Listen to Your Guide
The single most important rule on any safari is to follow the instructions of your guide. These professionals are highly trained in animal behaviour, park regulations, and safety protocols. They know how close is too close, can interpret an animal's mood,
and understand the local ecosystem. Whether they ask you to stay seated, lower your voice, or prepare to move, their instructions are for your safety and the well-being of the wildlife. Don't pressure them to get closer for a photo or to bend the rules; their expertise is your greatest asset in the bush.
Stay Inside the Vehicle
It may seem obvious, but the temptation to get a clearer view or a better photo can be strong. However, you must always remain inside the safari vehicle unless your guide explicitly says it is safe to exit in a designated area. Animals often perceive the vehicle as a single, non-threatening object. The moment you stand up or hang a limb outside, you break that shape, which can startle animals and provoke a defensive or predatory reaction. This rule is paramount for your safety, as unseen dangers can be just metres away in the bush.
Silence is Golden
The sounds of the wild are a huge part of the experience, and human noise can easily shatter that peace. Loud talking, shouting, or playing music is not only disruptive to fellow travellers but can also frighten wildlife, causing them to flee. Speak in low tones, especially when animals are near. Keeping quiet increases your chances of witnessing natural behaviour and ensures you don't cause stress to the animals you came to see. It’s also wise to turn off your phone or put it on silent mode to avoid unexpected rings.
Respect the Wildlife’s Space
Remember that you are a visitor in their home. Never try to feed, touch, or call out to animals to get their attention. Feeding wildlife is dangerous for both you and the animals; it can make them aggressive and dependent on humans, and our food can be toxic to them. Maintain a respectful distance at all times. Chasing an animal or cornering it with a vehicle can cause immense stress, potentially separating a young animal from its mother or preventing a predator from making a hard-earned kill. Patience is key; quiet observation is often rewarded with the most incredible sightings.
Leave No Trace
A core principle of responsible tourism is to leave an environment exactly as you found it. Do not leave any litter, including food scraps or cigarette butts. Not only is litter unsightly, but it can be ingested by animals and cause illness or death. The dry bush is also highly flammable, so smoking is often prohibited during game drives. Similarly, do not take anything with you, whether it’s a plant, a feather, or a rock. Every element of the ecosystem has a role to play.
Practical Safari Etiquette
A few other considerations can make the experience better for everyone. Wear neutral, earth-toned clothing like beige, green, or brown to blend in with the environment; bright colours can startle animals. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes, as animals have a powerful sense of smell. When it comes to photography, never use a flash, as the sudden burst of light can frighten and disorient wildlife. Be considerate of others in your vehicle by taking turns for the best viewing spots. Finally, remember that safaris often start very early to catch animals at their most active, so being on time is essential.
