Going on safari is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating and memorable experiences you’re ever likely to have, so it pays to know what you should and should not do on safari.

It’s your holiday, but if you follow these simple do’s and don’ts, you’re going to have a fun, safe time and leave the country the way you found it so that future generations can also enjoy it.

Do

• Wear neutral colors

Animals notice bright colors, which can distract them or even make them leave.

In addition to this, tsetse flies are attracted to blue and black clothing.

• Pack for a range of conditions

Tanzania is close to the equator, so the weather can be a bit unpredictable. It always pays to have a raincoat and some warm clothes in case it gets cold overnight.

• Look after your valuables

Theft is not usually a problem out on safari, but it pays to keep a close eye on your phone, wallet, passport, camera, etc. when you’re not in your vehicle.

Always lock your hotel room and/or keep your valuables on your person.

• Remember you’re in Africa

Tanzania has made great strides towards being a modern nation, but you’ll still encounter ‘first world problems like lack of WiFi, intermittent electricity overnight, and the occasional creepy crawly. Just remember, “TIC – this is Africa”.

• Tipping

It is customary to tip your safari driver at approximately $20 USD per group per day. Your chef or climbing porter will usually be tipped $15 USD per day.

• Bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen

Mosquitoes and tsetse flies can be an annoyance while on safari, and both can carry diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. Bring some insect repellent along with you.

• Bring some cash with you

Tipping, souvenir shopping, and buying alcoholic beverages are things you might want to have some extra cash for.

Most places in Tanzania will accept either Tanzanian shillings or US dollars, and larger hotels will have credit card payment as an option.

• Stay hydrated

It’s important to drink plenty of water while on safari. Your safari vehicle will always have plenty of water on board.

• Wake up early

The best time to see Africa’s wildlife is early in the morning and late in the day, as the heat makes animals lethargic.

Dawn game drives are an unforgettable experience.

• Take lots of photos

Taking photos of Tanzania’s wildlife is encouraged! Snap as many as you can!

Don’t

• Feed the animals

These are wild animals, and we’d like them to stay that way!

Not only is feeding the animals dangerous to you, but it’s also bad for the animals – as it teaches them to approach people rather than to hunt for their own food.

• Photograph people without asking

Like anywhere else in the world, it is considered rude to take a person’s photograph without asking.

Be careful even when asking permission, as some will try to charge you for taking a photo of or with them.

• Call out to animals or talk loudly

Not only does this actually scare the animals away, it’s also incredibly rude to other people on safari.

• Approach the animals

These are wild animals that hunt and kill their food. Even the herbivores have a kill or be killed approach when frightened.

Never approach a wild animal.

• Leave your vehicle or camp unaccompanied

Unless you’re accompanied by your guide or a staff member at your lodge, you should never wander around outdoors unaccompanied.

• Litter

Keep your trash with you in the car. The national parks of Tanzania are to be kept as you found them.

Your safari should be an unforgettable experience, and by following the above guidelines, you’ll ensure that both you and others enjoy the country’s national parks and wildlife as they should be.