Stay Safe on Foot: Essential Safety Tips for Walking Safaris

Walking Safari Safety

A walking safari can be a wonderful way to experience African wildlife on a more intimate level than a traditional safari. So, what is a guided walking safari? On one of these safaris, you’ll be paired with an experienced guide, who will walk you through the wilderness and give you an up-close look at animals and their behaviour.

4 Essential Safari Tips

Walking safaris offer amazing views of wildlife up close, which is why it’s important to take personal safety seriously while on these trips. Preparing beforehand by reading information about animals and having an emergency plan in place are practical ways to help prepare yourself for your safari and help keep you safe while on it.

Here are four essential safari tips below:

1. Ensure You Hire a Qualified Guide

One of the best ways to ensure walking safari safety is to always hire an experienced and qualified guide. Working with a reputable safari company is crucial, so check out reviews before booking your safari and read over itineraries and trip information carefully.

It is never recommended that travellers attempt to venture out into the wilderness on their own.

2. Be Sure You Properly Understand Animal Behaviour

Properly understanding animal behaviour is another important way to keep yourself safe on a walking safari. Some ways to improve your understanding of safari animals include:

• Observing their body language, such as for signs of relaxation, aggression, or fear
• Notice how they interact with other animals, both within and outside their species group
• Learn how they vocalise and what different vocalisations mean
• Always keep a safe distance from wildlife and never disturb them
• Ask your guide questions about animals you see on your trip

3. Always Wear Appropriate Attire

You should also always dress appropriately for a walking safari. Remember that these kinds of safaris are physical and will include walking and other similar activities. Aim to wear neutral colours that won’t startle the wildlife and protect yourself from the sun with moisture-wicking clothing and hats.

Don’t forget about sturdy hiking boots and binoculars for observing wildlife!

4. Have an Emergency Preparedness Plan

As with any trip, especially abroad, it’s key to have a plan in place in case of an emergency. Always invest in travel insurance and familiarise yourself with the terrain, climate, and wildlife of the areas that you’ll be visiting.

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Guided Walking Safaris with Discover Africa

Here at Discover Africa, we offer amazing guided walking safaris with experienced, local guides who are knowledgeable about the climate and wildlife.

Enjoy a safe safari adventure without ever having to sacrifice views of Africa’s incredible animals. All of our guides possess intensive wilderness and safety training and are equipped to address a potential threat should it arise.

Our guided walking safaris include many beautiful destinations, such as:

• Kruger National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Victoria Falls
• Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
• Sabi Sands

Safe Safari Adventures and Discover Africa

With over twenty years of experience providing safe safari adventures, Discover Africa offers 24/7 support and custom-tailored trips for any adventurer. Book with us now!