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Wild elephant safety on rural hiking adventure trails

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P
Pierre L.•5470 rep•2

We want to hike near Habarana and Sigiriya What is the absolute safest protocol if a wild elephant blocks our path while on foot

38
sigiriyawildlifehikingsafety

5 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted Answer

Being on foot near a wild elephant is incredibly dangerous. The protocol is to STOP immediately. Do not run, as this triggers their chase instinct. Keep a distance of at least 50-100 meters. Stay completely silent. Do not use camera flashes. Slowly and quietly back away, keeping your eyes on the animal, until you can put a large tree or rock formation between you and the elephant.

12
C
Chathura K.•5020 rep•1

If the elephant flares its ears wide and kicks dust, it is warning you to retreat instantly.

48
P
Priyanthi W.•4270 rep•1

Mostly at dawn and dusk, but in thick jungle they can be active anytime.

45
C
Chathura K.•5020 rep•1

Never hike in the dry zone scrub jungles without a local village guide. They know how to spot the signs before you ever see the elephant.

27
Z
Zoe M.•2660 rep•2

Are the elephants active during the middle of the day

8
P
Pierre L.•5470 rep•2

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