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  • I've been on over 100 safaris across Africa and repeatedly see tourists make 11 big mistakes, from sleeping in to ignoring birds

I've been on over 100 safaris across Africa and repeatedly see tourists make 11 big mistakes, from sleeping in to ignoring birds

Wendy WattaFeb 19, 2023, 17:43 IST

The author is a travel writer who has been on over 100 African safaris.Wendy Watta

  • I've been on over 100 safaris and often see tourists make the same mistakes time and again.
  • Some ignore birds, while others exit the vehicle to get closer to wildlife, which is dangerous.
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I'm a travel writer living in Nairobi, and I've been on more than 100 safaris across Africa.

The author has visited 15 African countries over the last 10 years.Wendy Watta

Most often, I've observed tourists become disappointed when they don't see wildlife.

Going on more than one game drive improves chances to see wildlife.Wendy Watta
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In addition to being patient on drives, I don't think visitors communicate what they hope to see to their guide, or make enough attempts.

The author photographing wildlife on safari.Wendy Watta

One of the biggest mistakes tourists make is thinking they can get out of the vehicle to take photos with wildlife. It could risk your life.

Exiting a safari vehicle is dangerous.Wendy Watta
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Often, I meet tourists who only go to the most popular parks, and in the high season. Then, they complain about how crowded it is.

The author at the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.Wendy Watta

I've seen many tourists wrongly assume that Africa is hot all the time, and fail to pack warm clothing.

It's wise to pack warmer clothes for safari than you think you'll need.Wendy Watta
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Another big mistake I've witnessed is choosing not to wake up early for game drives.

Waking up early will yield the best chances of seeing large wildlife.Wendy Watta

Ignoring bird life is another commonly-made mistake.

Birdwatching in Africa shouldn't be missed.Wendy Watta
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I don't think many people realize that there are many ways to do a safari.

The author in a hot air balloon in Amboseli National Park (L), and on safari on horseback (R).Wendy Watta

Please stop bringing plastic bags and bottles into the parks.

The author inside a park in Africa.Wendy Watta
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I wish lodge guests would be more considerate of others and keep the volume of their music down.

The author in her lodge while on safari in Africa.Wendy Watta

Finally, I think too many tourists don't take advantage of the low season when it's much easier to plan a safari on a budget.

Low season for safaris is between March and May.Wendy Watta
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