SAFARI TIPS
AFRICA’S SECRETLY DANGEROUS ANIMALS
Whether your African adventure is taking you to the seas or to the Serengeti, no doubt you’ve thought a little bit about the animals you’ll encounter.
Of course, the Great White shark and the lion might be at the top of your dangerous animals list. They are definitely dangerous but if you are planning on having an encounter with a Great White, it will most likely be because of shark cage diving. Humans are also not a lion’s first prey of choice. (But please don’t throw caution to the wind and risk getting closer to lions for a good photo opportunity)
There are, however, a few African animals that fly under the radar in terms of their danger level. Here is our list of the secretly dangerous African animals you should be cautious of when going on safari:
1. The Hippopotamus
The hippo may seem harmless but in fact is responsible for more fatalities in Africa than any other large animal. Male hippos are incredibly territorial and females will attack anything that threatens their offspring. Despite their short legs, hippos can also run at over 30km/h (18 miles per hour).
2. The Mosquito
Small but deadly – mosquitos don’t only have a knack for keeping you awake at night, but a small select few also carry malaria. Malaria if untreated can be fatal. Luckily, not all species carry the disease, and among those species not all the mosquitoes transmit it. This, along with wonders of scientific progression developing preventative medication, means risk of malaria is low. However, if you’re less trusting of modern medicine, being experts in the business we have a number of malaria-free safari destinations for you to visit.
3. The Elephant
Everyone loves elephants, they are truly wonderful creatures but they can be dangerous. The males are more prone to aggression, especially during periods of sexual activity. It’s best to keep a safe distance, being trampled is really not a risk worth taking.
4. The Nile Crocodile
The Nile Crocodile can be found in almost every major lake and river throughout Africa. Unlike most animals on this list, they are not selective when it comes to prey. Nile Crocodiles will hunt anything, including people, which comes within their reach.
5. The Cape Buffalo
One of Africa’s Big Five, the Cape Buffalo is thought to have killed more big-game hunters than any other African animal. They are aggressive, unpredictable and work together in their herds to respond to any perceived danger or threats.
