What to do when you encounter dangerous animals

The Masai Mara is home to some of the world’s most iconic wildlife, offering visitors a chance to observe animals like lions, elephants, cheetahs, and leopards up close. However, these encounters must be handled carefully to ensure the safety of both the animals and humans. Below is a guide on how to act and respond when you encounter various animals in the Masai Mara, with specific, practical safety tips for each species.

1. Lions #

Behavior to Expect: #

Lions are generally not aggressive toward vehicles and tourists, as they’re used to the presence of safari vehicles. However, their behavior can change, especially during mating or if they feel threatened.

How to Respond: #

• Stay in the Vehicle: Never step out of the safari vehicle in the presence of lions. Lions can perceive humans as a threat and may attack if they feel cornered.
• Keep Calm and Quiet: Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that could startle them. Keep your voices low.
• Maintain Distance: Keep a distance of at least 20-30 meters from the pride. If lions approach your vehicle, stay still and avoid driving off abruptly, as this could trigger a chase instinct.
• Do Not Block Their Path: Always ensure you do not block a lion’s movement, especially when they are on the hunt or moving with cubs.

2. Cheetahs #

Behavior to Expect: #

Cheetahs are usually non-aggressive toward vehicles and tend to ignore them. However, they may approach or even climb onto vehicles for a better vantage point.

How to Respond: #

• Stay Calm if They Climb Your Vehicle: If a cheetah climbs onto your vehicle, stay calm and avoid any sudden movements. They are generally not aggressive but are simply using the car for an elevated viewpoint.
• Do Not Approach Too Closely: Keep a distance of at least 20 meters, especially if there are cubs involved.
• Move Slowly: If you need to move the vehicle, do so slowly to avoid startling the cheetah.

3. Leopards #

Behavior to Expect: #

Leopards are elusive and shy, often seen resting in trees. They are generally not aggressive toward vehicles but are unpredictable if they feel threatened.

How to Respond: #

• Do Not Get Too Close: Stay at least 30 meters away from leopards. They are highly territorial and may feel threatened if approached too closely.
• Avoid Night Encounters: Leopards are more active at night and are harder to spot. Be extra cautious during evening game drives.
• Never Walk in Their Territory: If on foot (such as during walking safaris), never enter dense bush areas where leopards may be hiding.

4. Elephants #

Behavior to Expect: #

Elephants are generally peaceful but can become aggressive if they feel threatened or if you come between them and their young. Bulls in musth (a period of high testosterone) are especially dangerous.

How to Respond: #

• Give Them Space: Keep a distance of 30-50 meters, especially from mothers with calves.
• Watch for Warning Signs: Elephants will signal when they feel threatened—flapping ears, trumpeting, or mock charging. If you observe these behaviors, slowly back away.
• Do Not Block Their Path: Elephants need space to move freely, especially large herds. Ensure your vehicle doesn’t obstruct their movement, particularly near water sources.
• Be Extra Cautious During Musth: If you spot a bull in musth (evident from secretion near their temples and aggressive behavior), stay far away, as they can become unpredictable.

5. Buffalo #

Behavior to Expect: #

Buffalos are known for their unpredictable and aggressive behavior, especially older males. They may charge without warning.

How to Respond: #

• Keep a Safe Distance: Stay at least 30 meters away from buffalo herds, and even further if there are young calves.
• Avoid Eye Contact: Buffalos can perceive direct eye contact as a threat, so remain calm and avoid staring at them directly.
• Never Walk Near Them: On foot, never approach buffalo. They can charge suddenly if they feel threatened, and they are fast despite their size.

6. Hyenas #

Behavior to Expect: #

Hyenas are scavengers and typically shy away from humans, though they are opportunistic and can become bold if food is involved.

