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  • Jaqueline Mabuza

Safety Tips When Going on an African Safari

Updated: Dec 19, 2023


Are you planning or still deciding whether you should go on an African safari but still unsure about the safety precautions you need to take to embark on a safari? well let us ease you from your doubt and assure you a safe and exciting trip if you follow our guide on what to expect and how to prepare for the safety of your journey.


Of course, no matter how well you prepare for anything in life, be prepared for the unexpected to happen anywhere, anytime and safaris are no exception but being cautious will minimize risks. Just like any ordinary trip you must be well prepared prior to you departing to your destination, the admin behind planning for a trip may seem like a lot but trust it is nothing compared to the damage control you might have to do if you do not plan and prepare accordingly.


You might need to do a bit of research about our country if you are an international tourist planning to visit south Africa for the first time .find out how long your trip will be which season of the year will it be when you visit so you can plan your wardrobe accordingly to the season ,learn a bit about the culture ,what is legal to bring and what is not and so on


Guides to follow.


Vaccination for travel


Covid-19 is still a pandemic all over the world, travel restrictions might have been eased but we are not in a COVID-19 free world. The spread of the virus might be slow but keep in mind it is still very much spreading so make sure you get fully vaccinated before you travel and follow all COVID-19 precautions to protect yourself and others.


tourists watching the sunset

Yellow fever vaccination


Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required when traveling to south Africa so make sure you get yourself one and if travelling with children from 1 year of age, they also need to get one.


Medical travel insurance


Your travel medical insurance is very essential when travelling, it is your responsibility as an individual to make sure you are in good health to travel, make sure you have your prescribed medication from your local health care in case the type of medication is not available in south Africa.


HIV & AIDS


HIV & AIDS has a high rate in Africa, so it would be wise for everyone to educate themselves about the virus and how to protect themselves against it.


Malaria


· A safari is an outdoor activity around bushes and prone to small insects so protect yourself from mosquito bites especially if you are travelling in summer.

· Wear long sleeves and a hat.

· Apply insect repellent to your exposed skin.

· and always use a mosquito net over your bed.


Safety during self-driving safaris in Mpumalanga

self driving african  safari


· The first thing you need is to make sure you have the parks emergency contact number incase anything happens like your car engine going off, flat tyre that might need to be changed do not get off your car to check the problem, your pathway may seem clear and safe, but wildlife has a very high speed and may reach you within seconds.

· Do not get off designated roads for your safety, you might see guides going through small passages and wish to do the same but remember guides are well trained and experienced in animal behavior and know what to do in case of emergencies.

· keep a safe distance,a nicer and closer photograph is not work risking your life, animals react when they feel threatened and may trample your vehicle especially elephants and rhinos and always keep your doors always locked and windows up.



Safari safety measures


Game drives are safe as millions of travelers go on safari adventures all over Africa every year and they come out simply fine and in one piece.

· Always pay attention to your guide, they know animal behavior and have wonderful experience in their line of work.

· It is highly advisable to read disclaimer noticeboards and follow all given rules.

· Animals have gotten familiar with the open safari vehicles and how they sound, but any foreign noise might get them agitated so always keep quiet and turn off your devices, so they do not disturb the animals.

· Remember wild animals are not pets so do not treat them as such n matter how cute and innocent they may seem, they can be extremely dangerous.

· Do not get too close to the animals, they see humans as threats and may attack you.

· Feeding animals is prohibited and dangerous for you and them.

· If you are on a walking safari, stay on the path and close to your vehicle do not wonder off where your guide cannot see you.


Follow these tips and have a great African experience.

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