East Africa isn’t often done as a self drive but it can easily offer some of the best driving routes in the whole of Africa. The Great Rift Valley provides some of the most dramatic and stunning scenery in the world and one can easily drive this oneself, or with a private guide. It is wonderful to have the independence to stop and get out wherever you want, and also to just soak in Africa and everything it is about. If you are with a private guide there are many landmarks he will be able to point out, and small off the beaten track locations he will show you that others simply would never find. Here we outline some of the most beautiful drives in East Africa:
1 On route to the Gorillas in Rwanda
Rwanda is not called the land of a thousand hills for nothing, it really is quite magical and one always drives from Kigali, the main airport, to the Volcanoes National Park where you will trek for gorillas. This is a two hour drive through some of the most beautiful hills in the world. Rwanda have a wonderful litter policy, once a week everyone takes half a day off work to pick up litter, as a result the country is immaculate.
2 The Great Rift Valley Escarpment Naivasha, Kenya
When you decide to visit Lake Naivasha or Lake Nakuru you will be driven or will drive from Nairobi to the lakes. Again this is about two and half hours and takes you right down the side of the Great Rift Valley, complete with some of the most dramatic views of the Rift Valley that you’ll get from anywhere.
3 The Great Rift Valley Escarpment Manyara, Tanzania
Again this dramatic drive takes you to the top of the escarpment where Lake Manyara, complete with millions of pink flamingoes stretches out before you. This is just the beginning though as when you’re in Northern Tanzania you will also drive the
4 Ngorongoro Crater Rim
This vast natural Crater is mind-blowingly beautiful and offers guests a chance to soak in the real Africa as the road around the rim is an African dirt track with wildlife on the route itself. On a Northern Tanzania itinerary by the time you reach this part you will be starting to get really remote, and excitement will be building as you head towards the Serengeti.
