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Mike Pandey on how to navigate  a jungle safari successfully

 (Mike Pandey is a wildlife activist   and filmmaker)

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Be a silent observer. Silence is the key to enjoying a jungle safari as you can then experience nature intimately. If you are silent, you can hear all the natural sounds, which acts as very good danger alarms too. Going for a safari also means venturing into someone else’s habitat. So be careful that your presence doesn’t affect, hurt or excite the natural inhabitants of the area. Also, it is advised to stay in jeeps and not walk around.

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One has to be particular about the clothes one carries. Keep your head covered, especially if you’re in a rain forest, so as to escape falling leeches and other insects. Opt for earthy, natural colours like brown and green. Steer clear of whites, bright yellows, pinks and reds.

Carry non-perishable, dry food. Just don’t take along strong-smelling cooked food, as you might end up sharing it with some animal lurking around! Don’t forget animals have a much stronger sense of smell than humans.

A swiss knife is another must have as it comes in real handy in a crisis situation. A safari is all about adventure and surprises, so be prepared for a scare too.

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There are a few other must carrys – a light weight, warm blanket, insect repellent lotion, and matchbox and firs- aid box. Also a water purifier just in case you ran out of water. If needed, go right ahead and erect a quick shelter. Spread a sheet on the ground, use anther as your roof, and hold up with a couple of sticks.