11 Days Paradise in the Wilderness – Tanzania Explore: Kilimanjoro, Arusha, Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro. 11 Days Paradise in the Wilderness
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Are you wondering whether you can do self drive in both Kenya and Tanzania on your self-drive safari in Africa. The answer is yes, you can visit both these two top tour destinations on African adventure while self-driving. These two countries have a lot in common, highlighted by wildebeest migration which is a year-round tour activity between Serengeti national park of Tanzania and masai mara national park of Kenya.
However, exploring these two top tour destinations requires you to do a proper planning for you to be able to go through the varying landscapes, varying road conditions, wildlife encounters and the required permits to have an access into the different protected areas/ national parks.
You will also need to be aware that the driving side of both Tanzania and Kenya is a left-hand side. Also remember to carry your valid driving permit for you to be allowed to drive through these roads of Kenya. In many cases the driving permit of your country will also be allowed to be used in both Kenya and Tanzania for a period of at least three months. Therefore, no need for you to apply for an international driving permit to be offered a car for hire during your stay in both Tanzania and Kenya.
Key notes about self drive in Tanzania and Kenya
The driving side
Both Kenya and Tanzania drive on left hand side. Therefore, if you are from a country where they drive on right hand side, you will need to pay attention about this.
Permits requirements
You will need to get the park and vehicle entrance permit at the park entrance, or you prearrange with your car hire company. These permits are issued by TANAPA in Tanzania and Kenya Wildlife Service on behalf of Kenya. Ensure to pay for all the park fees to avoid any inconvenience. For the case of Ngorongoro conservation area, you will need to book your crater permit in advance through local tour operator. So, prearrange with your car rental company to book for you the permit before descending to the crater.
Road conditions
Roads in city center are generally paved and in good conditions but associated with the traffic congestion which will make you to lose some of valuable hours through driving. The roads in the parks are generally rough and bumpy making the driving a little challenging. Also be aware of the crossing animals during your driving through the parks. Nocking an animal during the game drive is panelized and is always not insured by the cover you will get during the car rental agreement.
Wildlife hazard
Be very conscious of crossing animals during the game drive as animal can cross at any moment during your game drive experience and nocking one can result into accident and you will also be penalized by the park authority which will affect you financially.
Things to consider during your self-drive adventure in Kenya and Tanzania?
Vehicle type
You will only be allowed to access Tanzania and Kenya national parks with a 4×4 car that can be able to go through the bumpy roads of these parks. However, the 2-wheel drive can be used through the city roads of both countries. That is why it is always necessary to provide you itinerary to your service provider enable them to make an informed decision on the car to reserve for you.
Navigation through the parks
Make use of GPS to be able navigate through the different parts of these two east African countries. Furthermore, come with a downloaded map or a hard copy of the map as you can lose internet connectivity as you head to the remoteness of these countries where the parks are located.
Local driving customs
Get to know the driving practice of local and be patient with other road users where need be. Remember that the two countries have got boda-boda riders who are not good at respecting proper road practices. Therefore, pay attention to them as you are driving
Night driving
Most of the car hire companies do not allow night driving as it is not possible to offer road assistance during the night hours. For the night game drive, you will also need a special approval and a night guide and ranger for you to be allowed to carry out that activity. Try to respect these conditions as they are set for your well being
Motor insurance cover
Most car hire offer cars with both motor third party insurance and COMESA insurance to enable you navigate both Kenya and Tanzania while staying within the law. However, if you need an extensive insurance, you can apply for the motor comprehensive insurance that will offer you an extended coverage. The comprehensive insurance is usually offered at an extra fee that is levied by the car hire company
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