TIPS FOR SELF-DRIVE SAFARI
overview
A self-drive trip through one of the many national parks and reserves in southern Africa is one of the best ways to experience the continent's remarkable animals and landscapes. One will never forget the sensation of driving at your own pace, seeing a lion relaxing by the side of the road, or seeing a herd of elephants cross in front of you. The flexibility that a self-drive safari gives is its primary draw, but there are still many factors to take into account to make sure you have the greatest experience. We have therefore put together a list of our top ten recommendations for a self-drive safari in order to assist.
Invest in a quality set of binoculars.
A decent set of binoculars is crucial because you will probably be viewing most of your animal interactions from a distance. If you don't have a zoom lens, you can also utilise them to snap pictures or movies with your phone with a little practice.
Make use of GPS and road maps.
Carry a GPS to guide you along the country's many routes, as well as travel road atlases, maps, or directions, so you know exactly where you're going when you transfer to the different safari spots of your choice. However, don't rely only on your GPS in Uganda. Particularly in the safari areas, it may have major flaws!
Examine the car carefully.
It's best to make sure the car has been used thoroughly before you leave. Examine the tires to see whether they are in better shape and whether there is a spare. At least two tires are required for longer trips, and you should check the wiper blades, oil, lights, water level and any connections.
Shut the doors and windows.
When travelling through cities, especially when you are stopped at a traffic light, make sure your windows and doors are secured. When parking, try to find a well-lit spot with car guards nearby and never leave valuables visible.
Consider the other drivers on the road.The majority of Uganda's highways are small, and some pedestrian walkways may be present. Since most of them may be crossing the road, you must pay close attention to other road users, such as bicycles, students, and animals.
A driver's license
Verify that your driver's license is valid in English before you travel; if not, you will need to apply for an international driver's license in advance. You will have a great journey in Uganda if you adhere to the above-mentioned safety precautions.
Depart early in the morning.
When the gates open, make every effort to be the first vehicle out. Sightings are more frequent during dark and dawn since most animals, particularly predators, are more active at these times. Additionally, a lot of people will still be asleep, so you can usually enjoy any sightings by yourself!
Driving after dark
Our self-drive safaris in Uganda are designed to minimise nighttime driving because most carjackings in urban areas occur after dark, and rural roads are rarely illuminated by city lights, making it challenging to identify individuals and free-ranging animals. Road signs and other markers are less visible, making it more difficult to locate the motel. Even when it comes to getting assistance of any type, it is too difficult in darker locations.
Observe traffic laws when driving.
Following traffic laws is important if you want to avoid dangers on the road, just like at any other place. Always use seat belts, avoid drinking and driving, and be sure you can read road signs.
Take stops, eat, and fill up the car.
When on a self-drive vacation, it's crucial to recharge your mind after a long trip. Eat enough food and fill up the car. Never leave a large centre without filling up your tank because there could not be a petrol station nearby, especially in Uganda's protected area
Reduce your speed.
Driving slowly increases the likelihood of seeing wildlife and reduces the likelihood that the animals would be scared and flee from your car. We advise paying closer attention to tortoises and snakes that may be approaching to drink from puddles on the road during rainier weather.
Pay strict attention
While it's not always safe to roll down your windows in parks, it's generally a good idea in those that do. Turn off the radio and let the sounds of the African jungle awaken your senses. There's a significant likelihood that a predator is nearby if you hear birds calling frantically or other animals making alarm calls, so keep a look out.
Watch out for the herbivores.
When a group of giraffes, impala, or wildebeest are all looking straight ahead, it usually indicates that there is a predator nearby. Hold on tight and use binoculars to gaze where they are looking; perhaps you will be able to see the predator hiding in the distance as well.
Have patience.
Eventually, it's usually worthwhile to sit patiently by a watering hole, particularly during the dry months when animals are compelled to seek out larger water sources. It's never boring to sit by the river if you're interested in birds. Simply park in the shade with a book or other simple amusement if you're more interested in witnessing the bigger game. Just remember to occasionally glance up!
For a sighting, turn off your engine and lights.
Vehicle noise and lighting can occasionally agitate animals, causing them to move away and making it impossible to see them. Even though your car may get quite hot during the day, you will have a lot better safari experience if you give up the air conditioning for a short while.
Show consideration for the animals.
Never drive off the road to gain a closer look at an animal, even if you desire a better view. You'll harm the vegetation in addition to upsetting it. Instead, use binoculars, exercise patience, and respect the animal's comfort zone. Be patient and refrain from whistling or beeping your horn at the animal if you want it to stare at you for a picture. You'll probably only scare the animal away, and this is unfair to it.
Talk to other tourists
Hearing about the experiences of other travellers can teach you a lot. Talk to everybody you pass or meet at a camp and ask them about any sightings they may have had. You'll probably have a better experience as a result of learning some extremely helpful advice on when to leave or which route to take.
Bring water and some snacks.
Having extra water on board is usually a good idea in case you have any vehicle issues or come across a sighting that is too good to miss. A day spent on safari in a vehicle will undoubtedly get quite hot. Additionally, having some drinks and food in the car helps boost spirits and keep any unhappy passengers at bay, allowing you to concentrate on searching for animals.