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Will I See The Big 5 Of Africa On My Walking Safari

Will I see the Big 5 of Africa On My Walking Safari?

Will I see the Big 5 of Africa On My Walking Safari?

“Will a walking safari allow me to see the Big Five of Africa?”

We get asked this question a lot. The response:

“Perhaps, but only if you’re extremely fortunate.”

There are several layers to the cause of this. We’ll try to address it fully in this blog post, outlining why, although witnessing the Big 5 of Africa is an amazing bonus, it is not the main reason to go on a walking safari.

Bucket List: Safari’s Big Five

Seeing the Big Five of Africa is one of the top goals for many individuals, if not most of them, and going on an African safari is high on many bucket lists. It’s very logical. In the untamed African wilderness, who wouldn’t want to be in awe of the massive, peaceful elephants, beautiful-maned lions, ancient-looking rhinos, curly-horned buffaloes, and cunning leopards?

And wildlife drives with informed trackers and guides are for that. Even so, you might occasionally overlook one or two (particularly the elusive leopard). The animals are untamed, the ecosystems are extensive, and this is a safari. That’s what makes it so beautiful. Nature is free and unpredictable.

Africa’s Walking Safaris

Why, then, is it so unlikely that a walking safari will allow you to view the Big 5 of Africa? First of all, the animals can hear and smell you coming from a great distance because they have keen senses. They are also timid. Even the largest creatures in the bush would prefer to run than fight, despite what many people think.Will I see the Big 5 of Africa On My Walking Safari

In game parks, wild animals have become accustomed to seeing and being near safari vehicles, yet people strolling through their habitat are not treated the same way. Even the big and ferocious lion is afraid of you and wants to avoid you as quickly as possible. That is to say, they have heard or smelled you and left the area before you have ever seen them.

The Art of Disguising Oneself

Second, the ability of wild animals to blend in with their surroundings is astounding. It is nearly impossible to spot a leopard on golden grass in dappled shade (he would have to be sound asleep not to have run away at the sound of your footsteps on the grass, but this is only an example, for example’s sake). Therefore, even though you might not be seeing any creatures, they might be observing you!

Microsystems

Most significant, though, is realizing that the purpose of a walking safari is to experience the African bush’s micro-systems rather than only get up close and personal with the animals. They’re also fascinating!

The vastness of the bush is difficult to convey: the clean air, the dust beneath your feet, the cacophonous silence filled with bird calls and insect buzzes, the unbroken vistas, the room, the tiny insects scuttling through the grass, the animal feces and dung that tell a tale, the scent of the native plants, many of which are used medicinally; we could go on forever.

You go on a walking safari for that reason. to experience the wonder of being as close to nature as is physically feasible, and to learn about all those things from the local guide (typically two, armed, and very competent guides, in places where there are predators). Nothing compares to seeing a tiny dung beetle grow his ball of dung into something much larger than himself!

While doing that, are you able to see the Big Five of Africa? It’s unlikely, but if you do, it’s a great benefit. Observing an abundance of insects, plants, birds, and small animals? Definitely. Discovering how the little men, dirt, plants, and flowers function? Of course. In the bush, taking in the sights and sounds? Of course.

Observing Safari Safety

Now that you understand why a walking safari is unlikely to yield the Big 5 of Africa, but you can appreciate its worth, here are some things to keep in mind when you’re out in the bush:

A guide is always necessary while going on a walking safari. The guides have received training and are well-versed in jungle “dos and don’ts.” In addition to making sure you have the best possible safari experience, they will also keep you safe.
Follow the instructions at all times. Right away.
Steer clear of vivid colors. To stay hidden, dress in clothing that complements the bush you’ll be traversing.

Keep an arm’s length distance between each other and move in single file.
Don’t ever run. When an animal sees you running, it may assume you are a threat or prey and attempt to attack.

The speed at which wild animals can run should never be underestimated. Crocs and hippos appear placid and lethargic, but they are capable of swift attacks.
Keep quiet! Animals will be disturbed by human sounds and may flee or become irate. If you must speak at all, speak in a whisper.

Don’t eat, smoke, or drink anything but water.
Never attempt to harm any of the creatures you come into contact with. This includes feeding them and attempting to alter their behavior or posture for a nice picture. For the safety of both you and the animal, it is strictly forbidden to feed wild animals.

Don’t pick any plants or flowers.
A Satisfying Safari Walking Experience

The bottom line is that, even if a walking safari may not allow you to view the Big Five of Africa, you will still be able to learn a great deal about the natural world and the stunning grandeur of the African bush, its animals, and its microsystems.