Private Guides

A key element in any African safari is the guide who introduces you to the bush. An exceptional private guide will bring the natural world into sharper focus with anecdotes and observations that will shine a new light on the dramas of the bush. He or she will add shades of understanding to the social network that exists across remote bush camps and lodges, greatly enhancing your experience. Best of all, your private safari guide will know the names and characteristics of all the animals and birds you will see on your travels and be able to identify the plants and insects you might come across. They will know the habits and preferences of the animals in their area, so you get the best chance of good sightings, while their experience and sharp eyesight mean you'll never miss the little dramas of the bush that take place on every side.

More than just being founts of knowledge, good safari guides also need to know when to stay quiet to let you appreciate the still beauty of the sights you see and relax into the near-silence of the African bush.

The best private guides in Africa have international reputations, and their names are known in the industry and beyond. If there's a specific guide you wish to use on your travels, it can be arranged. It helps if you let us know your particular areas of interest (such as birding or primates) at the time of booking so we can ensure that your guide has the specialist knowledge to match your enthusiasm.

Read our newsletter article about Aardvark's Top Ten Guides >>