Five tips so you don't get eaten on a hiking Safari

There is a lot of fun to be had on safari in Africa, but little can put you more in touch with nature than going on a multi-day hike through the African wilderness. You do have to bear in mind however, that when walking in places like this, you are becoming part of the food chain and all precautions need to be taken seriously if you want to reach your destination. The wilderness has been lived in for decades by most of the animals you will be living with and they know it well enough to recognize any changes in its smell and shape. I recommend you follow these five essential tips to make sure you do not become dinner for one of them.

Since there are no overnight huts on trails like this, make sure you take a tent with you and it is essential that you sleep in it with the door closed. A quick way to getting eaten is by sleeping outside the tent to watch the stars or because it is hot to sleep inside.

Choose a suitable campsite for the tent. Find a place to pitch the tent that is free of animal droppings and paths made by the local wildlife. This is the only way to be sure that your temporary home is not shared with unwelcome hungry guests. Cook simple and already prepared meals. If you bring food that smells strongly when you cook it, like spare ribs for example, there is bound to be someone who wants to share it and then turn on the host of the party. Generally void foods that make lots of smoke when you cook them, and do not pack fresh food, tinned, microwavable or frozen options because you will only feel way to heavy. Better options are things like soups that can warm you up, and other entrées where you just add water to it in a pot over a fire. A favorite of backpackers is pasta because it is filled with carbohydrates and energy for the next day. These make the best comfort foods anyway. Avoiding alcohol is recommended because it is heavy to carry and dehydrates the body. All camping should be done respecting “take in, take out” ethics.

When going to the bathroom in the bush, leave no trace that you were ever there. Use a trowel or a small spade to dig a hole in which to do your business and then cover it up when done. If you need to use paper be sure to use very little and preferably a recycled type as it is more biodegradable than most other kinds. Cover up everything when done as to keep with “no trace camping and hiking” ethics and keep a low profile so not as to draw attention to you.

Finally, take a certified guide with you on your trip. Some travelers see this as invading on their vacation, but guides understand this and are very good at giving you space so that you can enjoy your time in the wilderness. A certified guide knows the terrain and the wildlife and will be essential in making decisions with you. You will be very glad they are there when they do come with advice that could save your life.

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