5 tips for self-drive trips

Picking up a hire car and taking to the open road, stopping when you please and seeing where the drive takes you is all part of the charm of a self-drive safari. Whether marvelling at the well paved roads in Rwanda or embarking on your own African adventure in Rawnda, self-drive trips are now more popular than ever.
Though the thought of taking to foreign roads can be daunting for some, many of the world’s most popular destinations are best viewed from the comfort of your own car, and with good road systems and infrastructure, there is no reason not to jump behind the wheel.

The following tips should help when embarking on a self-drive safari:

1. Petrol

This sounds like the most obvious advice in the world, but it is often forgotten by many: fill up at petrol stations regularly. In many places, opportunities to fill up can be few and far between and you don’t want to run the risk of being stranded. If you're planning off-road trips or driving in isolated areas  like the Nyungwe forest where you may never find a petro station consider taking extra petrol with you in a Jerry can too or fill all the tanks to be on the safe side.

2. Pick the right ride

Choose a hire car that best suits your needs. Take into consideration the amount of luggage you are carrying, whether you'll have extra equipment with you (for example, if you're camping ) and what size car you are used to driving at home to ensure you are comfortable during your journey. It might be exciting driving a convertible for two weeks but if the weather's not right it can be a problem. Think twice about hiring a  Van if you've never driven something so large before. but some cars are not given out for self drive safari is in Rwanda because of the fear with roads and bad driving with our own.

3. Keep stocked up

Take plenty of snacks and drinks with you and keep supplies handy. This way you can find a beautiful spot to stop and enjoy lunch, without the need to find a shop or restaurant.
Plus, if you become lost or break down you'll have something to keep your energy levels up...In case of camping most foods should be bought in towns so you move loaded.

4. Mobile roamers

Check what phone coverage is like before heading out to your chosen destination – your phone network should have a section on their website detailing where's covered.
When you're there don't forget to make sure you have fully charged your phone before you set off each day. Getting stuck somewhere remote may be made all the more stressful if you can't contact anyone.
In some places, where you'll be driving in isolated regions such as Nyungwe  forest the electricity may be limited together with the setlit. however most companies do give small phones that keep battery and network just in case you need to call.

5. Stay on the right track

If you're hiring a car then stick to government maintained roads. In many cases, you will not be insured if you chose to veer from them. if you divert from the right truck it may be hard to locate the road back because roads here are not marked as from your country. just in case your lost it is easy to find help if on the right truck.