A safari is a privilege, not just a tour. You are entering the home of wild animals and the ancestral lands of local communities. To ensure you have a safe trip while preserving the environment for future generations, following “Bush Etiquette” is essential. Here are the 10 golden rules for every traveler joining a Back of Africa Adventure.
1. Keep Your Voice Down
Loud noises can startle animals and disrupt their natural behavior. It also ruins the immersion for your fellow travelers. When you spot something exciting, whisper.
2. Never Feed the Animals
Feeding wildlife (especially monkeys) creates a dangerous dependency on humans. It can lead to animals becoming aggressive, which often results in them having to be removed or culled.
3. Stay Inside the Vehicle
Unless your guide indicates a designated “stretch point” or picnic area, stay in the vehicle. Predators are masters of camouflage; just because you don’t see them doesn’t mean they aren’t there.
4. No Littering
The savannah is not a trash can. Take everything back to the lodge with you, including fruit peels and tissues.
5. Respect the Tracks
Driving off-road destroys the fragile soil and vegetation that herbivores rely on. We stick to designated tracks to minimize our footprint on the ecosystem.
6. Don’t Crowd the Sightings
If a lion or leopard is spotted, multiple vehicles may arrive. We maintain a respectful distance to give the animal space to move or hunt. Patience often leads to better sightings than crowding.
7. Ask Before You Photo
When visiting local communities, such as a Maasai village, always ask for permission before taking photos of people. A simple smile and “May I?” goes a long way in showing respect.
8. Avoid Drones
Drones are strictly prohibited in most National Parks in Kenya and Tanzania. They stress animals and disturb the peace of the wilderness. Leave the aerial shots to the professionals.
9. Dress for the Bush
Stick to neutral colors (khaki, brown, olive). Bright colors can distract animals, and dark blue or black can attract Tsetse flies in certain areas.
10. Listen to Your Guide
Your guide is an expert in animal behavior. If they tell you to sit down or stop talking, it’s for your safety and the well-being of the animals. Trust their experience.
Conclusion By following these simple rules, you become a partner in conservation. Respecting the wild ensures that the magic of Africa remains for years to come.