A formal complaint has been submitted to SANParks following an incident involving an open safari vehicle near a lion sighting on the S25 in the Kruger National Park (KNP) on June 2, reports Lowvelder.

According to the complaint, a safari vehicle allegedly left the designated road and drove off-road during a lion sighting, approaching the animals through the bush.

It is further alleged that the vehicle’s actions may have influenced the movement of the lions towards the roadway.

Video footage reportedly exists and has been submitted as part of the complaint. The identity of both the driver and the safari company is known to Lowvelder. Questions have been sent to SANParks and the safari operator involved, and their responses will be included once received.

An experienced Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA)-qualified field guide, who has been working in the industry since the late 1990s and spoke on condition of anonymity, weighed in on the ethical implications of the alleged incident.

“From an ethical point of view, it is just wrong, full stop. We are there as observers to learn and enjoy what unfolds before us in nature. We are supposed to guide in a way that it feels like we are not even there,” he said.

He added that incidents such as these can have wider consequences for the industry.

“It sets a bad example and makes other guides think they can do the same. There have to be consequences to set an example.”

Commenting on the potential impact on wildlife behaviour, he warned that animals can either become aggressive due to constant harassment and disturbance, or become fearful of vehicles.

“That hard work of habituation is undone, and they may start avoiding vehicles or making themselves scarce.”

He also stressed that ethical conduct is not optional in professional guiding.

“It is not only part of FGASA teachings to follow sensitive guiding protocols, but it is also required in national qualifications. Guides sign a code of conduct when registering. Impeccable ethics are the foundation of good guiding.”

Addressing guest expectations and pressure in the field, he acknowledged that guides often face demands from clients but said professionalism must prevail.

“There is a lot of pressure, but you are better than giving in to unreasonable requests.”

He further pointed to modern influences on guiding behaviour.

“Social media and cellphones are responsible for almost all of the pressure and unethical behaviour going on out there.”

Public reaction to the incident has been swift, with social media users expressing a range of views. Some raised concerns about the alleged conduct and called for strict consequences, including potential bans for those involved.

Others highlighted broader frustrations regarding unethical behaviour within the safari industry and called for stronger enforcement and accountability among operators and guides.

At the same time, several commentators stressed that the incident should not be viewed as representative of all safari guides, noting that the overwhelming majority operate professionally and uphold high ethical standards within the park.

The online discussion reflects growing public concern around wildlife tourism ethics, enforcement of regulations, and the responsibility of operators to preserve the integrity of the KNP experience.

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