KENYA’S BEST LUXURY SAFARI LODGES
24 April 2025
BOTSWANA’S BEST LUXURY LODGES
5 May 2025KENYA’S BEST LUXURY SAFARI LODGES
24 April 2025BOTSWANA’S BEST LUXURY LODGES
5 May 2025From lodge life to private guide
THE WILD EYE PODCAST
Recently, Johan sat down with me—the newest addition to the Wild Eye guiding team—for a real, honest chat about making the leap from lodge-based guiding to life as a private guide. And let me tell you, it’s not as simple as just swapping khakis.
For those unfamiliar, lodge guiding is pretty structured: you’re based in one location, you work a strict cycle (hello, six-week stints), and you often guide back-to-back groups of guests for 3–5 nights at a time. You get to know your patch of wilderness intimately—every leopard’s route, every elephant’s favourite watering hole—but it can also start to feel like Groundhog Day.
Private guiding? Totally different vibe.
For me, the big appeal was simple: variety. One week I could be in the Sabi Sands, the next in Kenya’s Samburu or the Lower Zambezi. And that shift in scenery means new landscapes, different animal behaviour, and an opportunity to keep things fresh—for both the guide and the guest. I am especially excited to geek out over how a leopard in Botswana behaves differently to one in the Mara. (Spoiler: I'm a bit of a behaviour nerd, in the best way I hope.)
But it’s not just about ticking off new locations. It is also about the importance of teamwork—especially with local guides at lodges where Wild Eye hosts photographic safaris. Private guides aren’t there to steal the show; they’re there to complement the experience. That means knowing when to step back and let the lodge guide lead, and when to step in and offer photographic advice or build on the local guide’s knowledge.
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE HERE
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Johan and I also get into the behind-the-scenes stuff—the long hours, ethical calls in the field, and how important it is to keep guests happy while putting wildlife first. The goal? Amazing safari memories without stressing the animals or pushing boundaries just for a photo op.
My first trip kicks off in July to Samburu, Tsavo, and the Mara—some seriously epic spots for my first run. Safe to say, I'll be ready to hit the ground running.
So whether you’re dreaming of your next private safari or you’re a guide wondering if the jump from lodge to freelance life is for you—give this episode a listen. Got questions? Reach out to me or Johan directly. We’re happy to chat.
START PLANNING YOUR SAFARI TODAY
Contact Wild Eye today, and let’s craft the perfect adventure tailored to your budget and expectations!