You need not panic if you're about to go out into the great outdoors. Being one with nature is an excellent way to de-stress and get rejuvinated. It's also a great way to learn something new about our environment. It can however be an epic fail if you're not adequately prepared.
We caught up with our favourite field guide and ranger Patrick Mziyako, who has been in the field for over five years. He's done many-a game drive, and he's seen over the years what works, and what doesn't work while you're in the wilderness.
1. The Outfit matters
You can pair it which ever way you want, but Mziyako suggests that when you're on a game drive you wear long pants then a long sleeve jersey or top. The idea here is to ensure that you are warm enough because the cars that game drives happen in are open vehicles: with only a roof and body, no windows. And while the speed of the vehicles is not too fast, the wind will sort you out if you're under prepared.
Tip: On most game drives, you'll be lucky enough to be given a blanket or throw. That you can use to wrap yourself with. But best be prepared than not. Also make sure the pants that's thick enough for the grass not to stick onto you and pierce through the material.
2. Colours, colours, colours
On game drives, Mziyako suggests that people not wear Yellow, Red and White. The simple reason is that while there will be some disturbance, they try to minimise the amount of disruption humans cause by coming into the space of the animals. Bright colours are more likely to be noticed by animals. And this is not what you want. You want to be as inconspicuous as possible.
3. Closed shoes, flat heeled shoes
Mziyako says for most of the drives and walks that he leads, this is a non-negotiable. The closed shoes are meant to protect your feet from bumping into rocks for instance. The walks are at times long, so you need to be comfortable throughout the entire time.
4. Carry a backpack
Hand bags tend to become clunky and uncomfortable when you're walking. You need to ensure that you have a bag that will not hinder your movement, but will also allow you to move fast should you need to. Besides, backpacks are just convenient.
5. Your selfie stick, camera and shades
This is purely for the purpose of capturing those once in a lifetime moments that you experience in the bush. You'll have momentos to keep for a lifetime.