Experience a side to South Africa you’ll never forget
A journey to South Africa with Gate 1 Travel isn’t just an opportunity to experience one of the most soul-stirring adventures on earth – you’ll also revel in quality accommodation, be expertly guided by knowledgeable tour managers and receive personal attention above and beyond your expectations.
For many people, an African safari represents one of the ultimate bucket-list experiences of a lifetime. In order to make the most out of your trip, Gate 1 Travel has all the tips and tricks you’ll need to make your South African safari a safe and memorable one.
On Safari in South Africa – tips for a once-in-a-lifetime experience
Heading to South Africa on safari is an adventure many can only dream about. Seeing lions, buffalos, elephants and many more up close in their natural habitats is a breath-taking experience that leaves you hungry for more. However, as exciting as it is to see these gorgeous animals in the place they call home, it’s important to remember the following tips in order to stay safe as you experience everything this amazing country has to offer.
1. Follow all directions provided by your guide
While on safari, it’s very important that you follow all directions provided by your guide in order to ensure the safety of the group. Prior to your first safari, your driver/guide will review “safari etiquette”, addressing – among other issues – off-road driving and hazards, interaction with animals and many other important details. Wildlife listed in the itinerary are based upon optimal conditions and therefore subject to change. While on tour you will be reminded by your guide of local safety and ecologic procedures to ensure both your safety and the protection of the wildlife.
2. Remember to charge your camera to capture those iconic moments
As you’re in the heart of the wild, it’s important to keep your camera charged and at the ready just in case a herd of elephants stroll past your vehicle. It can be frustrating realising that you’re up close and personal with some of the most beautiful wildlife in the world, but unable to capture the experience to remember it later on.
Normal precautions are to be followed as well for your safety, which include remaining in close proximity to your driver/guide and vehicle, avoiding tall grass and keeping noise to a minimum so as not to attract extra attention.
3. Don’t feed the animals
Although it might be exciting to see the Big Five while on safari – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos – it’s important to refrain from littering, feeding any animals or leaving behind any food waste whatsoever in the parks. This is because litter upsets the natural diet of the animals and can lead to a dependence upon people. Another tip is to not purchase, collect or remove any animal products, rocks, seeds, plants or nests from the wild as it’s important to leave as little impact on the habitats as possible.
4. Bring snacks for a picnic in the National Parks (but brace yourself for big visitors!)
There are designated picnic sites inside the National Parks and reserves. Due to frequent use, wildlife tends to avoid these areas – with the exception of primates, reptiles, birds and small mammals. Since picnic sites are open, it’s possible that a larger animal, such as an elephant, may wander through.
5. Relax whenever you can
With so much to see including Table Mountain in Cape Town, Shark Alley where great white sharks are known to feed, or heading off on a wine tour, it can be tough to remember that you’re able to relax on holidays. Some tours, like Gate 1 Travel, make sure not to rush their travellers and provide additional nights in key destinations so that you have a chance to explore while on holidays.
Gate 1 Travel also offer additional tours, so there’s always another inspiring destination to add to your list!
Scroll through the gallery to discover just a taste of what’s on offer with Gate 1 Travel in South Africa.
This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Gate 1 Travel.