Car Rental Terms & Conditions

Welcome to LABA AFRICA, your trusted partner for camping car hire in East Africa. Before you embark on your journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, we invite you to familiarize yourself with our terms and conditions. These guidelines are designed to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience with your car rental in East Africa.

Terms & Conditions for Self-Drive Hirers in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania

Confirming a booking with Laba Africa Expeditions signifies that you have read, fully understood, and accepted the terms and conditions outlined below.

Definitions

• “LAE” or “Owner” refers to Laba Africa Expeditions, the travel company registered in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania
• “You” or “Hirer” refers to the individual who has signed the Rental Agreement, along with their authorised travel companions included in the agreement.
• “Rental Agreement” refers to this contract between the Hirer and the Owner.
• “Vehicle” refers to the rented car.

General Use of the Vehicle

1. The Vehicle may only be driven by the Hirer and authorised travel companions. If a driver-guide is required, LAE will arrange one. The Hirer may not provide their own driver-guide. Any losses or damages caused by an unauthorised driver are the Hirer’s responsibility.
2. The Hirer shall return the Vehicle on the agreed date and time, as specified in your reservation overview. Returns are by 7 PM latest unless the Owner has specifically agreed otherwise. No refunds shall be given for early returns.
3. The Hirer must carry a valid driver’s license from their country of residence and/or an International Driver’s License while driving.
4. The Hirer is responsible for paying any fines issued by the traffic police that arise from their driving behaviour.
5. The Vehicle is provided with a full fuel tank or Empty tank —diesel for the Toyota Land Cruiser —and must be returned with a full tank or Empty to avoid refuelling charges.
6. Only fuel from major stations such as Shell, Total and Rubis should be used. Never purchase bottled fuel from roadside vendors. Poor-quality fuel can damage the engine and you will be liable for the damages.

Speed Limits

• 80 km/h on highways. Safari vehicles are classified as trucks due to longer braking distances.
• 50 km/h when driving through towns. Note that the main highway also passes through towns, so be wary of speed limit signs and speed bumps.
• 25 – 40 km/h in national parks, depending on road conditions and the rules per park. Even 25 km/h can be too fast on narrow or eroded dirt roads.

Traffic police in East Africa are very strict about speed limits and the fines can be high

Restricted Areas & Recommendations

7. Driving in the dark (before 6:30 AM and after 7:00 PM) is prohibited. If you like to do a night game drive, you can join a guided safari in a vehicle provided by the lodge where you are staying.
8. Travel to Kidepo National Park, Karamoja, Serenegeti , masai mara is only permitted with a Toyota Land Cruiser . If a car is detected in a restricted area, the Hirer is in breach of contract and fully liable for any costs and loss of the security bond.
9. Crossing international borders is not allowed without prior written approval from LAE and additional insurance coverage (COMESA). 30$
10. Hirers are strongly advised to purchase a local SIM card with airtime and internet for easier communication.

Vehicle Maintenance

11. Vehicles are inspected and serviced before rental, and the Hirer will receive the Vehicle in a safe and roadworthy condition. The Hirer must return the Vehicle in the same condition.
12. The Hirer is responsible for basic maintenance, including checking engine oil, coolant, and tyre pressure. If fluids are depleted, the Hirer covers the costs to replenish them during a long term rental. 2 weeks and beyond.
13. If dashboard warning lights appear, consult the driver’s manual. If in doubt, contact LAE. Our team is available via WhatsApp or telephone 24/7.
14. We don’t do field repairs or send a replacement vehicle when a problem occurs with the A/C or fridge. These components are sensitive and suffer from bumpy roads and dust. In the rare case your fridge stops working, let us know, and the Laba Africa office will issue a refund for the fridge rental.

Mechanical Breakdowns & Repairs

15. In case of a breakdown, always contact the Laba Africa Expeditions office first. Our main goal is to get you on the road as fast as possible. Each problem is unique and requires a tailor-made solution. Usually, the best solution is to get the car repaired in the field. We will direct you to the nearest workshop or send a mechanic. Repairs should only be conducted with LAE’s authorisation. Do not pay local mechanics directly; LAE handles all payments.
16. If repairs take longer than 24 hours, a replacement car will be provided from Kampala or Nairobi. Delays within the first 24 hours are at the Hirer’s expense. LAE cannot be liable for refunding car rental, park fees, activities, or hotels.

Accidents

17. If you are involved in an accident, whether it is your fault or that of a third party, notify LAE immediately and follow their instructions.
18. The Hirer should obtain a police report.
19. In case of an incident involving one or more vehicle(s), details of these vehicle(s) and their driver(s) should be identified and reported, such as the driver’s ID, telephone number, number plate and insurance registration number.
20. After an accident, the Hirer should not leave the Vehicle unattended as it might be vandalised.

Damage, Waiver and Insurance

21. During the rental period, the Hirer is liable for: A. Loss of or damage to the Vehicle B. Third-party property damage C. Third-party bodily injury
22. In the event of an unintended collision between the Vehicle and any other vehicle or object during the rental period that results in damage to the Vehicle or to the property of any third party, LAE waives your liability under clause 21 provided: a. You have complied with the Terms of the Rental Agreement b. The cause of the accident has been determined and supported by a police report
23. Theft liability is waived if: a. The car was parked at a secured, private compound, and there were clear signs of a break-in b. A police report is obtained c. You have provided LAE with any details of the incident that LAE requests
24. Liability is not waived for: a. Speeding b. Single-vehicle incidents or rollovers c. Damage from negligence (e.g., ignoring overheating warnings) d. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol e. Driving in restricted areas f. Water submersion or saltwater damage g. Using the wrong fuel
25. A $1000 excess fee applies. This means that in the event of damage for which liability is waived, the first $1000 is at your own expense (the excess fee).
26. The following damages do not fall under the waiver subject to this paragraph and are not covered by insurance: a. Personal injuries/belongings b. Tires: The vehicle is provided with quality tyres; however, a flat tyre may occur. If so, the Hirer covers the repair cost. If damaged beyond repair, the Hirer must replace it with one that matches the original. Call LAE for advice. c. Undercarriage damage (considered the result of careless driving) d. Window damage e. Camping gear damage or loss

Liability

27. LAE is not liable for loss of personal belongings or injuries. The Hirer is advised to take out travel and medical insurance.
28. LAE is not liable for events beyond their control, including flight delays, civil disturbances, road closures, extreme weather, epidemics, and similar force majeure events.
29. LAE aims to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but no claims or rights can be derived from it.

Security Bond

30. A deposit of $1000 is required for the Land Cruisers, via a credit card hold. This temporary hold will be released after the car is returned in acceptable condition. Any losses or severe damage to the camping gear will be charged to the Hirer at replacement value.

Payment & Cancellation Policy

31. After LAE receives the signed terms and conditions, you will be sent two invoices: 1) a non-refundable deposit of 10% to confirm the booking and 2) the final invoice with the remaining amount due 14 days before departure.
32. There are no refunds for cancellations or rescheduling made within 14 days of the departure date. For coverage, we recommend travel or cancellation insurance.
33. For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits, LAE follows the Uganda Wildlife Authority cancellation policy: a. 91+ days before trekking: 70% refund b. 46-90 days: 50% refund c. 9-45 days: 25% refund d. 0-8 days: No refund