ACTIONS TO AVOID DURING A SAFARI:
DO NOT LEAVE THE CAR:
Staying in the car at all times is one of the most crucial safari guidelines. It's important to keep in mind that you are in an animal's domain, even though the broad savannah may seem welcoming and you may want to get a closer look. Both you and the animals may be in danger if you exit the car.
DO NOT FEED ANIMALS:
Although it may be alluring to try to have a better look or even to get up close and personal with the animals, it's crucial to keep in mind that they are still wild animals. Feeding them can potentially be detrimental to them and alters their natural nature.
DO NOT MAKE LOUD NOISES:
A successful safari depends on being able to observe the animals in their natural habitat, which entails being quiet and considerate of their home. Excessive talking and loud noises can startle animals, making them run away or grow hostile. During a safari, always put your phone on airplane mode or silent, and refrain from using any loud electronics.
DO NOT LITTER:
Safaris are held in some of the world's most secluded and unspoiled areas. You should leave these places as you found them. Litter can disturb an animal's habitat and cause harm to it. Additionally, it detracts from the surrounding area's natural beauty and may have long-term consequences for the environment.
DO NOT TOUCH THE ANIMALS:
Despite the temptation to try to pet a wild animal, it's crucial to keep in mind that they are not domesticated pets and can become hostile if touched. Additionally, touching animals can spread dangerous viruses or germs between species, which could endanger or even kill them.
DO NOT WEAR BRIGHTLY COLORED CLOTHING:
It's crucial to blend in with your surroundings when going on a game drive. Animals may become startled and feel threatened by brightly colored clothing. Wearing muted hues like green, beige, or khaki is advised to prevent striking out in the natural setting.
DO NOT IGNORE SAFETY BRIEFINGS:
The guide gives a safety briefing prior to the trip. This is vital information that would guarantee both the animals' and tourists' safety. If something is unclear, the visitor should pay attention and ask questions. Ignoring safety instructions can put people in danger and result in risky interactions with wild animals.
AVOID CHASING OR HARASSING ANIMALS:
The goal of a safari is to see and enjoy wild creatures in their natural habitat, not to trouble or injure them. Their survival may be impacted, and their natural behavior is also disturbed. Keep a safe distance and show consideration for the animals.
NOTHING SHOULD BE TAKEN FROM THE SAFARI:
Taking a tiny memento from your safari can seem innocuous, but it can have a negative impact on both the ecosystem and the wildlife. The ecosystem can be upset and the creatures that depend on natural resources may suffer if rocks, feathers, or plants are removed. To preserve the natural equilibrium, leave everything as you found it.
DON’T COMPLAIN ABOUT NOT SEEING ANY ANIMALS:
safaris are erratic, and visitors cannot be sure they will see every animal on the list. Realistic expectations are crucial, as is the knowledge that the creatures are in their native environment and might not always be readily visible. Take in the beauty of the surroundings and cherish the times you do get to view animals in their natural habitat rather than whining.
Going on a safari is a once-in-a-lifetime event that calls for caution, respect, and regard for the animals and their habitat. Safari can benefit the environment and animals by avoiding the aforementioned.
DO NOT TAKE A SELF DRIVE
If you want to enter animal areas, even if you have rented a car, it is better (and safer) to travel in safari vehicles with a guide. The majority of reserve roads are dirt roads, and you risk damaging your rental vehicle. The massive wheels of a well-maintained safari vehicle are better adapted to negotiating the many stones and dongas (potholes and natural ditches). You don't want to be changing a tire on your cheap rental car in the middle of a game reserve, even though guides are certified to fix cars if needed. You also require guide’s experience in such un charted region. They approach animals on a daily basis, so they are well versed in knowing when it is safe to get too close.
PAY ATTENTION TO THE GUIDE:
Your guide takes their responsibility for your safety very seriously and will never give you unnecessary instructions. Your guide has undergone years of training and education to be able to take you on safari, so trust their knowledge regardless of what you think is best. They do this every day, but you can probably count the number of safaris you've been on with one hand.
DON’T START A TRIP BEFORE EASING YOURSELF:
It's one thing to pull over on the side of the road on a long-distance drive, but quite another to pull over in a game reserve that likely contains the Big Five. Urinating against a tree seems less practical when there is a very real possibility that a leopard is lurking up that tree or a lion is hiding next to you in the deep grass. Try to drink less and use the restroom before drinking if you have a weak bladder. Although they are scattered, stop-sites are common in game reserves.