Seeing the big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, elephant) is most peoples' wish when going on safari. I’m here to tell you the bush has so much more to offer.
When sitting with an elephant herd surrounding your vehicle it can be a very overwhelming experience. I’m here to tell you that even an animal of that size needs support from the smaller craters to live a happy life. With birds following herds of elephants around to eat the insects that elephants flush up when walking or the dung beetles rolling balls of elephant poop. Everything out here in the African bush has its role to play.
My favourite example to share is of a species that very little people like. The dreaded mosquito! A lot of people believe that mosquitoes only purpose is to annoy humans. Let me tell you, they are much more important than that. There are over 3500 species of mosquitoes and not all of them bite humans. They are pollinators, just like butterflies and bees.
They are just as important as a butterfly. What a crazy thought..
When experiencing your first safari it's very easy to overlook all these smaller creatures.
My biggest tip when coming on safari is embracing the whole experience. Absorb the bush for everything it has to offer!
