Are African Safaris Safe: Is Africa Safe For Travel?

The vast majority of African safaris are uneventful and without incident. There are, however, numerous things vacationers may do to ensure that their African safari is as trouble-free as possible.

Are African Safari Safe! – YES

When it comes to camp, game drives, and bush walks, as long as you follow your guide’s directions, you should never feel unsafe. In fact, many tourists are astounded by how protected and secure they feel throughout their stay.

On an African Safari, Where Do Visitors Go?

Most African Photo Adventures seek out the popular destinations. Here are just a few, the Serengeti in Tanzania, the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, and Kruger National Park in South Africa.

Which Areas are Considered Dangerous for an African Photo Safari?

Central Africa is well-known for the threats it poses to travellers. Because to a combination of civil wars and political upheaval, the countries in this region are a risky choice for travellers. South and East Africa are also known to have problems, which can make an African safari unappealing.

Some of the most popular tourist destinations, such as Kenya and Tanzania, have seen a recent increase tourist activity. In these areas, it is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times and take precautions when travelling.

Other potential risks in areas include:

  • The Democratic Republic of Congo
  • Southern Sudan
  • Mali
  • Nigeria

Is Terrorism an Issue in South African?

Terrorism is one of the most serious security concerns when travelling in Africa. Several terrorist acts have occurred across the continent in recent decades, and it is usually the major issue that travellers are warned of when they are planning their photo adventure.. There are some areas that are more prone to terrorism than others, so it is important to do your research before you travel and to always stay aware of your surroundings.

What You Need to Know About Staying Safe While on Safari

In order to stay safe in Africa, travellers should always follow the advice of the local authorities and adhere to the following guidelines:

  • Do not carry large amounts of cash.
  • Do not carry large amounts of jewellery.
  • Do not carry large amounts of electronics.
  • Do not leave your bags unattended.
  • Do not walk around the city at night.
  • Do not accept food or drinks from strangers

During Your Planning Stage for a Photo Safari Vacation to Africa, It’s Important to Know How to Stay Safe. Here Are a Few Tips:

  • Stay in groups and never wander off on your own
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times and be suspicious of anything that looks out of place
  • Do not approach or touch any wild animals – even if they appear tame
  • Beware of snakes, spiders, and other venomous creatures
  • Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled or purified

Before You Leave for Safari Trip

  • Visit your travel doctor for the required vaccinations
  • Bring mosquito repellent
  • Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
  • Avoid bright colours
  • Before you leave for your safari, pack the essentials: binoculars, camera, flashlight, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, water bottle and first-aid kit.
  • Leave behind clothes in dark colours and heavy clothing. Wear light-coloured clothing and a sturdy backpack if trekking.
  • Bring travel insurance and sunglasses in case of accidents or lost possessions on your trip.

Vehicle Safaris for That Perfect Photographic Experience

Vehicle safaris are a popular way to see wildlife. They allow you to move from one park to another and from one place to the next.

Always stay within your vehicle, never leave the vehicle, and be prepared to duck at low-hanging branches.

Vehicle Safaris for That Perfect Photographic Experience

When travelling to Africa for a safari, it is important to be aware of the safety risks and take precautions. Before departing, make sure you let friends and family know your itinerary and when you plan on returning. It is also a good idea to research the areas you will be visiting and familiarize yourself with potential dangers.

It is critical to be aware of the different road conditions you may encounter. The roads may have potholes or be very dusty, which can cause your visibility to be reduced. Additionally, there are sharp corners and crests which can also make it difficult to see what is ahead.

Vehicle safaris are the best way to see and photograph Africa’s wildlife. The roads in Africa are often unpaved and full of curves, so it is important to be patient when driving. Additionally, the vegetation can obscure visibility, so drivers need to be careful when making turns.

Do Animals Attack Safari Vehicles?

Generally, no, they do not. You are safe within your vehicle. Confrontations are very rare.
In fact, vehicles can actually provide safety for you and the animals.
Elephants and Rhinos are the only animals that would attack a safari vehicle.

