What COVID-19 Lockdown in Uganda means for Self drive Safaris and Car hire Business

When it comes to Uganda tourism business, it has seen a massive improvement after the first wave of the COVID-19 world pandemic. In this article we have tried to explore the facts and statistics basing on what COVID-19 lockdown in Uganda means for self drive safaris and the car hire Uganda sector. As of end of June 2021, Uganda experienced a third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and this led to a total lockdown in the country. Many sectors and businesses were closed by the government as a way of stopping the rapid spread of diseases. Its therefore a challenge for most tourists especially those interested in self drive Uganda safaris to visit this East African country.

Unlike the previous lockdown in Uganda, this time the president of Uganda stated that tourism should continue operating provided both the tour company and the tourists follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs). In relation to this, the ministry of tourism together with the office of the prime minister of Uganda put in place the rules and regulations tourists and tour companies should follow. The big question remained; What about self drive Uganda tourists? If I want to visit Uganda for self drive, am I allowed to visit? We are getting many questions about the lockdown in Uganda and we have decided to share the information to al our clients.

Resolutions of the National Task force of Uganda in Relation to Tourism

(i)The tourist vehicles must be licensed, insured, with masks, sanitizers, spaced visitor seating, proper vehicle labelling and belonging to a UTB licensed tour company
ii) The guide driving the vehicle must have negative PCR test taken within 48Hours before the trip started
iii) All vehicles should leave the driver co seat vacant and reduce seating capacity to allow proper spacing of not less than 1.5Meters
iv) Vehicle occupants and the driver must wear masks and sanitize regularly
v) The driver guide must have proper identification, negative PCR certificate, itinerary of the journey, proof of bookings for accommodation and park entry permits for the all the guests on board.
vi) Guests on board must carry their vaccination cards, negative PCR test certificates, passports and their air tickets ready for inspection on spot
vii) Breach of condition, automatically cancels the sticker and sticker is withdrawn and company suspended
viii) The meeting noted that the question of domestic tourists should first be put to pending for the meantime to mitigate abuse by the population
ix) That UTB working closely with MoWT should ensure that all licensed tour vehicles are allowed to move.
x) Enforcement should be done on tourist vehicles to ensure that they are observing the set guideline particularly relating to having negative PCR tests.

FAQ about car hire Uganda and COVID-19 Pandemic

Are tourists in Uganda allowed to move from one district to another?

Yes! tourists are allowed to move from one district in Uganda to another provided they follow the set standards by the government as stated above.

Is it okay to rent a car in Uganda during the total Lockdown?

Its okay to rent a car in Uganda during this lockdown for tourists because the government allowed movements of tourists to various tour destinations. All you need to do is follow the set SOPs.

Which type of tourist cars are allowed to move during the lockdown in Uganda?

All licensed tourist cars are allowed to move provided they follow the stated regulations as listed above.

How much does it cost to hire a car in Uganda during the lockdown?

The cost of car hire in Uganda during the lockdown depends on the type of car one intends to rent. Here at Your Drive Uganda have different prices for different cars for hire in Uganda for example 4×4 Toyota Rav4 hire costs $45 per day without driver.

How can I rent a car in Uganda during the lockdown

It is simple; visit our contact us page and fill in the form and press send. We shall get back to you with the best car rental Uganda options. If you confirm with us, then we shall give the car to you. You can also book a car by calling us on +256704538374/+256781451037.