. A Google map is not so reliable when travelling to remote safari destinations because you may experience unstable network connection.
Road Conditions
Rwanda has some of the best road conditions in East Africa, particularly on its major routes, though quality varies significantly depending on location. While the main highways are generally excellent, rural and park roads are often unpaved and require a 4×4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season. The government is committed to ongoing infrastructure development to further improve the network.
Traffic Rules and Regulations
In Rwanda, traffic rules include driving on the right, adhering to speed limits that are often low in urban areas, and always carrying a valid driving license. Key regulations prohibit drunk driving, passing on the right, and ignoring traffic signs, with strict enforcement through traffic cameras and penalties
Safety
Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa with a low crime rate, but travelers should still take precautions, such as being aware of petty theft in crowded areas and avoiding walking alone after dark. It is also advised to monitor media for security threats, avoid large public gatherings, book national park tours through reputable agents, and not carry your passport at all times.
Fuel
Fuel stations are available in major cities and towns. However, it’s a good idea to keep your tank reasonably full, especially if you plan to travel to remote areas.
Language
English, French, and Kinyarwanda are the official languages in Rwanda. While English is commonly spoken, it’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of French or Kinyarwanda as it may be helpful in rural areas.
Currency
The Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for remote areas.
Accommodation
Rwanda offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury safari lodges and hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. The best choice for you will depend on your budget, travel style, and the area you plan to visit
Emergency Numbers
Save important numbers in your phone, including the police (112), ambulance (912), Abuse by police officer (997) and fire (111).
Wildlife Safaris
If you plan to go on a wildlife safari in Rwanda, such as visiting Volcanoes National Park for gorilla and golden monkey trekking, Nyungwe Forest national park for Chimpanzee trekking and Akagera national park for the Big Five, make reservations in advance. Follow all guidelines provided by the park authorities. Drive under the speed limit while inside national parks, apart from being a precaution for saving the animals of the park from road accidents, the speed limit also helps tourists to spot wildlife in the vegetation. High speed scares away animals and this may let you miss the chance to watch them. The maximum speed limit on all roads inside Rwanda national parks is 40km/hr.
Do not drive at night
Whether you are staying inside the park or outside, it is advisable that you get to your final destination and lodge early enough. Avoid driving past 7pm especially if you are driving in remote areas of Rwanda. It becomes challenging to easily get through the bad roads when it is dark since the roads have no lights. In addition, it can be risky when the weather is bad.
In conclusion
Self-driving in Rwanda is beneficial for those seeking flexibility, privacy, and adventure, as it allows you to explore at your own pace, access remote areas, and potentially save money on transportation costs compared to guided tours. The country’s well-developed road network, especially on major routes, makes driving manageable, though a 4×4 is recommended for rural and park areas.
