Safety protocol for wild elephants blocking rural roads

Question

We rented a scooter and will be driving near Habarana and Minneriya What is the absolute safest thing to do if a wild elephant is blocking the road

Tharindu S. · Accepted Answer

STOP immediately. Keep a distance of at least 50 meters. Turn off your engine so the bike is silent, and turn off your headlights if it is night. DO NOT honk your horn, flash lights, or shout. Wild elephants are easily startled and will charge a scooter in seconds. Wait patiently for the elephant to cross into the jungle. If it walks toward you, back your scooter away slowly.

Elena P. · Answer

Should we toss fruit to them to make them move away

Oliver T. · Answer

We had this happen! We just sat in silence for 20 minutes until it moved. Terrifying but amazing.

Priyanthi K. · Answer

Never try to speed past them. They move much faster than you think and can easily swipe you off the bike with their trunk.

Tharindu S. · Answer

Absolutely NO! Throwing food teaches them to attack vehicles looking for more food. It is highly illegal and incredibly dangerous for the next tourists.

Safety protocol for wild elephants blocking rural roads

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