Staying Safe Around Wildlife in Safari Camps

One of the magical parts of a Tanzania safari is that the wildlife does not stop at the edge of the game drive. Many lodges and tented camps inside or near the parks are unfenced, so you might hear lions calling at night, see elephants by the dining area or find buffalo grazing near your tent.

These encounters are memorable and, with sensible behavior, very safe. Camp staff and guides follow clear routines, and the rules they ask you to follow are there for good reason.

Listen to the camp briefing

When you arrive, staff will usually give a short safety briefing. It covers how to call for help from your tent, often with a whistle, radio or air horn, when you need an escort and what to do if an animal is nearby. Pay attention even if you have been on safari before, because every camp has its own layout and routines.

If anything is unclear, ask. Staff would always rather answer questions than have guests guessing.

Never walk alone after dark

In unfenced camps, you will be escorted between your tent and the main area after dark, and sometimes during the day as well. Escorts know the animals, carry a strong light and are trained to read situations.

Use the signal provided to request an escort, and wait inside until they arrive. Do not be tempted to make a short dash on your own, even for a few meters. Many animals are well camouflaged at night.

Simple rules that keep you safe

These guidelines are simple, but they matter. Most incidents involving visitors happen when someone forgets one of them.

• Stay inside your tent at night and keep it fully zipped.
• Never run from an animal; stay still or back away slowly and calmly.
• Keep a safe distance from all wildlife, including animals that look relaxed.
• Do not take food into your tent, as it can attract monkeys, baboons and other animals.
• Never feed wildlife, however tempting.
• Keep children close and within sight at all times.

Monkeys, baboons and small visitors

The animals most likely to cause trouble are often the smallest. Vervet monkeys and baboons are clever and opportunistic, and they quickly learn that tents and picnic tables may hold food. Keep tent zips closed when you leave, do not leave snacks or bright bags on verandas, and keep a hand on your plate at outdoor lunches.

At night you may notice smaller creatures such as bush babies, genets or hyraxes. They are fascinating to watch from a distance, but do not try to touch or tempt them.

Staying calm at close quarters

If you see a large animal near your path or tent, stop, stay quiet and let staff handle it. Elephants and buffalo commonly pass through camps, and they usually move on in their own time. Our guides and camp teams deal with these situations regularly and will tell you when it is safe to move.

Keep your voice low, avoid sudden movements and resist the urge to get closer for a photo. A good zoom lens is safer and gives better results.

Most guests find that the real thrill is simply hearing the bush come alive at night from the comfort of a zipped tent.