Don’t Wing It: 7 Safari Must-Knows for Canadians

Don’t Wing It: 7 Safari Must-Knows for Canadians

From early mornings to unexpected elephants – here’s what to expect on your wildest vacation yet.

Planning a safari? It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime adventures that feels straight out of a nature documentary… only you’re in it. Whether you’re dreaming of game drives through Tanzania’s Serengeti, river crossings in Botswana, or sunsets over South Africa’s Kruger, safari life is unforgettable—but it’s also unlike any trip you’ve taken before.

Here’s what Canadian travelers should know to stay comfortable and healthy on the wild side.

1. Early Mornings Are the Norm (and Totally Worth It)

Safaris operate on wildlife time which means 5:30 a.m. wake-up calls. It may sound exhausting,  but catching a group of lions as the sun rises is pure magic.

Pro tip: Pack cozy layers for those crisp early drives. And if you’re prone to motion sickness, talk to a VirtualTravelClinic.ca nurse about nausea options. Some of those bumpy roads are not for the faint of stomach.

2. You’ll Want Binoculars (and Good Ones)

You may not realize how often animals are just out of camera range. A quality pair of binoculars can seriously enhance your experience, especially for birders or anyone hoping to spot a leopard lounging in a tree.

3. You Won’t Always Have Wi-Fi (and That’s a Good Thing)

Some lodges offer Wi-Fi in common areas, but many camps are blissfully off-grid. Use this time to unplug, unwind, and tune in to the wild around you. Bring a book, a journal, or simply soak up the silence.

4. Visit a Travel Clinic Before you Depart 

Travel health is critical to handle ahead of time, because mid-safari is not the time to google health symptoms or realize you need malaria pills. VirtualTraveClinic is your ticket to health travel, made easy by medical experts. The easy process, expert advice and exception service will leave you with the peace of mind to enjoy every moment of your safari.  

5. Pack Smart — Especially for Health & Comfort

No, you don’t need to dress like Indiana Jones. But you will need lightweight, neutral clothing (no brights), sun protection, and a hat that won’t blow off mid-jeep ride.

After your Virtual Travel Clinic consultation, we’ll let you know exactly what you need to bring from a health standpoint, so you’re never caught unprepared.

🧳 Health essentials to pack:

  • Insect repellent with DEET or icaridin
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Anti-diarrheal and rehydration salts
  • Prescription meds (malaria prevention, if needed)
  • Hand sanitizer and wipes
  • First-aid basics (we’ll guide you on what to include)

6. Game Drives Can Be Long (and Bumpy)

Think of it as a scenic road trip… with elephants. Drives can last 2–6 hours, and bathroom breaks are few and far between. Bring snacks, water, and a flexible mindset.

Pro tip: We’ll help you manage digestive risks and hydration tips in hot climates, so you’re not sidelined by tummy troubles when the cheetahs show up.

7. No Cages, No Guarantees 

You might go hours without a big sighting, and then suddenly — a whole herd of elephants appears out of nowhere! Patience is part of the thrill.

Don’t expect the animals to perform on cue. Appreciate the quiet moments, the zebra crossings, the giraffes peeking through trees, they’re all part of the experience.

Ready to Safari Like a Pro?

Book your Virtual Travel Health Consultation with one of our experienced travel nurses. We’ll review your itinerary, your health history, and make sure you’re protected so you can enjoy every minute of this once (or twice, if you’re lucky) in a lifetime experience!