Safari Etiquette
Essential guidelines for respectful and safe wildlife viewing in Zimbabwe. Learn the do’s and don’ts of safari behavior to ensure memorable experiences while protecting wildlife and supporting conservation.
Going on safari in Zimbabwe is a privilege that comes with responsibilities. Following proper safari etiquette ensures your safety, protects wildlife, and preserves these experiences for future generations. Here’s your comprehensive guide to being a respectful safari guest.
The Golden Rules of Safari
The most important rule on any safari: Listen to your guide. Their instructions are based on years of experience and are designed to keep both you and the wildlife safe.
Core Principles
- Respect Wildlife Space - Animals always have right of way
- Stay Quiet - Loud noises disturb and stress animals
- No Littering - Leave only footprints, take only photographs
- Follow Park Rules - They exist for important reasons
- Support Conservation - Your responsible behavior helps protect Zimbabwe’s wildlife
Wildlife Viewing Etiquette
In the Vehicle
Game Drive Behavior
Game Drive Behavior
- Stay seated at all times unless your guide says otherwise
- Keep all body parts inside the vehicle
- Move slowly and quietly when changing positions
- Don’t stand up suddenly - it changes the vehicle’s silhouette
- Share viewing spots - rotate positions for fair photo opportunities
- Keep voices low - whisper when animals are nearby
Noise Management
Noise Management
- Turn off phone sounds before the drive begins
- Avoid loud exclamations even when excited
- Close car doors quietly when entering/exiting
- Don’t tap or bang on the vehicle to get animals’ attention
- Minimize equipment noise from cameras and binoculars
What NOT to Do
What NOT to Do
- Never feed wildlife - it’s dangerous and alters natural behavior
- Don’t throw anything from the vehicle
- Avoid sudden movements that might startle animals
- Don’t use flash photography on nocturnal animals
- Never attempt to touch any wildlife
- Don’t pressure guides to get closer than is safe
Walking Safaris
Walking safaris require extra vigilance and strict adherence to rules:
Stay in Single File
Walk directly behind your guide in the order they specify
Maintain Silence
No talking unless the guide indicates it’s safe
Follow Hand Signals
Learn and respond immediately to your guide’s signals
No Bright Colors
Wear neutral colors that blend with the environment
Move Slowly
Match your guide’s pace and avoid sudden movements
Photography Ethics
Respectful Photography Guidelines
Do's
- Use silent/quiet camera modes
- Respect no-flash zones
- Ask before photographing other guests
- Share good sighting positions
- Use long lenses to maintain distance
- Capture natural behavior
Don'ts
- Don’t use flash on nocturnal species
- Avoid drone photography (usually illegal)
- Don’t monopolize prime spots
- Never harass animals for a photo
- Don’t share sensitive location data
- Avoid excessive shutter noise
Pro Tip: The best wildlife photographs come from patience and respect, not from getting too close or disturbing animals.
What to Wear on Safari
Your clothing choices affect both your comfort and wildlife viewing experience:
Color Guidelines
- Khaki/Tan: Blends well with dry season landscapes
- Olive/Brown: Perfect for most environments
- Grey: Neutral and non-threatening
- Muted Greens: Good for lusher areas
- Khaki/Tan: Blends well with dry season landscapes
- Olive/Brown: Perfect for most environments
- Grey: Neutral and non-threatening
- Muted Greens: Good for lusher areas
- White: Too bright and easily soiled
- Black: Attracts tsetse flies
- Dark Blue: Also attracts tsetse flies
- Bright Colors: Can alarm wildlife
- Camouflage: May be illegal in some areas
Practical Considerations
- Long sleeves and pants: Protection from sun and insects
- Layered clothing: Mornings can be cold, afternoons hot
- Comfortable walking shoes: For lodge areas and walking safaris
- Wide-brimmed hat: Essential sun protection
- Sunglasses: Reduce glare and protect eyes
Lodge and Camp Etiquette
Respecting Shared Spaces
Life in safari lodges and camps requires consideration for other guests and staff:
Accommodation Behavior
Accommodation Behavior
- Keep noise to a minimum, especially during rest hours
- Don’t walk to your room alone after dark - request an escort
- Close doors and windows to keep animals out
- Report any wildlife near your accommodation
- Use provided torches/flashlights at night
Dining Etiquette
Dining Etiquette
- Arrive on time for meals - schedules accommodate activity times
- Dress appropriately (most lodges have a smart-casual policy for dinner)
- Share tables graciously in smaller camps
- Inform staff of dietary requirements in advance
- Don’t waste food - portions are carefully planned
Social Considerations
Social Considerations
Environmental Responsibility
Leave No Trace Principles
Your environmental impact matters:
- Pack out all trash including organic waste like fruit peels
