A safari in Africa sounds exotic, no doubt, but you do realize that there is a ‘code’ to be followed, invisible even if it is…It is a code that every traveler must hold sacred, because when you go out into the heart of wilderness, you can’t afford to insult these sacred rules…
To make the most of your trip, do remember that it depends on how well you adapt to the African wildlife…and for that, you have to follow some of the “golden rules” while on an African Safari…
The following is a list of do’s and don’ts that you have to bear in mind…
Do:
- Dress Right: Do wear something that makes you feel comfortable. You are going out into the wilderness, so it is a good idea to wear clothes that cover your legs, you don’t want to come in contact with insectivorous shrubs. Wear summer clothing, a light raincoat with proper sun protection.
- Blend In: with the natural wilderness. Don’t wear something that will attract unwanted attention, and disrupt your fun activities…the animals might give you the slip if you fail to camouflage yourself properly.
- Keep calm: Under no circumstances should you panic. It makes matters worse. Make sure you don’t stray from the pack and stroll off on your own. This is especially true when you are on a walking safari. Even your enthusiasm needs to be kept under wraps, lest it gives you away on a bird-watching or animal watching trail.
- Keep the Right Company: Stick to your group and guide at all times, and you will be safe.
- Travel Light: Especially if it is a walking safari, make sure you travel light. Just pack the bare essentials, the camp will provide for the rest.
- Carry Protective Gear: Sunscreen, caps, hats, raincoats and a small Swiss army knife can prove very handy out in the wild…even in the face of adversity.
- Extra Protection: Carry your personal meds in case you have some specific allergy, or health issues.
- Photography: Do make beautiful memories…and capture them for a lifetime worth of memories…
- Necessities: Always keep the important documents, like passport, visa, insurance details and currency etc on you! Whether you are travelling with a group or separately, these are indispensable.
- Anti-malaria medication: Africa is still mosquito ridden and malaria is still the most frequent disease to fell travelers. Make sure to carry anti malaria meds and insect repellents.
- Medical services: Always keep important phone numbers and carry your meds. Take stock and get your medicines from the big pharmacies in town.
- Drinking water: Carry adequate water and make sure to drink and carry clean water whenever possible.
Don’ts:
- No Littering: take only memories and leave only good deeds behind.
- Ignorance Hinders: Make sure to have at least some amount of know-how about the policies, traditions and key points of the place you are visiting.
- Too Close for Comfort: Especially when you are going for a driving safari, keep safe distance from the animals. These are wild animals, unaware of etiquette and training or the human touch.
- Conversations: Make sure you think before you speak. Don’t insult any of the traditions the locals endorse.
- No Souvenirs Please: Do not stray from your guide and group in search of stones and natural souvenirs.
- Child Menace: Keep your kids under control. They are your responsibility. Make sure they do not stray or do something silly…
- Foolish Photography: Don’t click everything that comes your way, especially local folks, they might not like it…
- Fire Alert: Do not leave behind any combustibles; it endangers not just humans, but the wildlife too…
- Cell phone Hazard: Especially when you are on a driving safari, or travelling on foot, pay attention to what is ahead instead of what is on your phone. Besides, reception can be a little tricky out in the wild.
- Do not Disturb: the local traditions, and the local things.
When it comes to animals:
- Keep safe distance
- Do not feed them
- Make sure you sit on the animal, not hang from it
- Take care of children when near animals.
Now that you know the “golden rules “of African safari, follow them and enjoy your safari…it is a once in a lifetime matter…
