Safari guide mistakes - tips by authority Howard Hillman

Safari guide & driver mistakes

and how to avoid them

Guide and
driver issues

Automatically blaming your guide for not spotting all the major animals

Some wildlife is not easy to spot

Wildlife doesn't appear on cue. If the trained and sharp eyes of a nearby predator are unable to spot a camouflaged animal or bird, then how can we expect the less endowed eyes of your guide (even with binoculars) to do so?

Animal count

Don't judge your guide just on how many different animals and birds he spotted. Wildlife is not confined in a zoo (on safari you are the one in the cage - the vehicle).

Not considering the possibility of having a guide-driver instead of a guide and driver

There are strong benefits in paying extra to have a separate guide and driver instead of a single guide-driver.

However, if there will be only 2 to 4 people in your vehicle, be at least aware of the several benefits in using a solo guide-driver:

Use of front passenger seat

The guide occupies the seat next to the driver. This is a choice place for viewing as you drive through the game reserves. If you have a combined driver-guide, you can alternate the use of that front seat with your vehicle mates.

Knowledge level

True, a guide specialist is usually (but not always) more apt to be more knowledgeable than a driver-guide. However, the difference in his knowledge may be valuable to only someone interested in learning academic details.

Cost

You will save money, sometimes a substantial amount.

Under tipping your guide and driver

The need to tip appropriately

Most safari guides and drivers receive meager wages. They depend on tips for their livelihood.

Tipping guidelines

Seasoned travelers tip their safari guides (or guide-drivers) approximately $7 to $20 per day per person, depending on their guides' overall performances and the size of their parties. Tip the driver about $5 to $10 per day. If you are on a packaged tour, ask the tour operator for its recommendation.