During game drives in the bush, predatory animals like lions, leopards, and hyena often come so close to your vehicle that danger would seem imminent. Amazingly, the animals who live in and around the private game reserves are accustomed to the sight and sound of a Land Rover filled with people, and will often appear not even to notice you.

Belize has 2 snakes that can be deadly. The Fer-de-lance and the Coral Snake are the culprits. However there have been no incidents with these animals in 25 years at the Resort, and indeed even in Belize there are very few reports of encounters with these 2 animals. Belize has Scorpions which are not dangerous and should you get stung it will be similar to a bee sting. Tarantulas also frequent the Jungle but they are extremely shy and will do everything they can to avoid human contact. See similar questions...

Most of the regions visited in Southern Africa are in areas where you are within the natural habitat of the wildlife and so there are no fences surrounding the camps. In South Africa you will find that most of the private reserves are fenced, but within the confines the animals roam freely and you still need to be cautious. The best advice to be given here is to listen to your guide's instruction while in camp, ensure that your tent flaps are not left open and doors are closed etc. See similar questions...

Yes and no. The most dangerous is probably an ornery bull, with the deer tick coming in second (Lyme disease). In reality, the Driftless Region is pretty friendly, and only normal caution is needed when in the woods. I have only seen one rattlesnake in 40+ years, and am more concerned with farmer's dogs in driveways. I also don't get between cows and their calves in the spring. Poison ivy is rarely found near streams, although wild parsnip is, and it can give a nasty burn. See similar questions...

If snorkeling or diving, you may spot an eel or barracuda, but they will only bother you if you bother them first! Occasionally you may spot a nurse shark but they are harmless. Spiny sea urchins can hide in sea grass and along the cliffs and reefs, the spines are painful if you step on one of these creatures. Many people advise wearing watersocks. If a spine does lodge in your foot, remove the spine and have a local tell you about the ammonia cure for stopping the pain. See similar questions...

Mosquitoes are not usually dangerous, but they can definitely be a nuisance. Avoid being bitten by carrying and wearing a GOOD repellent - bring it with you! Apply it liberally in the early evenings or after rain. There has not been a malaria outbreak on the island for forty years, so pills are not necessary. Mosquito coils can be purchased anywhere, and burn in your room like incense, they are highly effective. If you have a net and want to bring it with you, you may find a way to hang it. See similar questions...

According to Jochen Hentschke, vet and head of the Center for Infection Diagnostics at the Institute for Food, Drugs and Animal Epidemics in Berlin, the droppings of diseased birds do contain the virus. Albeit usually in very small quantities. The flu virus also does not survive long in the droppings. In sunshine it dies off after a few hours. In overcast weather this takes at least 24 hours. See similar questions...

No, we have no dangerous or poisonous animals, apart from common mosquitoes and the very rare centipede. Among the friendly Balenbouche “wildlife are: 4 cats and 4 dogs (who get along well and who are very affectionate pets), a land tortoise who lives in the estate house, cattle and horses on the farm, many birds and lizards, as well as frogs and crickets who make up the nightly orchestra. If you are lucky, you might see an indigenous opossum (“Maniku”) or a mongoose. See similar questions...

Scorpions are mainly moving around at night & like to get under the tent. We recommend to keep your boots in the tent during the night & put them on if you need to go outside. Scorpions will give you a nasty sting similar to a bad bee sting. The black scorpion is less venomous than the sandy coloured ones. They will not inflict a fatal sting unless you have an allergy to their poison or a serious heart condition. Suggest not to put fingers under bits of wood or stones. See similar questions...

Without special safety precautions, the laser can be dangerous. However, we ensure patient as well as health care worker safety by: 1. providing safety glasses for everyone in the room; 2. using the lowest effective settings possible; and 3. only allowing the doctor to perform the procedure as per the State Board of Medical Examiners. At the very low energy settings we use to treat spider veins, the danger is minimal. Treatment for vein problems have advanced dramatically over the past 5 years. See similar questions...

Torres Del Paine National Park close to Punta Arenas is one of the most lovely and untouched spots on earth. It is well worth it, if time allows you, to visit it. It can be done both by backpacking, staying in hostals or very nice hotels. Victory Adventure Travel can help you with this part of your voyage also. In Cape Horn, Tierra Del Fuego & Antarctica, you may see the four seasons in a single day. See similar questions...

Chile and Argentina are two of the safest South American destinations for foreign travelers. In more than 15 years of operating trips to this country, no one traveling with a Southwind group has ever had any problems with safety whether in the cities or on the trails. You can receive an updated Consular Information Sheet from the US State Department's website (www.travel.state.gov/travel/warnings.html) or by calling their hotline at 888-407-4747. See similar questions...