Does your guide know which carnivore has the strongest jaw? Are they a specialist in your area of interest? Do they know what to do if a buffalo charges? Can they change a tyre in the bush? What if a guest falls ill on a game drive? The standard of guiding can make or break your trip. Many countries employ a rigorous accreditation of their guides, others less so, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the guiding there will be of inferior quality. Most guides will have years of experience and have been mentored by professional guides.
We recommend checking the standard of guiding – and whether your guide specialises in your area of interest – with your tour operator or lodge. If you hire a guide independently, ask to see their accreditation or proof of experience. Word of mouth and traveller forums are also an excellent source of info.
Here’s a summary of the system in each prime safari country
