AFRICA KENYA SAFARI TOUR GUIDES

What makes a great safari? A great safari guide!

Come Meet Our Professional Safari Guides

James Mwangi - Safari guide at Africa Kenya Safaris

You could have gone on a cruise. Or to the beach. But you chose to go on the most thrilling adventure of all – an African safari. You had a passionate desire to see our true world in all its natural colors, sounds, and spectacle.

You craved excitement, to witness the big game roaming the savannahs, leopards stalking in the bush, and the thrill of moving through the jungle to the calls of wildlife echoing about.

Now with the anticipation of your upcoming safari, it’s not surprising you’re going to have questions about the person who will be your portal to this new mysterious landscape – your safari guide.

TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award 2023 - Africa Kenya Safaris.
 
Multi-lingual experienced Africa safari guides - English, German, French, Spanish, Italian e.t.c - Africa Kenya Safaris

Who Is My Safari Guide?

Who is this person that is going to bring me up close to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and every order of wild animal?    

What kind of training does my guide have? Who decides when he’s ready to take me and my family out on the savannah or deep into the jungle?

These are the perfect questions to be asking. And we appreciate your care and concern… and your excellent judgment.

We, at Africa Kenya Safaris, have been in the business of bringing folks like you into the heart of the safari experience for over 20 years. This is our home and we know it well, the landscapes, the people, and most definitely, the wildlife.

Safari guide Bonaya Shari poses with a family of tourists by an Africa Kenya Safaris jeep

Your leader, companion, teacher & friend.

Joseph Mbotte - Safari guide at Africa Kenya Safaris

We know how important your safari guide is – he is your pilot into the exotic world you are about to enter. We require that your guide’s knowledge of this landscape must be unsurpassed and that he is confident, steadfast, and ready to take on all situations.

We expect that your safari guide will be your leader, companion, teacher, and very importantly, your friend.

But while he must be an expert on the wildlife – knowing just where to find that family of elephants or an elusive leopard – he must also be tuned into your needs – is it time to take a break or have lunch or perhaps pull up to an incredible vista for a sundowner?

Most importantly, your safari guide must understand that your safety and security come before everything else.

When a guide knows and lives these vital concepts, then he is ready to be an Africa Kenya Safari’s guide. And only then, will we entrust him with you, our precious client.

Essential rucksack and binoculars you will need for an African safari

Who Are The KPSGA?

They are the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association – the gold standard for training and certifying safari guides. These are the people who provide a certification process through rigorous testing to ensure the highest standards for Kenya’s guides.

Our guides are certified with the KPSGA. This is your assurance that your guide is not only an expert in his field but follows the high ethical standards set by their professional association.

Not only are our guides certified experts, but they have also been sharing their passion for the safari life for decades – some as much as 30 years!  When you first meet your safari guide and he welcomes you with his warm smile, you’ll have every assurance you are in very capable hands.

With his easy manner and curiosity about your safari dreams, you’ll quickly realize that your guide is an excellent communicator. And many of our guides are multilingual – all are fluent in English and some also speak German, Italian, French, or Spanish.

It’s Your Safari. It’s Your Story

Watching elephants from an open top safari jeep while on a safari tour with Africa Kenya Safaris

Together, you and your guide will create your personal safari story – the anticipation of the adventure, the big dramatic moments of the chase, the quiet introspective times around the campfire recalling special moments of the day, and the emotional goodbyes at the end of your journey.

At Africa Kenya Safaris it is your guide’s singular purpose to create this special safari story for you… one of exceptional memories to treasure, for you to share with others for years to come.

And we promise you… many of those special memories will be of that exceptional person who made it all happen so flawlessly –  your safari guide.

Safari Tour Guide Profiles

A safari guide proudly showing his safari jeep to the camera

Moses Kimani

Christopher Mwita - Africa Kenya Safaris

Mwita Chris

Joseph Mbotte - Safari guide at Africa Kenya Safaris

Joseph Mbotte

George Mbugua - Safari guide at Africa Kenya Safaris

George Mbugua

Abdul Halim - safari guide at Africa Kenya Safaris

Abdul Halim

Africa Kenya Safaris logo on the rear of one of this company's safari tour jeeps

Bonaya Shari

Evanson Kamau - Safari guide at Africa Kenya Safaris

Evanson Kamau

John Munguti - safari guide at Africa Kenya Safaris

John Munguti

Francis Mwikya standing by his Africa Kenya Safaris tour jeep

Francis Mwikya

James Mwangi - Safari guide at Africa Kenya Safaris

James Mwangi

Sisto Kimunge, a Safari Guide for Africa Kenya Safaris, next to a 4x4 safari jeep

