Fiona Etkin:  BSC Honours in Life Sciences. 

Meet Fiona Etkin, a vibrant soul whose life unfolds like a mesmerizing tapestry woven with threads of wildlife, photography, exploration, and boundless travel. Co-founder of Big 5 Safaris, Fiona brings a unique blend of passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication to the realm of adventure and discovery. 

The Globetrotting Lenswoman: Fiona's journey began against the backdrop of the picturesque United Kingdom, yet her heart yearned for more expansive horizons. With her camera as a faithful companion, she embarked on a global odyssey, chasing rare encounters and capturing breath-taking vistas. However, it's the irresistible allure of Africa that claimed her heart and continues to inspire her endlessly. 

A Life Immersed in Nature: Armed with an Honours degree in Life Sciences, Fiona's connection with the natural world runs deep. Her profound understanding of ecosystems and wildlife adds a layer of richness to the experiences she crafts. Whether unraveling the mysteries of the savannah or delving into the secrets of the rainforest, Fiona is your gateway to comprehending the intricacies of the wild. 

Wildlife Enthusiast and Photography Maestro: Fiona's lens is her paintbrush, and the canvas is the untamed beauty of Southern Africa. A skilled photographer, she possesses the rare talent to encapsulate the essence of the 'Big Five' and the vibrant tapestry of birdlife. Her images transport viewers into the heart of the African wilderness, invoking a sense of awe and wonder. 

The Family Woman: Beyond her extraordinary career, Fiona is a devoted mother to two grown-up children and a cherished Shetland Sheepdog. Her life exemplifies balance, seamlessly intertwining family and nature to create a harmonious existence. 

Embark on a captivating adventure with Fiona, where you'll not only explore the wilderness but also capture its very soul through your lens. From the iconic 'Big Five' to the melodious world of birds, she unveils the wonders of nature in a way that's both educational and profoundly moving. Every moment with Fiona is a glimpse into the heart of the wild, where memories are immortalized in pixels and your spirit forever soars. 

Adventure Awaits: Fiona's guided tours promise an exploration of untamed Southern Africa in the company of a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, a budding birder, or simply someone who loves the great outdoors,

 Fiona Etkin is your perfect companion on a journey through the enchanting landscapes of Southern Africa. Join her, and let every moment become a snapshot of nature's magnificence.
 

Fiona Etkin - Independent Travel Advisor - UK

Gareth Parkes: Unveiling the Beauty of Southern Africa Through the Eyes of a Former Minister of Religion. 

Meet Gareth Parkes, a remarkable individual whose journey has taken him from the title of Reverend in the Baptist Ministry, holding a DipTh, to the co-founder of an extraordinary venture. 

Gareth is not only a passionate bird watcher and wildlife enthusiast but also a true connoisseur of the natural splendor that Southern Africa has to offer. His expertise in the diverse ecosystems of the region is unparalleled, making him a sought-after guide for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. 

Photography Maestro: Gareth's lens is a storyteller, capturing the essence of Southern Africa's breathtaking landscapes and its remarkable wildlife. An accomplished photographer, he skillfully immortalizes the beauty of the 'Big Five' and a myriad of vibrant bird species. Gareth's photography transports viewers into the heart of the African wilderness, evoking a profound sense of awe and wonder. 

A World of Birds: Gareth's passion for bird watching extends beyond a mere hobby. He's an avid birder with an exceptional ability to identify and narrate stories about the intricate lives of the region's avian residents. Whether it's the vibrant plumage of a Lilac-breasted Roller or the haunting call of a Fish Eagle, Gareth brings the world of birds to life for those who venture into the wild with him. 

Conservation Advocate: Gareth Parkes goes beyond being a spectator; he is a dedicated advocate for the conservation of Southern Africa's unique ecosystems. Actively supporting initiatives to protect the environment and its wildlife, Gareth ensures that the wonders he cherishes can be marvelled at by future generations. 

Adventure Awaits: Gareth's guided tours offer adventurers the chance to explore the untamed beauty of Southern Africa with a knowledgeable and enthusiastic companion. From thrilling safaris to serene birding expeditions, he opens up a world of exploration and discovery. 

Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, an aspiring bird watcher, or simply someone with a love for the great outdoors, Gareth Parkes is your ideal guide to unlocking the treasures of Southern Africa.

Join him for an unforgettable journey through this enchanting region, where every moment is a snapshot of nature's magnificence. 

