When going on a luxury safari for the first time you will realize on arrival how relaxed the whole thing is – it would be hard to make a real faux pas but when faced with how to behave there are few don’ts which if adhered to should mean you will avoid too many frowns. The main element of any luxury safari camp is a feeling of warmth and friendliness, hosts want guests to be themselves and feel comfortable so there’s never too much need for worry.
Here are our top five don’ts whilst on a luxury safari:
1 DON’T WALK OUTSIDE YOUR ROOM AT NIGHT
Of course you will be told this by the host and manager of your camp when you arrive, this is serious. At night Africa takes back the land and this is when most big cats are active, and are in hunting mode. You will have an armed guard escort you everywhere at night so you’ll be perfectly safe – but that after dinner quiet cigarette you wanted outside your tent, probably not such a good idea!
2 DON’T TALK LOUDLY ON GAME DRIVES
Wildlife is incredibly sensitive and although they tolerate, and in most circumstances don’t even notice the safari vehicles – they will hear a loud voice. You’ll have a much calmer and more natural game viewing experience if you whisper.
3 DON’T COMPLAIN WHEN YOU GET HOME
It is very hard to run a luxury safari camp and lodge in Africa so there can be small problems – it is always best to let your host and tour operator know at the time as most of those problems can be sorted out for you right away. There is very little that can be done when you get home!
4 DON’T IGNORE YOUR GUIDE
Your safari guide is exceptionally experienced and knows how to read wildlife very well – do listen to his advice and trust that he knows best and will keep you safe. Again putting trust in your guide will mean you’ll have a life changing and natural wildlife viewing experience.
5 DON’T BE SHY
The guides and hosts want to please you so if there’s something you’d like to do they will do their best to make it happen – after all this is your holiday and you must get what you want out of it. Do tell your guide if you only want to look for lions one day, or would prefer not to stop for impala anymore – they’ll be delighted to oblige you.
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