By Belvin Baldwin II
From TravelPulse
I took my first safari as a travel adviser in Tanzania journeying through the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
To say it was a great experience is an understatement. I am still in awe of all the visuals that I got to experience up close. As a child watching wildlife shows on TV, I never imagined that I would see these beautiful animals in their natural habitat.
I planned a lot to make sure that I took full advantage of this vacation. Despite doing my best, I missed out on some opportunities that I wish I could get back.
With that being said, here are some of my do’s and don’ts for your first safari.
Do
- Pack lightly. You are not going to do a lot of wardrobe changes, so plan accordingly.
- Bring binoculars, as the zoom on your smartphone will not give you the same experience.
- Wear glasses to protect you from the dust produced by the caravan of jeeps on those dirt roads.
- Take the hot-air balloon. I know it’s a bonus option on most itineraries, but it is well worth it.
- Be prepared for the “African Massage.” That’s what they call the bumpy roads on our long-range ride.
Don’t
- Eat too much. There are no convenience stores for bathroom breaks in the Serengeti.
- Leave your lodge at night without hotel assistance. After seeing wildlife run freely outside my tent, there is no way I am breaking this rule.
- Stare at your cell phone and miss the sights. Stay in the present and enjoy one of the wonders of the world.
- Get out of the vehicle unless your guide gives the OK. Common sense is not common, but it needs to be stated.
- Start your safari the next day after your arrival. Give your body time to adjust to the time difference before the 5 a.m. start.
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