Safari Ethics: Why Respect for Nature Must Come First

In recent months, viral posts have been circulating online showing deeply concerning and frankly incomprehensible behaviour on safari. These clips highlight not just tourists, but at times even guides, engaging in practices that undermine everything a safari should stand for. From overcrowded sightings at river crossings to guests leaving vehicles within dangerous proximity to wildlife, the scenes are not only reckless but actively harmful — to people, to animals, and to the reputation of the safari industry as a whole.

This isn’t just about poor judgment in the moment. It reflects a broader disconnect between humans and nature. Living in cities, consumed by screens, we too often chase sensationalism over substance. Add to that the growing pressure on guides to “deliver” dramatic moments — sometimes in exchange for tips — and the situation escalates. But make no mistake: no photograph, no video, no viral clip is worth risking lives or compromising the integrity of nature.

More images and context via Nick Kleer's instagram post here

Guests: Do Your Research and Respect Nature

For anyone planning a safari, the responsibility begins before you ever step foot in the bush. Research the companies you travel with. Ask about their ethical policies. Understand that your role as a guest is not to demand a staged spectacle or push the limits of safety. Wildlife is not there for human entertainment. Safaris should be experiences of humility, awe, and respect — never abuse.

Guides: Uphold the Standard, No Matter What

Equally, guides must hold themselves to the highest ethical standards, without wavering. A guest may request something unsafe or unethical, but the guide’s role is to be the line that cannot be crossed. This is non-negotiable. One bad decision, especially in the age of social media, can go viral within minutes, destroying reputations, careers and potentially businesses. It erodes trust in the entire safari industry but more importantly could result in serious harm or death.

My Perspective as a Tour Operator

Since beginning my journey with RAW Photographic I have been uncompromising on this front. I only partner with operators and lodges who share a commitment to strict ethical practices and whose ideals are a mirror to mine. Are mistakes possible? Of course, it’s what humans are best at and this is nature - things can unfold unpredictably or change in an instant. Context and calm are always important before passing judgment. Too often do I see a post online of a worrying moment on safari and the comments are immediately calling for the firing of the guide and review-bombing of the lodge – but often these clips never tell the full story of what happened, how it came to be and what followed.

The ultimate responsibility lies within the industry at large. From lodges and their guides to tour operators, photographic hosts and travel agents. We can always say no to unethical requests. We can always refuse to guide guests who won’t respect the rules. Our duty is to protect the wildlife first, and to ensure our guests’ safety — never to sacrifice either in pursuit of a moment.

Reassessing Our Place in Nature

What these viral incidents reveal is how easily we fall into the trap of exploitation when disconnected from nature. Living in urban environments, immersed in online culture, we forget that we are part of the natural world — not above it. If you plan to travel, to explore the wild, and especially if you dream of an African safari, then do the work: research, prepare, and commit to being an example of good tourism.

And to guides and operators: we must lead by example. Show what to do, not just what not to do. Protect the integrity of the safari experience, for our guests, for ourselves, and most importantly, for the wildlife we are privileged to witness.

In the end, safeguarding nature benefits everyone. A safari should never be about domination or danger — it should be about respect, wonder, and the profound privilege of sharing space with wild animals on their terms.