I’ve been on self-drive safaris a few times now, and in a few countries across Southern and Eastern Africa. And, sadly, I’ve noticed (too) many bad behaviours; either from locals, tourists, and safari cars! Of course, I’m nobody to judge the way people drive and behave, but I just needed to share this thought that has been disturbing my mind too much lately.
There are some rules to be followed when going on a safari. I tried to list them below: - watch your speed (mostly 40km/h to 50km/h on main tracks); - switch off your engine when close to wildlife or while observing them; - keep your distance with wild animals; - don’t feed wild animals; - stay in your vehicle -get out in picnic sites or in open spaces (stay around the car though); - keep quiet; - don’t litter; - stay cool, don’t be provocative; - focus on the animals and not on your camera; - and probably other rules that are too obvious for me.
Going on a safari is NOT a game and I hate the term ‘attraction’. It’s very personal but wildlife is not an attraction. Today, species get extinct and others are in serious trouble.
Africa and its biodiversity are a serious thing that we all should feel concerned about. We ALL have a role to play to protect our favourite animals.
I might be too extreme but I do believe that wildlife and safari EDUCATION must be offered/given to anyone who wants to self-drive in reserves and parks.
The new generations around the globe should be taught the truth about nature, wild animals, challenges, and behaviour to adopt.
In the meantime, if you fancy going on a safari or self-drive safari (where you are behind the wheel), PLEASE use your common sense, stay alert, respectful, and HUMBLE with nature.
And if you think that your safari driver doesn’t respect these rules, tell them.
Last but not least: consume these moments for your heart, take the time to observe. Nature is constantly changing magic, I promise you.
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