In the light of a recent incident in South Africa, where an unfortunate tourist was gored because she got too close to a rhino, I thought it would be prudent to make a list of "What NOT to do on safari in Africa". It may seem obvious that getting out of a safari vehicle in order to get closer to wildlife is not a great idea. Unfortunately, you see TV presenters on nature programs doing it all the time, and it gives people a false sense of security when they're on safari themselves. Safaris are exciting because there's a true element of danger and unpredictability involved. Following basic rules and adhering to a little safari etiquette goes a long way to ensure a safe safari.
A safari can also be ruined by too much noise, unreasonable expectations of animal sightings, pink jogging suites and ringing cell phones. I've got a whole list of pointers for you. I try my best to adhere to good safari manners, but I know I am quite guilty of the "know-it-all" syndrome (#6 on the list). Having been on safari quite a few times, I have a very irritating tendency to compare, interject, talk about past sightings, and share my patchy wildlife knowledge. I formally apologize to everyone who has been on safari with me, I promise never to do so again.
Please feel free to comment once you've read the list, and add your own pet peeves while on safari!
Read: What NOT to do on Safari