How to Respond: #

• Do Not Feed Them: Feeding hyenas or leaving food scraps behind can make them more aggressive and habituated to humans.
• Stay Inside the Vehicle: While they may not pose an immediate threat, hyenas can become bold and investigate the vehicle if food smells attract them.
• Keep Distance: Maintain a distance of at least 20 meters, especially near a kill site where they may be scavenging.

7. Giraffes #

Behavior to Expect: #

Giraffes are generally non-aggressive but can defend themselves with powerful kicks if threatened.

How to Respond: #

• Maintain Distance: Stay at least 10-15 meters away to avoid startling them.
• Move Slowly: If they’re crossing the road or grazing, move slowly and let them pass without rushing them.

8. Zebras and Antelopes #

Behavior to Expect: #

Zebras and antelopes are flighty animals that tend to run away from danger. However, when cornered, they can become defensive.

How to Respond: #

• Stay Calm: These animals are unlikely to pose a threat but should not be chased or cornered.
• Do Not Follow Closely: Give them space to retreat if they are fleeing from a predator.

9. Rhinos #

Behavior to Expect: #

Rhinos, particularly black rhinos, are highly territorial and can charge if they feel threatened. Their poor eyesight makes them easily startled by sudden movements or loud noises.

How to Respond: #

• Keep a Large Distance: Stay at least 40 meters away from rhinos. If they appear agitated, back off slowly.
• Remain Still if Charged: In the rare event of a charge, stay still or retreat slowly without turning your back. Avoid running, as this may provoke a further reaction.

General Safari Safety Tips #

• Stay Inside the Vehicle: The Masai Mara is a wild and unpredictable environment. Never exit your vehicle unless at designated safe areas.
• Listen to Your Guide: Guides are trained to understand animal behavior and will often give you instructions based on the situation.
• Keep Noise to a Minimum: Loud sounds can disturb animals and provoke defensive behavior.
• Respect Park Rules: Always follow park regulations, including distance guidelines for wildlife encounters and avoiding off-road driving, which can disturb animals.

By following these practical safety tips, you can enjoy safe and respectful wildlife encounters in the Masai Mara while minimizing risk to yourself and the animals.

Practical Guide: How to Respond to Animal Encounters When Walking on Foot in the Masai Mara #

Walking safaris in the Masai Mara offer a unique, immersive experience, but also come with risks when encountering wildlife. Unlike being in a vehicle, you are more vulnerable and must respond appropriately to ensure safety. This guide provides practical tips on how to act and respond when encountering various animals while on foot.

1. Lions #

What to Expect: #

Lions are apex predators, and while they typically avoid humans, they can become defensive if surprised, especially near a kill or when cubs are present.

How to Respond: #

• Stand Your Ground: Never turn your back or run. Running may trigger their hunting instinct.
• Make Yourself Look Bigger: Raise your arms, speak firmly, and back away slowly without breaking eye contact.
• Stay Together: Lions are less likely to approach a group, so stay close to your guide and fellow walkers.
• If Charged: Stand still, shout loudly, and wave your arms. In most cases, a lion will stop or make a false charge to test your reaction.

2. Elephants #

What to Expect: #

Elephants can be unpredictable, especially mothers with calves or bulls in musth. They will show warning signs, such as trumpeting, flapping ears, and mock charging.

How to Respond: #

• Observe Their Behavior: If they display warning signs, slowly back away, keeping a safe distance.
• Never Run: Running may provoke a charge. Instead, stand still and back away slowly.
• Seek Cover: If an elephant becomes aggressive, seek refuge behind a large tree or obstacle. Elephants can outrun humans and may charge if provoked.

3. Buffalo #

What to Expect: #

Buffalos are highly unpredictable and known for being aggressive when threatened. Solitary males, or “dagga boys,” are particularly dangerous.

How to Respond: #

• Keep a Distance: If you spot buffalo, try to detour around them, giving them a wide berth.
• Do Not Turn Your Back: If a buffalo starts showing aggression, such as snorting or pawing the ground, back away slowly without turning around.
• If Charged: Seek immediate cover behind trees or rocks, as buffaloes are extremely fast and unlikely to stop once they charge.

