A FEW TIPS FOR THE RAIN FOREST

If you never have tried jungle trekking before, don't miss it now, especially when you can do it together with an elephant. It is nothing strange, dangerous or difficult. You don't have to be young and adventurous to do it. You only need interest in and curiosity for nature, especially elephants. If you don't have that, you will probably catch it. However, you must be fit enough. For the Elephant Jungle Patrol you need to be at least 12 years old. If you are of high age, consult with a doctor. Sometimes the path is very steep and dramatic.

The first time visitor can sometimes be disappointed on how few animals are normally seen. One reason for this is the natural shyness of animals. Even though the animals are not seen, they are often nearby as they hide in the under-story or in the canopy overhead. Nevertheless, a patient observer will see the animals and take their photos as well.

TO SEE ANIMALS

• Develop an eye for what is always there, but often difficult to see: the primates and the reptiles. The best way is to choose a comfortable spot and just quietly wait.

• Search for things that are all around, but often go unnoticed: butterflies, termites, insects, frogs, etc.

• Learn to recognize the sounds of the forest.

• Learn to identify the tracks and other animal signs that are left on game trails, for example tracks of bears, tigers and ungulates.

EQUIPMENT

Upon departure every rider will get their own complimentary Elephant Kit containing several useful things. Remember that things can get wet. Equipment and clothes that we recommend are:

• Light clothes, long trousers and long sleeved shirt.

• Comfortable sport shoes or boots.

• Leech socks or 2 layers of ordinary socks (nylon socks are better barriers for leeches than cotton socks). One pair of leech socks is included in the Elephant Kit.

• Hat and rain cape (material that breathes is best, because of the humidity; sometimes an umbrella is most comfortable but on tracks through bushes sometimes difficult to keep up).

• Personal medication, antihistamines (for bee stings), malaria pills, etc.

• Sun lotion, insect repellent.

• Few snacks, like energy bars, and maybe rehydrant sachets like Gatorade or Oralite that can simply be added to a water bottle.

• A compass, if you walk around on your own.

• Camera. A macro lens is often more useful.

• Binoculars are recommended.

• Plastic or waterproof bag for your equipment.

THE ELEPHANT KIT

Every person taking part in the Elephant Jungle Patrol will get an Elephant Kit containing:

• A route map and other information

• Sarong

• Torch

• Whistle

• Leech socks

• A rain cape

HOW TO BEHAVE

The Mahouts and the guide will help you, but for your general information it can be good to remember:

• Even though most snakes are not poisonous, one should be careful and not disturb snakes. If you get bitten, very unusual though, put a pressure bandage above and below the wound in order to slow down the spread of poison. Contact a doctor as soon as possible.

• Don't cut rattans and vines, they are essential for the ecosystem.

• Don't leave rubbish behind. Tins and plastic don't rot.

• If a fire is being lit, use only dead wood and clean the spot before leaving.

• Crossing rivers can be dangerous, especially after rains. Most accidents happen in rivers. It is better to wait and try later when the water level drops.

"Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints".