So, you’re looking to learn safari etiquette and understand how to be a responsible traveller, while having the time of your life at a Sri Lankan safari ride. You’ve come to the right place. We have created the ultimate safari guide that contains all the information you need to know about embarking on a wildlife adventure. If this is your first time taking a safari, make sure you do it the right way.
Keep it Quiet:
Treat the wilderness as if it were a holy place, because it is! You’re entering the animal kingdom and you are mere guests in their home. So, do not alarm or trigger the animals. They are more threatened by you than you could ever be of them, but they could be dangerous if their equilibrium is unbalanced. No matter how tempting it might be to get excited, don’t scream. Just observe.
Dress Accordingly:
The National Parks in Sri Lanka mainly consist of dry land, and the sun can be scorching. The area is arid, and it could be intolerable if you don’t dress the part. Wear cotton clothes that are breathable, preferably ones that are white, yellow or brown. Put on a hat or a scarf for good measure, and wear thick boots. Not only is this outfit fashionable, but it will also make the safari more enjoyable for you.
Ask Questions:
Make use of your safari guide. Chances are they are professional naturalists and would have an encyclopedia worth of knowledge about everything you see. So, as questions. It will make the experience more interactive and your guide would warm up to you. You should also read up on the animals you might witness, to understand their behaviour and get into their mentality. You will develop a deeper understanding of the wildlife, because a safari is a good learning opportunity.
Stay Healthy:
The caustic weather, the bugs, the unusual climate, and staying in the middle of the forest can take a toll on you. So, prioritise your health. Stay hydrated, and only eat food that you are comfortable with. Sri Lanka has mosquitoes, so keep a mosquito repellent on you at all times. You should also get some shut eye, when you can because the safari drives begin around 6AM and it is important that you stay alert and aware of your surrounding, during the ride. There will be toilet facilities at most major national parks, but bring your own toiletries to be on the safe side. Don’t forget to pack your personal first-aid kit.
Give Back to the National Parks:
The Sri Lankan National Parks, along with the Department of Wildlife Conservation are the reason you are given this rare and priceless opportunity to see the wildlife at its most natural and authentic state. They work hard to preserve the biodiversity by creating these sanctuaries for animals, most of whom are classified as endangered or endemic. Sri Lankan safaris are easy on the wallet, but it is only polite and right to tip your safari guide, and help out in any way you can.
Be Open-Minded:
The wilderness is not a circus or a zoo. You are not promised anything, because the animal kingdom acts in mysterious ways. So, be prepared and stay open-minded. Don’t complain if you don’t spot all the animals on your list. The conditions would be rough, because of the gravel roads and the weather. You might have to cross rivers, go by the beach, stay longer than you expected to. It is what makes a safari, a safari. Embrace it.
Photos sourced from Amila Tennakoon and David Stanley
