Enjoy group travels with the “Drone”

The Toyota Hiace van, also locally known as the “Drone” has long been a favorite among adventurers, travelers, and businesses worldwide for its rugged durability, spaciousness, and adaptability.  The drone stands out as an exceptional choice for safari expeditions, especially for larger groups. It is engineered to deliver reliability and comfort, thanks to its proven record in challenging terrains commonly found in safari destinations.

Th drone was introduced in 1967 and has evolved over the years, transitioning from a simple utility van to a high versatile vehicle. In Kampala and Uganda at large, the drone has become a go-to vehicle for businesses, schools, families and adventure seekers. When you visit Uganda, you will encounter Drones acting as public transport means but the difference between those and the safari drones is that the Safari Drones have been customized to meet all the safari needs and requirements. The following features make a “Drone” an ideal choice for your safari and why you should consider hiring one.

Spacious interior configurations

The Drone is designed to accommodate over 14 passengers without so much cargo. The safari drone however is customized with comfort of the travellers in mind. Most of the Safari drones can comfortably seat 7-9 passengers along with their cargo and safari equipment like camping, photography and hiking gear.

There is enough legroom for stretching, so that you do not feel cramped after long driving hours. For travellers with so much luggage/cargo, the drones usually have roof racks where the extra luggage can be stored.

Robust construction and durability

The Hiace is built to withstand tough conditions. It has a strong body-on-frame construction meaning it is resistant to the rigors of off-road driving, which is essential for safaris that often involve traversing rough, uneven terrain. The vehicle’s ruggedness allows it to handle bumps, ruts, and the occasional stream crossing without compromising safety or performance. It is a very reliable vehicle that doesn’t just break down so travelers are guaranteed peace of mind with this vehicle.

Advanced suspension system

The Toyota Hiace Drone features an advanced suspension system that helps provide a smooth and comfortable ride, even when navigating bumpy roads. This quality is crucial for safari travel, where the quality of the surface can vary widely. The suspension absorbs shocks effectively, helping to protect passengers from discomfort and ensuring they can enjoy the beautiful scenery without distraction.

Four-wheel drive capability

The Drone version of the Toyota Hiace’s is equipped with a four-wheel-drive (4WD) system. This feature significantly enhances off-road performance, allowing the vehicle to navigate through challenging terrains such as mud, sand, and rocky paths. The 4WD capability is essential for safari conditions, where vehicles may need to traverse difficult landscapes in search of wildlife or to reach remote camping sites.

Versatility and customization options

The Hiace Drone is designed for diverse applications. It can be customized for various purposes, allowing you to equip it with essential safari gear, such as roof racks for luggage, portable refrigerators for food storage, and ample space for camping equipment, and pop-up roof for better views.

The drones also have air conditioning throughout the vehicle to enable sufficient air supply and freshness in the vehicle, especially on a hot sunny day. This versatility means that each safari trip can be tailored to meet specific need, creating an environment where travelers enjoy a stress-free trip.

High roof option

The Hiace drone also has variant of the high roof which allows for extra headroom. In Uganda, this version is locally known as “kigaati” to mean bread because the shape of this drone is literally the shape of a loaf of bread.  The “Kigaati” enables passengers to stand comfortably while observing the wildlife and enjoying the scenery. More still, the high roof design often facilitates larger windows or pop-up roofs, enhancing visibility and allowing for more effective wildlife spotting.

Large windows for enhanced views

The Hiace Drone typically features large windows, providing passengers with panoramic views of the surroundings. This is a critical advantage during safaris, as one of the primary objectives is to appreciate the natural beauty and observe wildlife. The inclusion of tinted windows can also provide shade from the sun while enhancing the overall travel experience.

Fuel efficiency

Compared to the other larger traditional 4WD safari vehicles like the extended Land Cruisers, the Drone has an advantage of fuel efficiency.  This quality makes it cost-effective for extended travel, as it covers more distance on less fuel, an important consideration for those undertaking long safari journeys across vast landscapes.

Because of this feature, the drone is one of the most favourable vehicles for cross border travels. These travels involve long hours of driving, and a fuel-efficient vehicle comes in handy.

User-friendly technology

Modern Hiace models often come equipped with user-friendly technology features such as GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and multimedia systems. These features help travelers plan their routes better, stay entertained during long drives, and remain connected with the outside world when necessary.

Safety features

Since safety is paramount on any adventure, the Toyota has integrated several safety features into the Hiace Drone. It is equipped with enhanced braking systems, stability control, and multiple airbags work to keep passengers secure, even during challenging driving conditions. All seats are also fitted with seat belts to ensure safety of all the passengers.

Final thoughts

The Toyota Hiace Drone proves to be a reliable vehicle that captures the spirit of exploration and fosters unforgettable memories amidst the beauty of the wild making it the best travel partner for group travels. Note that the Drone is only available for hire with a driver and not self-drive. The driver also acts as your guide and translator making your trip more enjoyable. For more information or inquiries about the drone, do not hesitate to contact Jungle Car Rental Uganda.