BEFORE YOU DEPART
Should you be travelling to Kenya, Zambia or Tanzania you will need a yellow fever vaccination certificate as these countries are in the yellow fever belt. Have the vaccination a week or two before you leave as these vaccinations can make you feel like you are coming down with the flu. Your travel agency should know which vaccinations would be required for certain African countries.
The most widespread and known issue is malaria. Check with your doctor and ask about malaria prophylactics, pack in an insect repellent, wear correct clothing such as long pants especially at night as this is the time mosquitoes come out. Eastern Cape and Madikwe Game Reserves which both are in South Africa are malaria-free reserves.
Being in wildlife and coming into close contact with animals always has that element of danger. We, after all, are entering into their territory and they are unpredictable. Always listen to your guide, who will give you all the information that you need to keep safe at the start of your journey.
You will only put yourself in danger if you deliberately stray from the safety precautions such as exiting the vehicle without permission to do so. Your first safari can sometimes be overwhelming, especially as you witness the might of the wildlife, but if you listen to your guide there is nothing to fear.