HOW TO STAY SAFE IN MASAI MARA.

HOW TO STAY SAFE IN MASAI MARA
Masai Mara, being home to a variety of mammals from large herds of herbivores including wildebeest, zebra, Thompson’s gazelle to the famous big five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), makes it one of the best wildlife reserves in Kenya and the whole world at large. For many visitors planning to visit Masai Mara, personal security is of the utmost importance. But you don’t need to worry because Masai Mara is a very safe destination to visit, as the park is well protected by professionally trained park rangers and wildlife wardens. However, personal security is still crucial. Below are some tips on how to stay safe in Masai Mara:
Guidelines for Game Drives
What you have to keep in mind is that Masai Mara harbors wild animals that move freely around the park and can attack if they feel offended or threatened. Therefore, you ought to follow the following guidelines while out on a game drive for your own safety:
Always keep your voice down when close to animals.
Stay in the car during game drives, except at designated areas where you are allowed to get out.
Don’t stand up in the car, hang out of a window, or sit on the roof.
Don’t drive too close to animals if you are on a self-drive safari, and back off if the animals seem disturbed.
Don’t drive between elephants in a herd, especially females and their young ones.
Stay together in a group close to your guide on walking safaris, and always walk in single file.
Never run or jog in wildlife areas, as it may entice predators to attack.
Never walk between a hippo and water, as it may panic and charge if its safety route to water is blocked.
Never leave food in your tent, as it will attract wildlife.
Cover your arms and legs in the evening, and use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
Wear a hat, use sunscreen, and drink plenty of water.
Don’t wear bright and colorful clothes or too much perfume, especially on walking safaris.
In tsetse fly areas, it is recommended not to wear dark-colored clothing such as black or dark blue, as it attracts these stinging flies.
Bring warm clothes for morning game drives in open vehicles.
General Safety Tips
As is the case all over the world, there is an increased risk of crime in large cities and urban areas. Visitors on guided activities are mostly shielded from these risks, and their guide will ensure their safety. However, when you happen to be unguided, normal safety precautions should keep you safe. Below are some general tips:
Ask at your hotel if it is safe to walk around the local area. When new in a place, it’s always good to seek local advice on safety issues.
Don’t wear jewelry when walking in cities and leave all valuables in a safety deposit box at your hotel.
Avoid walking alone in a large, unfamiliar city.
Don’t walk around at night; take a taxi.
Avoid engaging with people approaching you on the street.
Be careful when drawing money from an ATM; go elsewhere if you suspect people are hanging around.
Always lock your car doors and close windows when driving in busy towns.
Never leave a car unattended with valuables or luggage visible.
General Travel Safety Precautions
It is recommended to seek advice about the safety of the areas you intend to visit. Below are some tips for general travel safety precautions:
Buy good travel and health insurance.
Check the passport and visa requirements for your destination.
Get all the required vaccinations, anti-malarial medication, and insect repellent (those containing DEET are most effective).
Lock all travel bags and keep all valuables in your hand luggage.
Make duplicates of important travel documents or keep copies online.
Bring appropriate clothing to protect against the sun, mosquitoes, and to stay warm during open vehicle game drives.
Check luggage restrictions on all your flights, including domestic flights.
Don’t drive at night.
Put your valuables in the safety deposit box at the hotel.
Always be polite and respectful to police officers and military personnel. In the rare instance that you might be asked for a bribe (on a self-drive safari only), a light attitude and a joke might get you off the hook.
I assure you that with the above precautions and guidelines, your journey through the Masai Mara can be both thrilling and secure because the guides and safari experts who accompany you are well-versed in animal behavior. With the help of the guidance of experienced professionals and your responsible actions, you can navigate this wilderness safely.