Contemplating A Walking Safari?

Walking safaris are an exhilarating experience, allowing you to move at a slower pace and truly immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.

It is essential to select a reputable guide, and we can advise you on the best walking safaris in Africa.
One of our favourite places to go on a walking safari is African Jacana Safari, where you can choose to trek for a day or go on longer multi-day hikes through this unspoiled corner of Botswana. Another great walking safari destination is Zambia

Walking safaris, like all safaris and wildlife excursions, have inherited dangers. Skilled guides have undergone extensive training, and their top priority is your safety.
By following the guide’s recommendations at all times, you can reduce the risk of danger greatly. However, because animals are unpredictable and things can go wrong very quickly, here are a few more safari safety principles to remember.

  • Stay downwind from the animals.
  • Walk away slowly.
  • Walk in a single file
  • Walking safaris are a type of safari where visitors are escorted by armed guides.
  • The purpose of walking safaris is to protect tourists from danger lurking along the path.
  • Walking safaris typically take place in areas with dense vegetation and plenty of wildlife.

Safari Etiquette

  • Follow safari etiquette to ensure a positive safari experience for all.
  • Manage expectations and don’t expect to see everything on your first game drive.
  • Let everyone have a turn spotting the animals, then move on when others have a chance.
  • Choose travel partners wisely to avoid conflicts or monopolizing sightings.
  • Always tip your guide.
  • Ask the camp manager for an acceptable amount to tip the guides and lodge staff.
  • Make sure you are aware of Safari etiquette

Safety While Camping on Safari

Follow proper safety guidelines while camping on safari, including following instructions from your tour operator.

Make sure your tent is properly zipped up and secure to avoid animal intrusion.

Do not leave food or belongings outside your tent during the night, as this can attract predators.

Stay aware of your surroundings while on safari, as dangerous animals may be lurking nearby.

  • All prominent safari lodges and camps have excellent safety procedures.
  • Animals can roam quite close to the camps, so it’s important to remain vigilant at all times.
  • Don’t walk around at night or store food or drinks in your tent.
  • Adorn long pants with boots, and socks when walking around the bushes and camp.
  • Always greet people politely
  • Don’t bring sweets for children and don’t give money or gifts to people you don’t know

Children on Safari

  • Most camps have age restrictions for safety reasons, although game drives can be long and boring for young kids.
  • If you want to go on safari with younger children, a self-drive safari is best as you’ll have complete control over your daily schedule.
  • Children on safari enjoy the experience of being close to animals in a wild setting.
  • Children learn about animal behaviour and ecology.
  • Children have a unique opportunity to observe wildlife up close.
  • There are inherent risks associated with travelling with children, including danger from predators and accidents.

General Safari Safety in Africa

No need to shun any of Africa’s most famous safari spots. Here are a few quick tips:

  • Listen to your guide,
  • Do not disturb the animals,
  • Try to be quiet,
  • Keep food and drinks to a minimum,
  • Protect yourself from the sun – bring sunscreen,
  • Stay in the vehicle, keep arms and legs inside as well.
  • If you are out walking, stay on the path, and follow the instructions from the guide.

Is it Possible for Animals to Enter Safari Camps?

Yes. Wild animals can enter the camps. The camps are situated in the middle of the forest and surrounded by trees However, most animals are scared away by the noise of the generators and the lights of the camps.

When wildlife infiltrates a camp, it is usually because of the actions of the guests, not the animals. Wildlife is typically wary of humans; they avoid making contact. However, they can get habituated, which means they have grown acclimated to humans through various interactions. The most important interaction is feeding. Many visitors feed scraps of meat and bones to the animals. As a result, the animals associate humans with food and may enter accommodations in quest of food. Most of incidents include monkeys and baboons, which are unusual to begin with, as well as other animals such as leopards and lions, are very rare.

If Crime Isn’t a Concern, Then Surely All Wild Animals Should Be.

