By Kevin Leo-Smith

Kevin Leo-Smith, a leading expert in Southern Africa’s safari industry, has outlined the following set of Safari rules. With extensive knowledge in conservation development, safari tourism, business development, and agribusiness, particularly in the African context, Kevin provides these valuable insights:

1. Quality Over Quantity: When it comes to the number of beds in a safari lodge, bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better.
2. Guiding Matters: A superb guide can elevate even an average lodge, while poor guiding can ruin the best lodge experience.
3. Lodge Decor vs. Game Experience: Lodges overly focused on lavish decor are often compensating for subpar guiding and wildlife viewing.
4. Thread Count vs. Game Count: If a brochure highlights the thread count of the linens, it might reflect a lower game count.
5. Spa Facilities and Game Experience: The better the spa amenities, the more likely the overall game experience is compromised.
6. Room Size and Game Experience: The competition for larger and more decorative rooms is inversely related to the quality of game drives and guides.
7. Night Predators: Many fascinating predators are primarily active at night, accounting for more than 70% of their activity.
8. Malaria Awareness: Taking malaria seriously is key to managing its potential impact.
9. Sighting Crowds: More than three vehicles at a wildlife sighting can detract from the experience.
10. Lodge Focus: Lodges centered around hotel amenities might not provide the best wildlife-focused safari experience.
11. Optimal Safari Experience: The best safari experiences are often found off-road and at night, with lower road density traverse.

These rules provide valuable insights into how to approach and evaluate safari experiences.