Ways to Avoid Getting Ripped off When Renting a Car in Uganda
Renting a car in Uganda is often a process filled with intricacies, misguidance, and unnecessary rips-offs, especially if you are not familiar with the process. Finding a credible Car rental Agency/Company for your Uganda safari is undoubtedly easy, just a Google click away but if not carefully done, it might cost you an arm and a leg because of unexpected charges to your final car rental cost. Sometimes travelers end up paying more money than the originally advertised price.
Therefore, we bring you some of the different ways to avoid getting ripped off when renting a car in Uganda;
Advance research is fundamental
As far as car rentals in Uganda are concerned, knowledge is power, and first undertaking research on different Car Rental Agencies or Companies, finding reviews on the Companies, car insurances, and payment policies before signing Car Rental Agreements. It is therefore important to first conduct research and plan prior to traveling, hence you will avoid being caught off guard.
Book in advance
It also pays to book as far as possible in advance and rates are also lower when you give yourself enough time. It is a known fact that planning ahead offers chances and enough time to make a comparison shopping. Interestingly, we also offer cancellations (with some percentages lost) until few days to the day of the earlier agreed date. Additionally, prices rarely go higher after you have made your booking and if you are worried about prices, it is advisable to compare the prices of different Agencies.
Avoid Airport Rental cars
Rental Car Agencies/Companies at the airport are normally charged additional taxes by the Airport Authorities and these fees are passed along to the customers (clients). It is undeniable that it is convenient to pick up the vehicle immediately after disembarking the plane but then, it also calls for higher base rates thus affecting customers. Instead, you can book in advance with Rental Agencies in the neighborhood of Entebbe or with us Maranatha Tours and Travel, and our professional driver will be at the airport on time to pick up and drop you off at the preferred location.
Check the condition of the Car
Never forget to check the condition of the car, with picture evidence when you pick it up and again when you drop it off. Make sure to look out for bumps, scratches, and mechanical damages to avoid taking responsibility for what you have no idea such as claiming you damaged the car yet it was actually not you.
Thoroughly read and understand your Rental Agreement
The most priceless way to avoid getting ripped off when renting a car in Uganda is thoroughly, carefully reading and understanding the fine print. This will not only save you money beforehand but might save you thousands of shillings in the event of an accident.
Avoid adding GPS Devise
If you are driving in a foreign country, the Global Positioning System (GPS) devise is sometimes considered a must but the unnecessary add-on fees charged by Car Rental Agencies or Companies usually soar. It is therefore more costly and advisable to buy a local SIM Card and Data for your Smartphone or tablets, then install Google Maps instead of adding a GPS Devise from the Company.
Inquire on the return time
Just like the check-out time for accommodation facilities (Hotels and Safari Lodges) in Uganda, Rental Cars have set time for returning them. It would cost you extra fees if you return the Car beyond midnight. It is also important to note that, not all Rental Car Agencies will inform you of this, and therefore keep this in mind to avoid paying extra fees.
Therefore if you are planning a self-drive or driver-guided road trip, the above information will be helpful if you want to avoid getting ripped off when renting a car in Uganda. To book the best cars with us, send an email to info@adventureugandasafaris.com or call reservations on +256 414 231 454 and +256 772 636 412