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Imagine the scenario - you are on a fabulous safari in South Africa and you find yourself face to face with a very hungry female lion, who just happens to have three hungry lion cubs to feed. Agreed, with today's well-organised tours this is an unlikely situation, but it never hurts to be well prepared for the possibility of a dangerous confrontation. Here are some tips to read before you set off.
Car Safety
If you are going on a safari in South Africa by car there are a few safety issues you should be aware of. Many of the safari jeeps are open-top so you can view the area without restriction and marvel at your surroundings. However, this does not mean you can lean out of the car to stroke the big kitty with the yellow mane as you see it walking past. Try to keep all limbs that you are partial to within the confines of the car, and do not jump up and down to attract the attention of the wildlife. Only exit the car when your tour leader tells you it is safe to do so, and if your vehicle has them, keep the windows up - you do not want a mischievous monkey in your car, trust us!
Going off the beaten track on a safari in South Africa is not the best plan. If you are going it alone and touring without a guide, make sure you have maps with you and stick to the suggested paths and designated hides dotted about. Do not think that it is fine to get out of your car and move closer to the large buffalo to get a better shot! He will not be pleased.
Walking Safety
If while on safari in South Africa, you decide not to follow the advice above and vacate your car in an unsafe area, or you simply decided to trek on foot, you will need to follow this next bit of advice.
Stay away from tall grass, you have no idea what may be lurking inside hidden from view. It could be something that will trample or charge you if disturbed. Try to avoid rivers, lakes and anything with water; again, dangerous things may be skulking beneath. Whenever you sit or lay down for a picnic or rest, make sure that you check the area thoroughly for snakes and scorpions, you do not want to be bitten or stung in the middle of nowhere!
Try to be within the confines of your campsite when night falls. It is not the best idea to wander about the wilderness of South Africa in the pitch black as you won't be able to see the danger coming.
Final Words
If you have follow these tips, and the numerous pieces of advice other seasoned travellers and locals bestow on you when you arrive, then you will remain safe and enjoy an incident-free safari. But remember, some of the world's most dangerous creatures surround you and you can never predict when a buffalo might take a dislike to you, or a hungry lion decides you look just too delicious to resist - so follow the rules!