Sisto Kimunge

A customised jeep for safaris as used by Africa Kenya Safaris on a road in a national park

Thomas Kombo

A customised jeep for safaris as used by Africa Kenya Safaris on a road in a national park

Abubakar Yahya

Safari guide Edgar Waiganjo sat near a swimming pool in a safari lodge

Waiganjo Michael

A customised jeep for safaris as used by Africa Kenya Safaris on a road in a national park

Ezekiel Otieno

Humphrey Wanjiku - safari guide at Africa Kenya Safaris2

Humphrey Wanjiku

Safari Guide FAQs

Welcome to our comprehensive list of questions and answers about safari tour guides! At Africa Kenya Safaris, we understand that the role of a safari guide is paramount in creating an unforgettable wildlife adventure. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable guides are passionate about the African wilderness, and they are dedicated to providing you with an exceptional safari experience. In this guide, we aim to address all your queries related to our safari guides, from their qualifications and experience to their ability to accommodate special needs. Join us as we explore the world of safari guides and the incredible journeys they lead in the heart of Kenya’s magnificent wildlife.

At Africa Kenya Safaris, we take immense pride in our team of highly experienced safari guides, who are passionate about providing you with the most memorable and rewarding safari adventures. As of the time of writing, we are fortunate to have 16 exceptional tour guides, collectively boasting just under 200 years of combined safari experience. This wealth of knowledge and expertise ensures that you are in the hands of seasoned professionals who have an in-depth understanding of the diverse wildlife, ecosystems, and cultures found within Kenya’s stunning landscapes.

Decades of Expertise

Our safari guides bring a wealth of experience to each safari excursion. Our most seasoned guide, with an impressive 30 years of safari experience, is a testament to our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. With a deep understanding of the local flora and fauna, animal behaviour, and regional history, our guides are adept at enriching your safari journey with fascinating insights and stories.

Passion for Wildlife and Conservation

Beyond their experience, our safari guides are united by a shared passion for wildlife and conservation. They genuinely care about preserving Kenya’s natural treasures and promoting sustainable tourism practices. As you embark on safari with us, you’ll witness the genuine enthusiasm our guides have for the breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring wildlife, making your safari experience truly exceptional.

Personalized and Professional Service

Our safari guides are not only experienced and knowledgeable but also committed to providing personalized and professional service. They prioritize your safety, comfort, and satisfaction throughout the safari journey. With their expertise, you can rest assured that every aspect of your safari, from wildlife encounters to cultural interactions, will be thoughtfully curated to create cherished memories that last a lifetime.

When you choose Africa Kenya Safaris for your safari adventure, you can have full confidence in our exceptional team of safari guides, whose dedication and expertise promise an unforgettable and enriching experience in the heart of Africa’s wildlife wonderland.

Tipping your safari guide in Kenya is a gesture of appreciation for their excellent service and the memorable experiences they provide. While not mandatory, it is considered customary to tip your safari driver/guide at the end of the safari tour. Here’s a guide on how to go about it:

  • Service Charge Inclusion: It’s essential to note that all hotels, lodges, and porterage gratuities are typically included in the cost of your safari. This collective service charge ensures that the staff members are compensated for their services.
  • Individual Tips for Hotel Service Employees: While the service charge covers most gratuities, you may still choose to tip individual waiters, porters, and other hotel service employees separately, especially if they have gone above and beyond to provide exemplary service. Generally, offering $1 – $5 per meal or service is appreciated.
  • Safari Guide Gratuity: Your safari driver/guide plays a crucial role in making your safari experience exceptional. It’s customary to offer a tip to your guide at the end of the safari. The amount of the tip is subjective and should reflect your evaluation of the quality of service provided. On average, tipping around $10 per guest per day or 5-10% of your safari-only cost is suggested. However, the final amount is entirely at your discretion, and you are welcome to provide additional compensation for outstanding service. A bar gratuity of $1 is also acceptable.
  • Currency and Presentation: You can tip your safari guide in Kenya shillings, USD, or Euro. It’s customary to present the tip in an envelope at the conclusion of your safari.

Remember, tipping is an expression of gratitude for the efforts of your safari guide and the wonderful memories they helped create during your journey. It is a meaningful way to show your appreciation for their hard work and dedication in making your safari adventure truly unforgettable.

At Africa Kenya Safaris, we take great pride in our team of safari guides who are not only highly experienced but also hold prestigious qualifications to ensure the utmost professionalism and expertise. All our safari guides are certified members of the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association (KPSGA), a reputable organization known for promoting excellence in safari guiding and wildlife conservation.

Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association (KPSGA) Certification

To become a certified safari guide with Africa Kenya Safaris, our guides undergo rigorous training and evaluation by the KPSGA. The association sets high standards for safari guides, including their knowledge of wildlife, flora, fauna, and the cultural aspects of Kenya. By choosing guides certified by KPSGA, we can guarantee that your safari experience is led by knowledgeable professionals who are passionate about sharing their wealth of information with you.

Comprehensive Training and Evaluation

The KPSGA certification process involves comprehensive training in all aspects of guiding, including identifying wildlife species, understanding animal behaviour, tracking, and ensuring guests’ safety during the safari. After the training, guides are evaluated on their practical skills and theoretical knowledge before being awarded the prestigious certification.

Passion for Conservation

Beyond the technical expertise, our safari guides share a deep commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship. They are dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of protecting Kenya’s diverse ecosystems and the incredible biodiversity that calls this country home.

When you embark on a safari adventure with Africa Kenya Safaris, you can be confident that our certified safari guides will provide you with a safe, informative, and immersive experience in the heart of Kenya’s wilderness. Their passion for wildlife, coupled with their professional training, ensures that your safari journey will be nothing short of extraordinary.

All our safari guides are fluent in both English and Swahili, and some of our guides also speak the following languages:

  • Kikuyu
  • Italian
  • Meru
  • Kamba
  • French
  • Spanish
  • Taita
  • Digo
  • Arabic
  • Luo

At Africa Kenya Safaris, we understand the importance of capturing the magical moments you encounter during your safari adventure. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable safari guides are not just experts in wildlife and the natural world but are also passionate about helping get the perfect picture. They are more than willing to assist you in getting the perfect shot, ensuring that your safari memories are preserved for a lifetime.

Pop-Up Roof Safari Jeeps

To enhance your photography experience, all our safari vehicles are customized with pop-up roof hatches. These hatches provide unobstructed 360-degree views, allowing you to photograph wildlife from various angles and positions. Whether you are admiring a pride of lions or witnessing a breathtaking sunrise over the savannah, the pop-up roof allows for optimal photo opportunities.

Sharing their Passion

Our safari guides are not only skilled naturalists but also passionate storytellers. They will share their wealth of knowledge about the animals, landscapes, and local culture, enriching your photography journey with fascinating insights and anecdotes. As you capture the essence of the wild, our guides will help you appreciate the intricate connections between nature and its inhabitants, making your safari experience truly extraordinary.

Whether you are an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, our safari guides are dedicated to assisting you in creating a captivating visual record of your Kenyan adventure. With their expertise and guidance, you can focus on enjoying every moment while they help you immortalize the beauty of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes through your lens.

At Africa Kenya Safaris, your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. We understand the importance of staying hydrated during your safari adventure, especially in the African wilderness. That’s why we ensure that clean and refreshing drinking water is readily available throughout your safari journey.

Complimentary Drinking Water

On all our safari tours, we provide complimentary bottled water to keep you hydrated during your game drives and excursions. Our safari vehicles are equipped with a generous supply of bottled water, ensuring that you have access to safe and clean drinking water at all times.

Regular Water Replenishment

Our experienced safari guides are well-trained to anticipate your needs. They will regularly replenish the water supply in the safari jeep to make sure you never run out. Whether you are observing majestic elephants by a watering hole or enjoying a picturesque picnic in the savannah, you can be confident that a refreshing sip of water is just an arm’s reach away.

Stay Refreshed and Energized

Hydration is essential, especially in the warm and sometimes hot African climate. By providing you with ample drinking water, we aim to keep you feeling refreshed, energized, and ready to fully enjoy the thrilling wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes that Kenya has to offer.

When you embark on a safari with Africa Kenya Safaris, rest assured that your safari tour guide will take care of your hydration needs. You can focus on savouring the incredible sights and sounds of the African wilderness, knowing that we have you covered with a constant supply of drinking water throughout your safari adventure.

At Africa Kenya Safaris, we understand the desire to have a familiar and trusted safari guide lead you on your extraordinary journey through the African wilderness. While we cannot guarantee a specific guide for your safari tour, we do our best to accommodate your preferences whenever possible. If you have a particular guide in mind, you can certainly request their services, and we will do our utmost to arrange it.

Subject to Availability

Our team will do everything possible to fulfil your safari guide request, but please be aware that guide availability can vary depending on the season and existing bookings. Our guides are highly sought after for their expertise and passion, so it’s essential to book your safari early to increase the chances of securing your preferred guide.

The Magic of African Safari Guides

Rest assured that all our safari guides are experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated to providing an unforgettable safari experience. Our guides undergo extensive training and hold certifications from the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association (KPSGA), ensuring that they possess in-depth knowledge of wildlife, conservation, and the local ecosystems.

