Renting a car in Rwanda is one of the most convenient ways of exploring this wonderful country. Also known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, Rwanda offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and adventure. The most incredibly exciting experience in Rwanda is trekking the endangered mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park.
Located in the Virunga Ranges that stretch across Uganda and DRC, this park is home to ⅓ of the total population of these majestic creatures. Encountering them up-close in their natural habitat is not only entertaining but also gives you a chance to appreciate nature, and also be a part of conservation efforts.
Rwanda has also had a tragic past. When you ask people in the diaspora about Rwanda, the first thing that pops in their mind is the 1994 genocide. However, most people who visit Rwanda are shocked by the development, the cleanliness, the peace, security and quiet of this country. There’s so much to discover about the culture and the people of Rwanda including the landscapes, wildlife and water bodies. The best way to get around is by renting a car in Rwanda for self drive or with a driver.
The advantage of renting a car in Rwanda is that you get to explore this captivating country with freedom, flexibility and convenience. Renting a car in Rwanda is a stressful process given the numerous rental providers in the country. Remember that your choice can significantly impact your overall travel experience.
In this blog, we bring you some tips that may come in handy when renting a car for your trip.
Plan your itinerary
Before you even start your search for a rental service provider, you need to know the purpose of your trip. Know what you’re interested in seeing, which places you intend to visit, your group size, and your travel dates. Planning your itinerary helps you identify the availability of your desired vehicle for that particular period. This is especially if you intend to travel during the peak seasons. Your itinerary also determines which type of vehicle you’ll need for your trip depending on the road conditions of the destination and activities you’ll take part in.
Company reputation and reviews
When renting a car in Rwanda, dedicate time to peruse through the car hire customer reviews and testimonials. These are usually available on the company websites or travel sites like TripAdvisor or google. These reviews provide an insight to the actual experiences of other customers and can help you make an informed decision. Also you can ask for recommendations from friends that have visited Rwanda before. Go with a company that has a proven positive track record and consistency in their online presence.
Documentation and requirements
You need a valid passport or identification for identification purposes before renting a car in Rwanda. If you’re opting for self drive, make sure that your driving permit from your home country is up to date without any prior suspensions. If your permit is not in English or French, consider getting an International driving permit.
You also need to present your credit card details for the security deposit and other payments. To drive in Rwanda as a foreigner, you must not be younger than 23 years and not older than 70years.
Safety measures
Safety is usually a concern for travellers in unfamiliar territories. Inquire about the safety measures implemented by the car hire such as vehicle maintenance, emergency and hygiene protocols. Generally speaking, Rwanda is a safe tourist destination with low crime rates and no ongoing political or civil wars. However, you may face unforeseen situations along your travel like breakdowns, collisions, among others. That said, the company should have well defined safety measures in such circumstances. Also, well maintained vehicles offer you a peace of mind and allow you to enjoy your trip without fear of breakdown or being stopped by traffic police.
GPS and local road maps
Navigating a foreign county’s road system can be intimidating especially if you are planning on self drive in Rwanda. Many companies provide GPS Navigation systems but some don’t. Choose a company that provides you with local maps and GPS system as this eases your concerns about getting lost. In addition, ask if the company provides multilingual support like translation materials to ease communication for international visitors.
Fleet Variety
Any reputable car rental in Rwanda should have a variety of cars in good condition to choose from depending on the client’s needs. Whether you need a compact car for a quick trip or an SUV for a family vacation, having options is very crucial. Ensure to check for 4×4 cars if you’re embarking on a safari tour.
Pricing and transparency
Transparency in pricing is key. The car rental company should be able to clearly breakdown their fees so you know exactly what you are paying for. Compare prices provided by various companies including discounts and promotions. Be sure to also check for any hidden charges and make sure that you’re getting a fair deal.
Insurance Coverage
Ensure that the company provides adequate insurance coverage and understand the terms. Car rental insurance covers you in case of damage or loss of a rental car. Just like any other country in East Africa, every vehicle must have third-party insurance. Some companies may charge your extra for other insurance products like the Collision Damage Waiver that offers extensive coverage in case of an accident so endeavour to find out the excess.
Driver credentials and training
If you are opting for chauffeur driven vehicle, ensure that the company drivers have a high level of professionalism and expertise. Verify that they are licensed, experienced and well trained in customer service. Also ensure that the drivers are well versed with all the routes and traffic flows in the places you want to visit. That way, you’ll have peace of mind during your trip.
Customer service
Be keen on the way the company team responds to inquiries, how long it takes to get a response and ensure that the company you choose provides round-the-clock customer service because emergencies can happen any time and the company should be available to address any issues or concerns promptly.
Final thoughts
Overall, choose a company that you feel most comfortable with. A company that provides additional services such as airport pickups/drop-offs, child seats, rooftop tents, camping equipment, bottled water and other amenities can elevate your experience if you want to rent a car in Rwanda.
