1. Some African countries require you to have an International Driving Licence ( International drivers license ) - check the requirements with the embassy in your country, or the car hire company before you leave.

2. If at all possible avoid driving at night. It can be very dangerous in Africa. Roads can be poorly lit, in bad condition and it’s common for other drivers to drive without their lights on.

3. Beware of the Cow or Sheep. In many countries, and particularly in rural areas, roads are poorly maintained, it’s fairly common to come across domestic animals such as sheep and cattle.

4. Africa is immense. Drunk drivers are not uncommon and be very watchful for drunk pedestrians. Police are scarce.

5. Laws vary from country to country in Africa, some countries require you to always carry hazard triangles, have reflectors (a white sticker on your bumper), wear seat belts etc, whilst others do not. Ensure you know all the legal requirements for driving a vehicle in the country you are travelling to.

6. When travelling through Africa it almost a certainty that you will come across a road block. If you do not abide by the laws of the country, then sure enough and you will be fined - this can be costly! Ignorance is no defence in the eyes of the law, just like the UK.

7. If stopped at a roadblock, be courteous and responsive to questions asked by persons in authority.

8. In areas of instability and unrest avoid travelling at night.

9. Ensure that your passport is stamped when crossing borders, if not, then you will have a huge problem when you come to leave the country.

10. If you are stopped at night, turn on the interior light of your vehicle. Make sure that the person you are dealing with is an official and ask them for their identity card. If they cannot provide it - do not pay any fines - ask to be taken to the local police station.