Most of the safaris we offer at Kagera safaris include wildlife viewing – either while on a game drive in a vehicle or nature walks and trekking of wildlife especially rhinos and primates, which is a highlight for most people. Nature experiences include; gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, colobus monkey trekking, golden monkey trekking, rhino trekking, nature walks and forest walks/hikes etc. This article helps provide some form of guidance on how to avoid danger while viewing wildlife.
Wildlife viewing is a safe activity when you follow the precautions provided by your range guide and naturalist guide. One has to respect the animals and their habitats. You will receive guidance on how to behave while on safari to minimize the possibility of any risky incidences with wildlife. Remember that you are viewing wild animals whose behaviors sometimes change. Below are our suggested ways;
- Always follow the instructions of your guide right from briefing to when you are on the actual tour.
- Do not raise your voice while viewing wildlife – by talking or laughing loudly.
- When on safari, especially on a walking tour, wear nature blending colors but avoid dark colors in tsetse fly infested areas because they tend to attract them. Wear a sun hat, use sunscreen and stay hydrated. Do not use strong perfume.
- Use insect repellents to avoid mosquito bites. Wear long sleeved tops for forest and nature walks to avoid stinging plants.
- Never keep food in your room when in a tented camp, they attract animals to your tent.
- Watch where you put your foot while on a walking/ trekking safari and stay close to your guide. Do not wander off on your own. If you want to pee, go straight behind the car and not in the bush.
- Never block an animal’s way e.g. walking between a hippo and water, the animal will panic and attack. Or driving between elephants who have young ones, they can attack you.
- Do not drive too close to the animals, they might feel threatened and attack. Do not get closer than the recommended distance to primates. They can contract diseases from humans and humans can contract diseases from them.
- Never jog in a wildlife area because it attracts predators to attack you. When on a walking safari listen to the guides instructions on what to do in case of an animal charging.
- Do not sit on the roof of the vehicle when in motion or parked, or hang out of the window.
- Stay in the car while on a game drive except in designated areas where you are allowed to either picnic, stretch or use wash rooms.
