When you start to plan a safari vacation, there are a number of preliminary questions that come to your mind… And one important one is the style of safari (yes, there are quite a few of those, catering to your individual likes and dislikes…)
And if your passion is driving and your hobby rough-roading, then you will agree that nothing can match the thrill of easing off the clutch and stepping on the gas, with the wind in your hair! And Africa has a number of Self-Drive Safari Options to offer!
Pointers for choosing the right roadster!
When you drive out with a car into a new land, you are actually depending to a great extent on the vehicle! There are places to hire cars from, but when it comes to picking the right vehicle, do keep in mind:
- 4 wheel Drive vs. others: While any vehicle would do in most conditions, a 4WD is essential for certain parts which are inaccessible otherwise. Besides, if you are going to tow along a camping trailer, then a 4WD is the only thing that can handle the drag….
Preparing for the Drive
There are a few upgrades you should consider – either look for or get them done. After all you are setting out into the unknown by yourselves
On the Road…
On a self drive safari you are likely to experience various kinds of terrain… Needless to say, do not attempt a Self-drive safari unless you are reasonably well experienced in 4 wheel driving, and are also able to learn fast and act fast in difficult situations. Self-drive is not for the novice driver or the weak at heart
The final few tips and precautions to stick to:
- Drive on the right side of the roads as per the country you are driving within
- Speed limits are very important for people and well as animals’ safety. You don’t want to hit anything.
- Wear your seat belts at all times
- Beware of Hitchhikers, they aren’t safe.
- Avoid travelling at night
- If you need to drive at night, be very careful about other vehicles, they may not always be well lit.
- There may be potholes on the road.
- Do your homework on border crossing timings and speed limits…
So be careful when you step on the gas and prepare to have unbridled fun!
