“Is the tap water on the safari safe to drink?”
It is one of the most frequently asked questions travel companies get, and the truth is that there is no simple yes or no answer to this question.
When you are travelling to Africa for your safari, water safety and knowing how to stay safely hydrated is of utmost importance. Because nothing quite ruins a holiday like getting sick, especially when you are in a remote area.
After all, you didn’t come all this way to let hydration, or lack of it, hold you back from exploring the wild!
With this guide, you will learn all about some water safety basics to keep you cool, safe, and fully hydrated as you enjoy the safari of a lifetime.
Why Tap Water on Safari Is Not Always Safe
While South Africa has some of the cleanest tap water on the continent, purification standards can vary widely, especially in more underdeveloped safari destinations where infrastructure might be a bit, well… wild.
Much like those unpredictable animal sightings, tap water can be both safe and tricky.
Although Africa’s best safari destinations take its water quality seriously, and in many areas, the tap water provided at lodges is perfectly safe to drink, for those travelling from overseas, even treated tap water can carry a small risk. This is because our bodies are all so different, and while the locals will have adapted to the water, your body might react rather unhappily.
The water might be perfectly fine in some areas, while in others, it could contain bacteria you are not used to and even pathogens that are just waiting to pounce.
These sneaky microbes can lead to common but awful waterborne illnesses like stomach bugs and dehydration, not the kind of wildlife encounters you want.
To avoid these unwanted “safari souvenirs,” travellers are often advised to stick to bottled or filtered water.
Think of it as your trusty safari guide: it’s reliable, keeps you safe, and ensures you’re free to enjoy the adventure without unexpected detours.
The Best Alternatives for Safari Hydration
When it comes to water safety on safari, think of tap water like that mischievous monkey eyeing your lunch; tempting, but perhaps best left alone! Thankfully, there are plenty of safer hydration options to keep you cool, refreshed, and safari-ready.
First up, we have bottled water, which is affordable and available at most safari lodges and is often even included in the safari vehicle, when you travel with trusted safari operators (like ours!), as a thoughtful added extra.
Bottled water is convenient, widely available, and perfect for a worry-free thirst-quencher.
But if you’re staying at an eco-conscious camp, bottled water is not going to be an easy find and you are instead more likely to find clean, filtered water on tap (these camps often have advanced filtration systems that take out the nasties).
For the more adventurous souls, or if you are planning to be really remote for your trip, water purification tablets or portable filters are an excellent, easily accessible option. They’re compact, easy to use, and ideal for those bush treks when you want a little extra protection.
Want a tip?
To ensure that you always stay safely hydrated no matter where you are, pack a stylish, insulated reusable water bottle to keep your water cool or if you are going on a walking safari, bring along a hands-free hydration pack.
Also, if you are travelling with children, you will want to pay extra attention to what they drink and how much water they get. Children are generally a lot more active than adults, and in the heat, they can be quite affected if they don’t drink enough water.
Pro Tips for Keeping Yourself Hydrated and Healthy on Safari
Don’t be fooled by the overused warnings; the African sun can be relentless, and staying hydrated is vital to both your health and your comfort!
Here are some easy, practical tips that you can use to ensure that you stay healthy and hydrated while on your trip:
- Always ask if tap water is safe before drinking. While some safari camps have high-end purification systems, it’s always smart to double-check. When in doubt, stick to bottled or filtered water.
- Carry a personal water filter or purification tablets. These handy products will provide peace of mind if you’re venturing into remote areas or prefer that bit of extra safety.
- Stay hydrated during game drives. The excitement of spotting elephants and lions can make you forget to drink, but don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Pack a reusable water bottle and sip frequently, especially when it’s hot.
- If you are only drinking bottled water then drink only sealed bottled water. It’s a simple precaution that can save you from unpleasant surprises later.
What About Showering and Swimming?
Water safety on safari doesn’t stop at drinking it. You may wonder if it’s safe to shower with tap water at your lodge or you might be concerned about the water you are considering taking a dip in.
In most reputable safari lodges, the water used for showering is perfectly safe, but for added safety, try to not swallow any, especially if you’re unsure about the purification process. For added peace of mind, again, ask your lodge about their water filtration methods.
As for swimming, it’s a whole different story.
Swimming in natural bodies of water, like rivers or lakes, on safari isn’t recommended. These waters can be home to dangerous wildlife like hippos and crocodiles, and there’s also a risk of contracting waterborne diseases such as bilharzia (schistosomiasis). While the idea of a dip may be tempting, it’s always best to stick to pools at your lodge, where safety measures are in place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Water Safety on an African Safari
- Can I drink tap water on safari in South Africa?
It depends on where you’re staying. In most urban areas of South Africa, tap water is generally safe to drink. However, on safari, it’s best to stick to bottled or filtered water provided by your lodge. Even if tap water is treated, your system may not be used to local microorganisms, and it’s better to play it safe.
- Do safari lodges provide bottled water for guests?
Yes, most safari lodges provide bottled or filtered water for their guests. In fact, many lodges in South Africa and other African countries aim to reduce plastic waste by offering guests reusable water bottles and having filtered water stations instead of single-use bottles.
- Is it safe to brush my teeth with tap water while on safari?
In many cases, it’s advised to use bottled or filtered water to brush your teeth, especially in remote safari areas. This is an easy way to avoid any risk of ingesting unsafe water.
- Should I bring my own water purification tablets on safari?
If you’re someone who likes to be extra cautious or if you will be exploring very remote areas, packing water purification tablets or a portable water filter can give you extra peace of mind. However, in most cases, safari camps provide safe drinking water.
- Is the water safe for showering at safari lodges?
Yes, the water used for showering and bathing at safari lodges is generally safe. However, avoid swallowing the water. If you have particularly sensitive skin, you might want to inquire about the water quality beforehand.
- What about swimming in rivers or lakes on safari?
Swimming in rivers, lakes, or natural water bodies on safari is generally not recommended due to the risk of waterborne diseases like bilharzia (schistosomiasis) or dangerous wildlife like crocodiles and hippos. Always check with your safari guide or lodge staff before taking a dip.
- How do I stay hydrated during long game drives?
You should bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Your guide will also usually have plenty of bottled or filtered water on hand. Make sure that you hydrate regularly, especially in the heat, and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
- What steps do safari lodges take to ensure water safety?
Many reputable safari lodges and camps have advanced filtration systems to ensure that water is safe for drinking, cooking, and other uses. Additionally, eco-friendly camps may use sustainable methods such as rainwater harvesting and solar-powered water purification.
You don’t have to be too concerned about tap water safety when on safari. When you travel with a trusted company and you take a savvy approach to the water you drink, your safari will be memorable for all the right reasons.
