Everyone who leaves their house to visit another country or any place aspires for a smooth voyage. However, cultural shocks and other destination-related disappointments are difficult to avoid unless you receive a few recommendations before to your trip. Rwanda is not the exception. It has a few distinct features that set it apart from its neighbours. If you are planning a self-drive trip in Rwanda, you should keep the following Car Rental Tips in mind to ensure a smooth and pleasant car hiring experience.
Local Etiquette and Culture
Rwanda is one of the rare countries that had genocide less than four decades ago. This genocide was motivated by a tribal feud between the Hutu and Tutsis. When the country rose from the ashes of the genocide, they abandoned tribal labels.
It is vital to remember that, despite the fact that Rwanda has recovered from the wreckage of the genocide, many individuals are still suffering from the pain of that event. It is therefore advisable to avoid any tribal-related conversations when in Rwanda.
Beware of Automatic Traffic Tickets
When hiring a car in Rwanda, keep in mind that you are responsible for all traffic fines incurred during your rental period. Unlike most East African countries, where traffic offence tickets are exclusively issued by traffic officers, Rwanda offers the option of automatic traffic tickets.
If you are not attentive, you may receive more than five traffic citations for failing to observe road signs and speed limits.
Drive on the Right Hand side
In Rwanda, people drive on the right side of the road. If you are travelling from a nation that drives on the left side of the road, you may need to exercise extra caution to avoid driving on the incorrect side of the road. Though Rwanda traffic police sometimes quite understand, you should remain careful while on the road.
Car Selection
The majority of Rwanda’s tourism attractions are accessible via well-paved roads. Even a compact SUV, like a Rav4, will suffice for your journey. However, for greater comfort and legroom, larger vehicles such as the Land Cruiser TX, Land Cruiser V8, or Land Cruiser GX should be considered. If you merely want to visit Kigali city, a saloon automobile will serve.
Navigation
There are two popular ways to navigate in Rwanda. The first option is to use Google Maps. This is the most convenient option because most phones already have the Google Maps app. However, there is one important limitation with utilising Google Maps: some locations may be mislabeled.
Mapsme can help you overcome the limitations that Google Maps may present. It is an offline maps tool that allows you to compare and double-check the exact location of things. The biggest limitation of mapsme is the incorrect estimation of journeys. If you use Google Maps and Maps Me together, they will compliment each other.
The second approach to navigate in Rwanda is to use satellite navigation devices like Garmin. Though some come with navigation pre-installed on the radio systems, some businesses may need you to rent a navigation device from them for $5 per day.
Getting The Best Car Rental Deals in Rwanda
Finally, to get the greatest vehicle rental discounts in Rwanda, travel during the low season and book at least six months in advance. Booking six months in advance allows you to bargain for a discount. Hiring a car in Rwanda for more than two weeks will also allow you to negotiate a good car rental deal. Though there are many more factors to consider when visiting Rwanda for the first time, the elements listed above are some of the most important to ensuring that you have a simple vehicle rental experience in Rwanda.
