The national parks in India are very remotely located, except for a couple of them, which are located close to a big town. Infact the towns which are close to these handful of national parks are not equipped with the essentials that you might require. Hence I thought it important to list down these 15 most important things to carry for a safari in India.
- Travel adaptor
- Portable recharger
- First aid kit / personal medication
- Sewing kit
- Torch
- Mosquito Repellant
- Camera, with extra memory cards
- Binoculars
- A Field guide book
- Hand Sanitizer
- Sunscreen
- Some munchies
- Masks
- Hat
- Cover to protect your camera from rain and dust.
Reason i recommend to carry some munchies, cookies, dry fruits, chocolates etc is because the morning safaris begin at 6am. You normally will have your morning tea with couple of cookies, and then go for a safari. Hence it is advisable to keep something to munch silently, discreetly while on a safari. Needless to mention that you will not drop any eatables, or wrappings in or out of the vehicles. While sharing your eatables with your fellow safari goers is fine, but never with the animals you encounter.
I repeat this often, that one encounters lot of dust and sun during safaris in India as the vehicles are totally open. If you are sensitive to dust and pollen related allergies please carry all preventive material like masks, and medications too.
Medical emergencies
For pregnant ladies safaris in India are not recommended at all. The tracks are bumpy, and can create medical complications in pregnancy. Hence safaris are best avoided during pregnancy. But still if you as a pregnant wife wish to accompany your husband then please do and stay put in the resort or the Lodge. Please do not go inside the national park.
In case of any medical issues there are no good hospitals or doctors close by. Any good hospital could be a 3-4 hours drive from a national park. Before going on a safari, please ensure you are medically fit. Avoid the safaris if there is even a minor viral infection, as it can get aggravated due to the journey thus spoiling the whole experience of yours, and your partners as well.
Remember only if you are fully well, and healthy will you be able to enjoy your safaris. So recover from any ailment that you might have, and then head out to track the Tigers.
Wish you all the best
Sharad Vats
