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Dangers from wild animals to the motorcyclist (Africa) Dangers from wild animals to the motorcyclist (Africa)
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Photo by Marc Gibaud, Clouds on Tres Cerros and Mount Fitzroy, Argentinian Patagonia

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  #1  
Old 8 Jan 2013
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Mini bus taxis, trucks, kids, donkeys, dogs and goats are a much bigger hazard. Antelopes are a nuisance as they are bloody quick, as are ostriches. I've come across ellies on several occasions and stopped at a respectful distance if they look as though they are going to cross the road. Hit anything bigger than a cat and the animal will be the least of your worries. Go easy and be prepared for the unexpected.

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Last edited by reggie3cl; 8 Jan 2013 at 18:21.
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Old 8 Jan 2013
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@ Reggie3cl, tobi and Itchy feet 38, thank you very very much for this useful information. Obliged to you guys. Now, I can show this reply to convince my wife that we don't need to bring our huge 4x4 vehicle for only two of us that motorbike is okay and we don't need to worry much. We are looking forward to doing this adventure. Thank you again.
Last edited by sureis; 8 Jan 2013 at 15:49.
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Old 8 Jan 2013
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I did see a few of the smaller wild animals on my trip, jackals, warthog, zebra, but never felt in any danger from them on my bike, this was the only creature which did concern me as it was under my sleeping matt when I camped under the stars near Wadi Halfa, after that I always used my tent.

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Old 8 Jan 2013
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Now, I can show this reply to convince my wife that we don't need to bring our huge 4x4 vehicle for only two of us that motorbike is okay and we don't need to worry much.
There are loads of ride reports here and on advrider.com as well as loads of books on the subject to show your missus. Be sensible about where you camp, take local advice about dodgy areas when you are in larger towns and cities and don't ride at night. Just about all the people I've ever encountered in Africa were very friendly and often interested in our travels.

In my experience making sure your pillion is comfortable is the most important thing. A big GS* and lightweight riding gear with lots of vents and a Camelback go a long way in this respect.

*I'm not very hardcore...
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Old 8 Jan 2013
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I had my tent surrounded by about 20 Hippos one night in Kenya. I camped too close to the lake lol. I couldn't get out my tent until morning and I was dying for a piss...

Elephants can block roads when you drive through some parks. Just give them A LOT of space and they will move when they see you.... Probably

There is really nothing to be scared of. There are people EVERYWHERE in Africa. Animals don't like people.

You're more likely to hit a pedestrian than an animal.

The locals are only used to slow moving small bikes.
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Originally Posted by *Touring Ted* View Post
I had my tent surrounded by about 20 Hippos one night in Kenya.
Ted, they were looking for you during the day as well......




When DID you get out of the tent???

Me, they were munching grass 10 inches from my right shoulder one night. What entertainment!!!

Sureis, visit Robert's Camp, Lake Boringo. (N. Kenya). You won't be disappointed.
It's all there to be enjoyed.
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Old 9 Jan 2013
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Originally Posted by McCrankpin View Post
Ted, they were looking for you during the day as well......




When DID you get out of the tent???

Me, they were munching grass 10 inches from my right shoulder one night. What entertainment!!!

Sureis, visit Robert's Camp, Lake Boringo. (N. Kenya). You won't be disappointed.
It's all there to be enjoyed.
I had to wait until about 7am... BURSTING I was lol.

They are the most dangerous animals in Africa though. Far more likely to attack and kill you than lions and Hyena etc.

Good times though
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