Safety on an African Safari – Is it safe to go on safari in Africa? – How safe is mountain gorilla trekking in Africa?
Safety on an African safari – Is it safe to go on an Africa safari? This is one of the top questions asked by many travelers. Many people dream of traveling to this wondrous continent to go in search of its famous wildlife. They read about lions and elephants lurking right next to an open jeep in Namibia, Tanzania, and Botswana and see pictures of people gazing in awe at gorillas just a few meters away in Uganda and Rwanda.
People hear about the thrilling walking safaris in Kenya and envision a night under the stars in a safari camp in the middle of a South African reserve.
These awe-inspiring destinations allow you to get up close and personal with some of the world’s greatest (and most dangerous) animals. So it makes you wonder, whether safaris are safe? Millions of travelers go on safari in Africa every year. African safari deaths are very uncommon, however, all wildlife encounters carry risks due to the unpredictable nature of these wild animals.
You can mitigate these risks by going on safari with expert guides who are well-trained in safety procedures. It’s also important to brush up on the general safari rules and safety tips before you head off on your African adventure, to ensure you get the best out of your safari experience and leave a positive impact on the places you visit.
Great Adventure Safaris work with the most prominent camps and lodges in Africa, so you can be sure your safety will be the top priority at all times. With decades of collective experience on safaris across Africa, Great Adventure Safaris Team experts, when it comes to safari, safety even organize any special need.
In this comprehensive guide, we have rounded up their insights on everything you need to know to stay safe on safari. We’ll also answer all your burning questions including what colors to wear, how to take a toilet stop on safari, why animals don’t attack open jeeps and essential animal spotting etiquette.
What to wear on safari?
Pack comfortable clothes made out of moisture-wicking materials to help combat the heat.
Wear a hat and light, long layers to protect you from prickly plants, stinging insects, and reptiles.
Bring a bandanna or scarf that you can wet and wrap around your neck for extra relief in the hot weather. Depending on the season, you’ll also need to pack some warm layers.
It’s imperative to choose comfortable, sturdy shoes such as boots or hard rubber soles. Wear your shoes for at least a month before going on safari so you know they won’t plague you with blisters.
FAQ: What colors should I wear on safari?
The color of your clothes can play a big part in the number of animals you spot on safari. The worst colors to wear are white, black, and bright colors, as these stand out to most animals and will cause them to flee. Try to blend in with the landscape by wearing dark green, brown, and khaki colors. You don’t need to deck yourself out in a cliché safari outfit – simple, comfortable clothing in neutral colors is best.
What to take on safari
Binoculars
Camera
Torch or head flashlight
Sunscreen
Mosquito repellent
Reusable water bottle
Simple first aid kit
Waterproof bag
Sturdy backpack if trekking
Good quality sunglasses
Portable chargers
Extra memory cards for all your incredible photographs
Travel insurance – essential protection in the unlikely event of safari injuries, illness, and lost or broken possessions
