There is little doubt a Southern African safari will probably be one of the highlights of your life and if you follow the advice of seasoned operators and abide by the rules enforced to protect you and your family, there is little to no risk involved.

Crime not an issue

The remote areas of Southern Africa, be it the Kingdom of Swaziland, Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa Namibia or Zambia, are arguably a whole lot safer than some of the dubious areas in any large cosmopolitan city and crime plays little to no part in Southern African safaris.

The one area of concern for visitors to Southern Africa is the relatively high incidence of malaria in certain parts of the region. Over a million deaths occur each year from this disease carried by mosquitoes but there are a number of precautions you and your family can take to protect you from this debilitating and sometimes fatal illness.

Malaria can easily be avoided

Mosquitoes are particularly prevalent after rain and are generally at their most active at night.

One of the simplest precautions is to wear long trousers, long-sleeved tops and thick socks during the danger times.

Thankfully there are a number of lotions, potions and creams that can be applied directly to the skin that will prevent mosquitoes from biting you but it is also wise to take a course of prophylactics before and during your safari.

Attacks by wild animals are rare and can be avoided

Wild animals are exactly that – wild - and it is important to remember to treat all animals with the greatest respect. In a decade, only 7 tourists have died due to attacks by wild animals.

•    Three of four deaths accredited to lions occurred when tourists carelessly approached the pride on foot.

•    In the 2 fatalities involving hippos, both victims flagrantly disregarded the rules and were out of their vehicles at the time.

Statistics reveal that these attacks are highly uncommon and as long as you take sensible precautions and adhere to the rules, you will be perfectly safe.

Elephant Trinket Box African Safari Animal Art Stone Desk Office Decor

White Hunters:The Golden Age of African Safaris
East Africa affects our imagination like few other places: The sight of a charging rhino goes directly to the heart; the... More >>

Fodor's African Safari, 1st Edition: From Budget to Big Spending Where and How to Find the Best Big Game Adventure In Southern and Eastern Africa (Special-Interest Titles)
This new guide explains everything you need to know about planning and choosing an African Safari holiday, with lots of ... More >>

RoomMates RMK1130SCS Safari Peel and Stick Wall Decal
Into the Wild! With this set of realistically-rendered safari animals wall stickers. Feel like a real adventurer! Get... More >>

Safari: The East African Diaries of a Wildlife Photographer

Wild Earth: African Safari
Explore the wild and capture its natural beauty on film in Wild Earth: African Safari for the Wii, a unique simulation b... More >>

African Safari Eco Expedition
64202 Feature: -Eco expedition African safari. -Including a black bear, grey wolf, deer, grizzly bear, mountain lion, ... More >>