Safety on Uganda Safari
Safety on Uganda Safari, Going on a Uganda safari is captivating, awe-inspiring, wild. But sometimes frightening, especially for the first-time travelers. One of the commonest questions asked by our visitors is “is it safe to go on a Uganda safari?”. It is a dream to travel to this stunning country, dubbed the “Pearl of Africa”. To search for the unique wildlife such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and even the big five game.
Before making up the mind to explore this country, travelers read/hear about lions, leopards, and elephants lurking close to open-roof safari vehicles in Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, or Queen Elizabeth National Park, or even see photos of other travelers gazing in awe at the mountain gorillas just few meters away within Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. There have been stories of undertaking guided bush walks, and picture a quiet night under the beautiful stars while staying at a safari Camp in the middle of the wilderness. But the question of safety seems to be scarier than anything else.
Are Uganda safaris safe?
Yes, Uganda safaris are generally safe. It will interest you to know that most travelers who go on Uganda safaris enjoy a perfectly safe trip. Most challenges come with following safety advises. And while no one expects it, some unexpected things (like getting robbed and accidents) are bound to happen. Here are the important safety recommendations/advise for Uganda safaris;
Before you embark on your Uganda safari
Malaria medications
Uganda, like most African countries are malarial (prone to malaria) and for this reason, we recommend first speaking to your local travel clinic for anti-malarial pills especially when traveling to the high-rick places. Drugs such as Malanil, Doxycycline, or Mefloquine are recommended. Reducing on mosquito bites is the most important way to prevent malaria. Always take time to talk to your pharmacist or doctor to establish the best anti-malarial pills will work best for you.
Vaccinations
A Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required when traveling to the Pearl of Africa, and before you take up this step first consult your travel clinic and ensure that your certificate is valid.
First Aid Kit for safety during Uganda safari
Much as our safari vehicles and most Safari Lodges/Camps have basic first aid kits, it is recommended to pack your own. This should include medications that you can take without prescription. One thing you need to know is that medicine supply in the remote areas (where most National Parks are found). Your Travel clinic will provide the best advice on what the perfect first aid kit should contain.
Important safari safety during game viewing
One of the most important advises during game viewing is listening/paying attention to your safari guides, who are the best experts in the natural habitats as well as wildlife behavior. These guides also have the best judgement in any situation and it is their responsibility to ensure your safety in the wilderness.
Stay quiet
while on your game drive as too much noise either scares away the animals/run away or makes them agitates/aggressive. Any communication close to wildlife should be by whispering. While most of these animals are possibly used to the sound of safari vehicles, too much noise will definitely scare or upset them, and for this reason, your devices shouldn’t make loud beeps and if you need to talk, just whisper.
It is common to get awed by the beauty and sights of wildlife, but it is advisable to simply sit back and let the wilderness take your breath away.
Avoid disturbing the wildlife
because they will run away and ruin your long-awaited wildlife viewing experience. Keep a distance from the wildlife as they are quite unpredictable and can run swiftly when they feel threatened.
Safety during guided bush walks/primate walks
All guided bush walks have to be done in the company of a guide/s or Ranger/s, and always obey their instructions on the dos and don’ts of the wilderness.
Avoid making noise while on your guided walk/primate walk as it is likely to scare away the animals.
Drinking, eating, and smoking isn’t recommended while on guided walks/primate walks.
Keep a reasonable distance from the animals.
Safety in Urban areas
For safety in Towns/Cities, avoid flashing your valuables (cash, jewelry, cameras, and even passports) in public, but rather keep them locked up in the Hotel safe.
Avoid walking at night and alone, especially in new places.
Keep car doors and windows locked and your valuables out of sight when in the car.
Don’t look like you don’t know where you are going because “lost tourists” always become targets for petty criminals. The best people to ask for directions are security personnel or shop attendants.