Why do tourists go on a photo safari in Africa? To photography the incredible wildlife! But isn’t being so near to lions, rhinos, cheetahs, and hyenas a risk? It’s not simply the massive animals that are dangerous. There are also many venomous and deadly critters to be aware of, such as snakes and spiders. So is putting oneself in close contact worth the risk?

Africa is home to a plethora of potentially lethal animals.. The likelihood of coming into direct contact with one is very low indeed. In reality, spiders and snakes are pretty timid creatures who shy away from humans; if one imagines how terrified one might be when suddenly coming across a creature way larger than oneself, it is easy to understand how a snake or spider would feel when coming across a human. A spider or snake would only attack a human if it was exceedingly afraid or caught off guard. If it detects the presence of a human, it is more likely to flee or sliver away.

Is the Heat a Problem?

Africa, as we all know, is a hot continent. The heat and sun can be dangerous features of travel. We all know the risks of acquiring skin cancer, and overexposure can cause sunstroke. Yes, the sun can be an issue for certain people. Travellers need to remember to carry sunscreen and apply it liberally, plus drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Some simple tips are to:

  • Drink plenty of fluids,
  • wear light clothing,
  • stay in the shade as much as possible,
  • and take frequent breaks.

If you find that the heat is too much for you, or it is causing other health problems, please seek medical attention.

How Do I Stay Safe on an African Safari?

  • Make sure you have a good travel insurance policy.
  • Keep a travel diary of your trip and keep it updated.
  • Have a good travel companion.
  • Take precautions not to carry unnecessary valuables
  • Be aware of surroundings
  • Look confident

Important Safety Rules on Safari

  1. Always stay in the vehicle when on safari
  2. Don’t turn your back on predators
  3. Keep your voices down to avoid scaring animals
  4. Follow safari safety rules specific to your location

Is Africa Safe for Visitors Due to Political Unrest and Crime?

The answer to this question is “yes”. Africa is a safe destination for tourists and adventures. The biggest risk to travellers is the threat of diseases, Malaria, yellow fever. However, Africa has a well-established medical infrastructure, which ensures that travellers are protected from any health risks.

Political unrest and crime are both major issues, and it’s important to do your research before you go to understand the specific risks associated with your destination.
If you’re careful about where you go and what you do, you can have an amazing travel experience in Africa while avoiding the most dangerous areas.

To Truly Experience Africa’s Wildlife, You Have to “Rough It.”

Roughing it is an experience that is best experienced when one is not prepared. This means that roughing it is not something that you can plan ahead of time and prepare for. If you are prepared and know what you are getting into, then you can have an amazing experience.
While it’s possible to visit Africa’s many amazing wildlife parks and reserves and enjoy a comfortable safari experience, for the true African wildlife experience you have to “rough it.” This means camping out under the stars, cooking your own food over an open fire, and getting up close and personal with some of the world’s most exotic creatures. If you’re willing to make a few sacrifices, you’ll be richly rewarded with an unforgettable adventure.

Will I Be Attacked by a Wild Animal While on Safari?

No, you will not be attacked by a wild animal while on safari. However, you will be in close proximity to many different types of animals and their natural behaviour.
The animals in the areas where safaris take place are used to humans and are generally quite shy. However, there is always the potential for an animal to become agitated or defensive for any number of reasons, so it is important to always follow the instructions of your guide.

Do Elephants Attack Cars? – Yes, but Not Often!

No, elephants do not attack cars. In fact, elephants do not attack anything. They are herbivores. They eat grass, leaves and fruit.
Elephants are usually very docile creatures, but if they feel threatened or sense danger, they can become quite aggressive. They have been known to attack cars and other vehicles, especially if their young are nearby.

Bob Wild is a professional photographer and the former owner of African Photo Safari, having led guided photo safaris to numerous destinations including Namibia in western Africa. He owns Who Said Photography and continues to help introduce newcomers to the joys of photography.