How to Drive on Murram Roads in East Africa

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Always check your vehicle for faults; vehicle maintenance standards vary and may not be to the vehicle manufacturers specifications.

   In particular, it is essential to check oil and water daily due to the harsh operating conditions experienced in East Africa. , Check that there are the correct number of wheel nuts on each wheel.
   
   It is not uncommon to find only three or four nuts on a five nut wheel.
   
   Spare wheels are often missing from vehicles in Africa.
   
   A puncture is going to be your most likely 'breakdown' on murram roads due to their harsh nature on tyres.
   
   Many 4x4 drive vehicles are not permanent all wheel drive.
   
   Check the front wheel hubs; if there is a lockable hub.If planning to travel in the rain or through wet mud, consider engaging the hubs.
   
   Refer to the vehicles operating instructions if unsure.
   
   If the hubs are not engaged and you slide into a ditch or bank you may not be able to access them and therefore may not be able to utilise the vehicles 4x4 capacity to drive out. (If you think that you can't get stuck in a 4x4 vehicle then you have not been trying hard enough!) See for a real life story about driving on murram It is unlikely that there will be any form of vehicle roadside recovery available.
   
   Being stranded in the African bush overnight is not likely to be comfortable or particularly safe. ,,,,,,,
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   Step 2: Consider emulating airline pilots

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   Step 3: armed service personnel and some police forces

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   Step 4: who always do a walk around visual check prior to entering a vehicle/craft.

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   Step 5: Check all fluid levels.

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   Step 6: Check all tyres for tears

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   Step 7: splits and at least visible tread

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   Step 8: not forgetting the spare.

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   Step 9: Ensure that there are maps in the vehicle that cover the area that you plan to travel to.

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    Step 10: Consider getting a local person to write down the name of the place that you are travelling to in the local language.

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    Step 11: Consider taking enough water and food to last at least the length of the journey and possibly enough to cope with a short delay.

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    Step 12: Consider taking a basic medical kit

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    Step 13: for presonal use only (be very wary of potential health risks/dangers associated with treating anyone else).

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    Step 14: Ensure that you tell someone where you are going and when you plan to arrive or return.

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    Step 15: Make an Emergency Plan of what to do if those arrival/return times are not met (no show).

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    Step 16: Allow plenty of spare time before implementing the plan.

Detailed Guide

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