Gareth Parkes

 Kaz Dube, a wildlife enthusiast with a passion for preserving the environment, is the driving force behind the wildlife experience with low environmental impact offered by OBSERVE WILDLIFE. 

With over 15 years of experience as an award-winning walking safari guide, Kaz is dedicated to ensuring a safari that leaves no permanent infrastructure in pristine wilderness areas, maintaining the true wildness of the environment. 

At the heart of this wildlife experience is the KENNEDY 2 CAMP, a lightweight, low-footprint seasonal Meru-style tented camp that embodies the essence of wildlife immersion, remoteness, exclusivity, and an authentic observation of wildlife. 

Kaz believes in offering an experience that goes beyond luxurious amenities, focusing on the intrinsic value of observing and photographing wildlife. Guiding you through the great magical savanna of Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, 

Kaz interprets the age-old theme of the hunter and the hunted, allowing you to witness the captivating natural selection behavioral processes of wildlife. Guided daily game-drives and walking safaris, combined with Kaz's insightful interpretation, bring you closer to the heartbeat of Africa—the magnificent wildlife. 

OBSERVE WILDLIFE conducts passionate and informative walking safaris, allowing you to observe, smell, listen, photograph, and enjoy wildlife up close and personal. Kaz's expertise shines during these safaris, where he skillfully approaches high-profile mammals like elephants, buffalos, lions, cheetahs, painted dogs, and hyenas, sharing meaningful insights into their behavior and survival traits. 

Walking safaris with OBSERVE WILDLIFE provide a unique opportunity to explore the untamed wilderness, offering a deeper connection with the secrets of wildlife. Kaz's keen understanding of wild animal senses and survival skills ensures a safe and enriching experience as you observe wildlife on foot. 

In the world of OBSERVE WILDLIFE, Kaz Dube is your guide to a truly transformative and environmentally conscious safari adventure.

Kaz Dube - Zimbabwe

Chris, born and raised in the village of Buhoma, nestled at the edge of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, found his lifelong love for gorillas and wildlife flourishing in the embrace of this remarkable environment. His roots run deep, as this park is home to over half of the world's mountain gorilla population. Inspired by his father, who was among the first park porters in the 1990s, Chris's heart was stirred by a deep love and respect for wildlife. This inspiration fueled his journey to become a dedicated conservationist and a trusted friend to the gorillas. Chris's aspirations reach far beyond personal ambition; he is driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact in his community and country. By championing wildlife conservation and fostering educational opportunities for children, he's determined to create a brighter future. But it doesn't end there. Chris is eager to share the beauty of his homeland, not only Uganda but also the broader tapestry of East Africa, with the world. He's dedicated to curating unforgettable experiences that transform the way you perceive yourself and the world around you. With nearly five years of experience as a tour guide, Chris's passion for travel blossomed as he explored the diverse destinations offered by Bucketlist Tour and Travel. He's not just a guide; he's a storyteller, a steward of nature, and a bridge between cultures, waiting to make your journey an unforgettable one.

Chris - Uganda

Frederick Nkosi - Nature Enthusiast, Family Man, and Visionary Travel Agent Meet Frederick Nkosi, a devoted family man and a passionate nature enthusiast. As a father of three boys and two girls, family values are at the core of his identity. His love for nature goes beyond a mere hobby; it's a driving force that has shaped his career and life choices. Frederick's curiosity extends beyond the natural world. He has a deep-seated interest in learning about diverse cultures, lifestyles, and histories, believing that understanding others enriches our own perspectives. This passion led him to a career as a nature guide, where he freelanced for private travel companies, offering immersive experiences into the heart of the iconic Kruger National Park. His journey as a nature guide began in 2005 and continued until 2016 when he transitioned into a new role. Frederick is the proud founder of Freddy Tours and Safaris, a small family business based in the picturesque Lowveld town of Hazyview, nestled in Mpumalanga province, South Africa. This region, situated at the center of tourist attractions like the Kruger National Park and the Panorama Route, provides the perfect backdrop for his endeavors. In addition to managing the administrative aspects of Freddy Tours, Frederick's vision extends beyond local operations. His goal is to hire and empower more local talents, contributing to the growth and development of the community. With a global perspective, he aspires to position Freddy Tours and Safaris as the premier tour operator, offering unparalleled services that travelers can rely on worldwide. Frederick Nkosi's journey is not just about exploring nature; it's about creating a lasting impact, fostering connections, and sharing the beauty of South Africa with the world.

Frederick Nkosi - Hazyview

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