Safari Guides Q&A: Royal Zambezi Lodge

Hear the stories of our Wildlife Guides

In celebration of World Ranger Day, we met with Leo and Mainza, two of our passionate and knowledgeable guides, who shared their inspirations, experiences and the magic of being wildlife safari guides.

Meet Leo - Inspired by Nature

Leo’s path at Royal Zambezi wasn’t your typical one. He started his tenure in the heart of the lodge’s food and beverage department, as a barman back in 2014. But his true passion lay with wildlife. He always had a clear interest in conservation and was inspired by those who met as guides during this time. He took a special interest in birding.

Recognising his talent, the lodge supported his guide training for the next year and a half, so Leo could obtain his guiding certification. Leo excelled in his exams, topping his birding class and he was awarded a pair of binoculars as a result! Over the last 10 years he went from barman, then to the waterways as a boatman and finally became a qualified safari guide. He is looking forward to what the future holds! Read his incredible story below.

Q. “What or who inspired you to become a wildlife ranger?”

A: When I started working at Royal Zambezi Lodge, I discovered I was surrounded by inspiring guides. One guide in particular, James, took me under his wing. Recognising my potential, he invited me to join him on drives and activities, where he tested me on bird calls and animal behaviour. With his encouragement and guidance, I decided to take the guiding exams and passed on my first try. This achievement made me proud and allowed me to demonstrate my capabilities to both the management and my mentor.

Q. “How did you develop an interest in wildlife and conservation?”

A: During my time studying and learning about wildlife, I realised that without conservation and protection of our natural world, there will be nothing left alive and thriving for future generations. I believe that as a guide, it is part of my duty to share this knowledge with as many people and communities as possible. By doing so, I hope to preserve wildlife and their natural habitats.

Q. “What is your favourite animal and why?”

A: My favourite animal is the leopard. I love the way the leopard hunts with strength, and precision. Its ability to adapt to various environments and remain elusive. The leopard’s coat is truly beautiful, with it’s pattern and spots providing perfect camouflage in the wild.

Q. “Can you share a memorable experience you’ve had on a drive?”

A: One of my most memorable moments on a game drive was with my spotter, Forbes. We came across a herd of impalas giving off warning calls. As we looked around to see what was alarming them, we spotted a beautiful leopard. We hoped to witness a hunt, but the leopard had nowhere to hide while stalking the impalas.

As the sun set behind us, the leopard approached our vehicle and began using it as a shield to hide from the herd. We sat in silence, becoming part of the leopard’s plan. As darkness fell, we lost sight of the leopard, but suddenly heard a loud bang on the driver’s side door.

The leopard quickly dragged the impala away, but the impala’s alarm calls had attracted hyenas. The hyenas stole the kill from the leopard, who watched as his prize was taken. This incredible and intense moment is one that will forever stay with me.

Q. “What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a wildlife guide for you personally?”

A: The most rewarding aspect of being a wildlife guide for me is being on the front lines with my guests, who trust me to understand animal behaviour and keep them safe during activities. Having the ability to ensure their safety while sharing my knowledge and passion for wildlife is incredibly fulfilling. Understanding the signs and behaviours of animals is not just a job but a deep passion of mine. I truly love what I do.

Q. “What kind of training or education is required to become a wildlife guide?”

A: Becoming a wildlife guide requires both theoretical and practical training. This includes comprehensive exams that cover a range of subjects such as zoology, geography and biology. Additionally, first aid training is essential to ensure the safety of both guides and guests. A strong emphasis is also placed on the importance of conservation, emphasising the role of guides in preserving our natural world.

Q. “What is the most important piece of advice you would give to someone aspiring to become a wildlife guide?”

A: My advice to an aspiring wildlife guide is to have a deep, heartfelt passion for wildlife and conservation. Ensure that this is something that genuinely makes you happy because when you love what you do, your job won’t feel work – it will be your life.

Additionally, be willing to share that love of nature and wildlife and younger generations, so they grow up understanding the importance of preservation. Your passion and dedication can inspire others to care for and protect our natural world. Be a part of a team. That is my advice.

Meet Mainza - Following in Conservation Footsteps

Mainza, one of our esteemed safari guides, was born in the Luangwa district within the Chief Mbuluma tribal area, located in the eastern part of Lower Zambezi National Park. His deep passion for nature was sparked at a young age, inspired by his father, Mr Solomon Chidunuka, an award-winning conservationist and former National Park Warden in Chirundu, who also served in Lower Zambezi National Park. Solomon spent the final years of his career in North Luangwa to spearhead the protection unit for the last remaining rhinos in Zambia.

His efforts were recognised and with 13 years of dedicated service in wildlife management and conservation, Solomon earned the prestigious Tusk Trust Award for his contributions. This was presented to him by the former president of South Africa – a true testament to his passion and dedication to conservation.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Mainza’s dream of becoming an ambassador for nature came true when he joined Royal Zambezi Lodge as an intern in 2016. Now a qualified guide, Mainza is grateful to the team for their unwavering support.

“What or who inspired you to become a wildlife ranger?”

A: My father was my greatest inspiration in becoming a guide. He was an award-winning and dedicated conservationist, a very passionate man whose work deeply inspired me. Watching him instilled in me a desire to follow in his footsteps.

“How did you develop an interest in wildlife and conservation?”

A: I’ve always loved animals, but my interest in wildlife and conservation truly developed through the time I spent with my father in nature. He often took me to the front lines of human-animal conflict, particularly in elephant-related areas, and taught me the importance of educating communities to protect these areas for wildlife. From a young age, I knew this was what I was meant to do.

“What is your favourite animal and why?”

A: This is a very difficult question to answer because I’ve been asked it many times, and I find traits in all animals that I love. However, if I had to choose, I would say baboons. They are undervalued but incredibly entertaining, watching a troop often leaves you laughing because they have so much character. I also love elephants for similar reasons, as well as leopards for their stealth and ease in hunting. I enjoy observing animals and learning about their unique characteristics.

“Can you share a memorable experience you’ve had on a drive?”

A: The most memorable experience for me was witnessing my first leopard hunt and kill on a game drive. We were quietly watching a leopard perched in a tree when she suddenly leapt from the top branches and landed on an impala. This moment was significant because of her incredible decision to launch from the tree and successfully take down her prey. I’ve seen many hunts in my time as a guide, some successful and some not, but this particular memory will stay with me throughout my career.

“What is the most important piece of advice you would give to someone aspiring to become a wildlife guide?”

A: Be an ambassador for wildlife. Don’t think you know everything and remain open to learning new things. Be humble and receptive to new information, and above all, have a deep passion and love for what you do.

Let us be your safari guides!

We hope you enjoyed this insightful Q&A session with our exceptional guides, Leo and Mainza. Their passion and dedication embody what makes Royal Zambezi Lodge an extraordinary choice for your Zambian Safari Holidays.

For those who are eager to join an unforgettable adventure, Royal Zambezi Lodge offers incredible safari experiences guided by experts like Leo and Mainza. Our team of wildlife experts are dedicated to sharing their extensive knowledge and passion for wildlife with you.

Contact us today to experience the wonders of Zambia for yourself!