- Stay on designated paths to prevent erosion
- Don’t pick plants or remove natural objects
- Conserve water - it’s often a precious resource
- Use eco-friendly products especially sunscreen and insect repellent
- Respect fire safety rules absolutely
Conservation Ethics
Supporting Conservation
- Choose operators committed to conservation
- Support community tourism initiatives
- Report any suspicious activity (poaching signs)
- Consider contributing to conservation funds
- Buy authentic, legally-sourced crafts
- Share conservation messages, not just pretty pictures
Cultural Sensitivity
Interacting with Local Communities
Many safaris include cultural elements. Show respect by:
- Asking permission before photographing people
- Dressing modestly when visiting villages
- Learning basic greetings in local languages
- Purchasing crafts directly from artisans when possible
- Respecting local customs and traditions
- Listening more than talking during cultural exchanges
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is customary and important for safari staff:
Standard Tipping Rates
Safari Guides: $10-20 USD per guest per day
Higher for exceptional service or private guides
Safari Guides: $10-20 USD per guest per day
Higher for exceptional service or private guides
General Staff: $10-15 USD per guest per day
Usually put in a communal tip box
Trackers/Spotters: $5-10 USD per guest per day
If separate from guide
Tipping Etiquette:
- Tip at the end of your stay
- Use USD cash in small denominations
- Present tips in envelopes if possible
- Thank staff personally when appropriate
Safety Protocols
Emergency Situations
Know what to do in unexpected situations:
Wildlife Encounters on Foot:
- Freeze - Don’t run
- Listen to your guide’s instructions
- Stay grouped together
- Back away slowly if instructed
- Avoid eye contact with predators
- Make yourself appear larger if necessary
Health and Safety
- Take malaria prophylaxis as prescribed
- Stay hydrated throughout activities
- Use insect repellent liberally
- Wear sunscreen even on cloudy days
- Report any injuries immediately
- Follow hygiene protocols to prevent illness
Night Drive Etiquette
Night drives have special considerations:
- Red filter lights only to preserve night vision
- Extra quiet as sounds carry further at night
- Warm clothing essential as temperatures drop
- No flash photography - it blinds nocturnal animals
- Stay extra alert for low branches
- Trust the spotlight operator to find wildlife
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others’ errors:
Behavior Mistakes
Behavior Mistakes
- Getting too excited and loud when seeing animals
- Standing up in the vehicle for better photos
- Insisting on getting closer to dangerous animals
- Ignoring guide instructions for “just one more photo”
- Wandering around camps alone at night
Photography Mistakes
Photography Mistakes
- Spending entire drives behind the camera
- Fighting for position with other photographers
- Using flash when prohibited
- Making excessive noise with equipment
- Sharing exact locations of rare species online
Preparation Mistakes
Preparation Mistakes
- Wearing inappropriate colors
- Forgetting warm clothes for morning drives
- Not bringing binoculars
- Overpacking for game drives
- Wearing strong fragrances
Special Situations
Sightings of Rare Species
When encountering rare or endangered animals:
- Maintain extra distance and respect
- Limit viewing time to reduce stress
- Don’t share specific locations on social media
- Follow guide’s lead on appropriate behavior
- Consider the animal’s welfare over your photos
Mating, Hunting, or Feeding
During sensitive natural behaviors:
- Keep extra quiet during these critical moments
- Respect distance - don’t interfere with nature
- Be prepared to leave if animals show stress
- Understand you’re witnessing privileged moments
- Don’t judge natural behaviors by human standards
The Spirit of Safari
Remember, safari is not just about ticking off the “Big Five” or getting the perfect photo. It’s about:
- Connecting with nature in its purest form
- Understanding ecosystems and our place in them
- Supporting conservation through responsible tourism
- Creating memories that inspire protection of wild places
- Sharing the experience respectfully with all participants
Final Thoughts
Good safari etiquette enhances everyone’s experience - yours, other guests’, and most importantly, the wildlife’s. By following these guidelines, you contribute to sustainable tourism that helps preserve Zimbabwe’s incredible natural heritage for future generations.
Remember: you are a guest in the animals’ home. Act accordingly, and you’ll be rewarded with authentic, meaningful wildlife encounters that will stay with you forever.
Before You Go: Many lodges send pre-arrival information with specific guidelines. Read it carefully as requirements can vary by location and season.
For more essential travel information, explore our guides on Health and Safety and What to Pack.