4. Leopards #

What to Expect: #

Leopards are solitary and elusive but can be very dangerous if cornered. They are excellent climbers and can launch surprise attacks from trees or bushes.

How to Respond: #

• Don’t Approach Dense Vegetation: Avoid walking through areas where leopards might hide, such as thick bushes or rocky outcrops.
• Stand Your Ground: If you encounter a leopard, don’t run. Stand still and maintain eye contact while slowly backing away.
• Watch for Signs of Aggression: If the leopard lowers its head or hisses, it may be preparing to attack. Use loud noises and raise your arms to deter it.

5. Rhinos #

What to Expect: #

Rhinos have poor eyesight but a strong sense of smell and hearing. They can charge if they sense a threat.

How to Respond: #

• Keep a Distance: Stay far away, at least 50 meters, and observe their behavior.
• Move to Cover: If a rhino shows signs of aggression, such as snorting or stamping its feet, move calmly but swiftly to a large obstacle or tree. Rhinos are fast, but they struggle with maneuvering around large objects.
• Stay Downwind: Rhinos rely on their sense of smell, so staying downwind can prevent them from detecting you.

6. Cheetahs #

What to Expect: #

Cheetahs are generally non-aggressive toward humans and tend to avoid contact. However, they may defend their young if provoked.

How to Respond: #

• Stay Still: If a cheetah is close by, avoid making sudden movements and stay calm.
• Slowly Retreat: If the cheetah shows any interest in you, slowly back away, making no sudden movements.
• Do Not Run: Running may trigger a predatory chase.

7. Hyenas #

What to Expect: #

Hyenas are primarily scavengers but can become bold if they sense vulnerability, especially at night or around food.

How to Respond: #

• Stand Tall and Assertive: Hyenas are unlikely to attack if you stand confidently. Avoid crouching or making yourself appear smaller.
• Use a Flashlight at Night: If walking in the dark, always carry a flashlight to deter hyenas.
• Avoid Leaving Food Scraps: Don’t carry food openly or leave scraps behind, as this attracts hyenas and emboldens them.

8. Hippos #

What to Expect: #

Hippos are extremely aggressive and territorial, especially near water. Despite their bulky appearance, they are incredibly fast on land and in water.

How to Respond: #

• Avoid Water Sources: Hippos spend most of their time in water. Stay far away from rivers and lakes, especially in the late afternoon when they leave the water to graze.
• Run for Cover: If a hippo charges, your best chance is to run toward dense vegetation or up a steep incline. Hippos are fast in straight lines but struggle with obstacles.
• Stay Quiet: If you spot a hippo from a distance, remain quiet and slowly back away to avoid attracting its attention.

9. Zebras and Antelopes #

What to Expect: #

Zebras and antelopes are flight animals and will generally run away from perceived danger. However, a cornered zebra can kick with extreme force.

How to Respond: #

• Give Them Space: Avoid approaching too closely, especially if they seem agitated.
• Do Not Chase: Let them move away freely and never try to block their escape route.

General Tips for Walking Safaris: #

• Stay with Your Guide: Always stay close to your guide, who is trained to interpret animal behavior and knows the terrain well.
• Keep Noise to a Minimum: Avoid loud talking or sudden movements that may attract unwanted attention from wildlife.
• Be Aware of Wind Direction: Many animals rely on scent to detect danger. Walking downwind (so the wind is blowing toward you from the animals) can help avoid detection.
• Carry a Stick or Object: A walking stick can be useful for appearing larger and more threatening if an animal approaches, but never use it to provoke or strike an animal.

