Be enthusiastic and bring your sense of humor. This will bring the best out of your guide. Guides are proud people and eager to share their knowledge whether it be about their culture or the wildlife. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Clients who just sit back and say nothing or appear uninterested can make or break a guide. Granted, not all guides are the same but overall, they are willing to share their wealth of knowledge and want you to enjoy your trip. If you have any special interests such as photography, stars, geology, birds or a specific animal, don’t be shy – let your guide know. I was really happy on my last trip to get a good photo of a dung beetle doing his thing. When on safari, especially if traveling overland with the same guide, you will be spending many hours in their company. Often guides and their guests develop life long friendships. Many will enjoy staying in contact via email. If you have enjoyed your guide and/or driver, ask to exchange email addresses because you never know when you will feel that ‘trip of a lifetime’ pull to return, or know someone who is planning to travel and would like a recommendation. Most importantly, RELAX!! I won’t say, leave your watch at home. Just know that an 8:15am departure can mean 8:30am (and it is probably not your guide’s fault) or if you are told, “We’ll be back at the lodge for breakfast at 9:30am”, it could mean 10am if you suddenly come across a pair of cheetahs posing.
