What you need to know before you book

If you intend to become one with Mother Nature at Dandeli, there are a few aspects that you need to be aware of while on your vacation. Please read the following carefully; we request that you abide by them to favour our common interest.

Doing things right while you're at Dandeli will enable you to make the most of the trip and keep you and others in your group out of danger.

Try your best to adhere to the following do's and don'ts while at Dandeli:

• The first and simplest rule is to blend in with the natural surroundings: no loud noises, no jarring colours, no bright lights if you are on a night safari, etc.
• You will get to spot more wildlife if your presence is not apparent; it is for this purpose that dull colours like brown, olive green and khakis are worn on safaris.
• Flash and spotlights for photography are prohibited to prevent startling the animals. Hence, it is best to avoid gadgets like iPods, brightly coloured clothing and strong perfumes while at Dandeli - the last thing you'll want to do is scare the animals away or, worse still, provoke them to attack you!
• Do not feed wild animals - not only does this change their habits, but it also causes them to become agitated for possibly wanting more food, which can jeopardize the security of the entire group.
• Remember that they have abundant natural food in the forest and do not require junk food.
• Do not litter the forest. While this reflects poorly on your upbringing and basic concepts of hygiene and orderliness, it also airs out a callous attitude towards protecting the environment.
• Let's make a positive change. Say no to polythene bags, tetra packs, and other non-biodegradable materials. If you must use them, please carry them back with you after use and dispose of them in a recycling bin. This waste harms animals if they accidentally eat it, and it spoils Dandeli's beauty.
• Keep your calm and maintain composure when close to animals. Children should be entrusted with able persons who can keep them under control. Maintaining a reasonable distance from all animals is essential since approaching too closely will disturb or provoke them.
• Remember that animals are naturally shy and tend to hide when they see something 'foreign', namely a human being; they are unpredictable too - that's why they are 'wild' animals! Please do not attempt to catch their attention or lure them out by throwing stones, making noises or grimaces - there always is a chance that you might get more than you asked for.
• Be careful not to leave any combustible material around carelessly, as this can start a forest fire. Smoking is strictly prohibited in the forest to minimize the risk to the wildlife here. Also, ensure that mosquito coils or candles are tightly secured before lighting them.
• Stay within the group, especially at riversides. Remember that you are a guest here, and the hosts will only sometimes be hospitable!
• The allotted route maps must be strictly followed, and attention should be paid to the instructions given to you by our trained personnel and guides who know Dandeli inside and out.
• Keep alcohol and other intoxicants away - this can lead to severe lapses in judgment, which can prove fatal in the jungle.
• Do not disturb anything in the forest - avoid collecting any plants or animals. Remember, you are responsible for leaving the forest as you found it for the next visitor and generations to come!
• As a responsible individual, report any irresponsible behaviour on the part of visitors or even staff/guides to the authorities; this would be an excellent service!
• Poaching is another detrimental activity that can be fought with your support. We greatly appreciate your valuable suggestions and recommendations, which will be forwarded to the relevant team.

Now that you know what to expect at Dandeli, it's time to check your travel bag to see if you have everything you might require. Let's look at the necessary and desirable items that you need to pack while on your Dandeli vacation.

Note

It's a good idea to wear layers of clothes rather than one thick sweater or windcheater. Even in winter, the trek might warm you up and wearing light clothes in layers will allow you to shed one layer at a time to suit your comfort.

Now you're all set to embark on the vacation of vacations - your trip to Dandeli! Finally, we'd like to run you through the terms and conditions you are requested to keep in mind as well; remember, it is keeping your safety in mind that these rules have been laid down!