FAQs: Animal Encounters While Walking on Foot in the Masai Mara #

1. Is it safe to go on a walking safari in the Masai Mara without a guide? #

• Expert Answer: No, it is not safe to go on a walking safari without a professional guide. Wildlife encounters can be unpredictable, and guides are trained to understand animal behavior, navigate terrain, and ensure safety during close encounters with dangerous animals. Walking safaris should always be done with licensed guides who are familiar with the environment and the best practices for staying safe.

2. What should I do if I encounter a snake on foot during a safari? #

• Expert Answer: If you encounter a snake, remain still and avoid sudden movements. Snakes generally avoid humans and will only strike if they feel threatened. Slowly back away from the snake and give it plenty of space to retreat. Do not attempt to handle or provoke the snake, as this increases the risk of being bitten. Most snake bites happen when people try to handle or disturb the snake.

3. How can I prevent wildlife from smelling food while on a walking safari? #

• Expert Answer: To avoid attracting wildlife, especially predators like hyenas, do not carry food openly during a walking safari. If you must carry food, store it in airtight containers to minimize scent. Avoid leaving any food scraps or litter behind, as this can habituate wildlife to human presence and create dangerous situations in future encounters.

4. Can nocturnal animals like leopards or hyenas be more dangerous during night walks? #

• Expert Answer: Yes, nocturnal animals like leopards and hyenas are more active and potentially more dangerous at night. They rely on the cover of darkness to hunt and are more likely to see humans as potential threats. If on a night safari or walking near camp after dark, always carry a flashlight or headlamp to make yourself visible and avoid startling wildlife. It’s essential to stay with your guide, who can interpret animal behavior in low-light conditions.

5. What is the best way to respond if I encounter a hippo out of the water? #

• Expert Answer: Hippos are extremely aggressive on land, especially when encountered away from water where they feel more vulnerable. If you encounter a hippo, immediately look for cover and move away as quickly and quietly as possible. Do not get between a hippo and its water source, as this can provoke a charge. Hippos are deceptively fast, so finding a large obstacle or climbing to higher ground is your best defense.

6. How do guides protect groups during walking safaris? #

• Expert Answer: Professional guides protect groups by reading animal behavior, choosing safe walking routes, and positioning themselves to handle encounters. They may carry a rifle or firearm, but these are used only as a last resort. More often, guides rely on their experience and understanding of wildlife to avoid confrontation and keep a safe distance from animals. They also ensure that guests are well-informed about how to act during encounters.

7. Can children participate in walking safaris, and are there extra precautions? #

• Expert Answer: Children can participate in walking safaris, but there are usually age restrictions, typically for those above 12 years old. Children are more likely to make sudden movements or noises, which could provoke an animal. Extra precautions involve briefing children extensively on safari safety, ensuring they stay close to the group, and remaining particularly vigilant during wildlife encounters.

8. What should I do if I get separated from my group during a walking safari? #

• Expert Answer: If you become separated from your group, stay where you are and avoid wandering further into unknown terrain. Use any available communication devices, such as a whistle, to alert your guide. Guides are trained to search methodically for missing group members. Avoid running or making noise that could attract wildlife, and try to remain calm.

9. Are there specific times of day that are safer for walking safaris? #

• Expert Answer: Early morning and late afternoon are generally considered safer times for walking safaris because animals are less active during the hottest part of the day. However, this depends on the species. Predators like lions and leopards may be more active during cooler hours, while elephants and buffalo may move to water sources. Always follow your guide’s advice on timing to avoid encounters with dangerous animals.

10. What are the most important things to carry on a walking safari for safety? #

• Expert Answer: On a walking safari, it’s crucial to carry the following safety items:
  • Water: To stay hydrated.
  • A flashlight/headlamp: For visibility if walking at dusk or night.
  • Whistle or signaling device: To alert your guide if you get separated.
  • Sunscreen and hat: To protect against the sun.
  • First aid kit: In case of minor injuries.
  • Binoculars: To observe animals from a safe distance. Guides will typically carry additional safety equipment, such as a firearm and communication devices for emergency situations.