7 Great Ways to Get the Best Wildlife Viewing Experience

1. Collect local information hand-outs and maps

Pick up local guides and maps, available at most national park entrances – they often have a wealth of information and can give you a feel for the locale and what you can expect to see and experience in that particular park or wildlife reserve.

No two parks are ever the same, and you may well encounter different animals, plants and insects from park to park. They often have handy pictures and descriptions to help you identify the local fauna and flora. When you're up close to a wild cat, for example, it'll be great to shout, “Look, cheetah!” and it actually is one.

2. Follow the Rules of the Reserve

Make yourself familiar with the rules of whichever reserve you're visiting. They're in place to protect you – and the animals. Here are some fairly standard rules:

• Obey the speed limit. Driving at the recommended speed limit prevents needless road kills and vastly improves your chances of spotting wildlife and interesting birds, vegetation, insects and the myriad bush creatures.
• Stay in your vehicle. Only get out at designated spots (e.g. picnic sites) or when your guide says it's safe to do so. Most of the top safari destinations have large mammals and larger predators from the Big 5 to hippos and crocodiles. All feared and respected for good reason.

• Don't feed the animals. It only makes them dependent on humans for food. They often become aggressive and may need to be euthanised – a senseless tragedy.
• Keep your distance. Wild animals are unpredictable. That 'cute' little monkey has razor-sharp teeth – and claws!
• Do not litter. Our wildlife reserves are pristine wilderness areas – a priceless heritage. Leave only footprints (where you're permitted to) … and take only memories.

3. Pack a day pack

There are no hard and fast rules on safari. Some game drives may be extended far longer than expected for an interesting sighting or unplanned event.

A day pack with your few essentials will make your trip more comfortable: sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen, light mac for showers, warm jacket for early evenings or late afternoon game drives, a bottle of water, a snack or two, any important medications, and so on.

4. Be quiet. Be still

A safari is often a life-changing experience. At one with nature, away from the stresses and strains of city life and work concerns, you'll be rewarded with a new perspective. Take time to savour the quietness, the stillness, the sights, the sounds and the smells of the wild. Often, by sitting quietly you'll observe a flick of an ear or a flash of colour, hear a branch crack or smell the musky scent of a rare animal or creature that you may never have known was there.

5. Listen to the guides and rangers

Nature guides are a fountain of knowledge about the minute aspects of wildlife and nature. The good ones will fascinate you with their passion for the great outdoors. They are experienced in the local conditions and understand the behaviour of the animals. If they advise you to be quiet or stand still – please obey. Your safety is paramount and they want to keep you from harm at all times.

6. Timing is important

Just like anything, the bush – and wildlife – has its rhythms and seasons. Each one offers something unique and special. For example, the dry season is better for game viewing generally as the bush is dry, sparse and trampled down and animals are more likely to stay close to shrinking water sources. But after the first rains when the bush once again wears its bright greens and many animals are giving birth, it's a time of renewal and excitement - and the predators are very active.