Keeping safe and healthy on safari
Family trekking on foot to see the White Rhinos of the Matobo, Zimbabwe
Malaria and Vaccinations
Malaria exists in Southern Africa in all low lying areas (under 1000m) so we recommend you take precautions (such as anti-malaria tablets). Please consult your doctor. However, if you dress appropriately, use mosquito repellent in the evenings, and sleep under the nets provided in the camps, you are extremely unlikely to contract malaria. If you develop flu like symptoms, 10 - 14 days after being in a malaria area, see you doctor and tell him where you have been.
Vaccinations are not usually necessary for Southern Africa but please check with your doctor. Yellow fever vaccinations are necessary for Tanzania.
The African Sun & Hydration
The African sun can be fierce. Sunscreen and hats are essential. Avoid being out in the sun between 11.00 and 15.00. Bear in mind that some medications can cause reactions to the sun so check with your doctor before travelling.
It is vital that you stay hydrated whilst on safari. Water is usually safe to drink, and bottled or filtered water will be available.
First Aid & Emergency Evacuation
There are First Aid Kits in the camps and Guides have First Aid training. Bring sufficient prescription medicine and keep it with you at all times. It is also advisable to bring a copy of your prescription.
Our recommended camps all have medical evacuation services in case of emergencies. Please note that all travellers must carry comprehensive medical and travel insurance.
Allergies & Dietary Requirements
Please inform us of any allergies and special dietary requirements well before travel and reconfirm these with the Camp Manager when you arrive in camp.
Your Safety in the Wild
A safari may bring you into close contact with wild animals and, whilst incidents are extremely rare, it is important to listen to your Guide at all times, and take the necessary precautions, as advised. We select our camps because they are in remote and unspoilt wilderness areas. Most are unfenced so do not wander out of camp or walk about after dark on your own. Do not swim or paddle in the rivers unless you are told it is safe to do so. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Protection of the Wildlife
Do not feed or approach wild animals for any reason - it is for their sake, as they lose their natural fear of man and this may result in them eventually having to be destroyed.
For the health and safety of the wildlife, and the protection of the environment, do not litter, or remove anything from the wilderness areas. “Take nothing but photographs - leave nothing but footprints.”