HOW TO STAY SAFE IN SERENGETI.

HOW TO STAY SAFE IN SERENGETI
Serengeti National Park is located away from towns and cities, adjacent to the Kenya border and northwest of the adjoining Ngorongoro Conservation Area, making it basically a wilderness. Hence, it is naturally peaceful, and although with a low human population, it is a very safe destination to visit during your safari. The park is well-protected by professionally trained park rangers and wildlife wardens, but personal security is most important. Below are some tips to help you stay safe in Serengeti.
Traveling in Serengeti is generally safe, especially if you are on an organized tour or safari. A professional guide will ensure your safety on a guided safari, and on self-drive safaris, you will stay safe as long as you treat animals with respect and follow all park rules as listed below:
Always follow your guide’s instructions and guidelines.
Keep your voice down when close to animals.
Stay in the car during game drives except at designated areas where you are allowed to get out.
Don’t stand up in a car, hang out of a window, or sit on the roof.
Don’t drive close to animals if you are on a self-drive safari, and back off if the animals seem disturbed.
Don’t drive between elephants in a herd, especially females and their young ones.
Stay together in a group close to your guide on walking safaris and always walk in single file.
Never run or jog in wildlife areas, as it may entice predators to attack.
Never walk between a hippo and water, as it may panic and charge because its safety route to water is blocked.
Never leave food in your tent, as it will attract wildlife.
Cover your arms and legs in the evening and use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
Wear a hat, use sunscreen, and drink plenty of water.
Don’t wear bright and colorful clothes or too much perfume, especially on walking safaris.
In tsetse fly areas, it is recommended not to wear dark-colored clothing such as black or dark blue, as it attracts these stinging flies.
Bring warm clothes for morning game drives in open vehicles.
As is the case all over the world, there is an increased risk of crime in large cities and urban areas. Visitors on guided activities are mostly shielded from these risks, and their guide will ensure their safety. However, when you happen to be unguided, normal safety precautions should keep you safe. Below are some general tips:
Ask at your hotel if it is safe to walk around the local area. When new in a place, it’s always good to seek local advice on safety issues.
Don’t wear jewelry when walking in cities and leave all valuables in a safety deposit box at your hotel.
Avoid walking alone in a large unfamiliar city.
Don’t walk around at night; take a taxi.
Avoid getting engaged with people approaching you in the street.
Be careful when drawing money from an ATM; go elsewhere if you suspect people hanging around.
Always lock your car doors and close windows when driving in busy towns.
Never leave a car unattended with valuables or luggage visible.
It is recommended to seek advice about the safety of the areas you intend to visit. Below are some tips for general travel safety precautions:
Buy good travel and health insurance.
Check the passport and Visa requirements for your destination.
Get all the required vaccinations, anti-malarial medication, and insect repellent (those containing DEET are most effective).
Lock all the travel bags and keep all valuables in your hand luggage.
Make duplicates of important travel documents or keep copies online.
Bring appropriate clothing to protect against the sun, mosquitoes, and to stay warm in open vehicle game drives.
Check luggage restrictions on all your flights (including domestic flights).
Don’t drive at night.
Put your valuables in the safety deposit box of the hotel.
Always be polite and respectful to police officers and military personnel. In the rare instance that you might get asked for a bribe (on a self-drive safari only), a light attitude and a joke might well get you off the hook.
If you abide by the rules, regulations, and guidelines, you can be sure to stay safe in the Serengeti while on your safari.