Unparalleled Safari Experience

Whether you have a requested guide or are paired with one of our other experienced guides, you can be confident of receiving a fantastic safari adventure. Our guides are skilled in wildlife tracking, birdwatching, and interpreting animal behaviour, making each game drive informative, exciting, and filled with extraordinary sightings.

While we strive to accommodate specific safari guide requests, we also trust that our entire team of guides will deliver an exceptional safari experience. Whichever guide accompanies you on your journey, you can be assured of a safari that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

At Africa Kenya Safaris, we strive to provide exceptional safari experiences for all our guests, including those with special needs. While we cannot guarantee that all listed safari accommodations and facilities will be fully accessible to guests with specific requirements, we are committed to ensuring that everyone enjoys equal value and standard during their safari tour.

Understanding Your Needs

When booking your safari with us, we kindly request that you specify any special needs or requirements you may have, including wheelchair accessibility or special dietary preferences. By providing us with this information in advance, we can take the necessary steps to tailor your safari experience to your unique needs.

Inclusive Safari Guides

Our experienced safari guides are well-versed in accommodating guests with special needs and are dedicated to creating a comfortable and enjoyable safari journey for everyone. From assistance during game drives to ensuring that your safari activities are accessible, our guides are here to make your adventure as seamless and memorable as possible.

While we do our best to reserve properties and facilities that align with the special needs of our guests, we advise discussing your specific requirements with our team during the booking process. Our goal is to ensure that each guest, regardless of their needs, can fully embrace the wonders of the African wilderness and create lasting memories on their safari tour with Africa Kenya Safaris.

At Africa Kenya Safaris, we take pride in providing our guests with the ultimate safari experience, and a significant part of that comes from our top-notch 4×4 safari jeeps. These specially designed vehicles are equipped with a range of features to ensure your comfort, safety, and optimal game viewing opportunities during your safari adventure.

Pop-Up Roof for Uninterrupted Views

Our 4×4 safari jeeps feature pop-up roofs, allowing you to stand up and enjoy unobstructed views of the surrounding landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re observing a majestic elephant herd or a graceful cheetah in action, our pop-up roofs offer a perfect vantage point for capturing those picture-perfect moments.

Comfortable and Spacious

With ample legroom and comfortable seating, our safari jeeps provide a relaxed environment throughout your journey. Whether it’s a thrilling game drive or a scenic transfer, you’ll enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride, enhancing your overall safari experience.

Experienced and Knowledgeable Guides

While our jeeps are well-equipped, it’s the expertise of our safari guides that truly elevates your safari adventure. Our guides possess an in-depth understanding of the local wildlife and ecosystems, ensuring that you have the best chances of encountering the Big Five and other fascinating wildlife species.

Off-Road Capability

Our 4×4 safari jeeps are designed to handle rough terrains and off-road tracks, allowing us to explore remote areas and hidden gems of the national parks and reserves. This capability ensures that you get off the beaten path and have the opportunity to witness wildlife in their natural habitat.

Ideal for Photography

Whether you’re a professional photographer or simply capturing memories, our safari jeeps are perfect for photography enthusiasts. The pop-up roof and open sides enable unobstructed photography, so you can document your safari adventure with stunning images.

From the open savannas of the Masai Mara to the rugged landscapes of Tsavo East and beyond, our 4×4 safari jeeps are your reliable companions for an unforgettable safari expedition. Let Africa Kenya Safaris take you on an exciting journey to explore the wonders of the African wilderness in comfort and style.

We greatly value feedback from our guests at Africa Kenya Safaris, and sharing your safari experience through reviews is a wonderful way to help us continually improve and inspire other travellers. Leaving a review for your safari guide is simple and can be done in just a few easy steps.

Google Reviews

If you have a Google account, you can leave a review by visiting our Google Business Profile page. Simply search for “Africa Kenya Safaris” on Google, and our business listing will appear on the right-hand side of the search results. Click on the “Write a review” button to share your thoughts and experiences with others. You can also follow this direct link to leave an Africa Kenya Safaris review on Google.

Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is a popular platform for travel reviews, and your feedback can make a significant impact on future travellers. Visit the Africa Kenya Safaris Tripadvisor page and click on “Write a review” to share your safari journey with fellow adventurers.

We genuinely appreciate your time and effort in leaving a review. Your feedback not only helps us recognize and appreciate our dedicated safari guides but also assists other travellers in making informed decisions for their safari adventures. Your kind words may inspire others to embark on their own memorable journeys through the breathtaking landscapes and fascinating wildlife of Kenya.

Thank you for choosing Africa Kenya Safaris for your safari expedition, and we look forward to hearing about your incredible experiences!

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