An African safari is one the best ways of spending a vacation. This is because safaris are adventurous, educational and exciting. Each safari is unique, which is why you are guaranteed of memorable experiences that leave you well rejuvenated. However, there are several things you need to do to ensure that you make the most of your safari to Africa. Here are some of them:
1- Don’t Ignore Instructions That Your Safari Guide Gives
A safari.com guide helps you achieve your goal of going on a safari. Their work is to ensure that you have a perfect safari and the instructions they give during the safari are solely aimed at keeping you safe. Your safari guide understands the terrain of the area you are touring well and will be able to advise when it is safe to step out and when it’s not. Ignoring their instructions could easily compromise your safety.
2- Don’t Make Noise Or Approach Wild Animals
Wild animals are pretty to look at. However, it is best to watch them form a distance to avoid provocation. Most animals don’t like being approached. If that happens, there is a chance they could respond negatively and harm you in the process. Also, when on safari, avoid loud noises. Such noises attract animal attention and can be a nuisance to them. Keep your voices low during the safari and reduce the sound from your electronics to minimal levels. Also, mute cameras if they produce sounds when taking photos.
3- Don’t Leave Your Food Unattended
This is important especially if you plan on staying in a camp during your safari. Leaving edible items unattended could attract wild animals to the camp and this exposes you to danger. It is always advisable to keep scraps away. Ask your guide for help with proper disposal of leftovers and how you can keep uneaten food safe to keep wildlife away.
4- Don’t Rude During The Safari
Though your safari guide would want you to see the best animals in the wild, sometimes it may not be possible to see those that you want. If this happens, do not be rude to the guides. This is because the wild is very different from a zoo where animals are locked up and you are guaranteed to find what you want. Game reserves and parks are vast and animals are highly unpredictable. They may also camouflage so it is helpful to communicate what you might have seen in other game drives to increase your chances. Also, if you are traveling in a group, respect other members in the group that might want to spend more time viewing animals that you may not been keen to view. In the same way, avoid making the driver to make stops at every impala you sight especially if other group members have no interest. Instead, enjoy everything the African bush offers, both small and big.
5- Don’t Walk Around The Camp At Night
When staying in bush camps, ensure that you do not walk around at night especially if the camp is not fenced and the management has put up a morning. The thing is night vision for animals are far much better compared to yours. Animals tend to see very well in the dark and they’ll easily spot you sooner that you could spot them. In case you need a night guard to escort you from one spot to another at night, most tented camps will give you a flashlight or a whistle to signal for one.
6- Don’t Forget Your Medication
Before you set out for a safari to Africa, ensure that your vaccines are updated and remember to carry your prescribed medicines. Out in the bush, pharmacies are not available. It is, therefore, safe to bring additional supplies just in case you need them along the way. Most importantly, take your malaria medication before the safari. This is because most safari destinations in South Africa are along the malaria belt and you want to keep yourself free of the disease. Also, stay hydrated by drinking water during your safari. Dehydration may cause problems such as passing out that could cause you to spend time in local hospitals and affect your safari negatively. Ensure you drink clean water that has either been filtered or bottled water that is distributed by reputable companies in Africa.
7- Don’t Ignore Local Traditions And Customs
There are many interesting traditions in Africa. Realize that these traditions or customs could be very different from those that you hold. While you might find some similarities in the traditions, it is advisable to read about the culture of your safari destination ahead of your visit. This will provide a great place to start building rapport with locals when you get to visit those destinations. As a visitor, treat the people you meet during your safari with respect.