Going on a safari is an exhilarating experience, but it’s also imperative to ensure that you stay safe at all times.
Animals are beautiful, but they can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to have some basic safety precautions in place before embarking on your adventure. Here are five important safari safety tips to follow before exploring the terrain.
1. Always travel with someone
Traveling with someone is always a good idea when you’re in a foreign place. After all, there might be cultural rules that you don’t understand, and not knowing can be intimidating if you get lost or have other problems along the way. Make sure to always have at least one friend with you.
If possible, travel in a group—it will feel safer and allow you to get to know your peers better. This could very well lead to a friendship for life. You never know where these travels will take you!
2. Stay in your vehicle at all times
In a national park, staying in your vehicle is essential. You might want to get up close and personal with these wild animals, but large wildlife can be dangerous if they feel threatened.
When on a safari or expedition involving wild animals, always keep your distance and remain inside your vehicle. Never try to approach them; instead, take pictures from afar and enjoy watching them in their natural habitats.
3. Avoid watching animals at close range
If you’re on a safari adventure, you probably want a front-row seat to view the diverse wildlife. However, it’s best to keep your distance from these beautiful but volatile creatures. At best, your presence will scare them away; at worst, they might attack out of fear.
Instead of seeking out selfies with wildlife, snap a few photos from afar before moving on. The same goes for any dangerous wild animal you encounter, including bears and venomous snakes. When in doubt, always remember: it’s better to look than to touch!
4. Bring the right supplies
To have a safe safari adventure, make sure to bring the right supplies. If you choose to stay at a private game resort, it may provide you with many essential items. However, it’s always a good idea to overprepare, just in case.
When packing for a safari, be sure to bring appropriate clothing that will protect you from the elements. Having health supplies like a first aid kit will also be beneficial in the long run; while your safari guides will likely have medical supplies on hand, it’s best to have your own in case of an emergency.
5. Walk away slowly
This is an important trick to use while you are out in nature. If you see a dangerous animal approaching, slowly back away from it instead of making sudden movements or running off in a different direction.
This will make it easier for you to get away without attracting attention from other predators. This does not mean that you should approach other animals, though, as they could still attack even if they do not notice your sudden movement.
There’s so much to do, see, and experience in Africa. With these important safari safety tips to follow, you can ensure that your visit is safe, fun, and memorable. So grab your hats, boots, and gloves, and get exploring!
