What is safari etiquette in Tanzania?

1. Respect Wildlife and Keep a Safe Distance

• Do Not Disturb the Animals: Always maintain a safe distance from the animals. Avoid approaching them too closely or attempting to interact with them, as this can disturb their natural behavior and cause unnecessary stress. Follow your guide’s instructions on how close you can safely get to the animals.
• Quiet and Calm: Keep noise levels low when observing wildlife. Loud noises can disturb the animals and alert them to your presence, causing them to flee. Use a soft voice or whisper when talking to your fellow travelers.
• No Flash Photography: Flash photography can startle the animals and disrupt their behavior, so avoid using a flash when taking photos. Also, be mindful of how your camera may affect your surroundings — the aim is to capture the beauty without disturbing the scene.

2. Follow the Guide’s Instructions

• Listen to Your Guide: Your safari guide is an expert in the area and understands the wildlife and safety protocols. Always follow their instructions for your safety and the animals’ welfare. If your guide asks you to remain silent, stay in the vehicle, or move slowly, do so without hesitation.
• Don’t Get Out of the Vehicle: In many safari parks, it’s prohibited to leave the vehicle unless you’re on a walking safari with a guide. In general, wildlife is best observed from the safety of the vehicle, especially when predators are nearby.

3. Maintain a Clean and Green Safari

• No Littering: Keep your trash with you until you can dispose of it properly. Littering in national parks and reserves is not only harmful to the environment, but it also negatively impacts the wildlife.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: Use biodegradable products, avoid single-use plastics, and choose eco-friendly sunscreens and bug repellents. Many safari lodges and operators prioritize sustainability, and as a responsible traveler, you can do your part by minimizing your environmental impact.

4. Be Mindful of Other Tourists

• Take Turns Viewing Animals: On game drives, there may be other vehicles observing the same animals. Be courteous by sharing the view and giving others a chance to take photos and enjoy the sight. Avoid blocking other vehicles or crowding around animals.
• Respect the Space of Other Guests: Safari vehicles are often designed to hold a limited number of passengers. Respect the personal space of others and avoid overcrowding or leaning out of the vehicle unnecessarily.

5. Respect Local Culture and Communities

• Cultural Sensitivity: Many safari destinations are close to local villages, and it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. If you plan to visit a local community, ask for permission before taking photographs and learn about their customs before engaging.
• Tip Responsibly: In Tanzania, tipping is appreciated, but it should be done respectfully and in moderation. Guide and driver tips are generally around $10–$15 per day for a guide and $5–$10 for a driver, but this can vary depending on the length and quality of your safari experience.

6. Follow Park Rules and Regulations

• Stay on Designated Tracks: National parks and game reserves have strict rules to minimize environmental damage. Always stay on designated tracks and trails to avoid damaging the vegetation or disturbing the ecosystem.
• Observe Park Hours: Many parks have designated opening and closing times for game drives. Ensure you abide by these hours, as animals are most active at certain times of the day, and being in the park at the right time maximizes the chance of wildlife sightings.
• Do Not Feed the Animals: Feeding wildlife can lead to changes in their natural behavior, make them dependent on human food, and cause disruptions to the ecosystem. It’s important to resist the temptation to feed the animals.

7. Respect the Environment

• Conserve Water and Energy: Many safari lodges and camps are in remote areas where resources are limited. Be mindful of your water and electricity usage, and turn off lights and appliances when not in use.
• Avoid Loud Music and Distractions: While it may be tempting to play music or make noise during your safari, it’s best to keep the environment peaceful to avoid disturbing wildlife. Enjoy the natural sounds of the environment, such as birds and animal calls, which contribute to the safari experience.

8. Be Patient and Observant

• Patience is Key: Wildlife sightings can take time, and sometimes you may have to wait for the animals to appear or for the right moment to capture the perfect photo. Be patient, stay quiet, and enjoy the experience, knowing that this is the beauty of an authentic safari.
• Observe and Appreciate the Details: Safari is not just about spotting the “big five” (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros). Pay attention to smaller details like birdlife, insects, and plant species, as they are an important part of the ecosystem and enhance the safari experience.

Conclusion

Safari etiquette is about being respectful of the natural environment, the wildlife, and other tourists. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable safari that supports conservation efforts and allows future generations to experience the beauty of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. Whether you’re observing elephants in the Serengeti or tracking lions in Ngorongoro Crater, your actions on safari can make a positive impact.