Taking a safari is an exciting experience, but it’s also a dangerous one. Especially on walking safaris, you should follow the guide’s instructions carefully.

While the animals have become accustomed to safari vehicles, any noise can disturb them and cause them to chase or attack. The following safari safety tips will help ensure your visit is fun and safe.

Don’t Stand Up or Stick Anything Out of the Car

While getting that selfie with a giant elephant matriarch or fierce lion staring right into your lens is tempting, never risk your or their safety for that perfect safari photo. Doing so could be interpreted as aggression and may cause the animal to attack you.

While the animals are accustomed to the sounds of safari vehicles, any noise coming from outside will disturb them and might even get them agitated. This is an excellent reason to keep your windows closed and ensure your sunroof is shut! Also, try to stay downwind of the animal, as this will help prevent them from catching your scent.

Don’t Get Out of the Vehicle Unless Your Guide Says It’s Safe

Getting out of the vehicle is a dangerous thing to do. Wild animals are unpredictable, and, as safari guides know, some have been known to attack or even kill people who get too close or disturb them in their natural habitat.

Besides that, it’s not safe for you. Standing up, waving something, or making sudden movements can frighten the animals and make them act unpredictably.

The best way to enjoy a safari during your honeymoon in Africa is to stay in a vehicle and listen to your guide. This will help you see more wildlife and avoid potential accidents. Ultimately, you’ll have a fantastic experience you’ll want to tell everyone about.

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Don’t Make Loud Noises

Whether on a walking safari or a game drive, loud noises are never a good idea. They scare and disturb wildlife in their natural habitat, putting you and them at risk.

Trying to get an animal’s attention by making noise could lead to them turning their back on you or provoking a charge. Not to mention, it will make you less popular with your fellow safari-goers and guides.

Keep quiet, and stay downwind so animals can’t smell you as quickly. They’re naturally doing what they do; we’re visitors in their home. Don’t spoil the experience for everyone else!

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Don’t Feed the Animals

The last thing you want to do during a safari is feed the animals. They are wild animals and must learn how to hunt and forage for food independently. Feeding them disrupts their natural behaviors and can even be dangerous to the animal.

You also should not pick flowers or other vegetation while on a safari. This is because it can damage or disturb the ecosystem and harm the animals that depend on it for survival. Many areas where safaris take place are pristine and beautiful, so it’s important to leave things as they are for the sake of the wildlife.

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Don’t Smoke

Only smoke during a safari if your guide says it’s safe. Strong perfumes and deodorants can make animals nervous, decreasing your chances of spotting them. Smoking also pollutes the environment and can attract stinging insects.

In addition, if you call out or try to attract wildlife’s attention, they may confuse you and your car for food. This can lead to dangerous situations, so staying quiet and observing animals from a distance is best. Your guides are trained to keep you safe during an animal attack, so trust their judgment. Also, smoking is a fire hazard in the African bush.

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Don’t Litter

It is important to not litter during your safari. Even though it may seem harmless, any trash left behind can harm wildlife or pollute the natural environment. It’s also important to remember that the animals you see on safari are wild and do not interact with humans daily. Provoking animals by approaching them can lead to fatal attacks from predators like lions and elephants.

These safety tips will help you have a safe and enjoyable safari experience. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your safari guide.