The unfenced campsites at Mabuasehube Game Reserve is a concern for any parent whose children are relatively small. Wild animals, including lions, sometimes roam the camp sites and can pose a danger to not only the children, but also adults. By taking a few precautions and applying common sense, both parents and children will enjoy the beauty and splendor of the Kalahari Desert.
1. Keep Children Inside the Perimeter of Campsite
The unfenced campsites are generous and young children have plenty of space to play under adult supervision. Children should, however not be allowed to leave the clearing and enter into the surrounding bush, as predators are experts at camouflage and stalking their prey.
2. Accompany Children to Ablutions
Ablution facilities at the campsites of Mabuasehube Game Reserve consist of a pit toilet and shower in an open structure. These facilities are usually some distance away from the campsite itself, and people should use caution when utilizing them. Adults must accompany children and ensure that it is safe for the child to enter as the facilities has no doors or roof. The toilet and shower are also closer to the edge of the campsite and care should be taken to scan the area for lurking predators.
3. Stay Inside the Circle of Light at Night
Both children and adults should stay inside the circle of light after dark. Adults should ensure the lighting is ample enough to properly light the area where people are seated as well as a couple of feet beyond. Lions, hyena and leopard have excellent night vision and human eyesight can’t compete. Keep a strong flashlight charged and occasionally scan the area around the campsite for any unexpected visitors. Children should not be running around as running is known to trigger the hunting response in predators.
4. Don’t Leave the Tent During the Night
There are very few reported cases of humans being attacked while inside a closed tent. The attacks usually takes place when tents are not zipped closed or humans wander around outside the tents in the darkness. Often lions would visit these campsites and stroll through the tents without attempting to gain entry into the tents. In these situations the occupants of the tents should remain calm and quiet as to not draw unwanted attention to themselves.
5. Lock Meat and Other Food Away
Stowing meat and other food away inside the vehicle or trailer prevents animals from frequenting the campsite in search of food. Never leave meat, cooked or uncooked, inside a tent where people are sleeping as the smell might attract animals to investigate the origin of the odor.
Following these rules and the essential checklist, visitors to Mabuasehube Game Reserve has an unique opportunity to experience the magnificent Kalahari Desert and interact with nature on a personal level. Taking a few precautions will ensure all visitors make the most of their stay without endangering their lives.
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