Open savannas, exotic animals roaming free, a close encounter with a lion or an elephant – doesn’t it sound wonderful? No trip to Africa is complete without a safari. But safety is one of the first things that pops into your mind as soon as you hear about Africa. You should know that African safaris are generally safe. You just need to take a few precautions and keep a few things in mind.
Before Traveling
Africa is home to some of the most diverse wildlife and quite a lot of diseases as well. As a precaution, you can get vaccinated for most of them before traveling there. You should definitely get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid and Malaria and be up-to-date on your routine vaccinations such as the ones for mumps, rubella, etc. In addition to these, there are a few more precautions you can take before traveling.
You should carry mosquito repellent and apply it diligently.
Make sure you get a travel insurance before traveling to Africa.
You also need to do some research and select the best African safari tour operator based on their customer reviews.
Safari Safety Tips
You can opt for a walking safari or a driving safari. Each has its own set of rules to be followed that are made to keep you safe.
Listen to Your Guide
Always follow the instructions given by your guide and your Africa safari tour operator. They are professionals who are well-versed with the do(s) and don’t(s). Do not take any of their advice lightly.
Don’t Stand in the Vehicle
If you are going for the safari in a vehicle, then keep in mind that you shouldn’t stand in your vehicle or try to wave at the animals. Animals are used to seeing the vehicles. But if you do something out of the ordinary, it can attract their attention. You are also traveling on an uneven road and your vehicle can move suddenly and catch you off guard, which may make you lose your balance and fall over. You also shouldn’t stick your arm out of the vehicle. Many of the African plants and trees are thorny and you can get scratched.
Be Quiet
Any loud noises that you make can attract the animals and make them feel threatened. So, try to be as quiet as possible and don’t make any loud noises.
Do Not Wear Bright Colors
You would see that most of the safari clothes have a camouflage print. They come in browns and greens and are made to blend with the surroundings. Bright colors can attract the attention of animals and can even draw them towards you.
Camping and Walking Safari
If you are going on a walking safari, then your Africa safari tour operator will ask you to walk in a line and not stray from the group. And make it a point to always wear boots and socks while walking as it would protect you from snakes.
If your safari involves camping, then you need to stay in the tent at night and not stray outside. If you ever encounter an animal during your safari, do not panic and run, but walk away slowly.
Enjoy Your Safari!
Africa has a lot to offer its visitors. You can catch a glimpse of exquisite wildlife and unique cultures. Getting your trip planned by a reputed and trustworthy travel agency can really help make your African safari memorable. So, before you go on the trip, do some research and choose only the best African safari tour operators. This can go a long way in making your trip safe and one of the best experiences of your life.
