Planning a safari? Check out our do’s and dont’s.

September 13, 2022

Going on safari is a dream come true for many people. It’s a chance to see some of the most amazing wildlife in their natural habitat. If you’re planning a safari trip, there are a few things you need to know before you go. In this blog post, we will discuss some important Dos and Don’ts you need to know to help you prepare for a safe, successful, and memorable safari! So if you’re ready to explore the wilds of Africa or South America, keep reading!

Do’s and Don’ts of preparing to go on safari:

1. Do wear neutral/earth tone colors to blend in with the environment.
2. Don’t wear bright colors certainly, but also don’t wear dark colors which contrast with the environment. These colors will make you stand out. Animals will see and avoid you.
3. Do wear footwear appropriate for the adventure you are attending. If there is some trail involved, have trail worthy shoes. Your feet will thank you for it.
4. Don’t use shoes that won’t support your feet.
5. Do protect yourself from the sun. Dress in quick dry clothing that offers at least 30 UPF of protection. Bring sun screen with at least 30 SPF of protection.
6. Don’t wear clothing that will not dry quickly. Laundry will be more difficult, and in the field it will be uncomfortable. Don’t use heavily fragranced sun screen.
7. Do protect yourself from insect-borne diseases. Treat clothing with Permethrin and exposed skin with Deet or Picaridin. Consider sleep nets if your sleeping arrangements may leave you exposed.
8. Don’t use all natural insect repellants without having the previous mentioned repellants as backup. Consult your tour company if there are natural products that are effective in the tour’s location.
9. Do pack lightly to be less encumbered in the bush. This also makes more room for others.
10. Don’t take anything you are not likely to use. A safari is no time for over-packing. Stay focused on packing only what you will use.
11. Do have a plan to stay hydrated. Tours will often give you potable water to drink, but have a backup if you think the water may not be treated. Bring chlorine dioxide tablets or other water treatment as backup.
12. Don’t drink from drinks in an ice chest where the ice is not made from treated water.
13. Do bring quality optics on your safari. Often you get what you pay for with binoculars and cameras. Be sure to have quality products for your epic adventure. Avoid small pocket binoculars. They fit in your pocket well, but are less effective in low light conditions like dawn and dusk. Consider binoculars with larger objective lenses like an 8X42 or 10X42. Outfitters like Bill Jackson’s have display products available for you to look through before you buy.
14. Don’t go cheap on an adventure on which you are paying so dearly.

A safari is an adventure that many will only experience once in a lifetime. This is the perfect time to consult an expert. No matter what adventure you are planning, the knowledgeable and professional staff at Bill Jackson’s Shop for Adventure is happy to assist with selecting the right gear. Stop by our Pinellas Park store today and start planning your next outdoor experience.